Guest Speaker 
Diving 
Porthole Stateroom F – Deck 3
30% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
Tahiti & the Society Islands
Papeete, Tahiti Island - Papeete, Tahiti Island
Dates:
06/04/2024
to
13/04/2024
Other available dates
days
nights on board
From Papeete, PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises invites you to embark on an 8-day cruise to discover Tahiti and the Society Islands. Set sail on board Le Paul Gauguin for an unforgettable journey to discover idyllic islands and atolls.
The perfect introduction to the picture-perfect charms of the South Pacific, this wonderful cruise whisks you away to destinations that played muse for authors James A. Michener, Herman Melville, painters Paul Gauguin and Henri Matisse, and many more.
You will be dazzled by the incomparable beauty of Huahine, by the turquoise waters of the motu Mahana, our private vanilla-scented paradise, by the sumptuous lagoon of Bora Bora, with its distinctly recognisable volcanic silhouette, and by Moorea, with its hillside pineapple plantations and its verdant peaks overlooking the island.
Between pearl farms and white sandy beaches, French Polynesia will reveal its many mysteries to you. Surrounded by superb lagoons of translucent waters edged by exceptional coral reefs, the islands of Polynesia are undoubtedly some of the most beautiful in the world and home to an astonishing and rich wildlife.
Discover our excursions without further delay - click here!
Ref : PG060424
Your itinerary
Slow down and let stress float away on secluded Huahine. Explore the local village on foot. Wander through lush rainforests. Float in crystal-clear lagoons. Live the life idyllic with a memorable day on motu...
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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 CHAMPLAIN
24/07/2023 to the 02/08/2023
LE BORÉAL
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
- New
- Last staterooms
LE PONANT
- New
- Last staterooms
LE PONANT
*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.
Services provided
- 24h room service
- Inclusive Internet access Wi-Fi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Algotherm top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar included
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- One ADA stateroom
Select your stateroom category
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.
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
Highlights
- Slow down and let stress float away on secluded Huahine. Explore the local village on foot. Wander through lush rainforests. Float in crystal-clear lagoons.
- 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.
- Enjoy an overnight in Bora Bora, which gives you ample time to explore this laid-back destination’s dramatic mountain peaks, romantic lagoon, and impossibly turquoise waters.
- Moorea, with its emerald lagoon, white sandy beaches and endemic lush gardens.
- Discover Polynesia’s traditional way of life and customs.
- Landscapes: lagoons, idyllic beaches, deserted coves, tropical forests and mountain peaks.
- Possibility of diving (PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board.
Ports of Call & Excursions
6 April 2024 - Papeete, Tahiti Island
Embarkation 06/04/2024 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 06/04/2024 at 18:00
Capital of French Polynesia, the city of Papeete is on the north-west coast of the island of Tahiti. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere here,where urban buzz combines with the legendary laid-back Polynesian lifestyle. Culture is not lacking. You can enjoy sites narrating the history of the archipelago, including the colonial cathedral and the Maison de la reine Marau. The Vaipahi public gardens will win you over by their abundant plant-life. The large municipal market offers local specialities: fresh fruit, spices and all kinds of fish abound on their stalls.
7 April 2024 - Huahine, Society Islands
Arrival 07/04/2024 early morning
Departure 07/04/2024 late afternoon
Located less than 200 kilometres north-west of Tahiti, Huahine Island is a secret gem in French Polynesia. You’ll love the mysterious atmosphere emanating from its voluptuous contours, its wild vegetation and stunning remote creeks. If you explore both parts of the island, la Grande Huahine to the north, and la Petite Huahine to the south, will reveal some of its hidden treasures, as well as some archaeological remains from the Polynesian past. You can meet the local population in the main town of Fare, or in the string of villages along the coast.
8 April 2024 - Motu Mahana, Taha'a Island, Society Islands
Arrival 08/04/2024 early morning
Departure 08/04/2024 late afternoon
Feet in the sand, on the islet of Motu Mahana, our sumptuous little private paradise, you will share a very special experience around an authentic traditional Polynesian barbecue. A veritable jewel in the Taha’a lagoon, pristine atoll of the Society Islands, Motu Mahana offers an infinite palette of shades of turquoise, an idyllic backdrop for observing the majestic ballet of the tropical fish. The volcanic island of Taha’a, dominated by Mount Ohiri and Mount Puurauti, will reveal its fertile and luxuriant nature, ideal for cultivating the magnificent black pearls of French Polynesia, as well as vanilla. This rare spice, greatly in demand by gourmets, is the main economic resource of what is also known as Vanilla Island.
