Last updated: 13 October 2025
In This Guide
- Introduction
- A Brief History
- The Paul Gauguin Cruises Fleet
- Accommodation and Service Levels
- What's Included in Your Fare
- Loyalty Programme: Ponant Yacht Club
- Pre-Paid Packages Available
- Dining Options
- Onboard Entertainment & Activities
- Paul Gauguin Cruises for Solo Travellers
- Dress Code
- Gratuities / Tipping Policy
- Embarkation Day Beverage Policy
- What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View
- Environmental & Sustainability Efforts
- Official Websites
- Required Travel Documents
- Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)
- Onboard Safety & Permitted Items
- Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy
- Food Policy
- Current Starting Ports (2025)
- Sample Itineraries: A Taste of Paul Gauguin Cruises
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams
- Additional Resources
- Disclaimer
- Affiliate Disclosure
Introduction
Paul Gauguin Cruises offers an intimate, five-star luxury experience dedicated to exploring the idyllic islands of the South Pacific. The line provides an immersive, all-inclusive journey into the heart of Tahiti and French Polynesia. Its purpose-built ship grants unparalleled access to the region's shallow lagoons and secluded coves, delivering a truly authentic Polynesian adventure.
A Brief History
Paul Gauguin Cruises was established in 1998 with its custom-built ship, the m/s Paul Gauguin, designed specifically for French Polynesia's unique waterways. The cruise line was acquired by Pacific Beachcomber, a premier hotel operator in the region, in 2010, which deepened its focus on authentic local experiences. This move ensured a consistent emphasis on Polynesian culture and exceptional service.
In 2019, the brand was acquired by the French luxury expedition company Compagnie du Ponant. This partnership solidified Paul Gauguin's position in the high-end market, providing additional resources while preserving its intimate character. The synergy with Ponant continues to enhance the exclusive South Pacific experience.
The Paul Gauguin Cruises Fleet
Paul Gauguin Cruises operates a single, elegant vessel specifically designed to navigate the unique environment of the South Pacific. This allows for unmatched access to smaller islands and lagoons that are inaccessible to larger cruise ships. Her shallow draft and specialised design make her the perfect platform for exploring paradise.
m/s Paul Gauguin
- Launch Date: 1997 (Refurbished 2021)
- Tonnage: 19,200 GT
- Capacity: 330 passengers
- Notable Features: Retractable watersports marina, all-oceanview staterooms, local Tahitian cultural hosts (Les Gauguines), private beach access in Bora Bora.
The m/s Paul Gauguin delivers an all-inclusive luxury experience with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. All accommodation is ocean-view, with nearly 70% of staterooms featuring a private balcony. The ship is renowned for its exceptional crew-to-guest ratio of 1 to 1.5, ensuring highly personalised service.
Accommodation and Service Levels
All staterooms and suites aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin offer ocean views, elegant décor, and premium amenities. The accommodation is designed to be a comfortable and luxurious haven. Every category includes a queen-sized bed, an in-room refrigerator stocked daily, and complimentary 24-hour room service.
Standard Cabins
Even entry-level staterooms provide a luxurious experience, offering expansive ocean views from a porthole or window. Balcony staterooms feature a private veranda for enjoying the stunning scenery. All standard cabins include fine linens and a marble-appointed bathroom with a full-size bathtub.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Ocean Views: Every single stateroom has at least a picture window or porthole.
- Premium Amenities: Expect fine linens, a marble bathroom with a full-size bathtub and shower, and complimentary bath products.
- Daily Refreshments: An in-room refrigerator is stocked and replenished daily with your preferred soft drinks and beer.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Suite Categories
Suites provide significantly more space and enhanced amenities for a truly indulgent environment. Veranda and Grand Suites feature larger living areas and balconies, perfect for private dining or relaxation. The Owner's Suites are the most opulent, offering separate living and sleeping quarters and oversized balconies.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Spacious Living Areas: Suites offer expanded living and sleeping spaces for ultimate comfort.
