September 9, 2025
5 Ways Our Polynesian Night Onboard Experience Brings the Destination to Life
m/s Paul Gauguin in Bora Bora
One of the most rewarding aspects of traveling is the chance to connect with other cultures. It’s a notion that goes far beyond visiting landmark sites or archeological ruins. We’re talking about the types of experiences that teach you, humble you, fuel your senses, and leave you completely speechless. On a m/s Paul Gauguin cruise through French Polynesia, these moments take place not only on land, but also on board the ship.
Polynesian Night is a time when the The Gauguin transforms into the destination. It’s not your average “theme” party with locally inspired decorations and dishes. This experience is undeniably authentic, consciously planned, and influenced heavily by the locals who help bring it to life, including Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins, Paul Gauguin Cruises’ own troupe of Tahitian hosts and entertainers who call the ship their home.
With more than 26 years of experience sailing in French Polynesia, The Gauguin has deeply rooted relationships across these islands. Many of the ship’s crewmembers hail from the islands, and on Polynesian Night, mamas and papas who reside on the island come aboard to share a part of themselves and their home with curious guests.
There’s nothing else like sailing the region’s majestic turquoise waters on a ship purpose-built for the destination. That’s why we’re highlighting five ways you can relish the French Polynesia culture—without ever leaving the ship—on Polynesian Night.
1. See how handwoven headpieces called heis are made—and customize one for yourself.
Mamas making heis for guests, using a variety of flowers and natural materials. (Photo Credit: Amanda Villarosa)
French Polynesian women carrying years of wisdom, known as mamas, come aboard the ship to share the art of a handmade craft steeped in generations of history and tradition. The hei-making is not a demonstration, but rather an experience that beckons you to sit with them and learn the meaning behind these symbolic floral crowns.
Heis are carefully weaved together using flowers and other natural materials. As you observe the process, human connection transpires. This is a chance for intimate conversation, or to quietly soak in the moment. Guests are also able to choose from a variety of flowers to customize their headpieces.
2. Get your own (temporary) Polynesian tattoo.
Polynesian tattoos carry deep spiritual meaning for locals. (Photo Credit: Gregoire-Le-Bacon)
In the hours leading up to dinner, deck 5 becomes abuzz with live music and activities—including the chance to get your own Polynesian tattoo. The ink isn’t permanent, and the process is a lot quicker than that of a real tattoo, but it’s still a chance for guests to honor a central part of French Polynesian tradition.
Dressing up and embracing Polynesian tattoo art is all a part of the experience—and a token of respect for the culture. Along with tattoos, many guests wear traditional pieces such as pareos (wraparound skirts) that make everyone feel more closely knit with one another.
3. Witness the art of Polynesian dance from a locally based troupe of performers.
A local troupe of performers provide entertainment on Polynesia Night. (Photo Credit: Amanda Villarosa)
Intricate arm gestures and hip movements pair with the rhythmic beating of drums to create an energy so palpable, you might find yourself moved to tears. Dancing is the heart and soul of French Polynesian culture, but it’s far more than entertainment. Performances serve a more foundational purpose in spirituality and storytelling. On Polynesian Night, this deeper meaning is chronicled by a locally based troupe who comes aboard for the night.
Every troupe, through their distinct movements and music, tells a different story of French Polynesia. This unique performance caps off the night in Le Grand Salon and is one of many ways the art of music and dance is honored throughout every voyage.
4. Savor local delicacies at dinner.
Tahitian lobster is served with vanilla sauce on Polynesia Night. (Photo Credit: Gregoire-Le-Bacon)
Ingredients handpicked by The Gauguin’s chef from local markets and fisherman give guests a literal taste of the region throughout their sailing. On Polynesian Night, the usual spread is ‘garnished’ with a celebratory dish, freshly caught lobster with Tahitian vanilla sauce. It doesn’t matter where you choose to dine—La Veranda, Le Grill, or L’Etoile—you can enjoy this special meal with “tableside” entertainment, courtesy of Les Gauguines.
Dining rooms are also adorned with festive table settings and decorations, in a soft and subtle way. The ambiance is warm, communal, and rewarding.
5. Spend more time getting to know the Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins.
Les Gauguines engage with guests throughout every sailing. (Photo Credit: Gregoire-Le-Bacon)
After you spend several days sailing with Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines, they will come to feel like family by the time Polynesian Night arrives. The troupe dons special outfits to celebrate the occasion and leads entertainment and activities throughout the ship, including a photo shoot at the Piano Bar. This is also a chance for guests to spend more time getting to know these local Tahitians who live aboard The Gauguin.
Just as guests seek a deeper understanding of the culture, Les Gauguines are on a mission to embrace guests in every aspect of it, from the language to the basics of Tahitian dance. And the knowledge and inspiration you’ll gain from connecting with them is more than any postcard could deliver.
Polynesian Night is offered once every cruise. See our collection of upcoming cruises to French Polynesia to start planning your next getaway. Join us for a voyage in paradise and savor the spirit of French Polynesia, one inspired dish at a time.
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The Gauguin offers an all-inclusive, luxury voyage that celebrates the vibrant flavors, rich traditions, and stunning landscapes of French Polynesia. Savor exquisite dishes crafted by culinary masters, embark on thrilling adventures led by local experts, dive into crystal-clear waters brimming with marine life, and let the enchanting spirit of the islands fuel your soul. Book your voyage now and start exploring paradise with Paul Gauguin Cruises.
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