9 April 2024 10 April 2024 - Bora Bora, Society Islands
Arrival 09/04/2024 at night
Departure 10/04/2024 late afternoon
Paradisiacal atoll of the archipelago of the Leeward Islands, west of French Polynesia, mythical Bora Bora offers a natural spectacle of captivating beauty. You’ll be won over as much by the white sandy beaches as by its famous lagoon, one of the most beautiful in the world, where colourful fish frolic in waters of incomparable turquoise. The island is covered with tropical vegetation, and dominated by the majestic outline of Mount Otemanu. A promenade through this volcanic landscape will enable you to discover a number of villages and meet local communities.
11 April 2024 12 April 2024 - Moorea Island
Arrival 11/04/2024 early morning
Departure 12/04/2024 late afternoon
A part of the Windward Island archipelago just to the west of Tahiti, famous Mo'orea will leave you with a series of unforgettable images and memories. Bask on its heavenly beaches, enjoy a dip in the turquoise waters of its lagoon, and soak up its luscious vegetation and the heady flowers that carpet the inland areas. Get the most out of this natural gem with a trip to the Mo'orea Belvedere. Exceptional views of Mount Rotui unfurl before your eyes, with the Opunohu Bay and its valley to the left, and the famous Cook's Bay, surrounded by notched, cathedral-style peaks, to the right.
12 April 2024 13 April 2024 - Papeete, Tahiti Island
Arrival 12/04/2024 early evening
Disembarkation 13/04/2024 at 08:30
Capital of French Polynesia, the city of Papeete is on the north-west coast of the island of Tahiti. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere here,where urban buzz combines with the legendary laid-back Polynesian lifestyle. Culture is not lacking. You can enjoy sites narrating the history of the archipelago, including the colonial cathedral and the Maison de la reine Marau. The Vaipahi public gardens will win you over by their abundant plant-life. The large municipal market offers local specialities: fresh fruit, spices and all kinds of fish abound on their stalls.
Huahine safari expedition
Discover the beauty of Huahine on this 4x4 tour of the islands.
Depart the pier by off-road vehicle for the drive to Huahine Nui. Visit the village of Faie, and its famed blue-eyed eels. Next, you will take a short outrigger trip to visit "Huahine Pearl Farm and Pottery", where they will share with you the secrets of the black pearl and you will have a chance to purchase their famous blue pottery made from a glaze found at the bottom of the lagoon while pearl farming.
Continue to Maeva, the island's most important marae. Drive along Lake Fauna Nui before arriving in Fare. Free time will be made available for you to explore. Return drive to the pier.
- Although the off-road vehicle will remain on the main road for most of the drive, this tour also involves travel over non-paved roads with steep ascents and descents. This tour is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems, guests who suffer from vertigo or motion sickness, or guests with limited mobility. Order of visits may be reversed and itinerary amended depending on weather conditions.
Price range:
Find out more
$$: the excursion price is between $50 and $100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
The official currency on board Paul Gauguin is the US dollar.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Day at the beach
Located close to the village of Fare and an ancient archaeological site, the Maitai Lapita Village Hotel on the island of Huahine enjoys an exceptional location.
Bask on the magnificent white-sand beach that borders the lagoon, or enjoy excellent snorkeling in the lagoon’s crystal-clear waters. Or enjoy ocean views from the restaurant, bar, and pool. Stretching from the beach inland, the property is arranged around a freshwater lake dotted with water lilies and surrounded by tropical plants with fragrant, multicolored native flowers. This site has contributed enormously to the heritage of French Polynesia, so do not Miss the hotel’s museum.
And enjoy the spectacular panoramic view of the islands of Raiatea, Taha’a, and Bora Bora.
- This excursion includes access to the swimming pool, the beach, and the hotel museum; kayaking and snorkeling equipment; a two-course lunch (appetizer and entrée, or entrée and dessert); and a bottle of water and a drink per person (a glass of house wine, a local beer on tap, or a soft drink).
Price range:
Find out more
$$$: the excursion price is between $100 and $150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
The official currency on board Paul Gauguin is the US dollar.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Island tour & snorkelling*
Experience the beauty of Huahine from above and below the water during this snorkeling and cruise adventure.
