Paul Gauguin destinations include some of the best-known islands in French Polynesia and selected wider South Pacific routes. Depending on the sailing, itineraries may include the Society Islands, Tuamotus, Marquesas, Cook Islands, Fiji, Tonga or other regional ports.
This destination guide helps you understand the major island groups before choosing an itinerary. The route matters because each destination has a different purpose in the trip.
Society Islands
The Society Islands are the core of many Paul Gauguin Cruises itineraries.
They may include:
- Bora Bora
- Moorea
- Huahine
- Raiatea
- Taha’a
- Tahiti
This region is often the best starting point for first-time travellers. It offers the French Polynesia experience most people are looking for: lagoons, mountain scenery, beach time, cultural stops and easier cruise routing.
Related pages:
- /destinations/bora-bora/
- /destinations/moorea/
- /destinations/tahaa/
- /itineraries/tahiti-society-islands/
Tuamotus
The Tuamotus are coral atolls rather than high islands. They are often more appealing to travellers interested in marine life, reefs, lagoons and a more remote feel.
Paul Gauguin itineraries may include Tuamotu destinations such as Rangiroa or Fakarava, depending on the sailing.
These islands can be a good fit for snorkellers, divers and travellers who want more than the classic Society Islands route.
Related pages:
- /destinations/rangiroa/
- /destinations/fakarava/
- /itineraries/society-islands-tuamotus/
Marquesas Islands
The Marquesas are remote, rugged and culturally distinct. They are not a substitute for Bora Bora; they are a different kind of French Polynesia experience.
Travellers choose the Marquesas for culture, dramatic scenery, history and remoteness. These routes are usually better for travellers who want a longer and deeper itinerary.
Related pages:
- /destinations/marquesas-islands/
- /itineraries/marquesas-tuamotus-society-islands/
Cook Islands, Fiji and Tonga
Some Paul Gauguin itineraries extend beyond French Polynesia to the Cook Islands, Fiji, Tonga or other South Pacific regions.
These sailings suit travellers who want a broader regional experience rather than a Tahiti-only itinerary. They can be especially appealing to repeat visitors or travellers with more time.
Related pages:
- /destinations/cook-islands/
- /destinations/fiji/
- /destinations/tonga/
- /itineraries/cook-islands-society-islands/
- /itineraries/fiji-tonga-south-pacific/
How to Choose by Destination
Choose Society Islands if this is your first French Polynesia trip.
Choose Tuamotus if marine life, snorkelling or atolls matter.
Choose Marquesas if you want culture, remoteness and a longer route.
Choose Cook Islands, Fiji or Tonga if you want a wider South Pacific voyage.
If you are unsure, start with the itinerary page and then compare destinations.
What are the most popular Paul Gauguin destinations?
Bora Bora, Moorea, Taha’a, Huahine, Raiatea and Tahiti are among the most familiar Society Islands destinations.
Are the Tuamotus good for snorkelling?
They are often attractive to snorkellers and divers because of reef and atoll environments, but exact experiences vary by sailing.
Are the Marquesas good for first-time travellers?
They can be, but they are usually better for travellers who want a longer, more remote and culture-focused itinerary.
Do Paul Gauguin Cruises go outside French Polynesia?
Some itineraries may include the Cook Islands, Fiji, Tonga or other South Pacific regions depending on the schedule.
For official destination information, see Tahiti Tourisme.