Tahiti & the Society Islands

From Papeete, PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises invites you to embark on an 8-day cruise to discover Tahiti and the Society Islands. Set sail on board Le Paul Gauguin for an unforgettable journey to discover idyllic islands and atolls.

23 Aug 2025
7
Nights
Departing:
Australia

Cruise Overview

The perfect introduction to the picture-perfect charms of the South Pacific, this wonderful cruise whisks you away to destinations that played muse for authors James A. Michener, Herman Melville, painters Paul Gauguin and Henri Matisse, and many more. You will be dazzled by the incomparable beauty of Huahine, by the turquoise waters of the motu Mahana, our private vanilla-scented paradise, by the sumptuous lagoon of Bora Bora, with its distinctly recognisable volcanic silhouette, and by Moorea, with its hillside pineapple plantations and its verdant peaks overlooking the island. Between pearl farms and white sandy beaches, French Polynesia will reveal its many mysteries to you. Surrounded by superb lagoons of translucent waters edged by exceptional coral reefs, the islands of Polynesia are undoubtedly some of the most beautiful in the world and home to an astonishing and rich wildlife.

Slow down and let stress float away on secluded Huahine. Explore the local village on foot. Wander through lush rainforests. Float in crystal-clear lagoons.Live the life idyllic with a memorable day on motu Mahana, our own private slice of paradise. On this exclusive islet, treat yourself to sand between your toes, the shade of swaying palm trees, a sumptuous barbecue lunch and, of course, drinks sipped from coconuts.Enjoy an overnight in Bora Bora, which gives you ample time to explore this laid-back destination’s dramatic mountain peaks, romantic lagoon, and impossibly turquoise waters.Moorea, with its emerald lagoon, white sandy beaches and endemic lush gardens.Discover Polynesia’s traditional way of life and customs.Landscapes: lagoons, idyllic beaches, deserted coves, tropical forests and mountain peaks.Possibility of diving (PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board.

Cruise includes:

  • Slow down and let stress float away on secluded Huahine. Explore the local village on foot. Wander through lush rainforests. Float in crystal-clear lagoons.
  • Live the life idyllic with a memorable day on motu Mahana, our own private slice of paradise. On this exclusive islet, treat yourself to sand between your toes, the shade of swaying palm trees, a sumptuous barbecue lunch and, of course, drinks sipped from coconuts.
  • Enjoy an overnight in Bora Bora, which gives you ample time to explore this laid-back destination’s dramatic mountain peaks, romantic lagoon, and impossibly turquoise waters.
  • Moorea, with its emerald lagoon, white sandy beaches and endemic lush gardens.
  • Discover Polynesia’s traditional way of life and customs.
  • Landscapes: lagoons, idyllic beaches, deserted coves, tropical forests and mountain peaks.
  • Possibility of diving (PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board.
Tahiti & the Society Islands

Cruise Itinerary

Papeete, Tahiti Island

Capital of French Polynesia, the city of Papeete is on the north-west coast of the island of Tahiti. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere here,where urban buzz combines with the legendary laid-back Polynesian lifestyle. Culture is not lacking. You can enjoy sites narrating the history of the archipelago, including the colonial cathedral and the Maison de la reine Marau. The Vaipahi public gardens will win you over by their abundant plant-life. The large municipal market offers local specialities: fresh fruit, spices and all kinds of fish abound on their stalls.

Huahine, Society Islands

Located less than 200 kilometres north-west of Tahiti, Huahine Island is a secret gem in French Polynesia. You’ll love the mysterious atmosphere emanating from its voluptuous contours, its wild vegetation and stunning remote creeks.  If you explore both parts of the island, la Grande Huahine to the north, and la Petite Huahine to the south, will reveal some of its hidden treasures, as well as some archaeological remains from the Polynesian past. You can meet the local population in the main town of Fare, or in the string of villages along the coast.

