Cruise Review: Paul Gauguin – Tahiti & Society Islands – November 2016

I will start this review with the thought of kicking myself. Why didn’t we sign up for the more extended cruise on Paul Gauguin to visit all the outlying islands and extend what was the trip of our life? We thought seven days of beautiful warm water would be enough, oh how wrong we were. We were only getting started and the cruise was over. Now we are back to MA with snow and freezing weather. When possible we would like to book for 2018 on their January/February 14 night Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands. Let me know.

Sorry for the delay in this review, as the holidays got in the way. November was a wonderful time to visit the islands. (I believe any time would be good). We flew to LAX and stayed over two nights. Then onto Papeete, great flight on Air Tahiti Nui. Had the feel of already being there when we got on the plane. I will start this review with the thought of kicking myself. Why didn’t we sign up for the more extended cruise on Paul Gauguin to visit all the outlying islands and extend what was the trip of our life? We thought seven days of beautiful warm water would be enough, oh how wrong we were. We were only getting started and the cruise was over. Now we are back to MA with snow and freezing weather. When possible we would like to book for 2018 on their January/February 14 night Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands. Let me know.

The ship was magnificent. Spotlessly clean (I am OCD on that issue). The service, the attitude, the general overall ambiance of the ship is top-notch. Every staff member is with a smile. They are gracious and make you feel special.

Our day at Motu Mahana was heaven on earth. We had lounge chairs under the swaying palm trees protected from the sun. We snorkeled on such clear blue water. We bought and learned how to tie a pareo which I wore for the rest of the trip. Beach BBQ and drinks from a unique floating bar. We did not want to leave. And then the next day another private beach in Bora Bora. It just kept getting better and better.

We did some excursions which were pricy but everything on the islands is pricy. We felt the cruise was a way to save money over hotels on each island. Besides being a much better way to travel. We saw a few big ships not sure what they were. But, we felt special in our small ship that only sails the islands. With only one focus to display and explore the islands while educating us on culture and sea life.

We enjoyed every aspect of the trip and felt well prepared by you Linda, as what to expect. We brought the correct clothes for the weather. Yes did buy some black pearls that are gorgeous. Taking them to our local jeweler to have them set in a ring and necklace.

We loved it, what more can we say. Working with you was a pleasure. Again, keep us informed when to sign up for 2018.

—Margaret M., Boston, MA