For over 25 years Paul Gauguin Cruises has delivered an unmatched experience, a passion for authenticity, and a deep commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Tahiti and her islands while offering travelers a window into the heart of a mesmerizing region. With an impeccable blend of casual luxury and local charm, Paul Gauguin Cruises has rightfully earned its place as French Polynesia’s destination expert and winner of the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award 2024 for Best Small Cruise.

The 330-guest m/s Paul Gauguin is not just a vessel; it is a floating extension of the South Pacific. A voyage aboard this intimate ship is akin to experiencing the islands from the comfort of an overwater bungalow-except this "bungalow" sails from one enchanting island to the next, seamlessly immersing you in the raw beauty and rich culture of the archipelagos found here. With more private balconies than any other ship sailing year-round in French Polynesia, The Gauguin offers you unparalleled views of some of the most breathtaking scenery on Earth.

A Journey Through Fabled Isles

Imagine yourself anchored in Bora Boras turquoise lagoon, gazing up at the iconic silhouette of Mount Otemanu as the sun sets, casting golden hues across the water. This is just one of the unforgettable moments that awaits on nearly every journey. The Society Islands, known for their lush green peaks, stunning coral reefs, and pristine beaches, are at the heart of every itinerary. Moorea, with its dramatic, forest-cloaked mountains and warm Polynesian spirit, beckons you to explore its rainforests and secluded beaches. Huahine, often called the "Garden of Eden," enchants with its verdant landscapes and cultural richness. And Motu Manana, the lines’ private islet secluded in Taha'a's crystalline lagoon, evokes the Tahiti of your dreams. Here, nature and heritage intertwine, offering an island experience that feels untouched by time.

Beyond the Society Islands, the newly UNESCO-enshrined Marquesas archipelago boasts a rugged, awe-inspiring beauty. These remote islands are framed by jagged volcanic peaks, ancient petroglyphs, and steep cliffs that dive dramatically into the ocean.

For those seeking adventure, the Tuamotus offer an entirely different world. These low-lying coral atolls are a diving and snorkeling paradise, with vibrant underwater ecosystems and a tranquil beauty that contrasts with the towering mountains of other islands. Fakarava, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is a marvel of biodiversity and one of the most sought-after destinations for snorkelers and divers alike.

And then there are the Cook Islands, a sprinkling of gems in the heart of the South Pacific known for their astonishing blue lagoons and secluded beaches. These islands are the epitome of tropical paradise, offering you the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Unmatched Immersion

What sets The Gauguin Experience apart from others is not only the incomparable diversity of destinations visited but the immersive, authentic experience it offers. The Gauguin proudly boasts its own troupe of Tahitian hosts and entertainers—Les Gauguines (female) and Les Gauguins (male)—who live aboard the ship and bring Polynesian culture to life through song, dance, storytelling, and hands-on activities. Whether you're learning traditional crafts, watching the mesmerizing ote'a dance, or enjoying a Polynesian feast, every day aboard The Gauguin feels like an authentic slice of island life.

The company's longstanding relationships with local communities also ensure that you'll enjoy unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences ashore. From visiting pearl farms in Taha’a to exploring ancient marae on the sacred isle of Raiatea, guests are offered a window into Polynesia's rich cultural heritage in a way that other cruise lines simply cannot match.

Blissful Luxury and Comfort

Designed specifically for navigating the shallow lagoons of French Polynesia, The Gauguin is as much at home in these waters as the islands themselves. With 70% of the ship's butler-serviced suites and spacious staterooms offering true private balconies, guests can soak in the breathtaking scenery in sublime comfort. All accommodations deliver a level of personalized luxury that elevates the entire cruise experience. And with voyages ranging from seven to 14 nights-many combinable for longer sojourns—Paul Gauguin Cruises offers the perfect balance of exploration and indulgence.

One of the hallmarks of The Gauguin Experience is its commitment to luxury without pretense. The ship's décor is tropically chic, with elegant Polynesian touches that reflect the spirit of French Polynesia. The ambiance on board is blissfully carefree, with no jackets required, and the atmosphere feels more like a luxurious beach resort than a traditional cruise.

Dining aboard The Gauguin is a culinary journey in its own right, with French-inspired an Tahitian-infused cuisine served in three restaurants. Whether you're enjoying breakfast al fresco at La Veranda, savoring a decadent lunch at Le Grill, or indulging in fine French cuisine at L'Etoile, every meal aboard The Gauguin is a celebration of the flavors of the South Pacific.

Adventure Awaits

For those looking to dive into the crystal-clear waters of French Polynesia, only The Gauguin offers a certified PADI SCUBA program aboard ship, an enticing feature for divers of every experience level. Novices can receive their PADI Certification on board, and refresher courses are also available. Experienced divers will thrill to nitrox dives, shark and wreck dives and adventures amidst world-renowned reef passes. All dives are led by a professional PADI Dive Master aboard inflatable dive boats launched directly from the ship's watersports marina. The marina also offers complimentary paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling gear* for personal use throughout each voyage.

Families are welcomed aboard The Gauguin with the only dedicated kids' program on a luxury line in French Polynesia. The Moana Explorer Program is offered complimentary on select summer and holiday voyages, providing children ages six to 15 the chance to engage in hands-on, educational activities both on board and ashore.

Offered in partnership with Te mana o te moana, a premier marine education and conservation foundation, this enriching program ensures that younger guests come away with not just memories, but a deeper understanding of the marine environment unique to French Polynesia. 

A Legacy of Excellence

As the highest-rated luxury ship sailing in French Polynesia, The Gauguin's reputation for excellence is well established.

With more overnight stays and a rich roster of itineraries, Paul Gauguin Cruises offers you the chance to fully embrace the beauty, rhythm, and culture of the islands. And with its commitment to preserving the treasures here through partnerships such as that with the Te mana o te moana foundation, Paul Gauguin Cruises ensures that the pristine beauty of these islands will endure for generations to come.

Whether you're drawn by the allure of the Marquesas' untamed beauty, the tranquil atolls of the Tuamotus, or the legendary islands of Bora Bora and Moorea, a voyage aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin is more than a cruise-it's an invitation to discover the soul of French Polynesia.