From Papeete to Papeete · Pacific Islands · 7 nights
From Papeete to Papeete
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.
If you are in search of paradise, don't expect it to be easy to get there! It's a long old haul to get to Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia. And once you are there, Papeete itself is by no means the most magical spot - you need to venture forth to see the other islands, and luxuriate in the turquoise lagoons, white sand beaches fringed with palm trees, rugged mountain peaks and coral reefs. Expensive and remote, these islands have maintained their uncommercial magic, with excellent hotels and a warm Polynesian welcome everywhere you go.
Huahine is perhaps the most beautiful of the Society Islands, and one of the least developed too. The laid back ambience means it’s impossible not to relax here, whether you’re on one of the gorgeous beaches or taking a stroll around the friendly village of Fare.
Raiatea, the second largest of the Society Islands, played a vital role in the development of Polynesian culture; it was from this island that settlers departed for Hawaii and New Zealand over a millennium ago. The island feels wilder than Tahiti, with steep, jungle-covered mountains, cascading waterfalls and ancient Polynesian temples.
Sleepy Taha’a is just a few minutes away from Raiatea by boat, and is known as the ‘vanilla island’ due to the many fragrant plantations secluded amongst its valleys. Although the island itself lacks beaches, the surrounding reef is dotted with beautiful little white sand islets known as ‘motu’.
Bora Bora is the very definition of idyllic, a diminutive Polynesian island dominated by rainforest-clad volcanic peaks, overlooking an electric blue lagoon ringed by coral reefs. The beaches and over-water bungalows are particularly popular with honeymooners, and the clear waters of the lagoon are perfect for snorkelling.
Mo’orea is one of the real highlights of the South Pacific, a picture perfect landscape of jagged green mountains and dazzling cobalt bays. The warm waters of the lagoon are perfect for a host of watersports, while the lush island interior can be easily explored by scooter or bicycle.
Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia, situated on the northwest coast of Tahiti. The port is not the most magical spot, so we advise venturing forth to luxuriate in the turquoise lagoons, relax on the white sand beaches fringed with palm trees, and explore the rugged mountain peaks.
