award-winning luxury cruise ship
Estimated reading time: 19 minutes
The m/s Paul Gauguin award-winning luxury cruise ship, operated by Paul Gauguin Cruises, presents exceptional cruise experiences in the wonders of Tahiti, French Polynesia, the South Pacific, and Fiji. Indeed, the 5+-star m/s Paul Gauguin was built specifically to sail the waters of Tahiti, French Polynesia, and the South Pacific. Lastly, m/s Paul Gauguin is the longest continually operating year-round luxury cruise ship in this enchanting destination providing up-close, authentic experiences.
Celebrating 25 Years: The Paul Gauguin Experience
Artfully Authentic Discovery – All-Inclusive Luxury
Enchanting, carefree, and award-winning, The Gauguin Experience is celebrating 25 years exploring The Islands of Tahiti. Purposefully designed to navigate the region’s fabled lagoons, together with her beloved crew and local troupe of Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines who live aboard ship, the m/s Paul Gauguin delivers an expert and artfully authentic experience unmatched in cruising.
Paradise for Kids (and Families too!)
At NorthStar, we encourage you to pack up your kids and head to Tahiti! The m/s Paul Gauguin welcomes youngsters ages 7-15 aboard to participate in its complimentary Moana Explorer Program that goes far beyond the “camp-like” structure of other cruise lines. Offered in conjunction with Te mana o te moana (a South Pacific marine education and conservation foundation) on more than 20 sailings in 2023 and 2024, naturalist-led activities engage both kids and their families with sea turtle care center visits, real-life beach “Survivor” games, volcanic mountain hikes, snorkeling in pristine lagoons, cultural activities, and more.
NorthStar is devoted and dedicated in making The Gauguin the highest-rated luxury ship in French Polynesia. This video kicks off a year of soon-to-be-announced exclusive anniversary offers and special onboard events, and we invite you to share it with your friends and families. Mauruuru! (Thank you!)
New! 2024 Voyages Brochure Now Available
2024 Revealing Polynesia – 7 Unique All-Inclusive Itineraries
NorthStar is thrilled to receive Paul Gauguin Cruises announcing the release of their 2024 Voyages brochure, now available for us and you to view online. From itineraries and islands to nature and culture, the 84-page, magazine-style book showcases the Paul Gauguin Cruises experience with enriching insight, vivid imagery, and first-person stories. Highlights for 2024:
- New! A 7-night More Society Islands & Tahiti voyage featuring a return to Raiatea.
- New! A 14-night Islands of the Marquesas & Tuamotus itinerary showcasing five calls in the Marquesas with maiden visits to Hatiheu, Nuka Hiva; and Hakahua, Ua Pou.
- 7 different itineraries, ranging from 7 to 14 nights.
- Overnights in Bora Bora, Moorea, and Papeete.
- Exclusive beach day at Motu Mahana, our own private islet.
- Moana Explorer Program for children and families; and more.
The 330-guest m/s Paul Gauguin boasts a relaxed, tropical elegance with spacious suites and staterooms – many with a private balcony – exceptional cuisine, authentic explorations ashore, and genuinely hospitable service, all of which is detailed in the new brochure. NorthStar encourages you to order your 2024 Voyages brochure today and take advantage of fares beginning at just $2,990 per guest.
2023: Year of the Tahiti Cruise
An Added 10% Savings!
Here’s a resolution you may wish to keep: Take an award-winning, all-inclusive cruise to Tahiti, complete with an additional 10% savings when booking by January 7, 2023! Travel + Leisure’s #1 Small-Ship Ocean Cruise Line invites them to explore French Polynesia, Fiji, Bali and beyond aboard the intimate m/s Paul Gauguin. Renowned for showcasing the South Pacific with artful authenticity, this beloved ship serves up incredible cuisine, immersive discovery, and genuine Polynesian hospitality. ‘Ia ora na i te matahiti ‘āpī! (Happy New Year!)
