approach by ship is equally as mesmerizing as the multi-hued colors of the lagoon come into view. Rich in both natural beauty and history, it is believed that Aitutaki was settled around 900 A.D. by the legendary Polynesian explorer Ru. Today, its inhabitants keep their history alive through song, dance, legends, and crafts.
Te island’s coral reefs enclose a vast lagoon— which many believe rivals the usually beyond- compare Bora Bora (and Moorea, le sigh… such is life in the South Pacific!). Several hundred species of fish make these waters their home, so underwater activities are a must.
A great way to “dive in” and explore the lagoon is on a guided Snorkeling Tour to Motu Maina. Here the pretty reefs reward with colorful damsels, butterflyfish, Picasso triggers, and lots of giant clams.
At Sea (2 DAYS) Days at sea are a welcome oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation. Your voyage is hosted by Te Gauguin's own troupe of Les Gauguines, local Tahitians who bring the spirit of Polynesia to life. Enjoy a retelling of ancestral legends through dance. Delight in traditional songs. Learn local handicrafts during hands-on demonstrations. Fall in love with the warmth of a beautiful culture.
Vava’u Tiny-but-mighty Tonga is Polynesia’s only remaining monarchy and takes great pride in being the only island nation in the Pacific not to have been colonized by a foreign power. Te kingdom is comprised of some 170 islands divided into three main groups; of these, the northern group of Vava’u is considered the loveliest. A favorite haven for yachts, a call here invites discovery of Vava'u's culture and food, hiking Mount Talau, and snorkeling in its crystalline lagoon.
Tese Islands are a wonderland of wildlife. Beneath the gentle waves, spinner dolphins, giant clams, manta rays, sea turtles, and more than 100 species of tropical fish cavort through coral landscapes.
For a truly special experience, the Swallow Cave and Island Getaway takes you by boat to Kapa Island to explore a remarkable cave that is not, as its name might suggest, inhabited by swallows. Rather, hundreds of swiftlets flit about in the dim light and nest in the darkness of the cave’s upper reaches. Te experience concludes with a visit to Falevai Mui Houma Beach.
AT Sea During your leisurely day at sea, learn more about the culture of the islands you’re visiting with onboard lectures, presentations, and demonstrations. Te traditional Polynesian dress for women, the pareo (or sarong), originated in Tahiti and the Cook Islands. Often brilliantly emblazoned with hibiscus flowers, indigenous designs, or traditional tapa patterns, today, pareos are sported by both men and women, and there are many ways to tie and wear them. Learn how from Les Gauguines.
Savusavu Like a smile that can’t be suppressed, the island of Vanua Levu in northern Fiji presents itself with blushing splendor, and Savusavu is your welcome entry. Charming, unassuming, and unspoiled, the second largest of Fiji’s 300 islands extends a warm hello with lush green hills surrounded by coral reefs. Some call it the “Hidden Paradise of Fiji,” and you will likely agree.
Described by Jean-Michel Cousteau as the
“Soft Coral Capital of the World,” Fiji offers some of the world’s finest snorkeling and dive sites among the reefs, caves, and grottos with diverse marine life including sharks, turtles, tuna, and fish of all shapes, colors, and sizes. For discovery of the island itself, the Nakawaqa Waterfall & Rainforest excursion leads you to a hidden spot of remarkable beauty.
Suva Suva is perched on a hilly peninsula between two harbors on the island of Viti Levu. Every view is a stunning combination of blues and greens, volcanic cliffs, and velvet jungles.
Fiji, Tonga, Cook & Society Islands Lautoka, Fiji to Papeete, Tahiti (or reverse)
14 NIGHTS from $7,390 per person Includes 30% Early Bonus Savings* *See page 79 for Terms & Conditions Paul Gauguin Cruises |
www.pgcruises.com 75
Fiji’s capital city is a fascinating mix of modern and colonial architecture, rich in Fijian culture with museums, galleries, and marketplaces to explore. Fiji’s highest peak, Mount Tomanivi, is an exquisite landmark from every vantage point. Te shell of this ancient volcano is an unforgettable climb for experienced hikers.
Beqa Island It seems that everyone you meet in Fiji is wearing a smile. And when you behold the tiny island of Beqa (pronounced “BENG-uh”), it’s easy to understand why. Te startlingly turquoise lagoon is cradled in the crater of an extinct volcano. Waterfalls tumble, golden sands sparkle, and gentle breezes whisper the secrets of this paradise rich in tradition and heritage, where the ancient ritual of Fijian firewalking began.
Beqa may be small—less than six square miles in all—but the hospitality here is as big as the South Pacific. Tere are no paved roads and only a sprinkling of friendly villages. From the lush forests, trees heavy with coconut and papaya wave a friendly hello. Pristine beaches frame one of the world’s largest barrier reefs, a paradise for divers, snorkelers, and fishing enthusiasts.
Lautoka Located on Viti Levu, Lautoka is known as “Sugar City” for the golden-green sugarcane that surrounds it on three sides. Te palm-lined main street invites strolling and shopping, while the lagoon is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. And the beaches? Flawless, with super-fine white sand and swaying coconut palms.
One of the island’s highlights is the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, which includes manicured lawns, lily ponds, fountains, and more than 2,000 truly rare Asian and Cattleya orchid hybrids, once the private collection of actor Raymond Burr. A fitting end to your idyllic voyage!
2024 SAILING DATES: October 26; November 10, 2024
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