I've sailed the m/s Paul Gauguin through French Polynesia more than once, and the question I get most is simply which islands are worth the trip. My honest answer is that almost all of them are, but for different reasons. Bora Bora sells the postcard, while smaller stops like Taha'a and Huahine are the ones clients tell me they remember years later. With about 330 guests aboard, the ship tenders into lagoons that the big liners can't reach. Here's how I'd rank what to prioritise.
Start with the Society Islands
Bora Bora and Moorea are the headliners, and they earn it — the lagoons are calm and the snorkelling is right off the ship's marina. But I tell people not to skip Taha'a, where the line's private island Motu Mahana sits just offshore for a beach-and-barbecue day, or Huahine, which feels far quieter than its famous neighbours. These islands are the reason most people book this region in the first place.
Go further when the itinerary allows
The Tuamotus, especially Rangiroa and Fakarava, are some of the best drift snorkelling and diving I've done anywhere, with clear passes full of fish. The Marquesas are wilder and greener, a longer sail but worth it for the dramatic coastline. Every other year or so the ship also runs to Fiji and Tonga, which adds a different culture to the same trip — confirm the schedule when you book, since those sailings don't happen annually.
Match the island to the traveller
If a client wants to lie on a beach and do little else, the Society Islands deliver. If they're after diving or a sense of distance from the crowd, I steer them toward the Tuamotus or a Marquesas-heavy route. Couples celebrating something tend to love Bora Bora; repeat travellers often ask me for the small motus instead. There's no single best island, only the one that fits what you actually want from the week.
Frequently asked questions
Which island is the best stop on a South Pacific cruise?
There's no single winner. Bora Bora is the most photogenic, Taha'a and Huahine are the quietest, and the Tuamotus are best for divers. I match the island to what each traveller wants rather than naming one favourite.
Does the Paul Gauguin visit Fiji and Tonga?
Yes, but not every year — those sailings run roughly every other year. If Fiji or Tonga is a priority, tell me early so we can target a year the itinerary includes them, and confirm the current schedule before booking.
How many islands does a typical cruise visit?
It varies by itinerary, but a week-long sailing usually calls at several Society Islands plus a private-island day, with longer routes adding the Tuamotus or Marquesas. The exact stops change by season, so check the specific departure.
Planning a Paul Gauguin voyage? Tell us your dates and what you're dreaming of and we'll map it out for you.