Cook Islands & Society Islands

Day-to-Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Embark the m/s Paul Gauguin in Papeete, Tahiti, Society Islands

The largest of French Polynesia’s 118 islands, Tahiti and it’s capital city of Papeete are the perfect place to begin (and/or end) your South Pacific sojourn. The Gauguin waits patiently in the harbor, a vibrant and bustling market across the street and in the evenings roulottes (food trucks) line the nearby square offering tasty local fare.

Day 2 – Huahine, Society Islands

Don’t be fooled by the vibe of this laid-back, secluded island. Many treasures are hidden among the lush rainforest and dramatic terrain. With a bit of exploration, you’ll uncover some of the best-preserved archeological sites in French Polynesia. Underwater treasures await as well, with a snorkel excursion in the lagoon.

Day 3 – At Sea

Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you’ll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you’ll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Deep Nature Spa… or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

Day 4 – Aitutaki, Cook Islands

A wealth of cultural tradition, Aitutaki’s inhabitants keep their history alive through song, dance, legends and crafts. If you’re looking to spend time on land, consider taking the easy hike to the highest peak on the island, Maunga Pu, where you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views. But if you’re interested in an excursion, a trip out to One Foot Island in Aitutaki’s stunning blue lagoon will take your breath away.

Day 5 – Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Rarotonga is the hub of the Cook Islands yet remains totally unspoiled. You won’t find any building taller than the highest coconut tree! So the question is what to do first? Enjoy a guided tour with the famous Pa, visit the cultural village, or rent a scooter and take a drive around the whole island. Decisions… decisions

Day 6 – At Sea

Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you’ll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you’ll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Deep Nature Spa… or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

Days 7 & 8 – Bora Bora, Society Islands

Explore lush peaks, wander white-sand beaches, and marvel at the iconic views of Mount Otemanu. Take the plunge with a SCUBA excursion to see the island’s colorful coral reefs, enjoy a sunset jetboat ride, or spend a lazy afternoon on our private beach. Like a priceless Paul Gauguin painting come to life, storied Bora Bora is colorful and unforgettable. The landscape alone will have you searching for adequate adjectives, especially once you see the lagoon—“turquoise” just doesn’t do it justice.

Day 9 – Taha’a (Motu Mahana), Society Islands

As the day unfolds in front of you, where will you go? Exciting shore excursions await, but so does Motu Mahana, Paul Gauguin Cruises’ own private islet. Choose from swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or simply lounging on the beach with a cold drink from our floating bar. Les Gauguines are also on hand to share musical entertainment and Polynesian crafts.

Days 10-11 – Moorea, Society Islands

Step into a vibrant, colorful world in bright and beautiful Moorea, which welcomes you with azure lagoons, impossibly fresh tropical fruits, stunning mountain peaks and palm-fringed beaches. Commune with nature on an optional dolphin-watching excursion with an expert marine biologist. Afterwards, spend some time getting to know the local residents while shopping for handmade crafts.

Day 11 – Moorea, Society Islands / Papeete, Tahiti, Society Islands

Vibrant colors abound on Moorea, in everything from fresh fruits and flowers to multi-hued lagoons, and from spectacular mountain peaks to palm-fringed beaches. Shop for local handicrafts, embark on an optional dolphin-watching expedition with a marine biologist, and sample the local pineapples, said to be the most delicious in all of French Polynesia.

Days 12-13 – Disembark in Papeete, Tahiti, Society Islands

The largest of French Polynesia’s 118 islands, Tahiti and it’s capital city of Papeete are the perfect place to begin (and/or end) your South Pacific sojourn. The Gauguin waits patiently in the harbor, a vibrant and bustling market across the street and in the evenings roulottes (food trucks) line the nearby square offering tasty local fare.

Dates & Rates

Prices are per person, double occupancy, and include 50% off standard cruise fares. Single supplement pricing is available upon request. *Included airfare from Los Angeles or San Francisco is subject to availability and class of service and applies to the first and second guest in the stateroom only. San Francisco airfare is applicable for flights to/from Papeete only. Air add-ons from home city are available on request. Air credit for non-use of this promotion is $1,700. Port, security, and handling fees of $235 per person are additional. Pricing for the third guest in the same stateroom is as follows: 17 years old and under, FREE; 18 years of age and older, $125 per night. Third guest is cruise-only; air and taxes are additional.

Included in rates

• Roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles or San Francisco*
• Airport/pier transfers
• All shipboard meals, in a choice of venues
• Complimentary room service
• All beverages, including select wines and spirits
• Onboard gratuities for room stewards and dining staff
• Complimentary watersports
• Day at our private islet, Motu Mahana
• Access to our private beach  in Bora Bora

The Paul Gauguin

The m/s Paul Gauguin was designed specifically to sail the shallow seas of Tahiti and French Polynesia, visiting small ports that larger ships can’t reach and effortlessly blending into the stunning natural beauty of the South Seas. She offers an extension of the informal, relaxing environment of the islands, coupled with five-star service, comfort, and luxury. Spacious suites and staterooms (more than 70% with private balconies), an onboard watersports marina, a choice of three open-seating dining venues, and an extensive spa are among her luxurious attributes. The atmosphere aboard the ship radiates warmth, informality, and Polynesian flair. If you book your cruise now, you’ll be sailing aboard The Gauguin at her finest, having recently completed a multimillion-dollar renovation.

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