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Crossing Melanesia: Australia to Fiji

Darwin, Australia - Lautoka, Viti Levu Island

Dates:
4/15/2025
to  5/1/2025

16
NIGHTS
Cruise Only
Starting from*
$9,870
per guest
Request a quote

Explore wild beauty and important history on this immersive journey navigating the remote island countries of Melanesia, from the verdant landscapes of Australia’s Northern Territory to the tribal culture of Papua New Guinea and the historical WWII significance of Guadalcanal. Two days in the Solomon Islands allow for incredible snorkeling and diving, with the pristine beaches and enchanting culture of Vanuatu ready to welcome you just beyond. Arrive in Fiji, ready to discover its vibrant markets and famed shores.

Highlights

  • Experience the unique culture of Papua New Guinea’s Milne Bay people on a call to Alotau, and explore the region’s stunning coral reefs, tropical rainforests, and WWII historical sites.
  • Balance your overnight discovery of Honiara with immersive adventures among waterfalls, coral reefs, and rainforests, and visit the haunting remnants and battlefields of WWII history.
  • Play on Vanuatu’s acclaimed beaches – including the iconic Champagne Beach, revered for its effervescent “bubbles” – and swim in crystal-clear waters; channel Michener’s “Tales of the South Pacific” during a call to idyllic Espiritu Santo.

Main Image: @TahitiTourism

See Detailed Itinerary

Your itinerary

Your trip in detail

  • Your ship

  • Extend Your Trip

  • Specialty Items & Gifts

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Our guests


Choose your stateroom

Choose your stateroom

F Porthole Stateroom
 

(204 sq.ft.)

Call for availability

E Window Stateroom
 

(204 sq.ft.)

From $10,920 per guest

D Balcony Stateroom
 

(215 sq.ft.)

From $13,330 per guest

C Balcony Stateroom
 

(215 sq.ft.)

From $14,070 per guest

B Veranda Stateroom
 

(247 sq.ft.)

From $16,900 per guest

A Veranda Suite
 

(301 sq.ft.)

Call for availability

GS Grand Suite
 

(322 sq.ft.)

From $26,120 per guest

Owner's Suite
 

(527 sq.ft.)

Call for availability


Talk to an Expert

Request a quote

*Price listed is per person cruise only, double occupancy and includes promotional discounts and port security and handle fees. Prices and availability of stateroom category are subject to change until deposit is completed.

Services provided

  • 24-hour room service
  • Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Algotherm top-of-the-line bath products
  • Minibar
  • Electronic safe
  • Direct line telephone
  • Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
  • 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
  • 2 ADA stateroom

Choose your stateroom category


Deck

Surface area


Ports of Call
Darwin, Australia

April 15, 2025 Darwin, Australia


Embarkation 4/15/2025 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 4/15/2025 at 6:00 PM


A fusion of natural beauty, wildlife, and rich indigenous culture, Darwin is the capital city of the Northern Territory situated on Australia’s “Top End.” Characterized by a tropical climate and lush wetlands, it is the gateway to national parks including the UNESCO-listed Kakadu, known for its ancient rock art; and Litchfield, where waterfalls flow and magnetic termite mounds reach skyward. See jumping crocodiles on the Adelaide River or steal away time in the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens and lose yourself amidst the palms and orchids as rainbow lorikeets and cockatoos flit among the flowers.

At Sea

April 16, 2025  April 17, 2025 At Sea


Arrival 4/16/2025
Departure 4/17/2025


Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you’ll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you’ll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Algotherm Spa… or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

Thursday Island

April 18, 2025 Thursday Island


Arrival 4/18/2025 at 8:00 AM
Departure 4/18/2025 at 2:00 PM


Immerse yourself in the island’s cultural mix of Asian, European, and Pacific Island influences at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre. At Green Hill Fort, built as a defense against Russian invasion and later a World War II military base, admire military artifacts and splendid views, as well as exhibits that pay homage to the island’s pearl fishing history. Or join a deep-sea fishing expedition.

At Sea

April 19, 2025 At Sea


Arrival 4/19/2025
Departure 4/19/2025


Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you’ll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you’ll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Algotherm Spa… or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

Alotau, Papua New Guinea

April 20, 2025 Alotau, Papua New Guinea


Arrival 4/20/2025 at 12:00 PM
Departure 4/20/2025 at 6:00 PM


Discover the hidden gem of Alotau on Papua New Guinea's southeastern shore, a tropical paradise home to pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Warm and welcoming locals are proud to share their rich cultural heritage, notably their traditions of dance and music. Local cuisine tantalizes with a fusion of seafood, exotic fruits, root vegetables, and the ubiquitous coconut. Here you can journey inland to see cascading waterfalls crowning untouched wilderness and dive in to crystal-clear waters in search of majestic sea turtles.

Samarai Island

April 21, 2025 Samarai Island


Arrival 4/21/2025
Departure 4/21/2025 at 3:00 PM


Once an important trading center, Samarai Island was evacuated, and its buildings were destroyed to prevent it from falling into Japanese control during World War II. It has since been rebuilt — though not to the same scale as its glory days. Take a stroll along the pleasant pathway that encircles its pretty town, view spectacular marine life on a SCUBA diving expedition, or simply relax on the beach.

At Sea

April 22, 2025 At Sea


Arrival 4/22/2025
Departure 4/22/2025


Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you’ll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you’ll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Algotherm Spa… or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands

April 23, 2025  April 24, 2025 Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands


Arrival 4/23/2025 at 1:00 PM
Departure 4/24/2025 at 6:00 PM


The largest of the Solomon Islands, Guadalcanal is best known for the six-month battle between Allied and Japanese forces that marked a turning point in the Pacific theater during World War II. The island still brims with World War II relics, monuments, and memorials, as you may discover. Perhaps you'll explore its tropical interior, with its excellent birdwatching. Or see for yourself why the island is revered for its superior snorkeling and diving.

