Paul Gauguin Cruise Review: An Immersive Luxury Experience In The South Pacific

by | Jun 6, 2023 | Cruise Lines & Cruise Types

Introduction To The Luxury Cruise Ship - MS Paul Gauguin

Welcome to the dream voyage that is the Paul Gauguin cruise. It all begins with a MS Paul Gauguin cruise review. This luxury cruise ship that sets itself apart as a small ship with a big heart. Named after the famous French post-impressionist painter who found inspiration in the French Polynesian Islands, this ship blends the charm of Polynesian culture with top-notch luxury and comfort.

Experiencing Bora Bora - The Pearl Of The Pacific

The ship's routes include various gems in the Pacific, with Bora Bora being one of the highlights. There's nothing quite like waking up and stepping out onto private balconies with a view of Bora Bora's stunning turquoise lagoon and coral reefs. This island is renowned for its magnificent underwater world, home to manta rays, reef sharks, and an array of tropical fish. With daily shore excursions to this heavenly place, it was an unforgettable journey that brought us closer to nature.

A Journey To The Society Islands

Among the places we visited, the Society Islands left a lasting impression. These are a group of French Polynesian islands, each with its unique landscapes, ranging from volcanoes to lush jungles and pristine beaches. We were captivated by the vivid colors, the simplicity, and the friendly locals who greeted us warmly.

The Cook Islands - A Hidden Paradise

A visit to the Cook Islands was another highlight of our trip. The untouched beauty of these islands, with their serene beaches and impressive coral reefs, will make you feel as though you've stepped into a real-life postcard.

Professional Staff And Les Gauguines

One of the standout features of the Paul Gauguin cruise is the crew members, including the friendly Les Gauguines. These professional staff members are ambassadors of the local culture and are always ready to share their stories, songs, and dance performances, truly immersing you in the Polynesian culture.

Onboard Experience: La Veranda And Other Dining Options

MS Paul Gauguin offers a plethora of dining options. La Veranda, the main dining room, serves a variety of exquisite dishes with a strong emphasis on local cuisine. If you're looking for a more casual dining experience, you can opt for Le Grill, which offers a buffet-style spread of local and international dishes. The Pacific Beachcomber is an excellent place for cocktails and live music in the evenings.

Sensational Second Day At the Piano Bar

Our second day was a particularly memorable one. We spent the evening at the ship's piano bar, sipping on our favorite drinks while enjoying the relaxing tunes played by the ship's talented pianist.

Fitness And Leisure Onboard

If staying active is a concern, the ship's fitness center is equipped with everything you need to keep fit while on vacation. The ship also has a deck with lounge chairs where you can bask in the sun or unwind with a book.

A Unique Experience At Motu Mahana

One of the standout experiences was our day at Motu Mahana, Paul Gauguin's private islet. Here, we enjoyed a day of beach activities, a barbecue feast, and cocktails served from a floating bar.

Exploring The Marquesas Islands

While the Paul Gauguin cruise is renowned for its Bora Bora trips, it also offers an excursion to the Marquesas Islands. This group of islands is steeped in history and culture, offering a unique insight into the ancient Polynesian way of life.

The Privacy Policy And Customer Care

Paul Gauguin also excels in its privacy policy and customer care. The crew maintains high standards of privacy and are professional and courteous, ensuring a pleasant and worry-free cruise vacation.

Cruising To The Island Of Tahiti

Our cruise ended with a visit to the Island of Tahiti, the largest of the French Polynesian Islands. From its black sand beaches to its towering waterfalls, this island took our breath away.

The Unforgettable Activities

From snorkeling among the coral reefs of Bora Bora to hiking up the scenic hills of the Cook Islands, there is a wide range of activities to indulge in on a Paul Gauguin cruise. Shore excursions include guided tours, water activities, and even exclusive cultural experiences, like a traditional Polynesian feast at Motu Mahana.

Immersing In The Polynesian Culture

Paul Gauguin cruises provide the perfect platform to explore and understand the rich and vibrant Polynesian culture. Les Gauguines, a troupe of Tahitian hosts and entertainers, play a crucial role in bringing Polynesian history, tradition, and lifestyle to life. Through dance performances, storytelling, and arts and crafts demonstrations, they ensure passengers have a holistic understanding and appreciation of the Polynesian culture.