- Large Private Balconies: Enjoy generous outdoor space, perfect for al fresco dining or simply watching the world go by.
- Upgraded Furnishings: Suites feature premium décor and additional comforts to enhance your stay.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Exclusive Suite-Level Services
Guests in categories B and above (Veranda Stateroom and higher) enjoy the added luxury of butler service. This dedicated service enhances the onboard experience significantly. Your butler can handle a wide range of requests, ensuring a seamless and personalised journey.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Butler Service: Includes assistance with packing and unpacking, making reservations for dining and spa treatments, and attending to any special requests.
- In-Suite Bar Setup: Your suite will be provisioned with a bar setup, tailored to your preferences.
- Complimentary Services: Guests in higher suite categories often receive complimentary laundry services.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Accessible Cabins
The m/s Paul Gauguin is equipped with a limited number of specially adapted cabins designed for guests with mobility challenges. These staterooms ensure a comfortable and safe experience for all travellers. It is crucial to book these cabins well in advance and discuss specific needs at the time of booking.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Wider Doorways: To comfortably accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
- Accessible Bathrooms: Featuring roll-in showers, grab bars, and lower-level sinks and toilets.
- Ample Turning Space: The cabin layout is designed to provide sufficient space for easy manoeuvring.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
What's Included in Your Fare
Paul Gauguin Cruises offers a genuinely all-inclusive experience, ensuring a seamless and worry-free holiday. The fare covers a comprehensive range of amenities and services. This approach allows guests to relax and immerse themselves in the destination without concern for additional costs.
Key inclusions in your fare typically cover:
- Gratuities: All onboard gratuities for room stewards and dining staff are included.
- Beverages: A wide selection of fine wines, spirits, beers, soft drinks, bottled water, and hot beverages are served throughout the ship.
- Dining: All onboard dining is included, from the main dining room to speciality venues.
- Room Service: Complimentary 24-hour room service is available from an extensive menu.
- Watersports Marina: Use of the ship's retractable marina is included, with complimentary kayaking, windsurfing, and paddleboarding.
- Airfare: For many itineraries, roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles (LAX) is also part of the package.
Please note that inclusions may vary depending on the specific fare type, ship, and itinerary. Always confirm details at the time of booking.
Loyalty Programme: Ponant Yacht Club
As Paul Gauguin Cruises is part of the Ponant family, repeat guests are enrolled in the prestigious Ponant Yacht Club. Membership is based on the number of cruises taken with either Ponant or Paul Gauguin Cruises. The programme offers escalating benefits as you travel more frequently.
Major
Requirement: After your 2nd cruise.
Perks & Benefits:
- €200 onboard credit per person
- Complimentary laundry service
- 1 hour of complimentary internet access
- Exclusive offers on future cruises
Admiral
Requirement: After your 3rd, 4th, or 5th cruise.
Perks & Benefits:
- All Major benefits
- Upgraded onboard credit of €300 per person
- An additional 2 hours of internet access
- A 5% discount on select shore excursions
Grand Admiral
Requirement: After your 6th, 7th, 8th, or 9th cruise.
Perks & Benefits:
- All Admiral benefits
- Upgraded onboard credit of €400 per person
- A 10% discount on select shore excursions
- Unlimited complimentary internet access
- A €100 spa credit
Commodore
Requirement: After your 10th cruise.
Perks & Benefits:
- All Grand Admiral benefits
- Exclusive 10% cruise discount on all new bookings
- A premium beverage from the captain's private cellar
- An invitation to dine at the Captain's table
Warning: This information can change without notice. Loyalty programmes are provided at the discretion of the cruise line and can be changed or terminated without notice.
Pre-Paid Packages Available
Given the all-inclusive nature of Paul Gauguin Cruises, traditional beverage and dining packages are not necessary. However, the cruise line does offer packages to enhance specific aspects of your journey. These are typically available to book before you sail.
