Some places are best discovered slowly. French Polynesia is definitely one of them. Bora Bora, Moorea, Tahiti, or Rangiroa aren't islands worth checking off in a few days. This destination operates more like a state of mind – the ocean slows the pace of life, days begin with a view of the lagoon, and evenings end with the sunset and the music of a ukulele floating over the water.
And that's why Paul Gauguin cruises have long been considered one of the best ways to discover Oceania. This vessel isn't like the classic mega-ships that can accommodate several thousand passengers. Small, elegant, and very intimate, it accommodates around 330 guests, making it more like a luxury yacht hotel than a typical cruise ship.
The Paul Gauguin's greatest advantage is that it was designed specifically for sailing the lagoons of French Polynesia. Its small size allows it to sail where larger ships simply can't. Wake up a few meters from Bora Bora, enjoy breakfast overlooking Moorea, and sip champagne under a starry sky in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
The atmosphere on board is very French – elegant, but not overly formal. There are none of the crowds, lines, or noisy attractions typical of large cruise lines. Instead, there are relaxed lounge bars, excellent cuisine, live music, and a remarkably peaceful atmosphere.
Most popular route – Tahiti & Society Islands
This classic French Polynesia cruise is the perfect choice for first-time visitors to Oceania. The seven-night itinerary takes in the region's most iconic landmarks: Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine, and Taha'a.
Bora Bora, of course, is the most impressive. The boat stays longer here, allowing you to see the island even in the evening, when most day trippers have already departed. This is when Bora Bora Bora reveals its most magical side – a tranquil lagoon, lights reflecting off the water, and almost complete silence.
Moorea, on the other hand, has a completely different vibe. It's greener, wilder, and less "Instagrammable" than Bora Bora. Many travelers later recall it as the most beautiful island of the entire cruise.
Sample 2026 cruise dates:
- July 4–11, 2026
- August 8–15, 2026
- November 14–21, 2026
Prices:
- from approximately USD 4,200–6,300 per person in a double cabin,
- Balcony apartments and suites can cost over $15,000.
More Society Islands & Tahiti – a calmer and more authentic Polynesia
This itinerary also lasts seven nights, but is a bit more "slow travel." Besides Bora Bora, there's more time to explore less obvious islands like Raiatea and Huahine.
Raiatea is considered by Polynesians to be the spiritual center of Oceania. It is home to ancient marae temples and the sites from which ancient navigators set sail to explore the Pacific Ocean centuries ago.
This cruise is especially popular with people who have already been to the Maldives or Seychelles and are looking for something more authentic and less commercial.
Sample dates for 2026:
- June 13–20, 2026
- July 11–18, 2026
- August 29nd – September 5th, 2026
- November 7–14, 2026
Prices:
- from approximately $5,300–$6,000 per person.
Discover more luxury cruises and expeditions to the farthest corners of the world
Society Islands & Tuamotus – the most beautiful lagoons in Oceania
This is a more extensive journey for those who love the ocean. The cruise usually lasts 10-11 nights and, in addition to Bora Bora and Moorea, also visits the Tuamotu archipelago.
This is where Rangiroa and Fakarava are located – almost cult destinations for divers and snorkelers. The ocean here has a color virtually unseen anywhere else in the world. The lagoons resemble giant natural aquariums, and the water is so clear that you can sometimes see manta rays and reef sharks from the deck of a ship.
Fakarava is one of the most unspoiled places in all of French Polynesia. There are no crowds or large resorts here. Instead, there are wooden piers, small villages, and a sense of tranquility, which for many people proves to be the greatest luxury of the entire trip.
Sample dates for 2026:
- July 18–29, 2026
- September 12–23, 2026
Prices:
- from approximately $7,700–$8,100 per person,
- higher suites even above USD 20,000.
Cook Islands & Society Islands – Bora Bora and the most beautiful lagoon in the world
This is one of the most exotic itineraries offered by Paul Gauguin. The cruise takes you not only through French Polynesia but also through the Cook Islands.
The star of this cruise is Aitutaki, an island considered by many travelers to be the most beautiful lagoon in the entire Pacific. The water here is an almost unreal shade of turquoise, and the tiny islands scattered throughout the lagoon look like a private paradise.
This is a very romantic cruise and a great option for a honeymoon or the longer trip of a lifetime.
Sample date 2026:
- November 21 - December 2, 2026
Prices:
- from approximately $7,300 per person.
Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands – Paul Gauguin's most extraordinary route
If classic Polynesia conjures up images of overwater bungalows and tranquil lagoons, the Marquesas are the complete opposite. These are wild, monumental islands with dramatic cliffs and verdant mountains rising straight from the ocean.
Paul Gauguin lived here, and it's no wonder he fell in love with these islands. They possess a mystical and rugged quality. A cruise to the Marquesas is more like a luxury expedition than a classic tropical vacation.
Along the way, the ship also visits Fakarava and the Tuamotu, so it is a combination of the most spectacular lagoons and the wildest part of Oceania.
Sample dates for 2026:
- August 15–29, 2026
- December 19, 2026 - January 2, 2027
Prices:
- from approximately USD 10,800 per person,
- luxury suites even above USD 25,000.
What is life like on board?
It's this atmosphere that keeps so many returning to the Paul Gauguin for a second or third time. There's no rush on board. In the mornings, most guests enjoy breakfast on the open-air deck overlooking the lagoon, then descend for snorkeling or island hopping, and in the evenings, the ship transforms into an elegant floating resort.
Live music, Polynesian shows, and sunset dinners are held almost daily. The marina watersports platform at the rear of the ship, which can be used during stops in the lagoons, is also very popular.
Another huge advantage is the private island of Motu Mahana, owned by the shipowner. A day spent there feels more like a private beach club in the middle of the ocean than a classic cruise line excursion.
When is the best time to sail?
The best time to visit is between May and October. The ocean is calmer, the temperatures are more comfortable, and the snorkeling is practically perfect.
July and August are great for those planning:
- diving,
- snorkeling,
- whale watching,
- more active exploration of the islands.
April, May and November, on the other hand, have a more tropical climate and usually slightly fewer tourists.
Book your dream cruise with Carter ® for 2026/2027
