To plan a Paul Gauguin cruise well, start with the full trip, not just the sailing date. The cruise, stateroom, flights, hotels, insurance and possible land extensions all need to work together.
We are Paul Gauguin Cruises specialists and booking experts. We help travellers compare current sailing options, staterooms, itineraries, pre- and post-cruise stays, and quote details before deposit.
Step 1: Choose the Right Itinerary
The itinerary is the foundation of the trip.
Start by deciding what kind of South Pacific experience you want:
- Classic French Polynesia with Bora Bora and Moorea
- More reef and marine life in the Tuamotus
- Culture and remoteness in the Marquesas
- A wider route including the Cook Islands
- A longer South Pacific sailing with Fiji or Tonga
- A holiday or festive season voyage
Once the itinerary is clear, the stateroom decision becomes easier.
Related page: /itineraries/
Step 2: Choose the Right Stateroom
Stateroom choice should consider more than category.
Think about:
- Balcony vs window or porthole
- Suite value
- Deck location
- Forward, midship or aft position
- Motion sensitivity
- Length of sailing
- Special occasion needs
- Total trip budget
A less expensive stateroom may be the right choice if it allows you to add hotel nights or choose a better sailing. An upgrade may be worth it if you will use the extra space and privacy.
Related page: /ship/cabins-suites/
Step 3: Plan Flights and Hotels
Most travellers should think carefully about arrival timing.
Arriving in Tahiti too close to embarkation can be risky, depending on flights and connections. A pre-cruise hotel night may reduce stress. Some travellers also add Moorea, Bora Bora or another island after the cruise.
Flight and hotel planning can affect the success of the trip as much as the cruise itself.
Related pages:
- /planning/flights-to-tahiti/
- /planning/pre-cruise-hotels-papeete/
Step 4: Understand Inclusions and Extras
Paul Gauguin Cruises include many onboard elements, but travellers should still confirm current details.
Before booking, understand:
- What is included
- What may cost extra
- Shore excursion options
- Dining and beverage details
- Wi-Fi
- Watersports
- Gratuities
- Transfers and hotels
- Insurance needs
Related page: /planning/whats-included/
Step 5: Request a Quote
A useful quote request should include:
- Preferred travel dates
- Departure city
- Number of travellers
- Itinerary interests
- Stateroom preference
- Budget comfort range
- Whether Bora Bora is a must
- Whether you want a pre/post hotel stay
- Any mobility, dietary or medical considerations
- Country of residence for applicable rate checks
The better the request, the better the recommendation.
When should I start planning a Paul Gauguin cruise?
Plan early if you want specific dates, balcony staterooms, suites, holiday sailings or pre/post resort stays.
Should I choose the itinerary or stateroom first?
Choose the itinerary first, then compare staterooms.
Do I need a pre-cruise hotel night?
Many travellers should consider one, especially when flying long distances to Tahiti.
Can you help with flights and hotels?
Yes. We can help compare the cruise with flights, hotels and land extensions as part of the full trip.
For official destination information, see Tahiti Tourisme.