F
rom the magnificent mountain peaks in the Marquesas reaching into the clouds to the idyllic atolls of the Tuamotus hovering just above sea level, this new itinerary is a study of contrasting geology and extraordinary beauty.
Among the most remote islands on Earth, the Marquesas are explored in-depth with visits to five islands highlighted by two maiden calls: Hatiheu, Nuku Hiva, regarded for its black sands, towering basalt cliffs, and ancient petroglyphs; and Hakahau, Ua Pou, a hidden gem in French Polynesia. Countering these jagged isles flush with tropical forest your voyage also navigates the Tuamotu Archipelago, comprised of 78 islands, all of which are atolls. Tese little pearls of reef coral and white sand, each wrapped in turquoise and scattered across a sapphire sea, are your invitation to rare underwater discoveries including Fakarava’s UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve and Rangiroa’s “endless lagoon.”
Islands of the Marquesas & Tuamotus
TAHITI Tey call this island the “Queen of the Pacific.” And Tahiti is indeed regal. Beyond the opulence that greets your senses, Tahiti offers something intangible. Some say it’s a sense of serenity and well-being. Whatever you call it, it has lured many for thousands of years.
Your two-week journey aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin begins in one of the world’s most celebrated destinations. For this once-in-a-lifetime excursion, consider arriving a day early and/or extending your stay after the cruise. You’ll want more time in this fabled land.
Fakarava Lovely, serene, and virtually untouched by modern distractions, the second largest atoll (or coral island) in the South Pacific is the epitome of paradise. Pristine beaches surround one of the clearest lagoons in French Polynesia—a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Te views below the waterline are as cinematic as they are above, rewarding snorkelers and scuba divers with dazzling displays of colorful coral gardens frequented by barracudas, turtles, dolphins, and manta rays.
Tis is also one of the few spots in the South Pacific where you can see hundreds of gray reef sharks in the same area. Te sharks are not dangerous when approached correctly, and diving with a guide will ensure your safety.
On land, a guided E-Bike Tour of Rotoava & the North Shore explores a verdant coconut grove as well as the island’s lighthouse, church, and more.
At Sea For many, days at sea are as equally fabulous as days spent ashore. A sea day is your invitation to cast cares and schedules to the wind and truly relax. Answering only to yourself (and perhaps one another), go ahead and spend the day poolside enjoying a good book or sipping a tropical drink. You might choose to take in a lecture, or join Les Gauguines in learning how to tie a pareo (sarong) or make a local handicraft. Enjoy lunch al fresco, dinner at L’Etoile, or dine in amidst the indulgent comfort of your stateroom.
Fatu Hiva Of all the Marquesas isles, Fatu Hiva is said to be the most authentic (the roof of God’s house in ancient lore). It’s also the most remote and the most arresting in terms of scenery. Emerging dramatically from the sea in a rich cloak of luxuriant vegetation, her striking profile is a sight to behold.
Tere are only two villages on the island, and the Scenic Drive to Hanavave from Omoa takes you to one of the most picturesque spots in the Marquesas: the iconic Bay of Virgins, so named by Catholic missionaries who said that the phallic-shaped stone outcrops found here
were formed as veiled virgins. Regardless of the name, the bay is considered one of the most beautiful on Earth—so don’t forget to bring your camera!
Hiva Oa With its incomparable, ethereal beauty, locals here once believed Hiva Oa was the birthplace of the gods. Te island’s captivating scenery inspired post- Impressionist painter Paul Gauguin to create some of his best works, writing: “Everything in the landscape blinded me, dazzled me.” You, too, are sure to be amazed by the ancient petroglyphs, tiki statues, and lush landscape of coconut palms and giant banyan trees.
Te island’s rich history plays out on an unforgettable guided off-road Atuona to Taaoa expedition leading you to beautifully preserved dwellings, ceremonial sites, and sacred archaeological ruins.
Tahuata Tahuata symbolizes “sunrise” or “the enlightening home” at God’s house. Little wonder, then, that this tiny, less-explored island accessible only by boat presents a lovely vision of untouched South Pacific beauty. And with plunging valleys, cliffs covered in coconut palms, and crystal-clear bays, you’ll feel as though you’ve arrived in a heavenly house, too.
Captain James Cook visited in the 1700s, but history tells us that the island was inhabited by
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