A Tahiti and Society Islands cruise is often the best starting point for travellers considering Paul Gauguin Cruises for the first time. This route focuses on the French Polynesia most travellers are looking for: Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine, Raiatea and Taha’a, depending on the sailing.
This itinerary style works because it combines several islands without requiring separate inter-island flights, ferries, hotel changes and repeated packing. For many travellers, it is the simplest way to see more of French Polynesia in one trip.
Who This Itinerary Suits
A Tahiti and Society Islands cruise is a strong fit for:
- First-time French Polynesia travellers
- Honeymooners
- Anniversary trips
- Travellers who want Bora Bora and Moorea
- Guests with a shorter vacation window
- Cruise-plus-resort combinations
- Travellers who want several islands without complex logistics
It may not be the right choice for travellers who have already visited the Society Islands several times or who want a more remote route into the Marquesas, Tuamotus, Cook Islands, Fiji or Tonga.
What the Route Usually Offers
Exact ports and timing change by sailing, but Society Islands itineraries may include:
- Tahiti, usually through Papeete
- Bora Bora
- Moorea
- Huahine
- Raiatea
- Taha’a
- Motu Mahana on applicable voyages
This gives travellers a good mix of lagoon scenery, mountain views, cultural stops, beach time and easy island variety.
Bora Bora is often the island travellers ask about first. Moorea is also important because it combines scenery, accessibility and a strong resort add-on option. Taha’a is significant because of Motu Mahana on select sailings.
Cruise vs Land Stay
This is one of the key decisions for a Society Islands trip.
A cruise is usually better if you want:
- Several islands in one trip
- Fewer transfers
- One unpacking point
- Included onboard meals and services
- A balance of islands and ship comfort
- Easier logistics
A land stay may be better if you want:
- Several nights in one resort
- An overwater bungalow focus
- A slower pace
- More privacy
- A trip centred mainly on Bora Bora or Moorea
Many travellers do best with both: a Paul Gauguin cruise plus a few nights before or after in Moorea, Bora Bora or Tahiti.
Stateroom Advice for This Route
A balcony can be appealing on a Society Islands cruise because the scenery is such a major part of the experience. Still, not every traveller needs one.
A window or porthole stateroom may make sense if you want to manage the total trip cost or add hotel nights. A balcony, veranda or suite may be worthwhile for honeymoons, anniversaries or guests who expect to spend quiet time in the stateroom.
Cabin location should also be checked using the deck plan, especially for motion-sensitive travellers.
Related pages:
- /ship/cabins-suites/
- /ship/deck-plans/
- /ship/best-cabins/
Planning Tips
Before requesting a quote, decide:
- Is Bora Bora a must?
- Do you want Moorea before or after the cruise?
- Is Motu Mahana important?
- Would you prefer a shorter or longer itinerary?
- Do you want a balcony?
- Are you flexible on dates?
- Which city are you flying from?
- Do you want a land extension?
These answers help us compare the best sailings.
Is a Tahiti and Society Islands cruise good for first-timers?
Yes. It is often the best first Paul Gauguin itinerary because it focuses on the classic French Polynesia islands.
Does this itinerary include Bora Bora?
Many Society Islands sailings include Bora Bora, but the exact itinerary should be confirmed before booking.
Should I add a Bora Bora resort stay?
Possibly. If an overwater bungalow is a major part of your dream trip, adding a resort stay before or after the cruise may be worthwhile.
Is this itinerary good for honeymoons?
Yes. It works well for many honeymooners, especially when paired with the right stateroom and optional resort stay.
For official destination information, see Tahiti Tourisme.