Internet Packages
- Complimentary Wi-Fi: All guests receive complimentary internet access throughout the ship.
- Upgraded Access: High-tier loyalty members and guests in top suites receive unlimited access. Connection speeds at sea can be slower than on land.
Specialty Dining Packages
- All-Inclusive Dining: There are no speciality dining packages as all dining venues are included in the cruise fare at no additional cost.
- Premium Wine List: A connoisseur's list of rare vintages and premium champagnes is available for purchase for special occasions.
Shore Excursion Packages
- Bundled Tours: Paul Gauguin offers packages tailored to interests like diving or cultural tours, which can offer better value than buying them individually.
- Advance Booking: Booking these packages in advance is recommended to secure your spot and potentially save money.
For current pricing and to book, please visit the official Paul Gauguin Cruises website.
Disclaimer: Package details, inclusions, and availability are subject to change without notice. Please verify all information on the cruise line's official website.
Dining Options
Dining is a highlight of the Paul Gauguin experience, with all venues offering gourmet cuisine at no additional charge. The menus are inspired by the fresh, local ingredients of the South Pacific and classic French culinary techniques. No reservations are required at any of the onboard restaurants.
Key dining venues across the fleet include:
- L'Etoile: The ship's elegant main dining room, L'Etoile, offers a sophisticated blend of French and Polynesian-inspired dishes for dinner.
- La Veranda: This versatile venue serves casual breakfast and lunch with indoor/outdoor seating. In the evening, it transforms into an elegant, reservation-free speciality restaurant with exquisite gourmet menus.
- Le Grill: Located poolside, Le Grill provides a relaxed, al fresco dining experience for breakfast and lunch. In the evenings, it serves delicious Polynesian specialities under the stars.
Please note that dining options may vary depending on the specific ship and itinerary.
Onboard Entertainment & Activities
Life aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin is focused on relaxation and cultural immersion. The entertainment is refined and designed to complement the destination. Days are often spent exploring ashore or enjoying the ship's outstanding facilities.
Onboard, you can expect:
- Cultural Immersion: The local Tahitian hosts, Les Gauguines, provide authentic cultural experiences, including traditional song, dance, and craft lessons.
- Live Music: Evenings feature live music in the lounges and spectacular performances in the Grand Salon.
- Enrichment Programmes: Guests can attend lectures on Polynesian culture, history, and the natural world, delivered by expert guest speakers.
- Leisure Facilities: The ship features a small casino, a piano bar, a library, and the Deep Nature Spa for ultimate relaxation.
Please note that entertainment and activities may vary depending on the specific ship and itinerary.
Paul Gauguin Cruises for Solo Travellers
Paul Gauguin Cruises is an excellent choice for solo travellers seeking a safe, luxurious, and sociable experience. The small size of the ship fosters a warm and welcoming atmosphere where it is easy to meet fellow guests. The crew is exceptionally attentive, ensuring solo cruisers feel comfortable and well-cared-for.
Accommodation for Solo Cruisers
While the m/s Paul Gauguin does not have dedicated single-occupancy cabins, the line frequently offers attractive solo fares. These special offers can make a solo voyage much more accessible. It is advisable to book early to take advantage of these promotions.
Key options and features include:
- Reduced Single Supplements: On select voyages, the cruise line offers significantly reduced single supplements, sometimes as low as 10% over the per-person double occupancy rate.
- Full-Size Cabins: Solo travellers enjoy the full space and amenities of a standard double-occupancy stateroom.
Opportunities and availability may vary by ship and sailing.
Meeting People and Onboard Life
The intimate scale of the ship makes socialising natural and effortless. Guests often mingle during shore excursions, at the poolside grill, or in the various lounges. The crew and the onboard Polynesian hosts are adept at creating a friendly environment.
