Society Islands & The Tuamotus
Papeete, Tahiti Island - Papeete, Tahiti Island
Dates:
18/02/2026
to
25/02/2026
Other available dates
days
nights on board
PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises is offering an exceptional 11-day voyage leaving from Tahiti to discover the gems of the Society Islands, including extraordinary landscapes and enchanting historical and cultural treasures.
You will be captivated by the resolutely Polynesian ambiance that prevails aboard the Paul Gauguin: a ship with a relaxed and international atmosphere, especially designed for sailing in these shallow turquoise waters.
In the Tuamotus, Rangiroa, a gigantic atoll with breathtaking underwater scenery, is most known for the cultivation of its famous black pearls. Be sure to try snorkelling in these natural aquariums where colourful fish, rays and friendly sharks can be found playing amid the reefs, or to explore the marvellous depths of the atoll of Fakarava, a UNESCO-classified nature reserve.
You will discover the wonderful Society Islands, with lush rainforests, impossibly clear lagoons, and endless palm trees swaying in the warm breeze.
The sweet scent of vanilla and Tahitian gardenias bewitches you and your dreams of escape and contemplation now seem within hand’s reach. Marvel at the beauty of Huahine; the cradle of Polynesian culture on the mythical island of Raiatea; the majestic ballet of the colourful fish undulating through the turquoise waters of motu Mahana, our small, private paradise steeped in the scent of vanilla; and Bora Bora’s stunning lagoon and distinctive volcanic silhouette.
Before disembarking in Papeete, feast your eyes on the incomparable beauty of Moorea.
Ref : PG180226
Your itinerary
A gentle escapade aboard the Paul Gauguin, an expert in the destination, with an international and friendly atmosphere. An immersion in South Pacific culture and way of life: the sunny disposition of the...
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE BORÉAL
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
LE BELLOT
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
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CLOTHING ABOARD SHIP
Country Club Casual, or elegant resort wear, is appropriate dress for all evenings aboard The Paul Gauguin. Country Club Casual consists of a dress, or skirt or slacks with a blouse or sweater for ladies, and slacks and collared shirts for gentleman. No ties are required at any time, although gentlemen may opt to wear a jacket to the Captain’s Welcome Reception. Please note that casual wear such as shorts, t-shirts, casual jeans (frayed and/or with holes), baseball caps, flip-flops, and Crocs are not considered appropriate after 6:00 pm in all restaurants and lounges. Bathrobes and bathing suits are not appropriate in the ship’s restaurants and lounges, and shirts and shoes are required in all public areas at all times.
Captain’s Welcome Reception :
During the cruise, a gala evening will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
Polynesian evening:
Shirt, floral dress
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 10 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
PACK LIST
Complimentary snorkeling equipment is available on board, but don’t forget to pack these essentials:
- Comfortable walking shoes/ Water shoes*
- Comfortable active wear for daytime activities
- Country Club resort wear for evenings
- Sun hat, sunglasses, sun block–strongly recommended
- Swimsuits and beach cover-ups
- Swimming rash guard (swim shirt)
- Insect repellent
- Jacket or sweater for cool evenings
- Camera/Underwater camera. For safety and security reasons, drones are not permitted
- Medication—If you require prescription medication, be sure to bring enough to last for your entire vacation and pack it in your carry-on luggage
*Shoes suitable for wearing in the water—whether they are reef shoes, sneakers, or old sandals—are imperative for water-based activities. There are corals, urchins, and other marine life that can cause painful cuts and injuries that can be prevented by bringing footwear from home. There is limited opportunity for purchase in the South Pacific. Note that flip-flops are not suitable for this function.
PONANT activities
Diving & initiation dive
Supervision of the dives
Your dives will be led by your PONANT instructor. He will take care of your safety and that all goes smoothly. On some diving sites, as in natural reserves or if the local regulations require it, a local guide will escort the diving.
Level required for scuba diving on this cruise
The minimum level required for scuba diving on this cruise is 1 star CMAS or the PADI Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to our main diving instructor.