Motu Mahana, Taha'a Island, Society Islands

Feet in the sand, on the islet of Motu Mahana, our sumptuous little private paradise, you will share a very special experience around an authentic traditional Polynesian barbecue. A veritable jewel in the Taha’a lagoon, pristine atoll of the Society Islands, Motu Mahana offers an infinite palette of shades of turquoise, an idyllic backdrop for observing the majestic ballet of the tropical fish. The volcanic island of Taha’a, dominated by Mount Ohiri and Mount Puurauti, will reveal its fertile and luxuriant nature, ideal for cultivating the magnificent black pearls of French Polynesia, as well as vanilla. This rare spice, greatly in demand by gourmets, is the main economic resource of what is also known as Vanilla Island.

Bora Bora, Society Islands

The Paradisiacal atoll of the archipelago of the Leeward Islands, west of French Polynesia, mythical Bora Bora offers a natural spectacle of captivating beauty. You’ll be won over as much by the white sandy beaches as by its famous lagoon, one of the most beautiful in the world, where colourful fish frolic in waters of incomparable turquoise. The island is covered with tropical vegetation, and dominated by the majestic outline of Mount Otemanu. A promenade through this volcanic landscape will enable you to discover a number of villages and meet local communities.

Moorea Island

A part of the Windward Island archipelago just to the west of Tahiti, famous Mo'orea will leave you with a series of unforgettable images and memories. Bask on its heavenly beaches, enjoy a dip in the turquoise waters of its lagoon, and soak up its luscious vegetation and the heady flowers that carpet the inland areas. Get the most out of this natural gem with a trip to the Mo'orea Belvedere. Exceptional views of Mount Rotui unfurl before your eyes, with the Opunohu Bay and its valley to the left, and the famous Cook's Bay, surrounded by notched, cathedral-style peaks, to the right.

Papeete, Tahiti Island

Capital of French Polynesia, the city of Papeete is on the north-west coast of the island of Tahiti. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere here,where urban buzz combines with the legendary laid-back Polynesian lifestyle. Culture is not lacking. You can enjoy sites narrating the history of the archipelago, including the colonial cathedral and the Maison de la reine Marau. The Vaipahi public gardens will win you over by their abundant plant-life. The large municipal market offers local specialities: fresh fruit, spices and all kinds of fish abound on their stalls.

About this Vessel

In September 2019, PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises joined the PONANT family, while retaining its personality: its relaxed, international atmosphere and destination expertise; an atmosphere that is decidedly different from the company's other ships. Le Paul Gauguin has been specially designed to sail in Polynesian waters. Her shallow draft allows for close access to shallow lagoons and isolated islands for optimal docking time. The ship's new interior designed by Studio Jean-Philippe Nuel and its recent fittings evoke South Seas elegance. All 165 cabins and suites have a view of the outside world.

Overview

In September 2019, Paul Gauguin Cruises became part of the Ponant family. The vessel maintains Ponant’s unique character with a relaxed, international ambience and an undeniable expertise in its destinations. Le Paul Gauguin has been specifically crafted to navigate the waters of Polynesia. Its shallow draft enables close access to lagoons and remote islands, ensuring optimal docking opportunities. The ship's newly designed interiors by Studio Jean-Philippe Nuel, along with recent upgrades, reflect the elegance of the South Seas. Every one of the 165 cabins and suites boasts a spectacular view of the world outside.

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Dining

Every day, the chef curates new menus that showcase authentic flavours and French culinary traditions. L’Étoile offers a diverse array of international cuisines alongside local specialities, all set in an atmosphere of sophisticated elegance. La Véranda provides a buffet for breakfast and lunch, featuring a wide variety of choices. For dinner, the chef presents a selection of gourmet cuisine, particularly highlighting the unique tastes and flavours of Polynesia (reservation needed).

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Accommodation

Every stateroom and suite on Le Paul Gauguin features external openings. Most of these accommodations come equipped with balconies or verandas. The décor and design of the staterooms and suites pay homage to Polynesian culture, blending elegance, cosiness, and comfort.

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Entertainment

During the day, relax by the pool or make use of the spa and fitness centre. At night, you can expect live entertainment in the Piano Bar and Grand Salon. You can also enjoy various nautical leisure activities, such as kayaking, paddle boarding or scuba diving from the marina access point.

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Slow down and let stress float away on secluded Huahine. Explore the local village on foot. Wander through lush rainforests. Float in crystal-clear lagoons. Live the life idyllic with a memorable day on motu

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