I'll be honest: the in-water days are my favourite part of a Paul Gauguin sailing, and they're the ones clients underestimate. You don't have to be a diver to get the best of these lagoons — but if you are, a couple of these stops are world-famous for a reason.
Easy snorkelling for everyone
The Motu Mahana beach day off Taha'a and the coral gardens nearby are calm, shallow and ideal for first-timers — warm water, good visibility, plenty of fish without swimming far. Bring your own mask for fit if you can; it's the one piece of gear that makes or breaks the day.
Where the divers go
Fakarava and Rangiroa in the Tuamotus are the headliners. Fakarava's south pass is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its wall of sharks and drift dives; Rangiroa's Tiputa Pass brings dolphins and big pelagics. These are bucket-list sites, and they're the reason I nudge keen divers toward the longer itineraries.
Planning your water days
Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a rash guard for sun cover, and water shoes. If diving matters to you, tell me before we book — not every itinerary reaches the Tuamotus, and that's the deciding factor for serious divers.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be a certified diver?
No. There's excellent snorkelling on calm, shallow reefs that anyone can enjoy. Certified divers get the most from the Tuamotu stops, but those are optional.
Which stops have the best diving?
Fakarava and Rangiroa in the Tuamotus are the standout dive destinations, with famous passes for sharks, dolphins and drift diving. They appear on longer itineraries.
Is snorkelling gear provided?
Gear is generally available, but many travellers prefer to bring their own mask for a reliable fit. Confirm current equipment and excursion details for your sailing.
Planning a Paul Gauguin voyage? Tell us your dates and what you're dreaming of and we'll map it out for you.