Depart the pier by private boat and discover the beauty of Huahine as you cruise around the island. Along the way, you will stop to visit a black pearl farm and learn about the creation and the beauty of these famous Tahitian gems.
You will then continue your cruise to a beautiful coral garden, where you will don your snorkeling equipment and enter the water for up-close views of the amazing and colorful marine life that frequents the reef. Enjoy refreshments on your ride back to the pier.
- When requesting online, please select only one ticket per boat. Guests are encouraged to wear a swimsuit under a cover up, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, and to bring a towel from the ship. Snorkeling equipment, fins, and life vests are available at the ship’s on-board watersports marina. *This tour is priced per boat, which can accommodate up to four guests.
Price range:
Find out more
$$$$: the excursion price is more than $150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
The official currency on board Paul Gauguin is the US dollar.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cultural highlights of Huahine
Explore one of the most picturesque and geographically diverse of the Society Islands during this scenic tour of Huahine.
Depart the pier for a ride by coach to Fare, Huahine’s main village. Enjoy a leisurely guided stroll around the village, then visit a vanilla plantation, where you will observe the process of drying vanilla and learn different ways to cook with this ubiquitous spice.
Then, proceed to Maeva, one of Polynesian’s most important archaeological sites. Upon arrival, you will discover some well-preserved marae, or ancient Polynesian temples. You will also see fish traps that were built centuries ago and are still in use today. Your next visit will be to Faie, home of the famous blue-eyed eels that populate a stream running through the village. You will even watch as your guide feeds these enormous eels. Your tour concludes with a stop at Huahine’s Belvedere Point for spectacular views and photo opportunities.
Then, re-board your coach for the return ride to the pier.
- If you wish to purchase vanilla during your tour, please bring U.S. dollars or French Pacific francs, as these are the only currencies that will be accepted.
Price range:
Find out more
$$: the excursion price is between $50 and $100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
The official currency on board Paul Gauguin is the US dollar.
According to availability, price per passenger.
ATV tour of Huahine Nui*
Transfer from the pier to Fare Maeva for an easy test drive on the ATV quads.
Then start the exciting island exploration by discovering the coast of the Motu Maeva with its white sandy beaches, Marae Manunue (an ancient Polynesian temple). Stop for a refreshing coconut drink at chez 'Nini' before continuing for some snorkeling at the Sofitel Heiva's beach.
Afterwards the tour will take you past Fare Potee and Marae Rauhuru and the ancient Fish Traps in Lake Fauna Nui, and then onto the Sacred Eels at Faie before stopping at Belvedere for photo-opportunity of the Maroe Bay and the ship.
- The tour is easy to moderate and the drive is partially offroad driving and partially on paved roads. Not recommended for pregnant women, guests suffering from back & neck problems and -children under 5 years old. Driving license is mandatory and drivers must be a minimum of 18 years old. Please bring snorkel gear, beach towel, bottled water, sunglasses from the ship. Please wear your swim wear under clothing. *This tour is priced per ATV, which can accommodate two average-sized adults.
Price range:
Find out more
$$$$: the excursion price is more than $150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
The official currency on board Paul Gauguin is the US dollar.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Huahine Iti by 4x4
The island equivalent to the Garden of Eden, Huahine Iti is an immense tropical jungle thriving with coconut plantations, vanilla orchids, banana groves, breadfruit trees and watermelon fields. Beyond its lush landscapes and bright blooms, Huahine is also a culturally preserved sanctuary with sacred temples hidden throughout dense vegetation. This tranquil paradise will seduce you with her white sand beaches of Avea Bay, coral islets dotting an azure blue lagoon and luxurious mountains covered with magnificent foliage making her an idyllic garden paradise. It is covered with plantations and a wealth of beautiful plants, fruits and flowers and is also home to one of the most amazing white sand beaches in French Polynesia.
During this 4x4 tour you will be introduced to Huahine Iti, the more sensual and smaller of Huahine's two islands. There will be numerous stops along the way for panoramic views across the island, the bays and the surrounding lagoon and motus of Topati's and Murimahora. Visits to a vanilla and tropical fruit plantation and to the Marae Anini are included.
A brief stop at a beach in Avea Bay is included for a dip in the lagoon and for refreshments (choice of soda, fruit juice or beer).