The Gauguin Wins Best Small-Ship
Travel + Leisure’s 2022 – World’s Best Awards #1
It is thrilling to announce that the world’s most discerning travelers have once again voted Paul Gauguin Cruises as the #1 Small-Ship Ocean Cruise Line in Travel + Leisure’s 2022 World’s Best Awards. What an honor and a testament to the genuine hospitality and authentic experiences provided by the Officers, Staff, and Crew aboard the intimate, 330-guest m/s Paul Gauguin. Recently reimagined with a contemporary tropical elegance, the beloved ship boasts an ambience of carefree all-inclusive luxury setting the stage for immersive journeys throughout wonders of Tahiti, French Polynesia, Fiji and the South Pacific.
The Gauguin’s SCUBA diving excursions are designed for all levels of experience and is the only luxury ship in the French Polynesian islands to offer PADI certification onboard for novice divers.
As the world leader of small-ship cruising, in September 2019, Paul Gauguin Cruises joined PONANT’s family. Discover the difference of cruising with purpose on Paul Gauguin Cruises and let us introduce you to utterly authentic Polynesia.
Are you missing out on travel? Then let Paul Gauguin Cruises take you on an aerial port tour through French Polynesia.
Beginning September 9, 2022, Paul Gauguin Cruises will no longer require COVID-19 pre-embarkation testing!
In a world of ever-evolving technology, on-demand entertainment, and manufactured experiences, this October Paul Gauguin is taking a moment to slow down and appreciate the real, the genuine, and the original. This October, they are seeking authenticity. Instinctually, this is what they want in their relationships, and something we crave in our food, our clothes, and our own personal enrichment. Being authentic contributes to one’s holistic well-being by quietly fueling happiness and fulfillment. And while authenticity is also the most talked about trend in travel, it’s something Paul Gauguin has long known and appreciated. Paul Gauguin Cruises is pleased to share writer Fran Golden’s “quintessentially Polynesian” observations of her recent journey aboard the beloved m/s Paul Gauguin.
Best Dive Sites in French Polynesia
Tahiti is for Divers (and Snorkelers too!)
From reef walls, canyons, and shark dives to snorkeling amidst coral gardens teeming with fish, French Polynesia is a world-renowned paradise for Technicolor adventures both advanced and novice. Think Fakarava’s UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve, Rangiroa’s Tiputa Pass, Bora Bora’s famed lagoon, and more. There’s drift snorkeling near our private motu in Taha’a, and thrilling discovery in Hiva Oa, considered a must-do “new” dive destination by experienced divers. Discover them all in this issue of The Gauguin Insider: A South Pacific Luxury Cruise Blog. VIEW POST
The Best Way to See wonders of Tahiti & Her Islands
The Value is with Paul Gauguin Cruises
With her famous lagoons, idyllic beaches, and iconic mountain peaks, French Polynesia is a perennial bucket-list favorite. When trying to decide between wonders of Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora or beyond, the world’s #1 Small-Ship Ocean Cruise Line invites everyone to explore them all in seamless, luxurious comfort. Paul Gauguin has done the homework and thought you might be interested in their 7-night Sea vs Land comparison: With gourmet dining, fine wines and spirits, gratuities, entertainment, watersports, private motus, and more all included, the value of a voyage aboard the enchanting m/s Paul Gauguin is simply unmatched. So go ahead and book with your NorthStar Advisor in an over-water “bungalow” that sails and let them revel in an artfully authentic experience.
2024 Voyages Now Open for Sale
New for 2024 are a 7-night More Society Islands & Tahiti itinerary featuring a return to Raiatea; and a 14-night Islands of the Marquesas & Tuamotus voyage with maiden visits to Hatiheu, Nuku Hiva; and Hakahau, Ua Pou, both in the Marquesas Islands. The new voyages join the line’s portfolio of classic itineraries, popular among savvy travelers seeking immersive experiences aboard a boutique ship known for its carefree elegance and trademark Polynesian hospitality.
Paul Gauguin Cruises is thrilled to announce that our 2024 collection of all-inclusive luxury voyages aboard the award-winning m/s Paul Gauguin is now open for reservations.
With a total of 33 cruises in all for the year, the two new itineraries join their portfolio of popular classic itineraries giving you the choice of seven unique journeys of 7 to 14 nights exploring wonders of Tahiti, French Polynesia, Fiji, and the South Pacific.