Key options and features include:
- Communal Atmosphere: The small number of guests makes it easy to recognise faces and strike up conversations.
- Group Excursions: Joining shore excursions is a great way to meet like-minded travellers.
- Inclusive Crew: The crew and the onboard hosts, Les Gauguines, often help make introductions and ensure everyone feels included.
Opportunities and availability may vary by ship and sailing.
Dress Code
The dress code aboard Paul Gauguin Cruises is relaxed and reflects the casual elegance of the South Pacific. During the day, resort-style wear is appropriate. This includes shorts, T-shirts, sundresses, and swimwear on the pool deck.
Key dress code guidelines include:
- Daytime Casual: Resort wear is the norm. Cover-ups are required over swimwear when not on the pool deck.
- Evening Chic: In the evenings, the dress code is 'Country Club Casual' or 'Elegant Resort Wear'. For men, this means trousers or smart shorts and a collared shirt. For women, skirts, trousers, or dresses are suitable.
- No Formal Nights: There are no formal nights requiring tuxedos or ball gowns, allowing for a more comfortable holiday. T-shirts and flip-flops are not permitted in the dining venues in the evening.
Please note that dress code enforcement can vary. It is always best to check the latest guidelines for your specific sailing.
Gratuities / Tipping Policy
Paul Gauguin Cruises operates an all-inclusive pricing model, and all onboard gratuities are included in your cruise fare. There is no expectation or requirement to offer additional tips to the crew. This policy covers your room steward, dining room staff, and bartenders.
Key aspects of the gratuity policy include:
- Pre-Paid Gratuities: All tips for the ship's crew are included in the final price of your cruise.
- No Additional Tipping: You are not expected to provide extra tips for standard service.
- Hassle-Free Experience: This policy allows you to enjoy the exceptional service without the need to consider tipping throughout your voyage.
Please note that gratuity policies and amounts are subject to change. Always confirm the latest details with the cruise line.
Embarkation Day Beverage Policy
As an all-inclusive luxury line with a comprehensive complimentary beverage menu, guests are not permitted to bring their own alcohol onboard. The ship's bars and restaurants are well-stocked with a wide variety of select wines, spirits, and beers. This policy ensures a consistent and high-quality experience for all guests.
Key rules for bringing beverages onboard include:
- Alcohol: Guests are not permitted to bring their own alcohol (wine, beer, or spirits) onboard.
- Soft Drinks/Water: As all soft drinks and bottled water are included in the fare and stocked in your stateroom, there is no need to bring your own.
- Confiscation Policy: Any alcohol brought to the ship will be confiscated and returned at the end of the cruise.
This policy is strictly enforced and subject to change. Items outside the allowance will be confiscated.
What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View
Guests consistently praise Paul Gauguin Cruises for its exceptional, personalised service and the warm, welcoming nature of the crew. The all-inclusive nature of the fare and the quality of the food are frequently highlighted as major positives. The unique ability of the small ship to access secluded ports is considered an unforgettable experience.
Common Praises
- Exceptional Crew: The service is often described as intuitive, friendly, and highly personal, with the Tahitian hosts (Les Gauguines) receiving special mention.
- Immersive Itineraries: Guests love the destination-focused sailings and the exclusive access to the private island of Motu Mahana.
- All-Inclusive Value: Many travellers feel the cruise offers excellent value, given that gratuities, drinks, and all dining are included.
Common Criticisms
- Older Vessel: While immaculately maintained, the m/s Paul Gauguin is an older ship and lacks some modern amenities found on newer vessels.
- Limited Itinerary Diversity: The cruise line's singular focus on French Polynesia means less variety for those wishing to explore other parts of the world.
- Premium Price Point: Paul Gauguin is a luxury product, and the upfront cost can be high, though most feel it is justified by the inclusions.
