People ask me which stateroom to book on the Paul Gauguin more than almost any other question, and my answer usually surprises them. On a ship this size, the room matters less than where it sits and how much time you'll spend in it. I've stayed in a few categories across different sailings, and I want to tell you what I noticed rather than recite a brochure. The short version: most rooms are comfortable, the balcony is worth it for a lot of people, and a couple of details are easy to miss until you're aboard. Let me walk you through it.
How the categories really differ
The meaningful differences come down to space, a balcony, and whether you have butler service in the higher suites. A window stateroom and a balcony stateroom can feel similar inside; the balcony buys you private outdoor space and morning light, which on a French Polynesia sailing is a genuine luxury. With around 330 guests aboard, even the lower categories don't feel like an afterthought.
If you tend to nap, read, or have coffee in the room, pay for the balcony. If you're the type who's off on a watersports excursion from breakfast to sunset, save the money and put it toward shore activities.
What's included and what's worth knowing
The fares are largely all-inclusive, so beverages and gratuities are generally folded in rather than nickel-and-dimed, which changes how the room feels day to day. Expect the usual comforts, a stocked setup for drinks, and bathroom amenities that are perfectly nice without being fussy. The thing first-timers miss is storage: pack lighter than you think, because outrigger trips and reef shoes eat space fast.
Wi-Fi exists but the South Pacific is remote, so I tell guests to treat connectivity as a bonus, not a guarantee, and to download what they need before sailing.
Choosing the right deck and position
Location is the lever most people don't pull. Mid-ship is steadier if you're sensitive to motion; higher decks are closer to the pool and the open-air spots. I look at which side faces the islands on a given itinerary so the balcony pays off when the ship anchors off Moorea or Taha'a.
If you're traveling as a family or a group, ask about connecting or nearby rooms early, because the layout has limited options and they go quickly.
Frequently asked questions
Is a balcony stateroom worth the extra cost?
For most guests, yes, if you'll use it. Sunrise over a lagoon from your own balcony is one of the quiet highlights of this ship. If you're rarely in the room, a window category is a sensible saving.
Is the cruise really all-inclusive?
Largely, yes. Drinks and gratuities are generally included in the fare, which is part of why the onboard experience feels relaxed. Specific inclusions can change, so confirm the details when you book.
How should I pack for a stateroom here?
Lighter than you expect. The climate is warm and casual, storage is modest, and excursion gear takes up room. Soft luggage stows better than hard cases.
Planning a Paul Gauguin voyage? Tell us your dates and what you're dreaming of and we'll map it out for you.