Tahiti Located halfway between Los Angeles and Sydney, the island of Tahiti is legendary, to say the least. Considered one of the world’s most exotic locations, Tahiti boasts a beauty that is nothing short of exquisite.


You will meet the m/s Paul Gauguin at the harbor in the capital city of Papeete, where markets, museums, and galleries await.


Moorea T ere are no two ways about it—French Polynesia is home to some of the most stunning locales on Earth. What you will discover is that Moorea has a beauty uniquely its own. It shares the same attributes as other islands. Crystal-clear blue lagoon? Check. Stunning landscapes? Check. Off- the-charts snorkeling and diving, and ample opportunities for adventure on land or sea? Check, check, check.


So what is it that sets Moorea apart? Moorea is many things to many people, and oftentimes, words are not enough to describe exactly what the “it” is. T e best advice is to surrender completely to whatever this magical island has in store for you.


Dolphins have to be among the happiest and most playful of the animal kingdom, and it stands to reason that they appreciate the beauty of Moorea as much as we do. Join the Dolphin-Watching Expedition, a combination eco-tour and research expedition led by world-renowned dolphin and whale expert Michael Poole. T e focus of this excursion is on wild, free-ranging dolphins within Moorea’s reef. Accompanying Poole’s fascinating commentary about their remarkable life and society at sea, you’ll likely see schools of acrobatic spinner dolphins playing against Moorea’s dramatic beauty. Following your tour and time permitting, you may have an opportunity to go swimming or snorkeling before returning to the pier.


Taha’a [MOTU MAHANA] Enclosed in a lagoon shared with Raiatea and accessible only by boat, Taha’a is an ideal port for a truly relaxing escape. 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.


Taha’a is also home to Motu Mahana, Paul Gauguin Cruises’ private island, accessible only to her guests. You will be welcomed to this exclusive paradise with traditional Polynesian music performed by Les Gauguines. T en, take


advantage of the ship’s fl oating bar (no South Pacifi c cruise is complete without drinking a cocktail from a real coconut), a bountiful beachside barbecue, and ample opportunities for watersports, swimming, and relaxation.


Bora Bora Tere, spread out in a lavish opulence of colors and textures in one of the world’s most famous romance destinations: Bora Bora. It’s easy to understand why this island is the site of so many weddings, honeymoons, renewals of vows, and spontaneous declarations of love. Te setting has inspired passion for thousands of years. Resistance is futile.


Have your camera ready. Bora Bora just begs to have its picture taken, with lush peaks, white-sand beaches, and romantic lagoons. You can’t miss the island’s most iconic image: Mount Otemanu. Once a pair of extinct volcanoes, this mighty monolith soars 2,400 feet above the aquamarine lagoon. For a truly epic adventure, arrange a guided hike or 4x4 trek to its lofty peak, or opt for a simple and leisurely day at the private beach.


AT Sea With a day left to your own devices on board T e Gauguin, there is no time like the present to make this all about you. Breakfast in your stateroom or on your balcony is an excellent way to start. Spend the morning at a leisurely clip, catching up on news of the islands or reviewing the multitude of photos you’ve taken so far. T en, how about a nice workout at the fi tness center followed by a beeline to the spa for some serious rejuvenation? A deep massage and soothing treatment will get your sun-kissed skin glowing. A fresh lunch al fresco at La Veranda, and next—you certainly are more than deserving— it might be time for a nap. Before you know it, it’s time to slip into your evening fi nery and enjoy a sumptuous dinner at L’Etoile.


Aitutaki It is believed that the second-most-visited of the Cook Islands 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, in particular tivaevae— intricate, handmade patchwork quilts unique to the Cook Islands, featuring designs inspired by nature.


T e island’s coral reefs enclose a vast lagoon— which many believe rivals the usually beyond- compare Bora Bora. Several hundred species of fi sh make this their home, so underwater activities are a must.


Join archaeologist guides on an adventure into the past and present culture of Aitutaki on the Punarei Village Cultural Tour. T is trek includes visits to excavations, an ancient temple, and sacred sites. You’ll also see traditional dances, demonstrations of weaving from coconut fronds, wood carving, tattooing, and more. Fresh fruits and sweet coconut will refresh you, grown in ecologically friendly gardens around the site you visit.


AT Sea (2 DAYS) As T e Gauguin carries you toward the magical kingdom of Tonga, your days at sea are a welcome oasis of relaxation, rejuvenation, and discovery.


Onboard experts of world renown give you insights into the lands and seas you are discovering on this voyage. Join these experts for onboard learning that is always entertaining, informative, and fun. For example, lecturer Denis Schneider will discuss his work as a marine biologist and Espace Bleu, an organization that works to increase awareness of environmental issues and conducts research on coral reefs.


Vava’u T e Kingdom of Tonga comprises 61 individual islands, and the northern group, Vava’u, is considered the loveliest. A favorite haven for yachts, Vava’u features an atmosphere that is relaxed. Come as you are, stay for awhile, and above all, take it easy.


T e Vava’u Islands are a wonderland of wildlife, and the lagoon is so clear, divers can see to an incredible depth of 130 feet. Beneath the gentle waves, spinner dolphins, giant clams, manta rays, sea turtles, and more than 100 species of tropical fi sh cavort through coral landscapes.


Above the water, the local market off ers handicrafts and a bounty of locally grown fruits and vegetables, not to mention the freshest catch of the day. Take a guided tour of ‘Ene‘io Botanical Garden, and see more than 500 native Tongan beautiful fl ora.


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. The traditional Tahitian dress for women, the pareo (or sarong) originated in the Cook Islands. Often brilliantly emblazoned with hibiscus fl owers, 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.


Paul Gauguin Cruises | www.pgcruises.com 65


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