Continue the tour 'off-road' into the Parea Valley for a drive over bumpy road through lush jungle before returning to the pier in Maroe.
- Although the off-road vehicle will remain on the main road for most of the drive, this tour also involves travel over rough non-paved roads. This tour is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems or guests with limited mobility. Order of visits may be reversed and itinerary amended depending on weather conditions. Please bring cash as there will be an opportunity to buy vanilla and additional refreshments on the beach. Please wear/bring your swimwear and beach towel should you wish to have a swim at the beach.
Price range:
Find out more
$$: the excursion price is between $50 and $100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
The official currency on board Paul Gauguin is the US dollar.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Huahine exploration by 4WD & boat
Visit archaeological sites, sacred blue-eyed eels, a black pearl farm, and an easy 40-minute snorkel on this land and sea tour of Huahine.
Your tour will depart the pier by off road vehicle and cross the bridge to Huahine Nui (big Huahine). Head around the majestic bay where the m/s Paul Gauguin is anchored, then ascend the island's steepest road for a spectacular panoramic view over Maroe Bay and take a photo with the ship in the background. After, a stop will be made to feed the sacred giant blue-eyed eels that live in the stream running through the village of Faie.
Continue your adventure along the lake Fauna Nui to Maeva, the most extensive archaeological site in the Pacific. Here, you will see stone temples and ancient fish traps still in use today restored by archaeologists.
Afterwards, take a short Polynesian outrigger canoe trip to visit “Huahine Pearl Farm and Pottery”, where you will learn the secrets of the black pearl and see their unique blue pottery made with a glaze found at the bottom of the lagoon while pearl farming. The pottery is available for purchase, and refreshments will be served at the pearl farm.
Cruise the lagoon for a short trip on a regular boat and a snorkel stop to Motu Te Tiare. Enjoy the turquoise lagoon and tropical fish with your experienced local guide.
Return to the pier with spectacular views of the island.
- The snorkeling stop is for all levels of experience, and people can start in shallow water to go as far out as comfortable. Please note: the tour has limited capacity and can start in reverse order, with the boat and snorkel stop first. Guests may choose their starting preference (Jeep or boat) depending on availability. Rest room are available at the Pearl Farm marina.
Price range:
Find out more
$$$: the excursion price is between $100 and $150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
The official currency on board Paul Gauguin is the US dollar.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sacred sites & legendary places
Your spectacular excursion starts with a friendly introduction from your expert anthropologist/archaeologist guide, who has first-hand experience working on the sites you will visit.
Boarding "Le Truck", French Polynesia's famous local style bus, you will depart from Maroe Village on the small island of Huahine Iti, crossing the bridge to Huahine Nui, or 'big island'. Here you will drive past lush green valleys and turquoise lagoon through the capital town of Fare, where Captain James Cook sojourned on his visits to the island.
Your first stop is Maeva village, considered to be one of French Polynesia's most important archaeological areas and home to the largest pre-historic habitation site in Polynesia. During your walk through the village, you will explore the archaeological sites along the lake shore and the Fare Pote'e Museum. You will learn about Polynesian origins and migrations, traditional society, religion, botany, European explorers and get a first-hand look at various traditional tools, handicrafts and artifacts.
You will continue on to Mata'ire'a hill, just above the Village of Maeva and home to more than 200 stone structures, including marae, agricultural terraces, house foundations, fortification walls and burial platforms.
Your next stop, via "Le Truck", is a local family run vanilla plantation where you will have the opportunity to purchase various vanilla products. Continuing on, you will stop to see and learn about the 500 year old fish traps that thanks to restoration work are used again today by the people of Maeva Village.
Your return journey to port, will take you through the village of Faie where your guide will feed the island's giant blue-eyed eels that swim in the stream;
- This tour involves some slight uphill walking. Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. The order of sites visited may vary. Please bring some cash along with you, as you may have the opportunity to purchase some authentic Tahitian vanilla during this tour. Please note that the stop at the Mata'ire'a hill is weather permitting.
Price range:
Find out more
$$$: the excursion price is between $100 and $150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
The official currency on board Paul Gauguin is the US dollar.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Lagoon cruise & snorkelling
Experience Huahine's beautiful lagoon and landscapes on this boat cruise and snorkeling excursion.
Depart the pier by outrigger canoe (motorized). Upon arrival to the snorkeling spot you will receive safety and snorkeling instructions before entering the water with abundant fish, coral and marine life. Sample coconuts, fresh season fruits and refreshments. Transfer back to the pier.
