The first morning I woke up aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin, I was in the water before breakfast. The retractable marina off the stern was open, a kayak was waiting, and the lagoon was so clear I could count the fish from the deck. People often picture a South Pacific cruise as lounging only, and there is plenty of that. But this ship is built for people who like to move, and over the years I've come to think of it as the most active small cruise I know in French Polynesia.
Straight off the marina
What sets this ship apart for active travellers is the marina platform that folds down from the stern. When the ship anchors in a calm lagoon, you can step almost directly into a kayak, a paddleboard, or onto water skis without a tender ride. I've spent whole afternoons paddling between the ship and a nearby motu, then swimming back. With roughly 330 guests aboard, there's rarely a queue for the gear, which is the part I appreciate most.
Diving and snorkelling in the Tuamotus
If you only snorkel in one place in your life, make it the Tuamotu atolls. The water clarity there is unlike anywhere else I've swum, and the reef life along the passes is genuinely busy with sharks, rays, and schooling fish. The ship works with certified dive operators for guests who want to go deeper, and snorkelling gear is available throughout the sailing. Even as a confident swimmer I always take the briefing seriously, because the currents through the atoll passes deserve respect.
Land adventures ashore
Not every adventure happens in the water. On the high islands like Moorea and Tahiti I've done 4x4 runs up into the interior valleys, hiked to waterfalls, and cycled flat coastal roads at my own pace. Shore excursions and their pricing change from season to season, so I'd confirm the current line-up when you book rather than assume what I did last year still runs. If you like to build your own day, many ports are easy to explore independently once you're ashore.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be an experienced diver?
No. Snorkelling suits any swimmer, and the dive operators run sessions for a range of certifications. If you're new to diving, say so early so they can match you to the right outing.
Is the watersports gear included?
Use of the stern marina equipment like kayaks and paddleboards is generally part of the onboard experience, while organised shore excursions are usually separate. Confirm exactly what's included when you book, as it can vary.
How fit do I need to be?
You can be as active or as relaxed as you like. Plenty of guests mix gentle snorkelling with a single bigger adventure day. The interior 4x4 and hiking trips ask for a bit more, so pick those to match your comfort.
Planning a Paul Gauguin voyage? Tell us your dates and what you're dreaming of and we'll map it out for you.