Process of the dives (certified divers)
The instructor reserves the right to check divers’ ability for maximum safety. As we will dive in remote places, the dives will be done without decompression stop. A safety stop of 3 minutes at 5 metres will be mandatory. The depth that can be reached will depend on the certification of the divers:
- For those with PADI Open Water Diver certificate (or equivalent), the maximum depth can be up to 20 metres.
- If two Stars CMAS or PADI Advanced Open Water Divers (or equivalent) wish to dive together independently, they must have a briefing first. They must have dive computers and are allowed to go to a maximum depth of 20 metres.
Process of the initiation dives (novice divers)
Before your initiation dive, your instructor will show you the equipment and will explain to you how to communicate underwater using hand gestures and how to breathe through a regulator. Once in the water, equipped with your material, you will learn how to breathe through your regulator on the surface for a couple of minutes. When your instructor feels you are ready, he will immerse you in water for about 20 minutes to a depth of 6 metres maximum.
Duration of the dives
The diving activity lasts from 2 to 3 hours, which includes the journey to the diving site and the diving. This duration may vary according to the site, the level of divers, weather conditions and the number of participants. For experienced divers, the duration of dives varies between 35 and 60 minutes depending on the site, the diver’s experience and consumption.
Supplied equipment
- Diving wetsuit
- Stabilising jacket
- Regulator with octopus and pressure gauge
- Diving computer (for divers mastering their use)
- Fins
Mask and snorkel: for health reasons due to Covid-19, we strongly recommend that you come on board with your own mask and snorkel .As an exception, you will be able to borrow them in accordance with sanitary conditions.
The passenger may participate in scuba diving activities, subject to compliance with certain conditions established in accordance with the health, scientific and medical measures applicable on the day of the dive.
* within the limit of available stock.
Highlights
- A gentle escapade aboard the Paul Gauguin, an expert in the destination, with an international and friendly atmosphere.
- An immersion in South Pacific culture and way of life: the sunny disposition of the Gauguines and the Gauguins, our Polynesian hosts, singing, weaving workshops, dancing lessons.
- Indulge in two full days in the Pacific paradise of Bora Bora. As if vistas of towering Mount Otemanu, the romantic lagoon, and an unhurried pace of life weren’t enough, our exclusive white-sand beach offers ample places to relax.
- Discover the ‘infinite lagoon’ on Rangiroa, the biggest atoll in French Polynesia, which is famous for its ‘wall of sharks’.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Fakarava, a biosphere reserve, and the world’s second-largest lagoon, home to unique flora and fauna, grey sharks and untouched coral reefs.
- The legendary island of Raiatea, combining ancestral wonders and enchanting nature.
- Live the life idyllic with a memorable day on Motu Mahana, our own private slice of paradise. On this exclusive islet, treat yourself to sand between your toes, the shade of swaying palm trees, a sumptuous barbecue lunch and, of course, drinks sipped from coconuts.
- Discover Polynesia’s culture and traditions.
- Fauna: manta rays, spotted eagle rays, common eagle rays, lemon sharks, blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles and multicoloured fish.
- Possibility of diving (PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board.
Ports of Call & Excursions
Le Paul Gauguin
In September 2019, PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises joined the PONANT family, while retaining its personality: its relaxed, international atmosphere and destination expertise; an atmosphere that is decidedly different from the company's other ships. Le Paul Gauguin has been specially designed to sail in Polynesian waters. Her shallow draft allows for close access to shallow lagoons and isolated islands for optimal docking time. The ship's new interior designed by Studio Jean-Philippe Nuel and its recent fittings evoke South Seas elegance. All 165 cabins and suites have a view of the outside world.
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Timeless
With one included excursion per day and per guest*, and the presence of expert lecturers on board, Timeless Explorations blend cultural curiosity, immersive experiences, and serene relaxation. A refined way to journey far from the everyday, both in mind and in spirit.
- Activities: One included excursion per day and per guest. Optional paid excursions are also available depending on the port of call.
