Paul Gauguin Cruises

The Paul Gauguin entered service in the late 1990s, designed specifically for the shallow lagoons and short hops of French Polynesia. It has sailed these islands year-round ever since, making Paul Gauguin Cruises one of the longest-running luxury cruise operations in Tahiti. French luxury line Ponant acquired the company in 2019, and it continues under its own name, run from the Seattle area.

The fleet is a single ship, The Gauguin, carrying around 330 guests with a high crew-to-guest ratio. Its shallow draft lets it reach small harbors, and a retractable marina at the stern launches kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling, with scuba diving available on many voyages. The ship’s identity is tied to Polynesian culture, from onboard dance performances to cultural lectures and crafts.

The signature voyage is a seven-night round trip from Papeete calling at Huahine, Taha’a, Bora Bora and Moorea. Longer voyages add the Tuamotus’ Rangiroa and Fakarava, the remote Marquesas, and occasionally the Cook Islands, Fiji and Tonga.

The atmosphere is relaxed, romantic and island-casual. Guests are mostly couples, from honeymooners to retirees celebrating milestones, largely from North America, with some families at holiday times. Dress is resort casual, and you’ll rarely need more than a sundress or a collared shirt. Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins, the Polynesian hosts and entertainers, are a beloved feature, greeting guests, telling stories, teaching crafts and performing traditional dance. The ship is small, so there are no crowds, and port days mean beaches, lagoon snorkeling and motu picnics. On the downside, the ship dates from the late 1990s, and its single-region itineraries won’t suit travelers looking for variety.

There are three restaurants. L’Etoile is the elegant main dining room, La Veranda offers French-inspired dinners and buffet breakfasts and lunches, and Le Grill serves casual poolside meals and Polynesian dishes in the evening. Fresh fish, tropical fruit and French influences feature across the menus, and room service is available around the clock.

Entertainment centers on Polynesian culture: Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins perform traditional dance and music, lead crafts and share island stories. Guest lecturers cover history, marine life and culture. A beach day on Motu Mahana, the line’s private islet off Taha’a, with water sports, barbecue and a floating bar, is a highlight of many voyages.

Children are welcome, and a family program focused on Polynesian nature and culture runs on select holiday sailings. Most voyages have few kids and a romantic, couples-oriented atmosphere.

All cabins have ocean views, and a large share have private balconies. Categories range from window cabins to veranda staterooms and suites, with butler service in the top categories. Rooms are comfortable but reflect the ship’s age.

Select beverages are included, covering wines, spirits, beer, soft drinks and specialty coffees, along with a replenished in-room minibar. Premium wines and spirits carry an extra charge.

Gratuities are included in Paul Gauguin fares, and tipping is not expected.