From Lautoka to Benoa (Bali) · Pacific Islands · 20 nights
Designed specifically to cruise the shallow waters of the South Pacific islands, Le Paul Gauguin perfectly embodies the famous Polynesian warmth and flair.
This much awarded little ship carries 330 fortunate guests. A
recent addition to the Ponant fleet what we love is the way in
which, after 16 years cruising year round in this part of the South
Pacific, she has absorbed everything that is special about the
islands into her very DNA, making her the perfect choice to holiday
in the area.
Lautoka is Fiji's second largest city, known as the 'Sugar City' due to its important role in the local sugarcane industry. The waterfront area is pleasant enough, but we'd recommend using Lautoka as a jumping off point to visit some of the smaller surrounding islands, or the forests and waterfalls of the interior.
Situated on a magnificent natural harbour, Port Vila is the sleepy and seductive capital of Vanuatu. This friendly town is the perfect introduction to this intriguing Pacific island nation, with colourful markets, a unique Melanesian culture and some jaw-dropping nearby beaches.
Honiara is the capital of the Solomon Islands and the nation’s only real port, situated on the largely unspoilt island of Guadalcanal. Reminders of the famous Second World War battle that took place here can be seen all over the island, as well as under the water at the fantastic dive sites off the north coast.
Alotau is the capital of Milne Bay province, on the remote eastern tip of mainland Papua New Guinea. Milne Bay was the scene of heavy fighting during the Second World War, and today you can dive amongst the wreckage left behind. Alotau also serves as a base for visiting the nearby islands, including the fascinating Trobriand archipelago.
Dili is the capital of Timor-Leste (East Timor), one of the world’s youngest nations. The city’s old quarter includes a number of impressive buildings from the Portuguese colonial era, while the Resistance Museum documents the country’s 25-year struggle to win independence from Indonesia.
The beaches, spectacular volcanic scenery and lush green rice terraces lend Bali a natural beauty that seems to dovetail perfectly with the island’s distinct Hindu culture, which adorns the landscape with stunning temples.