All-inclusive fares start at $2,990 with bonus savings of 30% when booking now. Welcoming on board Travel + Leisure’s #1 Small-Ship Ocean Cruise Line!
Current Paul Gauguin Promotions
7 Nights in French Polynesia
Book your choice of any 7-night all-inclusive cruise in 2023 and enjoy a $200 Shipboard Credit per stateroom—plus Champagne and Chocolate. Aboard the highest rated luxury ship in Tahiti, you will enjoy two days exploring Bora Bora and her fabled lagoon, spend an overnight anchored offshore in Moorea, and trek the lush rainforest of Huahine in search of archaeological treasures. Relish a blissful day on Paul Gauguin’s private islet, Motu Mahana, off the shores of Taha’a.
Love is in the air aboard the beloved m/s Paul Gauguin, and you are invited to celebrate with a $200 Shipboard Credit per suite or stateroom on 7-night voyages in 2023 to French Polynesia. Applicable for all new bookings made by March 3, 2023.
From honeymoons and anniversaries to Valentine’s Day or the everyday, enjoy sun-drenched days and star-lit nights with Travel + Leisure’s #1 Small-Ship Ocean Cruise Line. To take advantage of this limited-time “Take Your Sweetie to Tahiti.” offer, book by March 3, 2023, and reference SBCSWEET at the time of reservation. Take Your Sweetie to Tahiti offer also includes a welcome bottle of Champagne and a chocolate treat too.
The Best of Bora Bora
Enchanting, iconic, and beyond beautiful, Bora Bora is French Polynesia’s legendary leading lady, revered the world over as the most romantic island on Earth. While her fabled lagoon takes center stage in her much-lauded reputation, in this issue of The Gauguin Insider: A South Pacific Luxury Cruise Blog we pay tribute to the island’s stellar supporting cast. Here are our top five reasons Bora Bora holds such sway over the hearts of discerning travelers.
Exclusive Savings on Tahiti Cruises
In celebration of the season, Paul Gauguin Cruises is pleased to extend an additional 10% savings on generous all-inclusive fares Offered on South Pacific voyages throughout 2023 – several with savings of already up to 25% – you can share the joy of travel with your loved ones at an exceptional value. Award-winning and carefree, the intimate m/s Paul Gauguin explores French Polynesia, Fiji, and beyond with artfully authentic expertise.
Book by January 7, 2023 and prepare for discovery of Bora Bora, Moorea, the Marquesas, and more on journeys of 7 to 16 nights.
$500 Per Guest Air Credit
Book by November 30, 2022
There are just two weeks left for you to take advantage of a $500 per guest air credit* on all m/s Paul Gauguin voyages departing through July 1, 2023. Book now on a 7- to 14-night all-inclusive South Pacific voyage aboard Travel + Leisure’s #1 Small-Ship Ocean Cruise Line. Valid through November 30, 2022 for new bookings only.
Extraordinary islands, extra special touches
Don’t miss these sunsets – What’s in a name? In places like Papeete, Bora Bora, Moorea, Aitutaki, and their exotic island neighbors, these destination names are packed with color, flavor, and postcard-worthy moments from spectacular sunrise to sundown. On board Paul Gauguin Cruises, you’ll sail through French Polynesia in the most quintessential way. NorthStar Virtuoso guests enjoy exclusive benefits, like a $100 spending credit, and can take advantage of a limited-time $500 airfare credit, valid for bookings through November 30, 2022.
- Fiji, Tonga, Cook & Society Islands – Lautoka to Papeete – 13 Days | Departs March 20, 2023 – Virtuoso Porthole Stateroom fares FROM $8,050 per person View Sailing ›
- Cook Islands & Society Islands – Round-trip from Papeete – 12 Days | Departs April 15, 2023 – Virtuoso Porthole Stateroom fares FROM $5,770 per person View Sailing ›
- Tahiti & Society Islands – Round-trip from Papeete – 8 Days | Departs September 2, 2023 – Virtuoso Porthole Stateroom fares FROM $4,550 per person View Sailing ›
- Cook Islands & Society Islands – Round-trip from Papeete – 12 Days | Departs October 28, 2023 – Virtuoso Porthole Stateroom fares FROM $5,770 per person View Sailing ›
Paradise in the South Pacific
The sparkling islands and atolls of French Polynesia have inspired artists, writers, and travelers for generations. Experience the beauty and the magic of this tropical destination on a small-ship journey with Paul Gauguin Cruises, offering spacious rooms, luxurious amenities, and thoughtful excursions.
