Polynesians as early as 200 A.D. Tahuata is rich with archaeological sites to be explored— and the ancient royal walkway with its floral- scented air of frangipani and tiaré blossoms is an enchanting setting for a stroll. Embark on a scenic Hapatoni Discovery in an all-terrain vehicle to explore the island’s villages, culture, and beauty.
Te Gauguin anchors offshore in Hapatoni Bay, with tenders taking you ashore to explore the village’s open-air markets and a community of fine sculptors, considered among the best in the Marquesas. Te island is known for the quality of its mono’i, a traditional elixir of tiaré flower-infused coconut oil with added vetiver, sandalwood, and ylang-ylang to create an intoxicating scent.
NUKU HIVA Author Robert Louis Stevenson favored Nuku Hiva’s arching Hatiheu Bay for its enchanting, picture-postcard setting. Lined with black sand and crowned by towering basalt cliffs, this 2024 maiden call to Hatiheu promises discovery both cultured and rare. Rife with archaeological sites, the ancient village is best known for its petroglyphs of human figures, turtles, and fish, as well as its marae (traditional temples) and tohua (open- air gathering places)–the most sacred of these being the me’ae l’ipoka, protected by a massive banyan tree.
A Visit of the Taipivai Valley leads you through the island’s landscape allowing for several stops to take in the spectacular vistas of coastline, bays, and valleys.
UA POU Te tiny isle of Ua Pou truly is off the beaten path—despite island legend holding that it is the “entrance” to God’s house. With its jagged basalt pinnacles rising from the sea to pierce the sky and myriad intimate bays lining its shores, it is one of the most dramatically scenic islands in the Marquesas to witness on approach. Te small
village of Hakahau, another 2024 maiden call, is the island’s main town, and locals here take great pride in their ancestral culture, as shown by impressive archaeological sites and modern- day artisan crafts.
At Sea Bidding the dramatic wonders of the Marquesas good-bye, enjoy a day at sea to reflect on the discoveries made in these remote and wonderful isles. Let the memories and moments sink in so that you never forget them. Soon enough, Te Gauguin will deliver you again to the Tuamotus…where more underwater adventures await.
RANGIROA Te world’s second largest atoll is also revered as the world’s largest ‘natural’ aquarium, known as the
“Endless Lagoon.” So large is Rangiroa’s lagoon that the entire island of Tahiti could fit inside! Not surprisingly, this enchanting atoll is a world-class destination for diving and snorkeling. Fringing Motu Nui Nui is a reef teeming with colorful tropical fish and perfect for both beginner and advanced snorkelers. Rangiroa’s Tiputa Pass is a legendary diving spot renowned for its dolphins, hammerhead sharks, and manta rays.
Te Gauguin offers two snorkeling excursions on Rangiroa. Drift snorkeling gently carries you with the current where the Pacific Ocean meets Rangiroa’s lagoon. The view below the surface is said to be the island’s best. Snorkeling Rangiroa’s ‘Aquarium’ brings you to another of the island’s sweet spots, where you’ll hand-feed the fish in their prismatic aquatic kingdom.
At Sea (2 DAYS) As the final leg of your journey approaches, you’ll want to take full advantage of all Te Gauguin has to offer. You’re on vacation, which means indulgence is mandatory. Whether that means a spa appointment, ordering
two (or who’s counting? go for three!) desserts, or simply lounging the day away, you’re allowed.
BORA BORA As long as you live, wherever you go, nothing will compare to awakening in the morning as your ship approaches Bora Bora in all her magnificence. Tis has to be one of the South Pacific’s most decadent views, so breakfast on your balcony or al fresco at La Veranda is a must. Join fellow guests on deck and start snapping some pictures to post, tagged #nofilter. Be ready for responses like, “Yeah, right.” For the uninitiated, this level of beauty just cannot be real— but it is.
Soar like an eagle over exquisite topography, and experience what you’ll never see from the ground on the 30-minute Helicopter Flightseeing Bora Bora & Tupai tour. Te “Pearl of the Pacific” will open like an exquisite flower below you. You’ll circle the island’s highest peak, Mount Otemanu, and float over the famous heart-shaped motu of Tupai. Troughout this thrilling excursion, headphones connect you to the pilot’s commentary as he points out the sights below.
TAHA’A [MOTU MAHANA] If you made it your quest on this voyage to find your perfect beach, you may discover it here at Motu Mahana, the islet exclusive to guests of the m/s Paul Gauguin. Bring your complimentary snorkel gear from Te Gauguin, choose your favorite chaise lounge, and spend the day in your own private slice of paradise.
PAPEETE, TAHITI And so it is time to say farewell to your newfound friends—both fellow guests and crew alike. Te good news is that when you return to Te Gauguin for your next voyage, you’ll feel welcomed like old friends, as if you’d never been away.
Marquesas & Tuamotus 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 67
Islands of the
2024 SAILING DATES: June 8; July 6; August 3, 24; September 14, 2024
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