Paul Gauguin Cruises, which operates the m/s Paul Gauguin, has announced its Tahiti, French Polynesia and South Pacific itineraries for 2016, featuring some of its most popular cruises, as well as the new Tahiti, the Society Islands & Tuamotus voyage. Departing from and returning to Papeete, this seven-night sailing features a visit to two Polynesian archipelagos in just one week.
Day 1: Papeete. Passengers begin their journey in the Tahitian capital of Papeete, where they will board the m/s Paul Gauguin, for what is sure to be a memorable week. The ship, specially designed to cruise the shallow seas surrounding French Polynesia, offers passengers 5-star service with spacious staterooms (more than 70 percent have private balconies), an onboard watersports marina, state-of-the-art spa and more.
Day 2: Huahine. The Garden Island is the second port of call. Here, passengers will have the opportunity to explore the island's lush rainforests and legendary landmarks that are counted as among French Polynesia's best-preserved archeological remains. Spend the day hiking, snorkeling or SCUBA diving, or luxuriating on the beach along the island's expansive lagoon.
Day 3: Fakarava, Tuamotus. The Tuamotus Islands, shallow and dangerous for the ships that once plyed these waters, are a diver's paradise. Fakarava boasts a diverse ecosystem that has earned a designation as a UNESCO-Classified Nature Reserve. The island features two tremendous passes where divers can descend up to 130 feet into a world of coral and exotic sea life. Or, be tempted by the onshore delights and visit an ancient temple, a 19th-century coral church or simply explore the islands' charming villages.
Day 4 Rangiroa. The 78 coral atolls that comprise the Tuamotu Archipelago are home to small villages, where passengers can experience the true flavor of the islands and even participate in the daily activities of the Paumotu people. Black pearl and fish breeding farms make for fascinating visits, while the chance to snorkel and SCUBA dive offer the opportunity to further explore.
Day 5 Taha'a (Motu Mahana). Cruise goers can explore Paul Gauguin Cruises' own island paradise on this tiny islet adjacent to Taha'a. With white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water, guests can spend the day indulging themselves with swimming, snorkeling and kayaking in the private lagoon as well as learn Tahitian cooking techniques, play volleyball or enjoy a barbecue and traditional Polynesian entertainment.
Day 6 Bora Bora. Perhaps no other island epitomizes the Polynesian ideal than Bora Bora, which novelist James Michener called "the most beautiful island in the world." Here, passengers have their choice of shore excursions, including an off-road safari, a glass-bottom boat ride or relaxing on a private beach on a motu just off the coast.
Day 7 Moorea/Papeete (Tahiti). A tropical paradise, this lush island is filled with fresh fruits and flowers. In fact, its pineapples are said to be the most delicious in all of French Polynesia. Passengers may shop here for local crafts or even go on a dolphin-watching expedition with a local marine biologist.
Day 8 Disembark in Papeete. The cruise portion of one's journey ends here but passengers wanting to explore more of the region may extend their stay with a post-cruise hotel program on Bora Bora, Moorea, Taha'a and Papeete.
The Feb. 6, 2016, sailing cruise fares start from $5,345 per person and includes roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles.
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