Book through your NorthStar Virtuoso travel advisor to receive an exclusive $100 shipboard credit per person on select departures. And, for a limited time, enjoy a $500 air credit per person on select Tahiti & The Society Islands departures: May 6, 13, 2023 June 10, 17, 24, 2023
- Tahiti & The Society Islands (7 Nights) – Departs June 17, 2023 – Virtuoso fares FROM $4,280 per person – Book by October 8 for a $500 per-person air credit View Sailing ›
- Society Islands & Tuamotus (10 Nights) – Departs July 12, 2023 – Virtuoso fares FROM $5,570 per person View Sailing ›
- Cook Islands & Society Islands (11 Nights) – Departs October 28, 2023 – Virtuoso fares FROM $5,770 per person View Sailing ›
- Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands (14 Nights) – Departs November 18, 2023 – Virtuoso fares FROM $8,220 per person View Sailing ›
Are you ready to plan for 2022? Paul Gauguin Cruises has reminded us of their dynamic pricing schedule representing up to 30% off select sailings. If you are prepared to re-unite with loved ones, then consider a group – it only takes 5 staterooms to assemble your favorite fans. With this new pricing structure, understand that as demand increases so do the prices. Right now, lead-in pricing for a group starts as low as $3,680 per person including roundtrip economy airfare out of Los Angeles.
Therefore, if you are at all inclined to set sail and experience the beauty of Tahiti and her islands, please contact your Northstar Advisor soon as space is limited. Here are some group ideas:
- Family and friend reunions (multi-gen get-togethers)
- Health and wellness (yoga, Pilates devotees)
- Affinity groups (bridge players, golfers, foodies)
- Sea and sand lovers (hikers and bikers, too!)
- Artists (painting anyone?)
- Celebration of life (retirements and anniversaries)
- Intellectuals (history buffs, geography enthusiasts)
- Limitless options…
Solo Travelers Savings
ZERO Single Supplement
NO single supplement on Categories CS, E, and F that’s right NO single supplement Only 50% Single Supplement on Categories C and D May 6, 20, 2023 and June 17, 24, 2023. A Paul Gauguin Cruise is a fabulous way for singles to explore French Polynesia!! This is combinable with the air savings.
Traveling by yourself is life changing. For those travelers who already know this, you won’t want to miss this limited-time offer: Paul Gauguin is waiving the single supplement on select sailings. Zero single supplement is just one more reason for you to grab your passport and vaccination card and celebrate your freedom to wander the world. And for those who’ve yet to embark on solo travel, there’s no better place for them to do it than aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin in the warm embrace of wonders of Tahiti and her people. With her limited passenger list, newly renovated décor and her relaxed luxury vibe, The Gauguin is the perfect choice for those looking to explore paradise.
GOING SOLO: – A Rejuvenating & Empowering Experience
Believe it or not, even after the confinement of the last couple of years, solo travel nearly doubled in 2021 from pre-pandemic levels. People are eager for new connections and new experiences. To paraphrase novelist Edith Wharton, it’s time to “Set wide the window and drink in the day” as this month’s blog will attest. Paul Gauguin Cruises has always been a favorite for solo travelers seeking enriching discovery, and they are pleased to celebrate travel’s rebound with a Zero Single Supplement for their solo guests on select voyages in 2023.
Sail With Confidence!
In these unprecedented times, you need the flexibility to adapt your travel plans as conditions change. Now, for a limited time only, Paul Gauguin Cruises is offering STRESS-FREE booking and cancellation on your next voyage aboard the deluxe m/s Paul Gauguin.
Save 50% plus Included Roundtrip Airfare from Los Angeles*
50% off standard cruise fares and included roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles on all sailings aboard The Gauguin. Take advantage of this special offer on all our Tahiti, French Polynesia and the South Pacific voyages.
Take Your Sweetie to Tahiti
Book a sailing with Paul Gauguin Cruises by February 15th to receive a $100 Shipboard Credit per person, along with a box of chocolates and bottle of sparkling wine upon embarkation.
