TAHITI Your ship awaits. How many people can say that?
Your voyage begins in Tahiti. And that, as they say, is a very good place to start. There’s an energy and buzz to the capital city of Papeete that is unmistakably Polynesian. Vibrant, friendly, and unpretentious, the city is the fl ip side of the island’s majestic peaks, lush jungles, tumbling waterfalls, and stellar blue lagoon. Before you sail, pick up any last-minute necessities, grab some authentic local cuisine in a café, and gear up for the unforgettable days to come. Or wander about and soak up some history, culture, island lore, and art. Museums, galleries, and historical points of interest abound.
If, by chance, you’ve been considering your fi rst (or next) tattoo, Tahiti is where the art form began. From the Tahitian word tatau,
“to strike,” tattoos in this part of the world are very distinctive and symbolic. If you’re in the market for some ink, do some research, visit prospective artists, and consider taking the plunge on your fi nal day of the cruise, which returns you to Papeete.
HUAHINE Midway between Tahiti and Bora Bora lies this sleepy isle. Seen from the air, the “Garden Island” is actually two— Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti, connected by a man-made bridge and cradled by a coral reef. Not as developed or populous as its neighbors, Huahine is like a wish list for everything you’d want in a romantic fantasy destination. Swaying palm trees, fragrant fl owers, aquamarine waters, and beaches with sand as soft as talc.
At Sea As T e Gauguin carries you to your next port, the Cook Islands, why not start the day in a truly decadent way? Enjoy breakfast in bed, which will have you feeling like royalty. An appointment in the ship’s award-winning Deep Nature Spa is another indulgence. Whether you choose a volcanic hot stone massage, relaxing facial, body treatment, or all of the above, you’re in very good hands.
During this day at sea, you can be as active or idle as you wish. Learn Tahitian language,
dance, customs, or history—or the proper way to tie a pareo—every hour brings a range of activities for every taste.
Make sure to be on deck for a sunset that spans the color spectrum, followed by a night sky so brilliant with stars, you’ll wonder how there can possibly be room up there for all of them.
Aitutaki T e Cook Islands, called the “15 best kept secrets in the South Pacifi c” by travel guide Ordinary Traveler, were settled in the 6th century by Polynesians who migrated from Tahiti. Fast forward to 1820, when they were named for British navigator James Cook. Today, the islands are much as they were when the fi rst settlers reached their shores— unspoiled, peaceful, lovely, and quiet.
T e fi rst recorded European to have reached this paradise was Captain William Bligh, shortly after the famous mutiny on his ship, T e Bounty, in 1789.
T e second-most visited of the Cook Islands, triangular-shaped Aitutaki is nearly flat, meaning your ocean view from virtually any point is limitless—and fl awless. As waves lazily caress the reef, you are a world away. While here, don’t miss the local fare, especially the ika mata—fi sh marinated in coconut cream and lemon juice.
Travel back in time with a fascinating look at ancient life in the South Pacifi c on the Aitutaki Discovery Safari. Hear the legends and explore the sites of rituals, sacrifi ces, battles, celebrations, and courtships. Your guided 4x4 trek will include the ancient temple grounds of Are Mango and the 1,000-year-old
“Stone of Rae,” the throne of a warrior said to have been the strongest man on Aitutaki. You’ll also ascend to the island’s highest peak, Manga Pu, for a panoramic view of the island and its glittering lagoon.
Rarotonga From the deck of T e Gauguin, the primal call of drums may be the fi rst thing you hear. Next, your astounded eyes will take in the massive cathedral-like shell of an ancient volcano rising majestically against a sapphire sky. T e largest of the 15 fabled Cook Islands, Rarotonga is embraced by a sparkling
lagoon, sugar-white sands, and the friendly wave of palm trees. T e unmistakable island sound of ukuleles fl oats in the air. Genuine smiles welcome you ashore.
Be warned: On Rarotonga, hurrying is strictly forbidden. T e law of the island is to relax and immerse yourself in music, culture, history, and of course, unmatched beauty. T is is the true island experience.
One of the Cook Islands’ best-known traditional healers, the legendary Pa is an unbounded font of knowledge on the natural healing properties of Raratonga’s indigenous fl ora. Discover the wisdom of Pa, retrace the paths of his ancestors, and learn island culture and history on the popular excursion Pa, Son of Rarotonga.
AT SEA Days at sea are supremely relaxing and perfect for catching up. T ink of all the pictures you’ve taken and haven’t even had time to review. Pick up some postcards and jot off some envy-inducing “wish you were here” notes. Wander up to the deck and see the panorama of the South Pacifi c drifting by.
Take in a fun and interactive lecture from a roster of anthropologists, archaeologists, and marine biologists, as well as visiting experts. Play a few games of ping pong, shuffl eboard— even coconut bowling.
T e Gauguin comes alive after the sun sets. Try your luck at slot machines, blackjack, and roulette in Le Casino, or grab a nightcap and unwind at the Piano Bar. Le Grand Salon features movie nights, guest entertainers, and Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins performing ancestral dance and traditional songs. Of course, you could always dance under a canopy of stars on deck. Most likely, you’ll fall asleep with a smile. Sweet dreams.
Bora Bora (OVERNIGHT) On 11-night sailings, spend two days here, on the supermodel of the South Pacifi c. Famous. Exquisite. Adored. Achingly beautiful. You’ve seen countless photos and magazine covers, movies, and appearances on Top Ten lists. Your pulse will race as you approach one of the most storied islands in the world—and you
Paul Gauguin Cruises |
www.pgcruises.com
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