After sailing the m/s Paul Gauguin myself, the question I get most is which shore excursions are actually worth it. My honest take: the water-based ones are hard to beat in French Polynesia, but the best trip is the one that matches how you like to spend a day. Some guests want to be in the lagoon from morning to afternoon; others would rather understand the island they're standing on. Below I'll share the excursions I steer people toward and, just as importantly, how to avoid cramming too much in.
Get in the lagoon
If you do one type of excursion, make it a water one. The lagoon swims and snorkel trips around the Society Islands are the heart of why people come, and meeting rays and reef sharks in shallow, clear water is the memory most guests talk about afterward. The ship's own stern marina means you can also swim straight off the back on anchor days, so you don't have to book every water moment as a formal excursion. Build at least one good lagoon outing into your plans.
Understand the islands
Beyond the water, the cultural and land excursions are what give the trip depth. A guided tour on an island like Huahine or Moorea adds context you simply can't get from the deck, whether that's the history, the food, or the way people live across these scattered islands. I usually suggest pairing one water-focused day with one land or culture day, so you come home with both the lagoon memories and a real sense of place. Don't overlook the quieter, smaller islands; they're often the most memorable.
Don't overbook your days
The mistake I see most is signing up for an excursion at every single stop. French Polynesia rewards a slower pace, and some of my best mornings aboard were spent doing very little beyond the lagoon and a long lunch. Leave room to enjoy the ship and the simple act of being there. Excursion offerings, capacities, and prices change by season and sometimes sell out, so confirm current options and book the ones you really want early.
Frequently asked questions
What's the single best type of excursion?
A water one. Lagoon swims and snorkeling in the Society Islands, including the ray and reef shark encounters, are the highlight for most guests I talk to.
How many excursions should I book?
Fewer than you'd think. I suggest pairing one water day with one culture or land day and leaving time to simply enjoy the ship rather than booking every stop.
Do shore excursions sell out?
They can. Capacities and offerings vary by season and popular trips fill up, so confirm the current options and book the ones you care about early.
Planning a Paul Gauguin voyage? Tell us your dates and what you're dreaming of and we'll map it out for you.