Paradise by Sea: Tahiti, Society Islands, Cook Islands, Tonga & Fiji

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Overview

Paradise by Sea: Tahiti, Society Islands, Cook Islands, Tonga & Fiji
Papeete 98714, French Polynesia
Jan 4 - 19, 2025
Alt-Esc Travel Clan image
Alt-Esc Travel Clan
$100

About your trip

There aren’t too many places in the world more beautiful than those you’ll visit on a South Pacific island cruise. Soak up the white sands, the pristine beaches, and the tropical paradises that only South Pacific cruises can deliver. Make memories that will last forever as you scuba dive in pristine waters, take in the local culture, and relax at any of our South Pacific cruise destinations.

See iconic and awe-inspiring landscapes like Bora Bora’s verdant Mount Otemanu, jutting 2,400 feet above turquoise waters, and discover an extraordinary undersea world of whales and dolphins, manta rays and sea turtles, sharks and vast schools of colorful fish.

The Gauguin, designed specifically to glide in luxury through the shallow seas of the South Pacificis a small-ship cruiser’s dream - only 330 passengers on board. Crew-to-Guest Ratio: 1:1.5, one of the highest of any luxury cruise ship. 

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 (nearly 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. 

Society Islands, Cook Islands, Tonga & Fiji Tahiti, Society Islands - Lautoka, Viti Levu Island

Discover the South Pacific’s most storied, beautiful, and culturally vibrant islands, towns, and cities over the course of 14* unhurried nights. No matter what kind of experience you seek, from soaking in the sun on the Society Islands’ white-sand beaches to immersing yourself in the unique cultures of Fiji and Tonga, when you follow in the wake of the world’s most famous explorers in the South Pacific, there are treasures to discover at every port.

Highlights

  • Two separate Fijian ports showcase an intriguing juxtaposition: the sophisticated capital city of Suva and the unspoiled beauty of Savusavu, called the “Hidden Paradise of Fiji.”
  • You’ll want to pack your snorkeling gear for your visit to tiny Beqa Island. It’s surrounded by one of the largest barrier reefs in the world, where at high tide, you’ll see an abundance of tropical fish and beautiful coral blooms.
  • Live the life idyllic with a memorable day on Motu Mahana, our own private slice of paradise. On this exclusive islet, treat yourself to sand between your toes, the shade of swaying palm trees, a sumptuous barbeque lunch, and, of course, drinks sipped from coconuts.

*A traveler crossing the International Date Line eastbound subtracts one day, or 24 hours, so that the calendar date to the west of the line is repeated after the following midnight. Crossing the International Date Line westbound results in 24 hours being added, advancing the calendar date by one day.

Paul Gauguin Terms & Conditions

  ○  25% deposit required within 72 hours of booking to confirm a reservation
  ○ Within 15 days of deposit: no fee *
  ○ 181+ days prior to departure date: $250 admin fee, per person (transferrable to a future booking within 12 months)
  ○ 180 to 91 days prior to departure date: 25% of full fare, per person
  ○ 90 days to departure date: 100% penalty

There is no grace period after 90 days. Bookings not paid in full at 90 days (or 30 days with prior policy) are subject to cancellation.

Final payment must be received 90 days prior to voyage departure date.

Cancellation terms apply to the cruise fare only. Airfare and pre/post hotel stays are subject to fees depending on the cancellation date. Airline tickets are issued 75 days prior to sailing. A cancellation penalty will apply to all airline tickets cancelled after issuance. Covid-19 Protection: book your cruise with confidence knowing that if you should be impacted by Covid-19 within 30 days of your cruise departure, you can reschedule your cruise or receive a 100% Future Cruise Credit (FCC) without penalty. (Proof of positive Covid-19 test required.).

* Does not apply to bookings made within 90 days of sail date or that require full payment (whichever comes first).

The Gauguin Features

Just some of the features of this amazing ship:

  •  A choice of three dining venues
  • Complimentary 24-hour room service, including selections from L’Etoile restaurant during regular dining hours
  • Complimentary beverages, including select wines and spirits, beer, soft drinks, bottled water, and hot beverages
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship
  • Onboard gratuities for room stewards, dining and bar staff
  • Full entertainment program including Polynesian artists, musical entertainment, and a pianist
  • Spa and beauty services, including hand and foot treatments, body treatments, facials, and spa programs
  • Optional PADI SCUBA diving program and certification
  • Watersports marina for complimentary kayaking and paddleboarding, and Zodiacs® for optional dive excursions 
  • A day at Motu Mahana, Paul Gauguin Cruises’ exclusive retreat off the coast of Taha’a, featuring Polynesian hospitality, snorkeling, watersports, bar service, and a delicious feast
  • Access to the exclusive, private beach located on a motu off the coast of Bora Bora, which offers an idyllic white-sand beach, excellent snorkeling, and bar service on French Polynesia itineraries
  • Fully-equipped fitness center
  • Presentations by local naturalists and a variety of special guests
  • Spacious outdoor decks and pool
  • La Boutique duty-free shop
  • Book Library (open 24 hours a day)
  • Laundry services available
  • Certified medical services

Pricing and Payments

This 15 day cruise has NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT and an Early Booking discount!

