Paul Gauguin Cruises

Paul Gauguin Cruises operates the award-winning luxury small-ship the m/s Paul Gauguin, providing an exceptional cruise experience. Discover the difference of cruising with purpose and allow us to introduce you to authentic Polynesia.

Designed specifically to sail the pristine lagoons of the South Seas, The Gauguin is eminently at home amidst these idyllic isles. Recently reimagined with a contemporary, chic ambience, the ship boasts a relaxed, easy elegance with indulgent suites and spacious staterooms – many with a private balcony – exceptional cuisine, authentic explorations ashore, a commitment to sustainability, and genuinely hospitable service.

Paul Gauguin Cruises superior service is distinguished by pure Polynesian hospitality and by one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios at sea ensuring the experience is nothing short of first class. The Gauguin also offers a watersports marina for kayaking, paddleboarding, and PADI SCUBA diving programs.

All-inclusive fare includes accommodations, all shipboard dining, gratuities, soft drinks, bottled water, beer, and select wine and spirits.

Paul Gauguin Cruises has been recognized by notable publications in travel and lifestyle including voted most recently as the “World’s Best Small-Ship Ocean Cruise Line” in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2022; one of the “Top 2 Small Cruise Lines” in the Condé Nast Traveler 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards as well as named on the publication’s 2021 “Gold List.” The line was also recognized for the 4th time for having the “Best French Polynesia Cruises” in the AFAR Travelers’ Choice Awards. In September 2019, Paul Gauguin Cruises joined PONANT’s family, a designer of inspiring voyages on board small exploration ships.

Paul Gauguin Cruises was created with the intent to provide enjoyable and meaningful travel experiences to this unique part of the planet. We care deeply, not only for our guests, but for the communities, cultures and natural wonders that make Tahiti, French Polynesia, and the South Pacific so alluring. We are dedicated to minimizing our environmental footprint and supporting local communities, while maximizing your experience of Polynesia's vivid, vibrant cultures, and stunning natural beauty.

Caring for Culture

• Participating directly in French Polynesia’s many rich traditions leads to deeper, more meaningful connections, and we strive to infuse the Polynesian spirit into everything we do.
• Cultural experts share their knowledge onboard through dynamic and entertaining lectures and presentations.
• Our troupe of cultural ambassadors, Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins, welcome guests to experience the local way of life.
• Guests have ample opportunities to delve into the culture: learn to weave a hei from freshly-plucked flowers; join in on traditional dance performances; and learn to strum a ukulele.
• Experience regional cuisine like moonfish and traditional roasted suckling pig, on board and on optional shore excursions.
• Enhance weddings, anniversaries, and vow renewals with a traditional Polynesian blessing ceremony.

Caring for the Environment

We share the French Polynesians’ deep respect for our vast blue oceans, and our commitment to eco-friendly operations guides our activities both on and off the ship.

• Through our partnership with Te mana o te moana, a South Pacific marine education and conservation foundation, we offer the Moana Explorer program which invites guests to discover and value the natural wonders of this breathtaking part of the world through hands-on, interactive learning. While it is designed for children and teens ages 7-15, all family members are welcome to participate. Every day of the voyage, there is a combination of naturalist-led island and/or beach excursions, science activities, crafts, games, and other adventures.
• Attend a presentation on select voyages where celebrated marine biologists, oceanographers, conservationists, and cultural experts share their knowledge through dynamic presentations and Q&A sessions.
• Explore the vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine biodiversity up close through an optional SCUBA excursion or certification course, where gray reef sharks, giant octopi, and kaleidoscopic parrotfish can be spotted.

Caring for People

We believe in sustainable travel that benefits both guests and island communities alike. Our cruises are designed to give back to local peoples and support local businesses.

• Experience Tonga’s bygone traditions though live demonstrations, like weaving clothing from bark in the local botanical garden, while learning about ongoing plant conservation efforts.
• Get a taste for Polynesian life today by visiting a local marketplace, where you can you find authentic souvenirs to bring back home.
• Explore vestiges of marae (ancient temples) and stroll through pineapple plantations on an excursion with a local guide whose personal insight and stories will provide you with deeper understanding.
• Journey to a small black pearl farm, where you will learn firsthand about local oysters and the process of cultivating one of the world’s favorite jewellery items.