TAHITI Te islands of French Polynesia are a spectacular collection of volcanic atolls strewn across the tranquil Pacific Ocean, and the island of Tahiti is the largest of them all. Called the “Queen of the Pacific,” the royal moniker is appropriate and you’ll see why. Majestic, stately and steeped in history, the island is synonymous with paradise.
While you’re likely eager to board your new floating home-away-from-home, not so fast— you’ll want to sample the bounty that Tahiti offers on land, first. As Te Gauguin waits in the harbor, the capital city of Papeete offers shopping, waterfront dining, entertainment and swoon-inducing sunsets. If you run out of time to see all you want to see, don’t worry— you’ll return back to Papeete after your sea journey is complete.
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 journey ahead.
In the brilliant morning light, a palette of blues and greens greet you as Te Gauguin reaches her first port. Te excitement is tangible as guests gather on deck to snap pictures, lost in absolute wonder.
Lush rainforests, dramatic landscapes and idyllic lagoons are just the beginning in Huahine, 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.
Te pace here is relaxed. Tranquility floats in the air. Serenity surrounds you like an embrace. Te 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.
TAHA’A [Motu Mahana] Life is simple on this flower-shaped island, where orchids climb to take in the view and the air is sweet with vanilla and hibiscus. Most of the Tahitian vanilla prized by gourmets and gourmands comes from Taha’a; stock up during your visit. With only a handful of guest houses and small hotels, this sleepy island is authentically Polynesian—the vibe is so laid- back, you'll marvel that you ever worried about things like deadlines, schedules, and meetings. Off-the-charts snorkeling and diving are a given. Pillowy mountains, fertile valleys and sparkling beaches will vie for your exploration, whether it’s a visit to a vanilla plantation, hiking ancient trails or a guided 4x4 trek into the island’s lush jungle.
Spend a day in truly exclusive relaxation on Motu Mahana, Te Gauguin’s own private islet. No other cruise ship can access this intimate corner of paradise, but it’s yours to enjoy during your day in Taha’a. Te experience is truly Tahitian. Les Gauguines welcome you with authentic Polynesian music, and then your time is your own. Leave your watch in your cabin, because on Motu Mahana, you have no schedule, no deadlines and definitely no stress. Doze on a chaise lounge under a blue-sky canopy. Grab your favorite drink from our floating bar and find a perfect spot to enjoy. Join in a game of beach volleyball, take to the water on a kayak, or experience the underwater life with your complimentary snorkel equipment. When you’ve worked up an appetite, a beach barbecue awaits. Tis is the life.
BORA BORA (OVERNIGHT) On Bora Bora, you’re inside the postcard looking out. With the castle-like centerpiece of Mount Otemanu soaring skyward, the Romantic Island offers a decadent display of endless azure skies, emerald waters and colorful wildlife on land, sea and air. Tuck a hibiscus flower behind your ear, go native and surrender to the fragrant breezes of one of the world’s top honeymoon destinations.
After vising Motu Mahana, you’ve likely become accustomed to the private beach life. If so, another great getaway awaits you in Bora Bora: your own private beach. Bring a towel from the ship and bask in the warm sun of the South Pacific. Te waters are refreshing, so take a dip or two.
While you can easily spend a day simply wandering the beaches and marveling at the blue waters of the lagoon, more active pursuits beckon as well. Head inland and explore by foot or 4x4.
One of the most unforgettable experiences you’ll find in the South Pacific is the opportunity to stand in shallow waters as beautiful, playful (and harmless) stingrays swim around you. Te rays are accustomed to visitors and gently glide around you as your guide feeds them, and even holds them, giving you the chance to stroke their satiny skin. Keep your eyes open to your surroundings and you may also see lemon sharks, black-tip reef sharks, and schools of colorful fish. Tis story of your Sharks & Stingrays Encounter will inspire disbelief every time you tell it.
MOOREA (OVERNIGHT) It’s okay to stare open-mouthed. Moorea is used to it. Tis island is everything you imagine a South Pacific island would be. Majestic. Mysterious. Alluring. Hypnotic. Waterfalls tumble from volcanic ridges and ferns dance in the spray. Te plush
Paul Gauguin Cruises |
pgcruises.com
17
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72