For a few hours on 27FEB, lucky GTA travel advisors got to escape to the delights of French Polynesia, thanks to Paul Gauguin Cruises. The event, held at the country club-style Glenerin Inn in Mississauga, was the perfect venue for an evening of fellowship and learning. (For example, behind which ear do you wear your exotic flower to send a message that you are available?)
Our hosts were Liz Coleman, Boston-based Vice President of Sales and Vicky Lubyk, Director of Sales, Canada for Paul Gauguin, now a part of Ponant – and clearly two of its biggest fans. They enthusiastically guided the agents, giving them an overview of the South Pacific, enumerating the many advantages of the Paul Gauguin and giving insights into how to sell the product.
First, French Polynesia is huge. It covers an area the size of Europe, but its 118 islands total just the size of our own PEI. Secondly, its remoteness is part of its exclusive charm: in one year the islands will receive as many tourists as go to Hawaii in one day. Halfway between North America and Australia, the main airport, at Papeete, Tahiti, is 8 hours from Los Angeles.
And what about that ship? The Paul Gauguin is named for the French painter who fell in love with the islands. It is custom-built to serve the region, home to just 300 guests and features a 1:1.5 crew to guest ratio. Included are crew gratuities, dining at 3 restos, wine and top-shelf liquors, and non-motorized watersports. (Scuba diving is available at extra charge, about $100 for a single tank dive.) Free of charge is an optional Polynesian Blessing Ceremony for couples looking to renew vows or otherwise share their commitment to each other.
The majority of the ship’s cabins are 239 square feet and feature a balcony (“You definitely want a balcony when you’re in this part of the world,” Lubyk recommended.) And while the majority of passengers come from North America, the 14+ night cruises are popular with clients from France who enjoy the French-flavoured culture of the islands.
Lastly, how to sell this exotic experience? “For many people, this part of the world can be a pipe dream, but we can arm ourselves with information to allow people to experience what they thought was unattainable,” said Lubyk. “Don’t discuss price or budget too soon,” recommended Coleman. “It looks far, it feels far, and they don’t think they know enough about it. Spend the time to close the sale. Sell value versus price.”
Lastly, Lubyk and Coleman gave some interesting insights into the passenger profile. Clients have a median household income of $150,000 and often more than one home. They are well-educated and often entrepreneurs or executives. And they are well-travelled, having visited, say, the Maldives, the Galapagos or Antarctica. They are looking for a “unique engaging experience that is not over-structured.”
Not surprisingly, many passengers are doing a bucket list-trip or marking a special event such as a notable anniversary. The cruises appeal to active travellers such as scuba divers and nature enthusiasts. But also (and this is really interesting) families or multi-gens who are travelling with older children. And even clients who typically are not cruisers but land-based clients who appreciate that you can cover a lot of “ground” on a Paul Gauguin cruise.
Cruises are 7, 10, 11 and 14 nights with some special departures such as a 20 night Fiji to Bali crossing. Sales are now open for 2025, and 2026 should be available within the next couple of months. Canadians are eligible for a 5% discount (not promoted on the website). And travel advisor rates? Graduates of the company’s “Pearls” program are eligible for significant discounts on a space available basis, confirmed 30 days out. But, good to know: they’ll be eligible for a comp cruise if they bring a group of at least 9 passengers.
Oh, and where to wear that flower? If you’re “taken”, it’s on the right. And if you’re looking for romance, be sure to tuck it behind your left ear. Find out more about Paul Gauguin cruises here; and check out their video which you are welcome to share with your clients.