- The tour is recommended for experienced snorkeler who are comfortable entering the lagoon directly from the boat, and snorkell ing in deep water where currents are common. Snorkeling equipment, fins and life vests are available at the Marina from the ship. The boat capacity depends on the group size.
Price range:
Find out more
$$$: the excursion price is between $100 and $150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
The official currency on board Paul Gauguin is the US dollar.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Huahine Iti by e-bike
Departing from Maroe pier after your brief refresh course on how to handle an e-bike, you will head toward the eastern part of Huahine Iti with the goal of completing the 27 km around the smaller Huahine Island with your guide providing you explanations.
During your tour, several stops will be proposed with different viewpoints. You will discover the archaeological site (marae) Anini as well as a visit to a traditional pareo painting workshop.
You will then head to Avea bay and the Mahana hotel for a moment of relaxation, snorkeling, swimming on its magnificent white sand beach. Fresh seasonal fruits and water will be provided during your tour.
- This activity requires good level of fitness, and is not suitable for people with limited mobility.
Price range:
Find out more
$$: the excursion price is between $50 and $100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
The official currency on board Paul Gauguin is the US dollar.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Taha'a cultural tour
After a brief tender boat ride to the pier, you will be met by your local guide and "Le Truck".
You will start exploring this scenic island, known as the Vanilla Island, by first visiting a Vanilla Plantation. You will have a brief tour of the grounds of the plantation and a presentation into farming and cultivation of this precious spice.
Afterwards you will continue your guided tour and you will learn about the history, the legends and present-day life of Taha'a. There will be a number of photo stops along the route.
Your final stop will be at the 'Motu Pearl Village' where you will find out all about the creation of the Tahitian Black Pearl and enjoy refreshments and local fruits in season. After the visit you will be transferred by boat directly to Motu Mahana.
- The itinerary may be modified depending on weather conditions. Rest room facilities at the Motu Pearl Village. Please have local currency with you for any purchases.
Price range:
Find out more
$$: the excursion price is between $50 and $100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
The official currency on board Paul Gauguin is the US dollar.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Coral garden drift snorkeling
Depart the ship by covered motorized boat for a 15-minute ride along the west coast of Taha'a.
Upon arrival, you will disembark the boat for a guided walk across an uninhabited islet, or motu, located just off the coast. After reaching the other side of the motu, you will commence your snorkeling session. Your guide will lead you as the current carries you through the shallow lagoon on the way back to the boat. The drift can be moderate to strenuous depending on the strength of the current. The drift is done in a single line with one snorkeling guide leading the 12 snorkeller spaced 10 feet apart and one snorkelling guide closing up on the group. This area abounds with a spectacular variety of tropical fish and amazing coral.
Upon returning to the boat, refreshments and additional snorkelling time will be made available before you are transferred back to Motu Mahana.
- This tour is only recommended for experienced snorkeler that are extremely comfortable in the water. Novice/beginner snorkeler are strongly encouraged to snorkel on the Motu. Please wear a swimsuit under a cover-up with reef shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and bring snorkeling equipment and a towel from the ship.
Price range:
Find out more
$$$: the excursion price is between $100 and $150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
The official currency on board Paul Gauguin is the US dollar.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Catamaran sail
Get on-board a luxurious catamaran and indulge yourself with a breathtaking cruise in the amazing waters of Taha'a Lagoon. Thanks to the shallow draft, Catamaran will take you to shallow areas, over multiple shades of blues and turquoises of the lagoon.
While your crew sets up the sails for a magnificent sailing, feel the sea breeze as your eyes discover beauty of the Vanilla Island. During your sail, fresh fruits and juice will be served and your Tahitian hostess will help you better understand the Polynesian culture.
Arrive at the coral garden and start your snorkeling adventure. After your snorkel, sail back to the pier. Ship's tender will return you to the ship where you can catch a tender to Motu Mahana and the Beach BBQ. Kindly note that the use of sails is weather dependent.
- The snorkeling stop may be relocated depending on weather conditions. Please bring a swimsuit, hat and sunglasses and bring snorkeling equipment and a towel from the ship. The catamaran is fully protected and equipped with two rest room, shaded area, a sound system, cushions, outside and inside fresh water showers, and ladders to get in and out of the water. Kindly note that the use of sails is weather dependent.