Single Cabins begin at $7,500 

Shared Cabins begin at $6,950

Once you register, Alt Esc will help you determine the cabin category and cabins available in that category. Once you choose a cabin, then a 25% deposit will be made to Paul Gauguin Cruises (within 3 days) to hold that cabin for you. The deposit will be charged to the credit card you provided during registration.

Final Payment is due Oct 6, 2024.

Alt Esc will confirm your credit card information prior to the final payment due date. Alt Esc will then work with the cruise line to process those payments. ALL payments must be made by Alt Esc, using your credit card, to Paul Gauguin Cruises.

If you would like to make payments prior to Oct 6, 2024, please contact Tricia to ensure the payment is processed properly to your account.

What's included

All Meals on Board

In your choice of venues.

Beverages

Complimentary beverages, including select wines and spirits, beers, soft drinks, bottled water, and hot beverages served throughout the ship

Room Service

Complimentary 24 Hours a day .

WiFi

Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship

Gratuities

Onboard gratuities for room stewards, dining and bar staff

Mini Bar in Cabin

In-room refrigerator replenished daily with soft drinks, beer, and bottled water

Entertainment

All shipboard entertainment, including our troupe of Polynesian performers and live music in the evenings

Presentations

Presentations by onboard experts, and select sailings feature guest hosts

Water Sports

Watersports, including complimentary kayaking and paddleboarding from our marina or destination beaches

Snorkel Gear

Complimentary snorkel gear for use throughout the cruise

Private Beach

Use of our secluded, white-sand beach in Bora Bora where you can enjoy volleyball and snorkeling (on select voyages)

Private Motu

A day on our private islet, Motu Mahana, off the coast of Taha’a, featuring snorkeling, watersports, a barbecue, full bar service, and Polynesian hospitality (on select voyages)

What's not included

International Air

Ship/Shore Transfers

Personal Expenses

Drinks, souvenirs, free-time activities, additional activities not noted,etc.

Fri, Jan 3, 2025

Fri, Jan 3, 2025 image

Arrive in Papeete, Tahiti

A gorgeous collection of volcanic islands strewn across the blue Pacific, Polynesia paints a stunning picture. And, as the capital city on the largest of all 118 islands, Papeete offers endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Dynamic dining, nightlife, and shopping can be found around every corner, and Papeete serves as a departure and arrival port for most cruises in the South Pacific. 

Come early to explore and adjust to the tropical island lifestyle!

Alt Esc can assist you in booking a hotel in Papeete.

Sat, Jan 4, 2025

Sat, Jan 4, 2025 image

Tahiti, Society Islands

The largest of French Polynesia's 118 islands, Tahiti and it's capital city of Papeete are the perfect place to begin (and/or end) your South Pacific sojourn. The Gauguin waits patiently in the harbor, a vibrant and bustling market across the street and in the evenings roulottes (food trucks) line the nearby square offering tasty local fare.

While in port this morning, take some time to freshen up and settle into your cabin as we prepare to depart. Alternatively, choose to walk around downtown Papeete and visit the central market where vendors sell fresh fruit, pareos, artwork, and coveted black pearls. Join for a sail-a-way beverage and be on deck as we set sail from Tahiti. This afternoon meet the expedition team and your fellow travelers and settle into island time.

Embarkation 1/4/2025 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Departure 1/4/2025 at 9:00 PM 

Sun, Jan 5, 2025

Sun, Jan 5, 2025 image

Moorea, Society Islands

Step into a vibrant, colorful world in bright and beautiful Moorea, which welcomes you with azure lagoons, impossibly fresh tropical fruits, stunning mountain peaks and palm-fringed beaches. Commune with nature on an optional dolphin-watching excursion with an expert marine biologist. Afterwards, spend some time getting to know the local residents while shopping for handmade crafts.

Arrival 1/5/2025 at 7:00 AM

Departure 1/5/2025 at 5:00 PM

Mon, Jan 6, 2025

Mon, Jan 6, 2025 image

Taha'a, Society Islands (Motu Mahana)

As the day unfolds in front of you, 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.

Arrival 1/6/2025 at 8:00 AM

Departure 1/6/2025 at 6:00 PM 

Tue-Wed, Jan 7 & 8, 2025

Tue-Wed, Jan 7 & 8, 2025 image

Bora Bora, Society Islands

Explore lush peaks, wander white-sand beaches, and marvel at the iconic views of Mount Otemanu. Take the plunge with a SCUBA excursion to see the island’s colorful coral reefs, enjoy a sunset jetboat ride, or spend a lazy afternoon on our private beach. 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.