Also, many of Paul Gauguin’s 2022 sailings have NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT on categories E, F & CS (staterooms 764 & 764)
There is limited inventory so you need to book early!
Save 50% plus Included Roundtrip Airfare from Los Angeles*
50% off standard cruise fares and included roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles on all sailings aboard The Gauguin. Take advantage of this special offer on all our Tahiti, French Polynesia, and the South Pacific voyages.
Are you missing out on travel? Then let Paul Gauguin Cruises take you on an aerial port tour through French Polynesia.
Travel Advisory/Covid-safe Protocol
Awards & Accolades
Paul Gauguin Cruises has been recognized for their top cruises including being voted “World’s Best Small-Ship Cruise Line” and “World’s Best Small-Ship Cruise Line for Families” by the readers of Travel + Leisure. Paul Gauguin Cruises has also received exceptional cruise reviews and accolades from their guests, always appreciated for providing the best cruises in the world. You are invited you to sail with Paul Gauguin Cruises and experience their top cruises.
Gold, Silver & More Magellan Awards
Paul Gauguin Cruises is honored to share news of their recent accolades in Travel Weekly’s 2022 Magellan Awards. Presided by a panel of esteemed experts from all facets of travel, the annual awards bestowed the m/s Paul Gauguin with Gold in the Overall – Small Cruise Ship category. They also received two Silver awards: one for Overall – Luxury Ship, the other for Cruise Elements – Luxury Ship Itinerary.
More Accolades for Paul Gauguin Cruises
Condé Nast Traveler – 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards
Top 2 Small Ship Line – Paul Gauguin Cruises is proud to be recognized by the world’s most discerning travelers as the Top 2 Small Ship Line in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards, and we salute our parent company, PONANT, in earning the #1 spot in both the Small Ship and Expedition categories. Recently reimagined with a contemporary, chic elegance, the beloved ship hosts just 330 guests for enriching, all-inclusive journeys to Tahiti, French Polynesia, Fiji, and the South Pacific.
travAlliancemedia
Gold Travvy Award – Best Cruise Line Australia/ New Zealand/ South Pacific 2020
USA TODAY
Best Ocean Cruise Line – USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards 2020
Best Small Cruise Ship – USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards 2020
Conde’ Nast Traveler
Finalist – Top Small Cruise Lines Readers’ Choice Awards 2019
AFAR
Best French Polynesia Cruise Line – 2019
Travel + Leisure
1 Midsize-Ship Cruise Line 2019
BRIDES Magazine
BRIDES Honeymoon Awards 2019
Warm Wishes from the wonders of Tahiti
The Islands of Tahiti are well known for being an untouched island paradise with vibrant marine life, stunningly clear water, and a warm local population that welcomes travelers with a fragrant tiare lei and a genuine smile. These are among the many attributes that make The Islands of Tahiti one of the most enchanting and sought-after bucket list destinations.
‘Tis the season for joyful moments of togetherness with those you love most, and we’re sending you and yours warmest wishes sprinkled with sunshine and filled with wonder. Te mau mahana oaoa! Happy Holidays!
PAUL GAUGUIN CRUISES
RENOVATION DETAILS UNVEILED!
Our favorite small-ship, and yours, had received a makeover! In February of 2021 during dry dock, the m/s Paul Gauguin underwent a refresh of textiles, fabrics and furniture. The vision of this renovation was to enhance The Gauguin’s elegant and unique Polynesian signature with a chic and modern style to enrich the guest experience. Paul Gauguin also made significant environmental upgrades to allow them to continue to support sustainable tourism. The Gauguin is revered for her exceptional service as well her short passenger list, so you now can be among the first to enjoy her new décor as they explore the lagoons of French Polynesia.
wonders of Tahiti has no shortage of these natural water features. The Islands of Tahiti are known for their relaxing tropical climate. Miles of white sand and lush forests are commonplace in this paradise. Check out: Where to Find Tahitian Waterfalls
Aerial tour: A bird’s eye tour of some of the ports we visit nestled in French Polynesia’s idyllic atolls, mountains, reefs and lagoons.
