I still think about the poisson cru I ate at La Veranda on my last Paul Gauguin sailing, raw tuna in lime and coconut milk, eaten with the lagoon sliding past the window. Dining here leans into French Polynesia rather than serving the same menu you'd get on any ocean. Across the ship's restaurants you'll find Tahitian dishes sitting next to French cooking, built around fish that was in the water that morning. Here's what I'd seek out and where to find it.
Dishes worth seeking out
Start with poisson cru, the Tahitian classic of raw fish marinated in lime and coconut milk: light, fresh and hard to stop eating. Look out too for mahi mahi, often given a local turn with Tahitian vanilla, and for fresh tropical fruit at breakfast. The kitchen leans on local fish and produce wherever it can, so what's best changes with the islands you're visiting.
Where you eat on board
For a ship of around 330 guests there's real choice. L'Etoile is the main French-leaning restaurant, La Veranda does a relaxed mix of Polynesian and local seafood, and Le Grill on the pool deck is the easy open-air option for lunch and casual dinners. None demand formal booking gymnastics, though it's worth reserving the busier evenings through your attendant.
Tahitian flavours and drinks
Tahitian vanilla turns up in sauces and desserts and is worth trying at its source. Fresh juices and tropical fruit are everywhere, and the bars pour a decent rum cocktail. I won't quote what's included on drinks because packages shift, but a good range of beverages typically comes with the fare; confirm the current details when you book.
Frequently asked questions
Can the kitchen handle dietary restrictions?
Yes, in my experience they manage allergies, vegetarian and gluten-free requests well, especially with notice. Flag anything important when you book and remind your attendant on day one.
Are drinks included?
A range of beverages is generally included in the fare, though exactly what's covered can change. Check the current inclusions when you book rather than assuming.
Is there a Polynesian beach meal?
Yes. On the private motu off Taha'a the crew lay on a barbecue lunch on the beach, which is one of the food highlights of the week.
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