- Landings (depending on the destination): By dock, tender boat, or aboard local vessels.
- Your experts on board: The dedicated excursion team and one or more guest lecturers.
- Children: Children from one year of age are welcome on board (from 8 years old on board Le Commandant Charcot).
*Excluding Paul Gauguin
The full program of all excursions, both included and optional, is available eight months prior to departure. Reservations open approximately two months before departure.
No single supplement
FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENT *
*The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories.
Diving
During an introduction to scuba diving or a more advanced dive for holders of the necessary certifications (level 1 on yachting cruises and 2 on expedition cruises), explore the planet’s most beautiful underwater environments in the company of a PONANT diving instructor, as well as a local instructor when required by local legislation. They will ensure that your dives are conducted smoothly and safely: supervision of four certified divers at a time, evaluation of diving skills and experience, adherence to safety stops, zones and the maximum depth authorised.
A recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to the main diving instructor.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
MARQUESAS ISLANDS, DISCOVER "THE LAND OF MEN" (7 NIGHTS)
According to Marquesan legend, the god Oatea created the Marquesa Islands in one night, when he wanted to build a house (hae) for his wife Atanua. Today, this “Land of Men”, or Te Fenua Enata, will welcome you among myths and legends, splendid landscapes and fascinating culture, time-honoured traditions and delicate handicrafts. Between the archipelago’s two largest islands, Hiva Oa and Nuku Hiva, set off to discover a territory whose beauty is as spectacular as it is mysterious, during an immersive seven-night programme.
Day 1 - Papeete
Meet at Papeete Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will be transferred to the hotel Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts 4*.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Papeete/Hiva Oa
You will be transferred to Papeete domestic airport in the morning, and check-in for your flight to Hiva Oa. The expected flight time is 3 hours and 30 minutes.
Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the hotel Hanakee Lodge 3* for check in. Lunch is at leisure.
You will start your odyssey through Hiva Oa, the main island of the Southern Marquesas, exploring the Taaoa Valley. You will head for the island’s southern coast and the last inhabited valley in this part of the territory. In the heart of dense vegetation, you will discover the Upeke archaeological site, one of the largest ceremonial centres in French Polynesia. This fascinating religious complex is made up of several platforms (or paepae), a large Marquesan meeting place (or tohua) and a tiki. Accompanied by your guide, uncover the secrets of this site, which stretches over three hectares. On the way back, you will be able to discover the hamlet of Taaoa.
Back at your hotel, you will enjoy some free time to make the most of the Polynesian peacefulness.
Dinner is served at the hotel.
Day 3 - Hiva Oa
Early in the morning, you will set off to discover the island’s main village, Atuona. Following in the footsteps of Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel, both of whom are buried in the town’s peaceful cemetery, you will visit the Paul Gauguin Cultural Centre, dedicated to his work, and the Jacques Brel Centre, where several of his possessions are exhibited. Hear accounts of the beauty of this place from your guide. It is easy to imagine the reasons that would lead the two artists to settle in this corner of paradise.
You will return to your hotel for lunch and an afternoon of relaxing free time.
Dinner is served at the hotel.
Day 4 - Hiva Oa
An 4x4 wheel vehicle awaits you first thing in the morning for a guided excursion towards Puamau, at the north-eastern tip of the island. The breath-taking road snakes between valleys and villages before taking you to your end point, the Te Lipona archaeological site. The site is famous for its gigantic tiki: the Takai - 2.43 metres (virtually 8 feet) tall - or the exceptional Makai’i Taua Pepe, the only tiki represented horizontally.
Enjoy lunch on the spot in a Marquesas house or as a picnic.
Before you return to the hotel, the tropical forest of Punaei will open its doors and its treasures for you, including the “smiling tiki” of Utuka.
Dinner will be served at the hotel.
Day 5 - Hiva Oa/Nuku Hiva
Morning transfer to Hiva Oa Airport and check-in for your flight to Nuku Hiva. The expected flight time is one hour.
