Providing an extraordinary luxury cruise experience uniquely tailored to the unparalleled wonders of Tahiti, French Polynesia, and the South Pacific, Paul Gauguin Cruises is the undisputed destination expert, delivering an artfully, authentic, and all-inclusive luxury vacation.

In 2023, The Gauguin Experience celebrated 25 years of sailing in French Polynesia continuing to charm travellers from all over the world to discover the wonders of French Polynesia with its one-of-a-kind expertise.  The Gauguin remains the region’s gold standard in small-ship luxury cruising with her beautifully reimagined décor, her carefree ambience, and most especially her exceptional crew who bring the enriching experience to life every day with heartfelt passion and genuine care. 

Built at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint Nazaire, France in 1998, The Gauguin was designed specifically to allow guests the freedom to discover the exotic ports of the South Pacific without limitation. In September 2019, Paul Gauguin Cruises joined PONANT’s family— a designer of inspiring voyages on board small exploration ships.

The Gauguin hosts voyages ranging from 7- to 20-night itineraries, featuring such exquisite destinations as Tahiti and the Society Islands, Tuamotus, the Cook Islands, Marquesas, Tonga, and Fiji. Each of these exclusive voyages highlights the sheer beauty that defines the South Seas. Stunning islands, white-sand beaches, blue lagoons and the vibrant Polynesian culture of this region combine to provide a welcome tropical escape for guests yearning for the ultimate getaway. 

Onboard this award-winning ship, guests relish the all-inclusive luxury enjoying indulgent suites and spacious staterooms – many with a private balcony; exceptional dining in three restaurants, 24-hour room service and complimentary beverages including select wines, beer, and spirits with onboard gratuities for room stewards and dining staff included; authentic explorations ashore and below the water with the ship’s retractable watersports marina and onboard PADI diving program; and genuinely hospitable service. With one crew member for every 1.5 guests, the highest level of personal attention is assured and discerning guests will feel welcomed and pampered in every situation. Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines – a local troupe of Tahitian hosts who live on the ship -- provide quintessential Polynesian hospitality. 

As the destination expert, Paul Gauguin Cruises is dedicated to environmental stewardship and giving back to the communities it calls home. The company utilises low-sulfur fuel and strategic itinerary planning to reduce speed and fuel consumption, fosters recycling and pollution prevention programs, the elimination of single-use plastics by 2026, reduces waste and overall reducing its greenhouse gas emissions. We work closely with local suppliers to purchase as many local products as possible and we have partnered with Te o mana te o moana, a South Pacific marine preservation organisation, to provide enrichment to our youngest guests through our Moana Explorer Program.

Most recently, we have partnered with the French Government to provide healthcare assistance in the region’s most isolated islands. The partnership aims to meet the health needs of the people in these remote areas in two ways: first, by offering volunteer consultations by the doctors of the The Gauguin during scheduled port calls; and second, by providing transportation free of charge aboard the ship to health professionals commissioned by the government’s Health Directorate to ensure advance specialised consultations (CSA). This collaboration – a first for the cruise industry in French Polynesia.

Paul Gauguin Cruises has been honoured by notable names in the travel and lifestyle industry for our award-winning luxury voyages which some deem the world’s best cruises.

We are fortunate to be recognised for our top cruises including being voted "Best Small Cruise" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler and “World ’s Best Small-Ship Cruise Line” and “World’s Best Small-Ship Cruise Line for Families” by the readers of Travel + Leisure. Paul Gauguin Cruises has also received exceptional cruise reviews and accolades from our guests who thank us for providing the best cruises in the world. We invite you to sail with us and experience our top cruises.

Most Recent Awards

Condé Nast Traveler, Readers' Choice Awards (2024, 2025): “Winner: Best Small Cruise” - 500 passengers or less

Seatrade, Cruise Awards (2024):

“Winner: Sustainability Initiative of the Year”

Travel Weekly, Gold Magellan Awards (2024):

- “Winner: Overall-Small Cruise Ship" - 500 passengers or less

- "Winner: Luxury Ship-Itinerary"