 Arrival 1/7/2025 at 12:01 AM

Departure 1/8/2025 at 6:00 PM 

Thurs, Jan 9, 2025

Thurs, Jan 9, 2025 image

Day 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. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you’ll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you’ll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Algotherm Spa… or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

 Arrival 1/9/2025
Departure 1/9/2025

Fri, Jan 10, 2025

Fri, Jan 10, 2025 image

Aitutaki, Cook Islands

A wealth of cultural tradition, Aitutaki's inhabitants keep their history alive through song, dance, legends and crafts. If you're looking to spend time on land, consider taking the easy hike to the highest peak on the island, Maunga Pu, where you'll be rewarded with 360-degree views. But if you're interested in an excursion, a trip out to One Foot Island in Aitutaki's stunning blue lagoon will take your breath away.

Arrival 1/10/2025 at 8:00 AM
Departure 1/10/2025 at 5:00 PM

Sat, Jan 11, 2025

Sat, Jan 11, 2025 image

Day at Sea - Fun in the Sun

Sleep in. Have breakfast in bed. Sit by the pool. Read a book. Take in a lecture. Play shuffleboard or a board game.  

Fun in the Sun

You’ll also have plenty of time to enjoy the South Pacific sunshine on our pool deck. Take a refreshing dip in the water or perhaps grab the drink of the day from the Pool Bar, a good book, and a deck chair, and settle in for a leisurely afternoon.

Relax on your balcony or one of many idyllic locations on the ship. The possibilities are endless to make this day your own!

Sun, Jan 12, 2025

Sun, Jan 12, 2025 image

Crossing the 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. 

Arrival 1/12/2025

Departure 1/12/2025

Mon, Jan 13, 2025

Mon, Jan 13, 2025 image

Day at Sea - Algotherm Spa

Leisurely days at sea offer the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to a little “me time,” whether that’s an indulgent treatment at our award-winning onboard spa, or a workout in our fitness center.

Algotherm Spa

With its unrivaled approach to beauty and rejuvenation, the spa onboard The Gauguin combines the art of gentle pampering with services that are uniquely tailored to the needs and wishes of each individual.

Our spa offers an extensive range of services, enveloped in an atmosphere that is both tranquil and luxurious. Shipboard treatments include skin care therapies, skin exfoliation, massage, reflexology, body wraps, facials, beauty treatments, nail services, and hair styling. We are also happy to offer relaxing overwater massages during the day you’ll spend on Motu Mahana, our private South Pacific paradise.

Tues, Jan 14, 2025

Tues, Jan 14, 2025 image

Vava’u, Tonga

Enjoy a Polynesian cultural show, sample traditional Tongan food, 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.

Arrival 1/14/2025 at 8:00 AM

Departure 1/14/2025 at 5:00 PM 

Wed, Jan 15, 2025

Wed, Jan 15, 2025 image

Day at Sea - Fitness Center

Fitness Center 

Our convenient fitness center is outfitted with the latest fitness equipment, including Lifecycles, treadmills, stair climbers, and weight machines. Other onboard fitness opportunities include a morning mile-long walk around decks 8 and 9 and a sunrise Polynesian-inspired Zumba class, both hosted by Les Gauguines.

Thurs, Jan 16, 2025

Thurs, Jan 16, 2025 image

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, or spot colorful native birds in the pristine Waisale Reserve.

 Arrival 1/16/2025 at 8:00 AM

Departure 1/16/2025 at 5:00 PM

Fri, Jan 17, 2025

Fri, Jan 17, 2025 image

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 ambiance, 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.

Arrival 1/17/2025 at 8:00 AM
Departure 1/17/2025 at 6:00 PM

Sat, Jan 18, 2025

Sat, Jan 18, 2025 image

Beqa Island, Fiji

While it may only be six square miles, Beqa Island packs every inch with natural beauty. Spend your day snorkeling among the coral blooms, strolling golden-sand beaches, or discovering a hidden waterfall.

Arrival 1/18/2025 at 12:01 AM
Departure 1/18/2025 at 6:00 PM

Sun, Jan 19, 2025

Sun, Jan 19, 2025 image

Lautoka, Viti Levu Island

Sadly we must disembark The Gauguin today. 

Once you arrive in Lautoka (known as “Sugar City” for the green-gold sugarcane that surrounds the city), there’s much to explore. Stroll its palm-lined streets, experience everyday life in a traditional village, or hike in Koroyanitu National Heritage Park.

 Just a short drive inland from Lautoka is one of Viti Levu’s best culture and nature experiences. Take a tour or drive independently to the Koroyanitu National Heritage Park, home to Abaca Village where the friendly villagers can organise a map or a guide to take you to a stunning waterfall or one of the more demanding mountain hikes.

Arrival 1/19/2025 at 6:00 AM

Disembarkation 1/19/2025 at 6:00 AM

Location

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1. Papeete 98714, French Polynesia

Papeete 98714, French Polynesia

About your organizer

Book your next getaway with Alt Escape, a boutique international adventure travel company that specializes in ultra-personalized itineraries. We focus on our guests experiencing the land, the people, and the culture in the most immersive, energizing, and inspiring way possible. With decades of experience, it is a pleasure to get to know you – my guest – and help generate ideas for your ideal trip and research the unknown gems that will create the most extraordinary trip imaginable for you.

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