Paul Gauguin Cruises

An aerial view of a cruise ship's pool deck featuring a sparkling turquoise swimming pool surrounded by lounge chairs, with passengers relaxing on deck. The ship is anchored in crystal-clear tropical waters with lush forested islands visible in the distance under a partly cloudy sky.
Paul Gauguin Cruise Ship

The Ultimate Intimate Luxury Voyage Through Paradise

Named after the legendary French Post-Impressionist painter who found endless inspiration in Tahiti, Paul Gauguin Cruises is synonymous with intimate, small-ship luxury in the world’s most idyllic tropical waters. With just 332 guests aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin, this is a cruise line purpose-built for those who seek authentic Polynesian immersion wrapped in refined elegance. Warm island hospitality and sophisticated service come together here in a way no other cruise line can replicate.

Dining aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin is a culinary journey reflecting the vibrant flavors of the South Pacific and the refinement of French gastronomy. Multiple complimentary venues, each with open-seating flexibility, give you a distinctive atmosphere every evening. L’Etoile presents gourmet French and international cuisine with locally inspired touches. La Veranda serves as a casual bistro by day and transforms into an intimate dining experience by night. Le Grill offers poolside fare and fresh tropical refreshments in an open-air setting. And one of the most beloved signature features – the retractable watersports marina at the stern – opens in calm lagoons to let you kayak, paddleboard, windsurf, and snorkel right from the ship, all complimentary. It is, quite simply, a standard that far exceeds the ordinary.

Paul Gauguin Cruises embraces a generous all-inclusive philosophy designed to let you relax and savor every moment. Your fare includes complimentary beverages – select wines, spirits, and soft drinks – served throughout the ship. All onboard gratuities are included, as are all meals across every dining venue. You’ll enjoy complimentary watersports from the marina platform, 24-hour room service, and onboard entertainment. Select voyages also include specially curated shore excursions and access to the line’s exclusive private motu beach day.

What truly sets Paul Gauguin Cruises apart is the genuinely Polynesian character woven into every aspect of the voyage. The ship’s crew includes Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins – a troupe of Tahitian hosts and performers who serve as cultural ambassadors throughout your journey. They greet you with fragrant flower leis, perform traditional Polynesian song and dance, lead craft workshops, and share the rich heritage of their islands with infectious warmth and pride. This is not a staged tourist performance. It is an authentic cultural exchange that deepens your connection to these extraordinary islands.

An elegantly appointed cruise ship cabin featuring a king-size bed with cream linens and teal accents, floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of turquoise waters and dramatic volcanic peaks, rich wood paneling, and contemporary furnishings that blend maritime style with tropical resort comfort.
An aerial view of a pristine white sand beach in crystal-clear turquoise waters, featuring beachgoers, yellow kayaks, and palm trees along the shoreline. The shallow lagoon displays vibrant aquamarine hues characteristic of French Polynesian atolls.
The official logo for Paul Gauguin Cruises, featuring an elegant blue script signature with the company name and 'CRUISES' in gray text. This branding represents a luxury cruise line specializing in French Polynesian and South Pacific voyages.
Paul Gauguin Cruise Ship

The m/s Paul Gauguin – A Ship Designed for Paradise

The m/s Paul Gauguin is not simply a ship that sails to French Polynesia – she was specifically designed and built for these waters. At approximately 19,200 gross tons and carrying just 332 guests, her intimate size means you’ll never feel crowded. The atmosphere aboard is more akin to a private yacht than a traditional cruise ship. Her shallow draft allows her to glide into secluded harbors and anchor in lagoons that larger vessels can only pass by, giving you unparalleled access to the most pristine corners of the South Pacific.

Staterooms and suites are thoughtfully appointed, with over 70% featuring private balconies that frame the ever-changing panorama of turquoise waters and volcanic peaks. From ocean-view Porthole Staterooms to the expansive Owner’s Suite, every accommodation reflects a refined elegance that complements the natural beauty just beyond your window.