On arrival, you will be transferred to Le Nuku Hiva by Pearl Resorts 3*, a Relais & Châteaux hotel. The 90-minute journey aboard an 4x4 wheel vehicle promises splendid panoramas. Nuku Hiva will show you its most beautiful landscapes, which are incredibly diverse! The desert lands give way to primary forests and Caribbean pine groves, and the volcanic cliffs soar majestically before you.
Lunch is at leisure.
At the start of the afternoon, you will visit the island’s main village, Taiohae. A walk will lead you to the archaeological site of Koueva, a former ceremonial platform belonging to the great warrior chief Pakoko in the past. Restored for the Marquesas Islands Arts Festival, this tohua helps travellers gain a greater understanding of the wealth and diversity of Marquesan culture. Not far from there, you will be able to explore the craft ‘Fare’, a local market where the island’s craftspeople show and sell their products.
Diner will be served at the hotel.
Day 6 - Nuku Hiva
This day will be spent discovering the Hatiheu Valley, on the northern coast of the island of Nuku Hiva.
From the hotel, you will climb aboard your 4x4 wheel vehicle to head for Muake Pass. Your trip will feature extraordinary views over Taiohae Bay and Taipivai Valley, renowned as one of Polynesia’s largest coconut groves and made famous by Herman Melville, the author of Moby Dick. You will arrive at Kamuihei to visit the restored archaeological site. As you listen to your guide, you will go on a real journey back in time. Imagine the lavish sacred ceremonies that took place here in the past, on these magnificent sites, in the heart of this flamboyant nature.
Enjoy lunch on the spot in a Marquesas house during the tour.
Dinner will be served at the hotel.
Day 7 - Nuku Hiva
This morning, set off to meet a local sculptor and discover the art of Marquesan sculpture. In his workshop, the master sculptor will present this ancestral art, which he is gently perpetuating. This unique exchange will see you learn a little more about the traditional life of the island’s inhabitants and its legends. It will also be an opportunity to practise your artistic talents on a piece of wood from the islands.
Lunch and afternoon are at leisure.
Dinner is served at the hotel.
Day 8 - Nuku Hiva/Papeete
Morning departure and embark on 4x4 wheel vehicle to transfer to Nuku Hiva airport. Board your flight to Papeete.
Direct transfer to the port to embark on board your ship.
Your hotels:
Located in the historical Matavai Bay, Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts is surrounded by the Lafayette Beach. The hotel offers an infinity swimming pool, a renowned spa and a local arts and crafts 'fare'.
Perched on a ridge above the eastern side of Tahauku Harbor, the hotel Hanakee Lodge offers stunning panoramic views of the island’s wild beauty. In keeping with the spirit of the Marquesas Islands, each bungalow at the Hiva Oa Hanakee Lodge is decorated with creative Polynesian elements by talented local artisans. The hotel also features an infinity pool and a restaurant with an outdoor terrace.
Located in the hills of Nuku Hiva, Le Nuku Hiva by Pearl Resorts overlooks the bay and village of Taiohae, the island's capital. The hotel was built using local materials, to blend perfectly with the surrounding natural environment.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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1-night accommodation in Ocean view room at the hotel Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts 4* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
-
3-night accommodation in bungalow at the hotel Hanakee Lodge 3* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
-
3-night accommodation in bay view bungalow at the hotel Le Nuku Hiva by Pearl Resorts 3* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
-
Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea), except during lunch on Day 6.
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Domestic flights as mentioned in the programme in economy class. Luggage allowance is one piece of 23kg maximum per person.
-
Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local English-speaking guide, except during the carving lesson which will be provided only in French.
Your programme does not include:
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Meals mentioned “at leisure” in the programme.
-
Beverage package during lunch on Day 6.
-
Personal expenses.
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
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Luggage allowance: a single piece of checked baggage per person, weighing no more than 23 kg. The sum of the length, width and height must not exceed 150 cm (59 inches). 1 piece of hand luggage weighing no more than 5 kg and measuring no more than 45 x 35 x 20 cm (17.7 x 13.7 x 7.8 inches). The cabins and overhead lockers on the aircraft are not big enough to accommodate extra items such as laptops, cameras, etc. All your personal effects must fit into your luggage pieces as described above.
