When people come back from a Paul Gauguin sailing, they rarely lead with the cabin or the food — they tell me about Les Gauguines. They're the Tahitian women (and the Gauguins, their male counterparts) who sail with the ship, and they're the reason it feels Polynesian rather than like a cruise that happens to be in Polynesia.
Who they are
Les Gauguines are local hosts from French Polynesia who travel with the ship. They aren't a nightly cabaret act; they're part of daily life aboard — teaching a few words of Tahitian, showing how to tie a pareo, leading a ukulele song, or dancing on the motu in the afternoon. Because they're from the islands, what they share is the real thing.
What they add to the day
On the Motu Mahana beach day they bring music to the sand; on sea days they run informal cultural sessions; in the evenings there's song and dance that feels warm rather than staged. It's the connective tissue that ties the islands you visit to the time you spend on board.
Why it matters when choosing a ship
This is the kind of thing that doesn't show up in a deck plan but defines the trip. If you want a French Polynesia voyage that actually feels of the place, the presence of Les Gauguines is a genuine reason the Paul Gauguin stands apart from larger ships passing through.
Frequently asked questions
Who are Les Gauguines?
They are Tahitian cultural hosts who sail aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin, sharing Polynesian music, dance, language and traditions throughout the voyage.
Do you need to pay extra for their activities?
No — the cultural activities Les Gauguines lead are part of the onboard experience rather than a paid add-on.
Are the performances formal evening shows?
Some evenings include song and dance, but much of what Les Gauguines do is informal and woven through the day, from beach gatherings to casual lessons.
Planning a Paul Gauguin voyage? Tell us your dates and what you're dreaming of and we'll map it out for you.