Relaxing In The Lounge Chairs

After a day of exploring and sightseeing, there's nothing more satisfying than relaxing on the comfortable lounge chairs onboard. Placed strategically around the pool and the deck area, these lounge chairs offer the perfect space to lie back, sip a cocktail, and watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean.

Fitness Center And Wellbeing

Health and wellbeing are well catered for onboard the MS Paul Gauguin. The ship features a well-equipped fitness center that includes weight training and cardio machines. Yoga and pilates classes are also available, and for those who prefer to relax and unwind, there is a luxurious spa offering a range of beauty treatments and massages.

Private Balconies With Breathtaking Views

One of the standout features of the MS Paul Gauguin is the private balconies attached to the majority of the rooms. These balconies offer stunning, uninterrupted views of the French Polynesian islands and allow passengers to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the South Pacific from the privacy and comfort of their own room.

Luxurious Dining Experience

The culinary journey on a Paul Gauguin cruise is as memorable as the physical journey. The ship offers multiple dining options, each serving a variety of delectable dishes prepared by expert chefs. From the elegant ambiance of La Veranda to the more laid-back setting of Le Grill, passengers can enjoy a range of international and local cuisines.

Delving Into The Nightlife – The Piano Bar

During the cruise, we discovered that evenings onboard the MS Paul Gauguin were as exciting as the days. The ship’s piano bar was a frequent evening haunt for many passengers, providing a pleasant atmosphere of subtle lighting and soft music. The bar features a skilled pianist who played an array of soothing tunes, ranging from classical melodies to contemporary hits. The drinks menu was vast, offering everything from classic cocktails to a selection of fine wines.

Exploring The Marquesas Islands

The allure of the Marquesas Islands, another archipelago within French Polynesia, is undeniable. The craggy cliffs, verdant valleys, and ancient stone platforms called “marae” brought an entirely different flavor to our Pacific journey. The Marquesas Islands, home to a rich history of Polynesian culture, felt like a voyage back in time.

Adventurous Shore Excursions

Paul Gauguin offers a variety of shore excursions to ensure that passengers explore the South Pacific's beauty in-depth. From adventurous water activities like snorkeling, diving among the vibrant coral reefs, to wildlife spotting and island exploration, the cruise line provides an array of options to cater to everyone's taste.

Cruise Vacation: The Pacific Beachcomber Experience

The Pacific Beachcomber, a unique and exclusive experience on Paul Gauguin cruises, allows passengers to relish the beauty of the South Pacific beaches in a whole new way. As you sit on the beach, enjoy a refreshing cocktail or take part in the traditional Polynesian games and activities organized by the crew members.

Main Dining Room – La Veranda

The main dining room, La Veranda, offered an exceptional dining experience. The setting was elegant, with attention to detail evident in the table settings, lighting, and overall décor. The menu showcased a fusion of local ingredients with international cooking techniques. Each meal was not only delectable but also presented as a work of art.

Privacy Policy: Safe And Secure

One of the aspects of the cruise that impressed us the most was their stringent privacy policy. The crew is trained to respect the privacy of the passengers, ensuring a serene and secure atmosphere throughout the journey.

The Crew Members: Professional And Polite

Every passenger's comfort and satisfaction are the top priorities for the crew members on the Paul Gauguin cruise. From the captain to the service staff, everyone on board is professional, polite, and keen to provide an unparalleled cruising experience. Their warm and friendly nature, combined with their excellent service, added to the overall joy of the journey.

Paul Gauguin Cruise Reviews – A Firsthand Account

While this review is based on personal experiences, it's worth noting that other Paul Gauguin cruise reviews echo the sentiments mentioned above. Many passengers laud the luxurious yet intimate setting, the top-notch customer service, and the well-curated excursions.

Conclusion: The Waters Of Tahiti And Beyond

As we sailed away from the waters of Tahiti, it was clear that the Paul Gauguin cruise is not just about luxury—it's about an immersive, authentic experience that brings you closer to the heart of the South Pacific. It's about discovering untouched corners of the world, engaging with vibrant cultures, and unwinding in a setting that's as tranquil as it is inspiring.

If you're considering a Pacific cruise vacation, the Paul Gauguin cruise will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. From the scenic landscapes of Bora Bora and the Society Islands to the exceptional services and amenities onboard, every moment on this luxury cruise ship is a treasure.