TAHITI Your cruise begins on the largest island—Tahiti. Located halfway between Los Angeles and Sydney, the island of Tahiti is divided in two: Tahiti Nui in the northwest and Tahiti Iti on the southeastern peninsula.
Fittingly, your journey begins in the vibrant capital city of Papeete, where you can explore markets, museums, and galleries. Or let your feet wander a short distance and discover waterfalls, sugar-sand beaches, and turquoise waters. Whatever you choose, your adventure launches in inimitable style against an unforgettable backdrop.
Awaiting in the harbor: the m/s Paul Gauguin.
Welcome aboard. Unpack. Settle in. Explore your exquisitely appointed home for the next seven days. Don’t be surprised when you are greeted by name; the onboard staff has awaited your arrival and is honored to have you as their guest. During your voyage, ask questions. About everything! Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines —The Gauguin's own onboard troupe of entertainers—love to share their stories, recommend some favorite must-see spots, and make your experience stellar. You’ll even find onboard experts versed on the history, culture, and flora and fauna of the South Pacific.
Sleep well. You’ve got quite a day tomorrow.
HUAHINE How about breakfast in bed? You’ll need energy for the day, and really, being pampered right from the start sets a nice precedent for the week ahead.
In the brilliant morning light, a palette of blues and greens greets you as The Gauguin reaches her first port. The excitement is tangible as guests gather on deck and snap pictures, lost in absolute wonder.
Huahine. “The Garden Island.”
Lush rain forests, dramatic landscapes, and idyllic lagoons are just the beginning of one of French Polynesia’s best-kept secrets. Hidden temples embellished with rare orchids, romantic enclaves, and untouched hideaways await at every turn. One of the most secluded of the Society Islands, Huahine takes its name from the Tahitian word vahine (woman), perhaps because the island’s most prominent mountain ridge resembles the silhouette of a pregnant woman.
The pace here is relaxed. Tranquility floats in the air. Serenity surrounds you like an embrace. The splendor of the landscape playfully wrestles with the kaleidoscopic wonderland just beneath the surface of crystal waters. Let your own desires shape your day. Wander the village. Take in the spectacular views. Lounge on the beach.
The four-hour Sacred Sites & Legendary Places excursion will show you French Polynesia’s most important archaeological sites, not to mention the island’s most beautiful panoramas. Or be whisked to Motu Murimahora for snorkeling, followed by a secluded beach picnic and plenty of time to let your cares drift away on the caress of the island breeze on the Motu Picnic excursion.
TAHA’A [Motu Mahana] You’ll know it’s near by the intoxicating scent of Tahitian vanilla in the air (80 percent of French Polynesian vanilla is grown here). The tranquil island of Taha’a is not a mirage, but it seems like one. Volcanic hillsides burst with banana, watermelon, and pineapple. Nature’s bounty is matched by the opportunity for adventure. Come to dive, snorkel, sail, and
explore. Visit a pearl farm to learn how Tahitian pearls are cultivated. From this island, accessible only by boat, you'll see the mythical island of Bora Bora from the northwest coast. At stone’s throw across the lagoon, the island of Raiatea gives a friendly wave.
Motu Mahana. Ever have a friend with their own private South Seas island? Now you do. Just offshore of Taha’a lies Motu Mahana. A motu is a tiny island, and Mahana (literally, "Light of Sun or Day") is The Gauguin’s own private paradise, exclusive to her guests. Beneath swaying palm trees, the day is yours to create. Snorkel surrounded by technicolor fish. Grab a kayak for a bit of exploring. Ashore, you may find a game of volleyball or watch your hosts, Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins, demonstrate how to open a coconut or tie a pareo. Indulge in an overwater massage. And when the mood strikes, a sumptuous barbecue feast awaits—complete with cocktails from a floating bar.
BORA BORA (OVERNIGHT) is like your first love. The one you never forget. This island—arguably the most celebrated of the Society Islands—is the one that will forever remain in your heart. It's just not possible to casually say, “Oh yeah, and then we went to Bora Bora.” It inspires hyperbole, envy, and romance on an epic scale; it’s easy to understand why it is one of the world’s fairy-tale honeymoon destinations.
Located just northwest of Tahiti, “the Pearl of the Pacific," is surrounded by motus and embraced by a coral reef—which means off-the-charts snorkeling. With postcard- picture views of Mt. Otemanu, bask in
Paul Gauguin Cruises |
www.pgcruises.com
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