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Paradise Found – Tahiti, Bora Bora & Beyond

The m/s Paul Gauguin was purpose-built to navigate the shallow lagoons, intimate harbors, and hidden coves of French Polynesia – places that larger ships simply cannot reach. From the legendary beauty of Bora Bora and its luminous blue lagoon to the rugged, emerald valleys of Moorea, the fragrant vanilla plantations of Taha’a, and the untouched atolls of the Tuamotus, every port of call feels like a private discovery. Beyond Tahiti and the Society Islands, Paul Gauguin Cruises also ventures to Fiji, the Cook Islands, Tonga, and the remote Marquesas – each destination offering its own distinct character and natural splendor.

On select voyages, guests enjoy an exclusive beach day on a private motu – a secluded, uninhabited islet reserved solely for the ship’s passengers. The experience includes a Polynesian-style barbecue, complimentary beverages, watersports, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and relaxation on pristine white sand. It is one of the most cherished highlights of any Paul Gauguin voyage and a moment that captures the very essence of South Pacific paradise.

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What’s Included In Your Cruise Package?

Your extraordinary cruise adventure comes with many included amenities from the cruise line. In addition, Extraordinary Adventures offers our clients extra complimentary benefits as well as popular upgrades to create a seamless door-to-door experience.

Included in Every Paul Gauguin Cruise

  • Complimentary dining in all restaurants
  • Complimentary watersports from the retractable marina
  • 24-hour room service
  • Onboard entertainment and enrichment programs
  • Les Gauguines cultural ambassadors and performances
  • Select shore excursions on certain voyages*
  • Access to exclusive private motu beach day*

*Available on select voyages only. Ask your Extraordinary Adventures advisor for details.

Your Complimentary Cruise Concierge Service Also Includes

  • Expert guidance choosing your itinerary, ship, and stateroom
  • Recommendations on shore excursions
  • Advice on cruise and travel policies and procedures
  • Emergency assistance while on your trip
  • Recommendations on travel insurance

Add Extraordinary Adventures White Glove Service to Receive

  • We arrange car service and transfers
  • We book flights*
  • We reserve hotel stays
  • Pre-cruise and post-cruise travel planning assistance

$250 Planning Fee per stateroom. Complimentary for guests who book this cruise line.
*Terms and conditions apply.

Frequently Asked Questions About Paul Gauguin Cruises

Paul Gauguin Cruises represents the pinnacle of luxury small-ship cruising in the South Pacific. The line operates the m/s Paul Gauguin, a 332-guest ship purpose-built to navigate the shallow lagoons and intimate harbors of French Polynesia. The experience is defined by authentic Polynesian cultural immersion, all-inclusive luxury, a retractable watersports marina, and an atmosphere that blends relaxed tropical warmth with refined French elegance. It is the only luxury cruise ship sailing year-round in the South Pacific, offering unmatched access to the region’s most breathtaking destinations.

The m/s Paul Gauguin sails primarily in French Polynesia, including Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, Taha’a, Huahine, Raiatea, and the Tuamotu atolls. The ship also offers voyages to the Cook Islands, Fiji, Tonga, the Marquesas Islands, and other captivating South Pacific destinations. Her small size and shallow draft allow access to ports and lagoons that larger ships cannot reach, delivering an authenticity and intimacy that set these voyages apart.

Paul Gauguin’s all-inclusive fares cover complimentary beverages (including select wines, spirits, beer, and soft drinks), all onboard dining across multiple venues, 24-hour room service, all onboard gratuities, complimentary watersports from the retractable marina, onboard entertainment, and enrichment programs featuring Polynesian cultural ambassadors. Select voyages may also include curated shore excursions and access to the line’s exclusive private motu beach day. Contact your Extraordinary Adventures advisor for complete details on what’s included with your specific voyage.

The m/s Paul Gauguin offers a range of stateroom and suite categories. Options include ocean-view Porthole Staterooms, Balcony Staterooms with private verandas, Veranda Suites, Grand Suites, and the Owner’s Suite. Over 70% of accommodations feature private balconies. All staterooms are well-appointed with refined amenities, and suite guests enjoy additional perks such as expanded living space and enhanced in-suite amenities. Your Extraordinary Adventures advisor can guide you to the perfect category based on your preferences and travel style.

