Culture Discovery Cruises
The m/s Paul Gauguin anchored in a turquoise South Pacific lagoon
South Pacific Luxury Line

Paul Gauguin

A single, purpose-built ship devoted entirely to Tahiti and the islands around it.

The line

The specialist of French Polynesia

Paul Gauguin Cruises does one thing, and does it with unusual depth. Its single ship, the 330-guest m/s Paul Gauguin, was built specifically for the South Pacific, with a shallow draft that lets it slip into the lagoons and remote islands the larger ships cannot reach.

The line joined PONANT, the French luxury and expedition group, in 2019, and it sails almost exclusively in Tahiti, French Polynesia, Fiji and the wider South Pacific. Voyages are largely inclusive, with dining, drinks and gratuities built into the fare.

This is destination cruising in its most concentrated form: one ship, one part of the world, and years of experience reading its waters, its culture and its calendar.

Style
Luxury, all-inclusive
Fleet
1 ship
Guests
330
Fares
Largely inclusive
Sails to
French Polynesia and South Pacific
Owner
PONANT
In a word

One ship, one ocean: Paul Gauguin knows French Polynesia the way a specialist knows a single subject.

A spacious owner’s suite aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin

One ship, built for the islands

The m/s Paul Gauguin carries just 330 guests and was designed from the outset for the South Pacific. Its shallow draft lets it anchor close to islands and lagoons that remain out of reach for larger ships, so the scenery is never at a distance.

Accommodations are gracious and unfussy, with most opening to the ocean, and the intimate scale means the crew, many of them Polynesian, know guests by name. It feels less like a cruise ship and more like a private yacht for the region.

The Grand Salon lounge aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin

Largely inclusive, unmistakably Polynesian

The fare is largely inclusive, covering dining across the ship, wines and spirits, gratuities and a strong slate of watersports. Local culture runs through the experience, from Polynesian hosts and entertainers to island-inspired cuisine.

The ship carries a retractable marina at the stern, so guests can step straight into the sea to swim, kayak and paddleboard, with diving and snorkeling among the signatures of a Paul Gauguin voyage.

The sun-lit pool deck of the m/s Paul Gauguin

Tahiti, the Society Islands and beyond

Most voyages sail round-trip from Papeete through the Society Islands, calling at Bora Bora, Moorea, Taha’a and Raiatea, with longer itineraries reaching the Tuamotus, the Marquesas, the Cook Islands and Fiji.

Because the line lives in one region, it has the time and knowledge to go deeper, from overnights off Bora Bora to a private islet day. We help you match the right season and itinerary to the trip you have in mind.

Booking Paul Gauguin with CDV

Why book through us

Exclusive Paul Gauguin value

Group amenities and onboard credit on Paul Gauguin sailings that you will not find booking direct.

Combinable offers

Our exclusive value can usually be layered with Paul Gauguin's current promotions, plus full loyalty credit.

South Pacific specialists

Advisors who know French Polynesia and this ship, and match the right cabin, season and itinerary to you.

Seamless planning

From overwater bungalow stays before or after your voyage to inter-island flights, we make the whole trip effortless.

Frequently asked questions

What is Paul Gauguin Cruises known for?

Paul Gauguin is known as the specialist of French Polynesia. Its single 330-guest ship was purpose-built for the South Pacific, sails Tahiti and the islands around it year-round, and offers a largely inclusive, culturally rich experience with a strong focus on watersports.

How many ships does Paul Gauguin Cruises have?

Paul Gauguin operates a single ship, the m/s Paul Gauguin, which carries 330 guests. Because the line focuses entirely on one region, that one ship sails the South Pacific throughout the year.

Who owns Paul Gauguin Cruises?

Paul Gauguin Cruises has been part of PONANT, the French luxury and expedition group, since 2019. It continues to operate as a dedicated South Pacific brand within the Ponant Explorations Group.

Where does the m/s Paul Gauguin sail?

Most voyages sail round-trip from Papeete, Tahiti, through the Society Islands, including Bora Bora, Moorea, Taha’a and Raiatea. Longer itineraries reach the Tuamotus, the Marquesas, the Cook Islands and Fiji.

What is included on a Paul Gauguin cruise?

Fares are largely inclusive, typically covering dining across the ship, wines and spirits, gratuities and watersports from the ship’s marina. Exact inclusions vary by voyage and category, which is one thing we confirm for you before you book.

Is Paul Gauguin good for diving and watersports?

Yes. The ship carries a retractable marina at the stern for swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding, and French Polynesia is one of the world’s great diving and snorkeling regions. Complimentary and instructor-led options are a hallmark of the line.

What is the dress code on Paul Gauguin?

The atmosphere is relaxed and resort-like, with no formal nights. Evenings call for smart-casual clothing, and days are built around the beach, the water and island excursions. We can tell you what to expect for your specific voyage.

How much does a Paul Gauguin cruise cost?

Fares vary by season, stateroom category and voyage length, and because so much is included the headline number is not directly comparable to a mainstream cruise fare. Rather than quote a misleading range, we price your specific voyage and secure the best available CDV value. Request a complimentary quote and we will lay out the real numbers.

Ready to sail with Paul Gauguin?

Complimentary quote, exclusive CDV value, and a specialist who plans it around you.