About Paul Gauguin Cruises
“Distinguished as French Polynesia’s leading destination experts for almost 30 years, Paul Gauguin Cruises delivers an authentic, all‑inclusive escape to the South Pacific. When you sail with Paul Gauguin Cruises, you enjoy the freedom to explore exotic ports without limitation. Step aboard and be charmed as their one-of-a-kind expertise introduces you to the wonders, culture, and beauty of French Polynesia.” — Paul Gauguin Cruises
Some ships visit French Polynesia; the m/s Paul Gauguin was born for it. Purpose-built for the shallow lagoons of the South Pacific with a draft of just over 17 feet, the 330-guest ship has sailed these waters continuously since 1998, celebrating 25 years in the islands in 2023. Now a member of the Ponant Explorations Group, the line calls itself French Polynesia's destination expert, and few would argue: no luxury ship has been sailing the region longer.
Life aboard is warmly Polynesian. Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins, a troupe of Tahitian hosts and entertainers who live aboard year-round, infuse every sailing with music, dance, and storytelling, while a crew-to-guest ratio of one to one-and-a-half, among the highest at sea, keeps service effortless. A retractable watersports marina puts kayaks and paddleboards at your doorstep, and guests are welcomed ashore at Motu Mahana, the line's private islet off Taha'a, and an exclusive beach on a motu off Bora Bora.
Fares are genuinely all-inclusive: all meals across three dining venues, 24-hour room service, select wines and spirits, an in-room refrigerator restocked daily, gratuities, and nightly entertainment. Seven- to 20-night itineraries wander the Society Islands, Tuamotus, Marquesas, Cook Islands, Tonga, and Fiji, ideal for travelers, honeymooners to seasoned explorers, who want the South Pacific done properly.
Save on Paul Gauguin Cruises with Pavlus Travel
Pavlus Travel has been helping travelers save on the world's best cruise lines since 1994. Book Paul Gauguin Cruises through Pavlus and our exclusive discounts stack on top of the line's own current promotions — then our Lowest Price Guarantee keeps it that way. You never pay a service or planning fee, and you work one-on-one with a dedicated advisor who knows Paul Gauguin Cruises inside and out, from first quote to final port.
- Exclusive Pavlus savings on every Paul Gauguin Cruises sailing
- Lowest Price Guarantee — matched or beaten
- Never any service or planning fees
- A dedicated personal travel advisor, not a call center
- 30+ years of negotiated cruise-line relationships
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Call 1-800-528-9300 Browse Sailings & Get a QuoteThe Paul Gauguin Cruises Experience
Built for the lagoons
A shallow 17.1-foot draft lets the ship slip into intimate anchorages beyond the reach of larger vessels, from Bora Bora to the Tuamotus.
Les Gauguines & Les Gauguins
A one-of-a-kind troupe of Tahitian hosts and entertainers lives aboard year-round, sharing Polynesian music, dance, crafts, and genuine island hospitality.
Motu Mahana private islet
An exclusive retreat off Taha'a with Polynesian hospitality, snorkeling, and watersports, plus a private beach on a motu off Bora Bora.
Onboard watersports marina
A retractable marina offers complimentary kayaking and paddleboarding directly from the ship, with Zodiacs supporting optional dive excursions.
Exceptional crew ratio
A crew-to-guest ratio of 1 to 1.5 ranks among the highest at sea, delivering polished, personal service for just 330 guests.
What's Included with Paul Gauguin Cruises
- All shipboard meals across a choice of three dining venues
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Select wines and spirits, beer, soft drinks, bottled water, and hot beverages throughout the ship
- In-room refrigerator replenished daily with soft drinks, beer, and bottled water
- Gratuities for room stewards, dining, and bar staff
- All shipboard entertainment, including the Polynesian performance troupe
- Complimentary kayaking and paddleboarding from the watersports marina
The Paul Gauguin Cruises Fleet (1 ships sailing bookable itineraries)

m/s Paul Gauguin
Designed specifically to glide in luxury through the shallow seas of the South Pacific, The Gauguin is a small-ship cruiser’s dream. She delivers travelers to intimate ports inaccessible to larger cruise ships, all the while providing a travel experience that is nothing short of luxurious. Once on board, guests enjoy newly-decorated spacious suites and staterooms (more than 70% with private balconies), an onboard watersports marina, three dining venues, an extensive spa, and five-star service. Life on The Gauguin also reflects the beauty and rich cultural heritage of the islands she calls upon, with a warm, friendly feel, informal setting, and even a beloved troupe of Les Gauguin and Les Gauguines—local Tahitians who serve as onboard hosts and hostesses, entertainers, and storytellers.
See m/s Paul Gauguin sailings →Where Paul Gauguin Cruises Sails
Good to Know Before You Book
Gratuities & tipping
Cancellation policy
Cancellation By Guest
| Cancellation Period | Fee Per Person |
|---|---|
| Within 15 days of deposit | No fee * |
| 365 days or more prior to departure | $250 administrative fee (can be applied to a future booking within 12 months of cancellation date) |
| 364 to 211 days prior to departure | 10% of full fare (can be applied to a future booking within 12 months of cancellation date) |
| 210 to 91 days prior to departure | 25% of full fare |
| 90 days or less prior to departure | 100% of full fare |
Final payment must be received 90 days prior to voyage departure date. There is no grace period after 90 days. Bookings not paid in full at 90 days are subject to cancellation at 100% penalty.
Smoking on board
Traveling with minors
Pregnancy policy
Moreover, no pregnant woman will be allowed to embark on cruises to Antarctica, of the North-West Passage or on Ocean Voyages.
Policies are provided by Paul Gauguin Cruises and can change; your Pavlus advisor will confirm current terms for your specific sailing before you book.