Environmental & Sustainability Efforts
As part of the Ponant group, Paul Gauguin Cruises is committed to responsible and sustainable tourism. The company adheres to Ponant's "Blue Horizon" strategy, which focuses on protecting the pristine environments it visits. This dedication helps preserve the beauty of French Polynesia for future generations.
Key environmental initiatives include:
- Plastics Reduction: The cruise line is committed to eliminating single-use plastics across its operations.
- Advanced Waste Management: The ship is equipped with advanced wastewater treatment systems that exceed international regulations.
- Cleaner Fuel: The m/s Paul Gauguin uses cleaner-burning marine gas oil (MGO) to significantly reduce its environmental footprint.
- Local Partnerships: The line partners with local conservation organisations and promotes eco-conscious shore excursions.
For the most detailed and current information, please refer to the cruise line's official sustainability reports.
Official Websites
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, and to make bookings, it is essential to use the official websites for your region. Be cautious of unofficial sites. The primary website is often integrated with its parent company, Ponant.
The primary official websites are:
- Official Website: https://www.pgcruises.com/
- Ponant Website (Paul Gauguin Section): https://en.ponant.com/paul-gauguin
Always ensure the website URL is correct to avoid phishing scams.
Required Travel Documents
Ensuring you have the correct travel documents is your personal responsibility. All guests must carry a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the completion date of their cruise. Visas may be required depending on your nationality and the itinerary, so it is essential to check with the relevant embassies well in advance.
Key documentation requirements include:
- Passport Validity: A minimum of six months validity beyond the last day of your cruise is mandatory.
- Visas: Check visa requirements for French Polynesia and any other countries on your itinerary based on your citizenship.
- Blank Pages: Ensure your passport has sufficient blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
It is critical to understand that a cruise line's passport validity rule almost always supersedes the rule of the country you are visiting. For example, a country might only require three months of passport validity, but if the cruise line demands six months, you will be denied boarding if you do not meet the cruise line's stricter standard.
Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)
If you are travelling with a child for whom you are not the parent or legal guardian, you must carry specific documentation. This is required to prove you have permission to travel with the minor. These rules are in place to prevent international child abduction.
Key requirements for non-guardian travel include:
- Notarised Consent Form: A notarised letter of consent signed by both of the child's legal guardians is essential.
- Detailed Information: The letter must state the child's name, your name, the dates of travel, the ship's name, and the itinerary.
- Medical Authorisation: The letter should grant you permission to authorise emergency medical treatment if necessary.
- Supporting Documents: It is wise to also carry copies of the child's birth certificate and the guardians' passports.
Failure to provide required documentation can result in denial of boarding. Always verify requirements well in advance.
Onboard Safety & Permitted Items
For the safety and security of all guests, certain items are prohibited onboard the m/s Paul Gauguin. Your luggage will be scanned upon embarkation, and any forbidden items will be confiscated. Attending the mandatory safety drill is also a condition of sailing.
Key safety rules and permitted items policies include:
- Prohibited Electronics: Items that generate heat, such as clothing irons, heating pads, and coffee makers, are not permitted in staterooms as they pose a fire hazard.
- Weapons and Sharp Objects: Firearms, explosives, and sharp objects (other than personal grooming items) are strictly forbidden.
- Drones: The use of drones is generally prohibited to protect the safety and privacy of all guests.
- Illegal Substances: A strict zero-tolerance policy is in effect for illegal drugs and substances.
For a complete list of prohibited items, please consult the cruise line's official website before you pack.
Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy
Guests must bring a sufficient supply of any necessary prescription medication for the entire trip. The cruise line has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal substances. Proper documentation and storage of medication are crucial for a smooth journey.
Key policies include:
- Prescription Medications: All medications should be kept in their original, clearly labelled containers. Never pack them in checked luggage.
- Medical Documentation: Carry a copy of the prescription or a letter from your doctor, especially for controlled substances or injectable medicines.
- Illegal Substances: Any guest found with illegal drugs will be disembarked immediately and reported to local authorities, with no refund.
