People always ask me which islands matter most on a French Polynesia cruise, and my answer has shifted over the years of sailing the m/s Paul Gauguin. The honest truth is that the small ship reaches places the big lines skip, so I rank islands by what you can do there, not by how famous they are. Bora Bora gets the postcards, but Taha'a and the Tuamotus are where I've had my best days in the water. I'll walk you through how I'd order them. Think of it as the route I'd plan for my own family.
Start with the Society Islands
Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora and Taha'a form the spine of most sailings, and for good reason. Moorea's jagged green ridges are the view I never get tired of, and the ship's private motu off Taha'a is the day I tell everyone to keep clear. Bora Bora deserves its reputation for the lagoon, but I'd budget my energy there rather than packing the schedule.
Add the Tuamotus for the water
If your sailing calls at Rangiroa or Fakarava, that is where the snorkelling and diving step up. These are coral atolls, so the lagoons are vast and the fish life is dense. On a ship of around 330 guests you tender in fast and have the reef largely to yourselves, which is the part I value most.
Save the Marquesas for a second trip
The Marquesas are remote, dramatic and culturally rich, but they suit travellers who already know they love the region. I usually steer first-timers toward a Society Islands and Tuamotus loop, then suggest the longer Marquesas itinerary once they're hooked. There's no wrong order, only the one that fits your time.
Frequently asked questions
How many islands does a typical sailing visit?
Most weeklong itineraries call at four to six islands across the Society group, often with a Tuamotus atoll added. Exact stops vary by departure, so confirm the route when you book.
Which island is best for snorkelling?
I point people to Taha'a's private motu and the Tuamotus atolls like Rangiroa, where calm lagoons and healthy reefs make for the easiest, richest water days.
Is Bora Bora worth the hype?
Yes, for the lagoon and the setting, but I'd treat it as one highlight among several rather than the whole trip. Moorea and Taha'a often win people over more.
Planning a Paul Gauguin voyage? Tell us your dates and what you're dreaming of and we'll map it out for you.