One of Paul Gauguin’s most distinctive features, the retractable watersports marina deploys from the stern whenever the ship anchors in calm, sheltered lagoons. Guests step directly from the platform into the warm South Pacific waters for complimentary kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and snorkeling. It’s an experience that transforms the ship into your own private floating resort.

All dining aboard Paul Gauguin is complimentary with open-seating flexibility across three distinctive venues: L’Etoile for gourmet French and international cuisine, La Veranda for casual daytime dining that transforms into an intimate reservation-only experience each evening, and Le Grill for open-air poolside fare. Twenty-four-hour room service is also available. The culinary program emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients that celebrate both the vibrant flavors of the South Pacific and the refinement of French gastronomy.

Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins are a troupe of Tahitian cultural hosts and performers who sail aboard every voyage, serving as living ambassadors of Polynesian heritage. From greeting you with fragrant flower leis to leading hands-on craft workshops like pareo tying and lei making, they share the language, music, dance, and traditions of their islands with genuine warmth. Their presence creates an authentic cultural exchange that guests consistently describe as one of the most meaningful aspects of the entire voyage.

Absolutely. Paul Gauguin Cruises is one of the most celebrated choices in the world for honeymoons, anniversaries, milestone birthdays, and romantic getaways. The combination of the world’s most beautiful island destinations, intimate ship size, all-inclusive luxury, and deeply personal service creates an atmosphere that is inherently romantic and celebratory. Special occasion packages and enhancements are available. Your Extraordinary Adventures advisor can help craft the perfect voyage for your celebration, complete with any special touches to make the occasion truly unforgettable.

The dress code aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin reflects the relaxed yet refined spirit of the South Pacific. Days are casual – resort wear, swimsuits, and comfortable island attire are perfectly appropriate. Evenings are “resort elegant,” which invites stylish but comfortable attire. There are no formal nights requiring tuxedos or gowns. The overall atmosphere is sophisticated yet relaxed, perfectly suited to the tropical setting.

We recommend booking your Paul Gauguin voyage 6 to 12 months in advance, especially for peak-season sailings and holiday departures. With only 332 guests per voyage, staterooms – particularly suites and preferred categories – fill quickly. Popular itineraries such as those visiting Bora Bora, Moorea, and the Tuamotu atolls tend to sell out well ahead of departure. Booking early also gives you the best selection of stateroom categories and access to any early booking promotions or exclusive perks. Your Extraordinary Adventures advisor can help you identify the ideal sailing and secure the best available options.

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What Our Clients Say

Real clients. Real experiences. Never ordinary – always extraordinary.

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“These two definitely know their ships, and if they don’t, they know where to find answers. We had never booked with an agent before, but after our first experience with Extraordinary Adventures, we were so pleased that we quickly booked our second cruise shortly after. Their response times are rapid, and their suggestions are immeasurable.”

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“Scott and Laura were very helpful and professional from the first minute. The information I got saved me money and time. Wonderful, friendly, personal, and quick service. Response within minutes to all my questions. Thank you for the great work.”

Richard & Pascal F

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“I gave them a budget, what I wanted, and potential dates. They did the rest! Gave me checklists for what to pack, suggestions of things to do, and the best plans for the biggest bang for our buck. They even checked on us when we returned to be sure we had an enjoyable experience.”

Kristy & Anthony R

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“We have tried different venues to purchase cruises and definitely prefer working with Scott and Laura. They have always put our best interest at the forefront. They are professional and easy to contact and take the worry out of our travel plans.”

Michael & Virginia D

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“Scott and Laura are super knowledgeable and incredibly fast to respond to questions. They helped make our last cruise worry- and stress-free. I have referred two of my friends who used their services and were very happy. They will go out of their way to help. Super friendly!”

Darla C

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“Laura and Scott are great people to help assist with any vacation needs. I found them to be very attentive to my wants and needs. They have been very informative, provided great suggestions to help make the most of my vacation, and they are very upfront and honest. I will definitely use Extraordinary Adventures again.”

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