When people ask what there is to do on a South Pacific cruise, I think they are picturing a deck chair and not much else. The reality on the Paul Gauguin is busier than that, in the good way. Between the marina that opens off the stern, the shore excursions, and the Tahitian culture woven into the ship, my days filled up fast. The trick is knowing which activities are worth your energy. Here is how I would spend the time.
Get in the water
The marina off the stern is the single best feature for active travellers. You can kayak, paddleboard or snorkel straight from the ship into the lagoon, no tender required. In the Tuamotus the snorkeling is the main event, with reef sharks and rays in clear water; in the Society Islands it is gentler and great for beginners. I would build at least part of most days around the water, because that is what these islands do best.
Go ashore with intent
Shore excursions range from 4x4 trips into Moorea's interior to vanilla plantation visits on Taha'a and lagoon tours at Bora Bora. My advice is to pick one real outing per port rather than trying to do everything, then leave time to wander a village or a beach on your own. The private islet day, Motu Mahana off Taha'a, runs itself: swim, eat, listen to music, repeat.
Let the culture come to you
You do not have to seek out Tahitian culture on this ship because Les Gauguines, the Tahitian hosts, bring song, dance and craft onboard throughout the voyage. Sit in on a ukulele lesson or a pareo-tying demonstration; they are more fun than they sound. Pair that with dinner across the three restaurants, L'Etoile, La Veranda and Le Grill, and your evenings are handled without any planning on your part.
Frequently asked questions
Are activities included or extra?
Watersports from the marina are part of the experience, while some shore excursions carry a fee. What is included can change, so confirm the current details when you book.
Is there anything for non-swimmers?
Plenty. Cultural activities onboard, lagoon tours you can do dry, village visits and the dining all stand on their own without getting in the water.
Do I need to plan activities in advance?
Popular excursions can fill up, so it helps to choose your top picks early. Offerings vary by sailing and season, so check what is available for your dates.
Planning a Paul Gauguin voyage? Tell us your dates and what you're dreaming of and we'll map it out for you.