For many, the words “French Polynesia” evoke a vision of swaying palms, pristine beaches, and snorkeling amidst coral reefs in crystal-clear waters of every shade of blue. While that image is accurate, this French overseas territory is comprised of five different archipelagos. Each has its own special attributes, including the Society Islands, Tuamotus, and Marquesas. And beyond French Polynesia, there are the alluring Cook Islands, Tonga, and Fiji—all considered part of Polynesia (if not French).
The Gauguin is specifically built to navigate the idyllic atolls and lagoons found throughout all of these South Pacific isles. With a dedicated year-round presence, Paul Gauguin Cruises offers more unique itineraries and more boutique ports of call than any other luxury cruise line. Here are some highlights of the lovely ports of call in this magical part of the world.
ATV Tour in Huahine (photo courtesy Paul Gauguin Cruises)
Bora Bora is legendary for its brilliant lagoon and iconic Mount Otemanu, while heart-shaped Moorea is known for its stunning mountains and palm-fringed beaches. Then there’s the Garden Isle of Huahine, which entices with some of the best-preserved archaeological sites hidden amidst its rainforest. Over on Taha’a, the vanilla island, Motu Mahana is our own private islet—where an indulgently exclusive beach day is included on every itinerary.
In 2024, a new 7-night Society Islands itinerary features a return to Raiatea, the sacred homeland of the Maohi people and the UNESCO-listed Marae Taputaputea archaeological site.
To the east of the Society Islands lies the Tuamotu archipelago, the world’s largest group of coral atolls. These 75 “flat islands” sit in striking contrast to their mountainous neighbors in the region. Moving northeast, the Marquesas have long been revered in song, literature, and art. A new 14-night Islands of the Marquesas & Tuamotus voyage features five calls in the Marquesas. An alternate 14-night Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands itinerary is also offered, featuring a different line-up of ports.
Amazing beach with white sand and black rocks on Rarotonga, Cook Islands (Photo via mvaligursky / iStock / Getty Images Plus)
West of French Polynesia are the Cook Islands, an unspoiled paradise with no branded resorts and no buildings taller than a coconut tree. Rarotonga is the archipelago’s hub, with mountains soaring more than 2,000 feet above coral reefs and nearly untouched lagoons. A visit to Aitutaki, a triangle-shaped atoll covered in palms and sugary sands, affords access to One Foot Island, considered one of Polynesia’s best beaches. The Gauguin’s 11-night Cook Islands & Society Islands itinerary showcases the incredible beauty and diversity here.
Farther west is the Kingdom of Tonga and the islands of Fiji. And tiny-but-mighty Tonga is Polynesia’s only remaining monarchy and takes great pride in being the only island nation in the Pacific not to have been colonized by a foreign power. A call in Vava’u invites the discovery of its culture and food, hiking Mount Talau, and snorkeling in its crystalline lagoon. A 14-night Fiji, Tonga, Cook & Society Islands itinerary between Papeete and Lautoka crosses the International Date Line, meaning you might be traveling for 12 or 13 days, depending on the direction of your cruise! See more details at: www.pgcruises.com/2024-itinerary-highlights.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