- CBD Products: Products containing CBD or cannabis, even if legal in your home region, are strictly prohibited on most cruise lines.
The cruise line has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal substances. Consult the cruise line for any questions regarding specific medications.
Food Policy
Policies regarding bringing food on and taking food off the ship are in place for health and safety reasons. They help prevent the spread of pests and agricultural diseases. These rules are standard across the cruise industry and are strictly enforced.
Bringing Food Onboard
Due to the high quality and all-inclusive nature of the dining onboard, there is generally no need to bring food with you. Regulations are in place to ensure the health and safety of all guests. These rules are strictly enforced at embarkation.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Homemade/Perishable Food: These items are strictly forbidden to be brought onboard.
- Pre-Packaged Snacks: Commercially sealed, non-perishable snacks are generally permitted but should be declared if requested.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Taking Food Off the Ship
Taking food off the ship is strictly controlled to comply with local agricultural laws. These regulations are designed to prevent the accidental introduction of foreign pests or diseases. This applies at every port of call during your itinerary.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Fresh Food Prohibited: Taking fresh items like fruit, vegetables, and meat products ashore is strictly prohibited.
- Packaged Items: You may take sealed, pre-packaged items like a box of biscuits or a bag of crisps ashore.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Bringing Food Back from Port
You are not allowed to bring fresh food items purchased in port back onto the ship. This is a critical measure to prevent the introduction of agricultural pests to the vessel and subsequent ports. All items are subject to inspection at the gangway.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Fresh Produce: Items like fruit, vegetables, or local farm products cannot be brought back onboard.
- Sealed Delicacies: Commercially sealed and packaged local specialities may be permitted but are subject to inspection by the ship's crew.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Current Starting Ports (2025)
Paul Gauguin Cruises' itineraries are deeply focused on the South Pacific. The vast majority of voyages begin and end in French Polynesia. Occasional longer or repositioning cruises may use other regional ports.
- Papeete, Tahiti (French Polynesia)
- Lautoka, Fiji
- Darwin, Australia
- Nuku'alofa, Tonga
- Vava'u, Tonga
Sample Itineraries: A Taste of Paul Gauguin Cruises
Paul Gauguin Cruises offers expertly crafted itineraries that showcase the very best of the South Pacific. These voyages provide an intimate and authentic look at the region's culture, landscapes, and marine life. Here are a few examples of their celebrated sailings.
Classic Tahiti & the Society Islands
This is the quintessential Paul Gauguin experience, perfect for first-time visitors to French Polynesia. It combines iconic, mountainous islands with idyllic lagoons and exclusive private retreats. This itinerary delivers a perfect week in paradise.
- Best For: Honeymooners, couples, and those seeking a classic Polynesian escape.
- Duration: 7 Nights
- Departure Port: Papeete, Tahiti
- Example Ship: m/s Paul Gauguin
- Typical Ports of Call: Huahine, Taha'a (Motu Mahana), Bora Bora, Moorea.
Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands
This longer, more comprehensive voyage explores three distinct and fascinating archipelagos. You'll experience the dramatic, rugged landscapes of the Marquesas and the pristine coral atolls of the Tuamotus. It's an immersive journey for the true explorer.
- Best For: Repeat visitors, cultural enthusiasts, and experienced travellers.
- Duration: 14 Nights
- Departure Port: Papeete, Tahiti
- Example Ship: m/s Paul Gauguin
- Typical Ports of Call: Fakarava, Omoa (Fatu Hiva), Atuona (Hiva Oa), Hapatoni (Tahuata), Tiaohae (Nuku Hiva), Bora Bora, Moorea.
Fiji, Tonga, Cook & Society Islands
For those looking to venture further, this incredible itinerary connects the highlights of French Polynesia with the distinct cultures of Fiji and Tonga. It is a rare opportunity to explore a vast and diverse swathe of the South Pacific in one seamless luxury voyage. This sailing offers a unique blend of discovery and relaxation.
