Bora Bora rewards anyone willing to get in the water, and the Paul Gauguin makes that simple. The first time I dropped off the back of the ship and into that lagoon, I understood why people come back; the visibility and the sheer number of fish are hard to overstate. The marina off the stern turns the ship into a launchpad for the day, with gear a few steps from your cabin. Here is how I would spend your time on the water here.
Snorkeling and diving the lagoon
Snorkeling is the easy entry point and the one I recommend first. The coral gardens sit in clear, shallow water, and you do not need much skill to drift over them watching reef fish go about their business. If you are certified or curious, diving opens up the deeper reef, where you may meet bigger fish and, if you are lucky, a reef shark passing through. It is a calm, manageable place to learn the underwater world rather than just look at it.
Watersports off the ship's marina
This is where the Paul Gauguin earns its reputation. The marina platform off the stern gives you direct access to the water for kayaking and paddleboarding when conditions allow, and the ship carries the gear so you are not renting or hauling your own. A kayak lets you slip along the shoreline and into quiet coves at your own pace; a paddleboard gives you a higher view across the lagoon. Both are a fine way to fill an afternoon without an organized tour.
Quieter ways on the water
Not every hour has to be active. A glass-bottom boat lets you see the coral without getting in, which suits travelers who would rather stay dry. Late afternoon is my favorite window: the light softens, the lagoon goes glassy, and a slow paddle near sunset is about as good as a day on the water gets. Check the daily schedule with the crew, since marina access depends on weather and the ship's position.
Frequently asked questions
Is watersports gear included on the Paul Gauguin?
The ship's marina platform off the stern offers access to watersports and the equipment to go with it when conditions allow. Confirm the current details, since availability depends on weather and location.
Can beginners snorkel or dive in Bora Bora?
Yes. The lagoon's calm, shallow coral gardens are ideal for first-time snorkelers, and Bora Bora is a gentle place to try diving with proper guidance.
When can I use the marina off the ship?
Marina access depends on the weather and where the ship is anchored, so it is not guaranteed every day. Check the daily program and ask the crew for the current window.
Planning a Paul Gauguin voyage? Tell us your dates and what you're dreaming of and we'll map it out for you.