Paul Gauguin Cruises 2029 French Polynesia Voyages

Paul Gauguin Cruises, French Polynesia's destination expert, unveils its 2029 voyages aboard the award-winning m/s Paul Gauguin, offering travelers an expansive exploration of the South Pacific, from the iconic islands and remote atolls of French Polynesia to the diverse cultures and landscapes of Fiji, Tonga, Indonesia, Australia and Melanesia. Spanning eight unique itineraries and more than 30 departures, the 2029 deployment offers journeys ranging from seven to 15 nights, anchored by 16 departures of the line's signature seven-night itinerary in Tahiti. Along the way, guests can discover the region's celebrated lagoons, volcanic islands, secluded beaches and lesser-visited destinations.

New for 2029, a special voyage will feature Smithsonian Journeys Experts who will join guests on board for a series of engaging lectures and discussions exploring the history, culture and heritage of the region. The program is offered through the alliance between Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT EXPLORATIONS, Paul Gauguin Cruises' parent company.

Purpose-built with a shallow draft for navigating the region's lagoons, The Gauguin offers an intimate way to explore French Polynesia. Welcoming just 330 guests, the ship combines an all-inclusive onboard experience with opportunities to connect with local cultures and communities throughout the South Pacific.

“Our longstanding presence in French Polynesia and close relationships with local communities give us a deep understanding of the region and the experiences that make it so special,” said Sam Chamberlain, CEO, Paul Gauguin Cruises, Americas. “That expertise is at the heart of our 2029 program, which offers guests a range of ways to explore the South Pacific, from the islands and atolls of French Polynesia to extended journeys through Fiji, Indonesia and beyond. The addition of a special voyage in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys brings another dimension to the experience, with expert perspectives that deepen guests' understanding of the places and cultures they encounter.”

The Allure of the Society Islands

The Society Islands remain the cornerstone of the 2029 voyages through French Polynesia. Travelers can experience the celebrated lagoons of Bora Bora and Moorea, discover the cultural heritage of Raiatea and Huahine, and explore the coral-rich waters of Rangiroa and Fakarava. Select itineraries also feature a visit to Motu Mahana, Paul Gauguin Cruises' private islet off Taha'a, offering a signature South Pacific beach experience.

Tahiti and the Society Islands

The Gauguin

7 nights; 10 departures; April–December 2029

Departures: April 18, May 19, June 23 and 30, July 21 and 28, September 1 and 29, October 27 and December 1.

Pearls of the Society Islands

The Gauguin

7 nights; six departures; May–December 2029

Departures: May 26, August 25, September 22, October 20, November 24 and December 29.

Society Islands & The Tuamotus

The Gauguin

10–11 nights; seven departures; January–December 2029

Departures: January 6, April 25, June 2, August 4 and 15, November 14 and December 19.

Marquesas, The Tuamotus & Society Islands

The Gauguin

14 nights; four departures; May–October 2029

Departures: May 5, July 7, September 8 and October 6.

Cook Islands & Society Islands

The Gauguin

11 nights; two departures; November–December 2029

Departures: November 3 and December 8.

Exploring French Polynesia in Alliance with Smithsonian Journeys

This sailing is part of a series of voyages offered through the alliance between PONANT EXPLORATIONS and Smithsonian Journeys. Guests will enjoy exclusive onboard lectures and discussions led by Smithsonian Journeys Experts, offering deeper perspectives on the people, cultures, history and natural wonders of the region.

Cruising French Polynesia: Tahiti, Bora Bora, and the Tuamotus in Alliance with Smithsonian Journeys

The Gauguin

10 nights; June 13–23, 2029

Round-trip Papeete, Tahiti

Voyage highlights:

• A 10-night exploration of French Polynesia, featuring the Society Islands and the Tuamotus.
• Onboard enrichment programming led by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, offering additional perspectives on the destinations visited.
• $500 USD onboard credit toward select shore excursions and activities.
• Round-trip airport transfers between Papeete Airport and the ship on the days of embarkation and disembarkation.

Beyond Tahiti: Exploring the Wider South Pacific

For travelers looking to venture beyond French Polynesia, 2029 offers extended voyages connecting destinations across the South Pacific and Indonesian archipelago. Ranging from seven to 15 nights, these itineraries invite guests to discover lesser-visited islands and experience the distinct cultures and natural beauty of the region.

Fiji, Tonga, Cook Islands and Society Islands

The Gauguin

12–15 nights; two departures; January and April 2029

Departures: January 17 (Tahiti to Lautoka) and April 6 (Lautoka to Tahiti).

Hidden treasures of the Indonesian archipelago

The Gauguin

7 nights; March 15, 2029

Benoa, Bali to Darwin, Australia

Little-known treasures of Melanesia

The Gauguin

15 nights; March 22, 2029

Darwin, Australia to Lautoka, Fiji

Throughout the season, guests aboard The Gauguin enjoy the line's signature Polynesian hospitality, watersports activities and immersive opportunities to experience the traditions and natural beauty of the South Pacific.