residents, you’ll immediately feel welcome by the locals here, and quite possibly by the pod of dolphins who regularly ply the waters.
Arrival is at the quaint village of Hapatoni, where an open-air market presents a wealth of locally made handicrafts (and no self- respecting South Seas traveler returns home without a woodcarving!).
A guided all-terrain Hapatoni Discovery tour explores the island’s wilderness, villages, and history, including scenic lookouts and brilliant vistas of regal mountain peaks
Nuku Hiva Te largest of the Marquesas Islands, Nuku Hiva’s beauty is untamed. Rugged cliffs nose-dive into the ocean. A carpet of green jungle creeps from the water’s edge, reaching upward. Shadows dance on the shoreline and knife-like peaks disappear behind a scrim of clouds. Optional tours will lead you to massive banyan trees, hidden valleys, and stunning bay views… and for the truly lucky, you may even sneak a peek of the island’s wild horses.
An immersive off-road Visit of Taipivai Valley excursion leads to one of the richest archaeological sites in the Marquesas Islands. Dotted with tikis and sacred statuary, the valley is made famous by the writings of American novelist Herman Melville who deserted his ship and lived for weeks among the indigenous natives; Melville’s Typee: A Peep at Polynesian Life was published in 1846, six years before he wrote Moby-Dick.
At Sea Tis voyage is all about exploration, and there are opportunities for discovery tailored to every interest and inclination. Le Grand Salon plays host to myriad talks, presentations, and screenings—don’t miss watching Te Bounty on the big screen to see Hollywood’s version of the infamous mutiny. You can choose to enhance your kitchen
prowess with cooking demonstrations by the ship’s executive chef or enjoy games of chess, trivia, and bridge.
With two leisurely days at sea, you’ll have plenty of time to relax, soak up the sun, and marvel at the ocean’s beauty.
Huahine Huahine is the best-kept secret in the Society Islands. Often referred to as the Garden of Eden, it’s hard to envision a more idyllic setting, seemingly untouched by the outside world.
Te people of Huahine are known for their incredible warmth and welcome. Eight tiny villages spread over two islands encourage wandering. In Fare, you’ll find local handicrafts and intimate eateries showcasing the true flavors of French Polynesia. You can also arrange underwater activities and guided tours of the island’s many ancient temples and mythical sites.
Bora Bora Like a priceless painting come to life, this island is one of the world’s top honeymoon destinations, and for good reason. Te landscape alone will have you searching for adequate adjectives: soaring volcanic peaks, impossibly green jungles, flowers in an explosion of vibrant colors. And then there’s the lagoon. Can you capture that exact shade of turquoise in words? You may find it cannot be done, but you’ll keep trying.
Taha’a [Motu Mahana] Resembling a flower-shaped emerald in a glittering silver setting, the “Vanilla Island” will greet you as you awaken on board. Once you’ve realized you’re not in the middle of a very beautiful dream, enjoy breakfast and disembark for a remarkable day of exploration.
Tahitian vanilla is as coveted as Tahitian pearls. Te Exploration of Taha’a excursion allows you to explore both a small family-
owned vanilla plantation and a black pearl farm, where you’ll see how pearls are grown and harvested. You’ll also do some off-road exploring, traversing the island’s highest mountain and meandering coastline.
Troughout the day, the ship’s tender service whisks guests to and from Motu Mahana, Te Gauguin’s own private island, accessible only to her guests. Swim, snorkel to your heart’s content, or relax beneath gently swaying palm trees. Be sure you stay hydrated with refreshments from the floating bar, and complete your visit with a grand beachside barbecue showcasing the bounty of French Polynesia.
Moorea Anyone who has ever seen Rogers & Hammerstein’s South Pacific will probably have the song Bali Hai in their head while ashore on Moorea. Said to be the inspiration for the James A. Michener novel on which the musical is based, Moorea is a favorite destination for many. As undeniably beautiful as each island is, Moorea has a little extra je ne sais quoi. “Te Magical Island” beckons, hypnotizes, entrances. You will have the day to explore at your leisure, with adventures both on land and sea. What suits you? Quaint villages, pineapple plantations, golf, hiking trails for all levels of physical fitness and energy? Or is it snorkeling, diving, sailing, and lagoon excursions aplenty.
Papeete, Tahiti Following a memorable day on Moorea, it’s time to wend your way back to your point of origin in Papeete. For one last magical evening on deck, raise a glass with the friends you’ve made here.
Armed with matchless memories, it’s time to return to the “real world.” When you feel the caress of a warm breeze or the kiss of the sun on your shoulders, think of the islands, and of your friends on board. Te Gauguin will patiently await your return.
Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands
Roundtrip Papeete, Tahiti 14 NIGHTS
from $7,390 per person Includes 30% Early Bonus Savings* *See page 79 for Terms & Conditions Paul Gauguin Cruises |
www.pgcruises.com 59
2024 SAILING DATES: February 3; March 16; December 21, 2024
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