Price range:
Find out more
$$$: the excursion price is between $100 and $150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
The official currency on board Paul Gauguin is the US dollar.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Exploration of Taha'a
Explore Taha'a's exquisite topography, ancient culture, and local economy during this scenic and memorable off-road tour.
Depart the pier in an off-road vehicle for the ride across one of Taha'a's highest mountains. Along the way, your guide will point out sights of interest, and a stop will be made at a scenic viewpoint to learn about the traditional uses of local plants and trees.
The island of Taha'a is often called Vanilla Island, and you will learn about this fragrant spice while visiting a small family plantation. Afterwards, you will visit a small black pearl farm to learn how these treasures are cultivated and harvested. These small cottage industries represent a large part of this small island's economic structure.
During the return drive along the east coast of the island, your guide will entertain you with tales of island life and lore. Upon returning to the ship, a tender service to the Paul Gauguin's private island, Motu Mahana will be available throughout the day.
- This tour involves travel over very rough roads, with steep ascents and descents. This tour is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems, guests who suffer from motion sickness or vertigo, or guests with limited mobility. The itinerary may be modified depending on weather conditions. Guests must remain seated in the vehicle, as standing can be dangerous.
Price range:
Find out more
$$: the excursion price is between $50 and $100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
The official currency on board Paul Gauguin is the US dollar.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Snorkel & Black pearl farm adventure
Explore Tahiti's most unique and sought-after treasures during this canoeing and snorkeling adventure and a visit to the Black Pearl Farm.
Depart the pier aboard a motorized outrigger canoe for the 10-minute ride to Poerani, a black pearl farm. The vanilla industry is the island's most important business, followed closely by the production of black pearls. At the black pearl farm, you will learn all about the most beautiful jewel of French Polynesia: the magnificent black pearl. This informative stop will help you understand the value of these lustrous jewels in these islands – and around the world.
Continue on to a small motu for an opportunity to snorkel in its crystal-clear water. This motu is located close to a pass where experienced snorkeler can observe the drop-off of the reef. Don your snorkeling gear and enter the water, where you will see wonderful underwater fauna and a myriad of tropical fish swimming around you.
Following your snorkeling session, you will embark the canoe for the return ride to the Motu Mahana for Paul Gauguin's Beach BBQ.
- The snorkeling stop may be relocated depending on weather conditions. Some of the canoes may not be covered, and sunscreen is strongly suggested. Please wear a swimsuit under a cover-up, hat, sunglasses and bring snorkeling equipment and a towel from the ship. This tour ends at our private islet, Motu Mahana, where lunch, water activities and snorkeling is available. Guests should be comfortable wearing snorkeling equipment, and able to cope with occasional currents. Morning tour departures will conclude at the beach.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sharks & stingrays encounter
Explore the exquisite beauty and undersea denizens of Bora Bora’s lagoon during this stingray ballet and snorkeling safari aboard a covered snorkeling boat. Depart the pier aboard the snorkeling boat for a cruise by the ancient crater rim of Motu Toopua, then past Motu Tapu. You will then drop anchor on a shallow sandbank to discover the elegant, yet harmless stingrays. Watch in amazement as the rays glide effortlessly around you. If you wish, your guide will even help you get closer. Next, you will continue on for a visit to a pristine coral garden. Upon arrival, you will receive your safety and diving instructions, then have an opportunity to snorkel in depths ranging from 4 to 5 feet. Along the way, admire an abundance of tropical and multi-colored fish, including parrotfish and butterfly fish. At the conclusion of your snorkeling session, you will be transferred back to the pier.
- Guests should be comfortable in deep water and wearing snorkeling equipment. Although marine life sightings are frequent, they cannot be guaranteed. This tour is recommended for guests in good physical condition. Guests are encouraged to wear a swimsuit under a cover up, aqua socks or similar, and sunscreen, and bring a hat, sunglasses, and a towel from the ship. Masks, snorkels, and personal buoyancy aid (P.B.A./snorkeling vests) must be brought from the ship.
Price range:
Find out more
$$$: the excursion price is between $100 and $150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
The official currency on board Paul Gauguin is the US dollar.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Glass-bottom boat (Bora Bora)
Discover Bora Bora's remarkable undersea beauty without getting wet during this glass-bottom boat adventure on Bora Bora's famous lagoon.