This immersive exploration of the idyllic Society Islands is everything you imagine when you dream of French Polynesia: A return to Raiatea, a sacred isle with a revered UNESCO site; the serenity of Huahine, known as the Garden of Eden; an overnight beneath the iconic peaks of Bora Bora; and the dazzling lagoons of Moorea. Come discover paradise in living color — its azure waters, swaying coconut palms, and sun-kissed beaches are especially captivating when enjoyed on our own private motu.
Highlights
TRAVEL DATE | PRICE | TYPE |
---|---|---|
May 4, 2024 | from $3,850 USD | Per Person |
DAY | DATE | PLACE |
---|---|---|
1 | Sat May 4 | Tahiti, Society Islands |
2 | Sun May 5 | Huahine, Society Islands |
3 | Mon May 6 | Raiatea, Society Islands |
4 | Tue May 7 | Motu Mahana - Taha’a Island, Society Islands |
5 | Wed May 8 | Bora Bora, Society Islands |
6 | Thu May 9 | Moorea, Society Islands |
7 | Fri May 10 | Tahiti, Society Islands |
8 | Sat May 11 | Tahiti, Society Islands |
Day 1 – May 4, 2024 – Tahiti, Society Islands
Embarkation 5/4/2024 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 5/4/2024 at 6:00 PM
The largest of French Polynesia’s 118 islands, Tahiti and it’s capital city of Papeete are the perfect place to begin (and/or end) your South Pacific sojourn. The Gauguin waits patiently in the harbor, a vibrant and bustling market across the street and in the evenings roulottes (food trucks) line the nearby square offering tasty local fare.
Day 2 – May 5, 2024 – Huahine, Society Islands
Arrival 5/5/2024 at 8:00 AM
Departure 5/5/2024 at 5:00 PM
Don’t be fooled by the vibe of this laid-back, secluded island. Many treasures are hidden among the lush rainforest and dramatic terrain. With a bit of exploration, you’ll uncover some of the best-preserved archeological sites in French Polynesia. Underwater treasures await as well, with a snorkel excursion in the lagoon.
Day 3 – May 6, 2024 – Raiatea, Society Islands
Arrival 5/6/2024 at 8:00 AM
Departure 5/6/2024 at 11:59 PM
Blanketed in a lush landscape dotted with waterfalls, fertile valleys, and the cloud-capped Mt. Temehani, Raiatea is Polynesia’s most sacred island; it was from here that the earliest migrations set forth to settle in Hawaii, New Zealand, and beyond. The island boasts a rich Maohi history–it is home to the UNESCO-listed Marae Taputapuatea archaeological site–verdant mountains ideal for hiking, and a stunning lagoon perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and soaking up the heavenly tranquility.
Day 4 – May 7, 2024 – (Motu Mahana) Taha’a Island, Society Islands
Arrival 5/7/2024 at 8:00 AM
Departure 5/7/2024 at 5:00 PM
As the day unfolds in front of you, where will you go? Exciting shore excursions await, but so does Motu Mahana, Paul Gauguin Cruises’ own private islet. Choose from swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or simply lounging on the beach with a cold drink from our floating bar. Les Gauguines are also on hand to share musical entertainment and Polynesian crafts.
Day 5 – May 8 & 9, 2024 – Bora Bora, Society Islands
Arrival 5/8/2024 at 12:01 AM
Departure 5/9/2024 at 6:00 PM
Explore lush peaks, wander white-sand beaches, and marvel at the iconic views of Mount Otemanu. Take the plunge with a SCUBA excursion to see the island’s colorful coral reefs, enjoy a sunset jetboat ride, or spend a lazy afternoon on our private beach. Like a priceless Paul Gauguin painting come to life, storied Bora Bora is colorful and unforgettable. The landscape alone will have you searching for adequate adjectives, especially once you see the lagoon—“turquoise” just doesn’t do it justice.
Day 6 – May 10, 2024 – Moorea, Society Islands
Arrival 5/10/2024 at 8:00 AM
Departure 5/10/2024 at 5:00 PM
Step into a vibrant, colorful world in bright and beautiful Moorea, which welcomes you with azure lagoons, impossibly fresh tropical fruits, stunning mountain peaks and palm-fringed beaches. Commune with nature on an optional dolphin-watching excursion with an expert marine biologist. Afterwards, spend some time getting to know the local residents while shopping for handmade crafts.
Days 7 & 8 – May 10 & 11, 2024 – Tahiti, Society Islands
Arrival 5/10/2024 at 7:30 PM
Disembarkation 5/11/2024 at 8:30 AM
The largest of French Polynesia’s 118 islands, Tahiti and it’s capital city of Papeete are the perfect place to begin (and/or end) your South Pacific sojourn. The Gauguin waits patiently in the harbor, a vibrant and bustling market across the street and in the evenings roulottes (food trucks) line the nearby square offering tasty local fare.
Designed specifically to glide in luxury through the shallow seas of the South Pacific, The Gauguin is a small-ship cruiser’s dream. She delivers travelers to intimate ports inaccessible to larger cruise ships, all the while providing a travel experience that is nothing short of luxurious. Once on board, guests enjoy newly-decorated spacious suites and staterooms (more than 70% with private balconies), an onboard watersports marina, three dining venues, an extensive spa, and five-star service. Life on The Gauguin also reflects the beauty and rich cultural heritage of the islands she calls upon, with a warm, friendly feel, informal setting, and even a beloved troupe of Les Gauguin and Les Gauguines—local Tahitians who serve as onboard hosts and hostesses, entertainers, and storytellers.
We would love to help you plan and book your next travel escape! We appreciate you taking the time to reach out and will be in touch as soon as possible.