Day 1 – Embark the m/s Paul Gauguin in Lautoka, Viti Levu, Fiji
Known as “Sugar City” for the green-gold sugarcane that surrounds the city on three sides, Lautoka is the place where your South Pacific sojourn begins. Arrive early and enjoy ample time for strolling its palm tree-lined streets, experiencing everyday life in a traditional village, or hiking in Koroyanitu National Heritage Park, before boarding The Gauguin
Day 2 – Suva, Viti Levu, Fiji
Suva is the largest urban area in the South Pacific, outside of Australia and New Zealand. It’s been the capital of Fiji since 1883 and offers a unique mix of modern and colonial ambience, making it a great place for history and architecture buffs to explore on foot. More interested in the views? Suva is perched on a hilly peninsula between two postcard-perfect harbors.
Day 3 – Savusavu, Vanua Levu, Fiji
Tucked away on the largely undeveloped northern Fijian island of Vanua Levu, Savusavu lets you experience the South Seas of centuries gone by, before the area was colonized by Europeans. Visit a black pearl farm, immerse yourself in a Fijian village cultural show, or spot colorful native birds in the pristine Waisale Reserve.
Day 4 – At Sea
A day at sea is the perfect time to revel in the delicious on board cuisine, relax by the pool, or learn something new. Brush up on the history of the places you’ll visit, chat up one of our interesting guest hosts, or learn about Polynesian culture from Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines.
Day 5 – Vava’u, Tonga
Enjoy a Polynesian cultural show, sample traditional Tongan food, shop for souvenirs, or climb to the top of Mt. Talau, the highest point on Vava’u. You’ll be rewarded with unparalleled views of the surrounding islands. And, while the activities on land are sure to impress, you won’t want to miss the underwater show, either. The island’s crystal-clear lagoon is home to more than 100 species of tropical fish, plus dolphins, rays, and more.
Day 6 & 7 – At Sea / Cross International Date Line
Indulge in two tranquil days at sea. It may be worth setting down that tropical cocktail, putting a bookmark in whatever you’re reading, and taking notice for one key reason—you’ll be crossing the International Date Line, something most travelers can’t say they’ve done.
Day 8 – Aitutaki, Cook Islands
It is believed that this island was settled around 900 AD by legendary Polynesian explorer Ru. Today, the island is a wealth of cultural tradition, with inhabitants keeping their history alive through song, dance, legends and crafts. If outdoor pursuits are more your speed, consider taking the easy hike to the highest peak on the island, Maunga Pu, where you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views—or explore Aitutaki’s vast and beautiful lagoons.
Day 9 – At Sea
Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages.
Day 10 – Bora Bora, Society Islands
Like a priceless Paul Gauguin painting come to life, storied Bora Bora is colorful and unforgettable. The landscape alone will have you searching for adequate adjectives, especially once you see the lagoon—“turquoise” just doesn’t do it justice.
Day 11 – Taha’a (Motu Mahana), Society Islands
As the day unfolds in front of you in Taha’a, where will you go? Exciting shore excursions await, but so does Motu Mahana, Paul Gauguin Cruises’ own private islet. Choose from swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or simply lounging on the beach with a cold drink from our floating bar. Les Gauguines are also on hand to share musical entertainment and Polynesian crafts.
Day 12 – Moorea, Society Islands
Said to be the inspiration for James A. Michener’s novel “South Pacific” (and the Rogers & Hammerstein’s musical tribute, too), Moorea is a favorite port of travelers, though it might be hard to put your finger on why. The “Magical Island” hypnotizes with multi-hued lagoons, mountain peaks, quaint villages, and pineapples—yes, pineapples. They’re said to be the most delicious in all of French Polynesia.
Day 13 – Disembark in Papeete, Tahiti, Society Islands
Tahiti’s capital city of Papeete is where we’ll part ways and say “until we meet again.” But your journey doesn’t have to end just yet—Tahiti’s resorts, spas, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife await.