- Best For: Adventurous travellers and those wanting to explore beyond French Polynesia.
- Duration: 16 Nights
- Departure Port: Papeete, Tahiti to Lautoka, Fiji (or reverse)
- Example Ship: m/s Paul Gauguin
- Typical Ports of Call: Moorea, Bora Bora, Aitutaki, Rarotonga, Vava'u, Savusavu, Suva.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is Paul Gauguin Cruises truly all-inclusive?
Yes, the cruise fare includes all gratuities, all dining venues, and a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. For many guests, roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles is also part of the package. - What is the currency used onboard?
The currency used onboard is the U.S. Dollar ($). All shipboard accounts are settled in USD. - Are flights included in the cruise fare?
For most North American guests, roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles (LAX) to Papeete, Tahiti, is included. This should always be confirmed at the time of booking. - Is there Wi-Fi on the ship?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship for all guests. The connection speed may be slower than on land due to the satellite technology used. - Do I need to make dinner reservations?
No, reservations are not required for any of the dining venues onboard, offering guests complete flexibility. - What electrical outlets are in the cabins?
Staterooms are equipped with both 110-volt (North American) and 220-volt (European) outlets. - Is there a doctor onboard?
Yes, the m/s Paul Gauguin has a medical centre staffed by a registered physician and nurse. Medical services are available 24/7 for emergencies, and charges apply. - Can I do laundry onboard?
Yes, laundry and pressing services are available for a fee. Guests in select suite categories receive complimentary laundry service. - What is Motu Mahana?
Motu Mahana is Paul Gauguin Cruises' exclusive private islet off the coast of Taha'a. Guests can enjoy a full day here with a barbecue lunch, watersports, and live Polynesian music, all included in the fare. - Are children welcome on Paul Gauguin cruises?
Yes, children are welcome. On select summer and holiday sailings, the ship offers a complimentary Ambassadors of the Environment Youth Program for children and teens aged 7-17.
A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams
When planning your voyage, it is essential to remain highly vigilant against potential scam attempts that target travellers. Be aware of these common red flags:
- "Free Cruise" or "Exclusive Offer" Traps: Be highly suspicious of any unsolicited calls, emails, or messages claiming you've won a free cruise or are eligible for an impossibly low-priced "exclusive" deal. These invariably come with hidden fees, demands for immediate payment for "port taxes," or are simply phishing attempts to collect your personal data. Many major cruise lines have had their names used in such fraudulent schemes.
- Fake Websites and Phishing Attempts: Scammers create convincing fake websites that mimic the cruise line's official site. Always manually type the official website address into your browser and double-check the URL very carefully before entering any payment or personal data.
- High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of any offer that demands an immediate decision due to a "limited-time offer" that is about to expire. This tactic is used by fraudsters to prevent you from doing proper research or verifying the offer's legitimacy.
- Unusual Payment Requests: Never agree to pay for a cruise via untraceable methods like wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Legitimate cruise lines and their authorised travel partners use secure, traceable payment methods like credit cards.
To ensure your journey with Paul Gauguin Cruises begins safely, always book directly through their official website for your region or through a well-established, reputable travel adviser. If an offer feels suspicious, contact Paul Gauguin Cruises directly using the official contact information found on their verified website, not from the suspicious communication itself. Booking through official channels ensures your voyage begins with complete peace of mind.
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Disclaimer
The Essential Cruise Shop provides this guide for informational purposes and is not a travel agency. The information contained in this guide is for general guidance only. While we do our best to ensure the information is up-to-date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind about its completeness or accuracy.
Cruise line policies, itineraries, and loyalty programs are subject to change without notice. We strongly recommend that you verify all details directly with your cruise line or a certified travel agent before making any bookings or financial commitments.
We cannot be held liable for any financial loss due to the reader’s failure to follow the above advice.
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