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The tours require healthy conditions. Follow your guide instructions.
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The vehicles used during the tours in Nuku Hiva may be shared with other clients from the hotel.
Contact of your hotels:
Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts
BP 14170 - 98701
Arue, Tahiti
Polynésie française
Telephone number: (+689) 4086 5110
Hanakee Lodge
5XWF + 8MR, Hiva Oa
Polynésie française
Telephone : (+689) 40 92 75 87
Le Nuku Hiva by Pearl Resorts
BP 53 TAIOHAE TAIOHAE Nuku Hiva
98742, Polynésie française
Telephone: (+689) 40 92 07 10
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 3,700 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.TAHITIAN RELAXATION (2 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and make the most of your trip to the islands with a relaxing two-night pre-cruise stay at a beautiful Tahitian resort.
Day 1 - Papeete
Meet at Faa'a International Airport in the Arrival hall. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises.
Transfer to the hotel Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts 4* and check in upon arrival.
Dinner at leisure. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Papeete / Punaauia
Morning at leisure at the hotel.
Lunch will be served at the hotel.
During this afternoon dedicated to the Scents & Culture of Fenua, get comfortable on board an air-conditioned van, heading for the Cosmetology Laboratory located about an hour away.
On the way, drive through the city of Papeete and its suburbs to gradually enter the wilder nature of the South coast of the island of Tahiti. Once at the Laboratory, discover the real Monoi de Tahiti, a natural blend of virgin coconut oil and Tiare flowers used by the Polynesian people for over 2000 years. From the flower on its shrub to the bottling, discover the whole manufacturing process and learn about its multiple uses.
Then head for the Museum of Tahiti and its Islands. Enter in a completely renovated, modern and interactive museum that reopened its doors to the public in early 2023. A real tribute to Polynesian culture with its 1400 m² (15,069.46 sq ft) exhibition room and its different areas to visit freely. Ancient canoes, art objects, imposing sculptures, utensils of daily life and even some exceptional pieces lent by the Quai Branly Museum, the Cambridge Museum and the British Museum... so many witnesses of the cultural wealth of our islands.
Dinner will be served at the hotel.
Day 3 - Papeete
Check out after an included breakfast and you will be transferred to the city center, to discover downtown Papeete.
Join the market in an air-conditioned van, stroll from stand to stand to meet the local vendors and artisans. Pearl and mother-of-pearl jewelry, wood and stone sculptures, baskets and various woven objects, pareos and local dresses… but also florists, market gardeners, fishermen, butchers... your guide will invite you to taste some authentic products from the three main culinary cultures of the country: Tahitian, Chinese and French (seasonal fruits, salty or sweet snacks, fish dishes, etc...)
The walk continues on the pedestrian walkway of the waterfront, along the marina and the public gardens of Paofai, to the restaurant.
After a welcome cocktail, lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
You will then be transferred to the pier to board Le Paul Gauguin.
Your hotel:
Located in the historical Matavai Bay, Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts is surrounded by the Lafayette Beach. The hotel offers an infinity swimming pool, a renowned spa and a local arts and crafts 'fare'.
Your programme includes:
-
2-night accommodation in Ocean View room or Signature Ocean Front Room at the hotel Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts 4*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
-
Meals as mentioned in the programme.
-
Beverages package during lunch (mineral water + 1 soft drink + 1 coffee or tea).
-
Transfers from airport to the resort and from the hotel to Le Paul Gauguin.
-
Visits as mentioned in the programme.
-
Assistance from our local English-speaking guide.
-
Accommodation tax.
Your programme does not include:
-
Dinner on Day 1.
-
Tips for the driver and the guide.
-
Personal expenses.
-
Any other services not mentioned in the "included" list.
Contact of your hotel:
Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts
BP 14170 - 98701
Arue, Tahiti
Polynésie française
Telephone number: +689 4086 5110
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 970 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.