At Sea

April 25, 2025  April 26, 2025 At Sea


Arrival 4/25/2025
Departure 4/26/2025


Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you’ll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you’ll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Algotherm Spa… or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu

April 27, 2025 Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu


Arrival 4/27/2025 at 7:00 AM
Departure 4/27/2025 at 4:00 PM


A stunning island of palm-lined beaches, spring-fed swimming holes, lush rainforests, and lofty mountains, Espiritu Santo also played an important role in World War II. Perhaps you’ll explore this heritage or experience the island’s traditional village life. You can also enjoy exceptional swimming and snorkeling here. Or simply relax on the beach.

Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu

April 28, 2025 Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu


Arrival 4/28/2025 at 7:00 AM
Departure 4/28/2025 at 10:00 PM


Located on the island of Éfaté, Vanuatu’s enchanting capital is a tropical paradise of pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes—key among them the Mele Cascades, a series of tiered waterfalls and refreshing pools. Explore the Erakor Rainforest, a verdant sanctuary of winding trails with wooden bridges and towering trees home to abundant birdlife including colorful parrots and elusive kingfishers as well as tree-dwelling geckos and dazzling butterflies. Or choose snorkeling, sailing, and jetboating adventures in Mele Bay surrounding the Pango Peninsula.
 
At Sea

April 29, 2025  April 30, 2025 At Sea


Arrival 4/29/2025
Departure 4/30/2025


Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the ready to share their Polynesian culture, with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you’ll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you’ll unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Algotherm Spa… or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.

Lautoka, Viti Levu Island

May 1, 2025 Lautoka, Viti Levu Island


Arrival 5/1/2025 at 7:00 AM
Disembarkation 5/1/2025 at 8:00 AM


Once you arrive in Lautoka (known as “Sugar City” for the green-gold sugarcane that surrounds the city), there’s much to explore. Stroll its palm-lined streets, experience everyday life in a traditional village, or hike in Koroyanitu National Heritage Park.

m/s Paul Gauguin

Designed specifically to glide in luxury through the shallow seas of the South Pacific, The Gauguin is a small-ship cruiser’s dream. She delivers travelers to intimate ports inaccessible to larger cruise ships, all the while providing a travel experience that is nothing short of luxurious. Once on board, guests enjoy newly-decorated spacious suites and staterooms (nearly 70% with private balconies), an onboard watersports marina, three dining venues, an extensive spa, and five-star service. Life on The Gauguin also reflects the beauty and rich cultural heritage of the islands she calls upon, with a warm, friendly feel, informal setting, and even a beloved troupe of Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines—local Tahitians who serve as onboard hosts and hostesses, entertainers, and storytellers.

Until 330 Guests
165 Staterooms & Suites
209 Crew Members
Spa
3 Restaurants

Decks

m/s Paul Gauguin - Deck 3 m/s Paul Gauguin - Deck 4 m/s Paul Gauguin - Deck 6 m/s Paul Gauguin - Deck 7 m/s Paul Gauguin - Deck 8

More about m/s Paul Gauguin

PRE CRUISE OVERNIGHT IN DARWIN

(1 nuit)

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.

Day 1 - Darwin

Meet at Darwin Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off your own flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).

You will be transferred to the hotel Hilton Darwin 5*.

Official check-in time at the hotel Hilton is 3.00 pm.

Your luggage can be stored at the hotel before check-in.

The afternoon and dinner are at leisure.

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2 - Darwin

Day is at leisure.

Check-out is at 12.00 am.

You will depart the hotel by coach for a panoramic tour of Darwin. Located in Australia's Northern Territory, also known as the "Top End", Darwin is a beautiful tropical city, where over 50 different cultures live and work side by side.

Discover Darwin's rich history and culture and learn about Darwin's role during World War II as you see its many historic wartime landmarks. You will drive past St Marys Cathedral, travel up to and along the Esplanade, the Parliament House, the Old Court House, the Anglican Cathedral. Pass Bicentennial Park, and the Old Town hall ruins.

You will then be transferred to the port of Darwin, to embark on board your ship.

Your hotel:

The Hilton Darwin offers an ideal location in the heart of the city within walking distance of shopping and entertainment. The elegant rooms are light and equipped with contemporary furniture for a warm and comfortable ambience. The hotel features a 10th-floor outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a stylish bar and restaurant.

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

Your programme includes:

  • 1-night accommodation in Standard room at Hilton Darwin 5*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
  • Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
  • The services of a local guide on the group transfer.

Your programme does not include:

  • Dinner on Day 1.
  • Lunch on Day 2.
  • Tips for the driver and local guide.
  • Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.

Please note:

  • It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
  • Early check-in is available depending on availability and at a supplement. Contact your travel agent for further detail.

Contact of your hotel:

Hilton Darwin
B 32 Mitchell St
Darwin City NT 0800
Australia
Telephone: (+61) 8 8982 0000

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Total : $400

Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.

POST CRUISE RELAXING STAY IN FIJI ISLANDS

(1 nuit)

With PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises extend your trip with a restful stopover as you enjoy two relaxing days in a pleasant and comfortable setting.

Day 1 - Lautoka

After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative. You will depart the pier by coach for a panoramic tour of Lautoka.

You will visit the largest Hindu Temple of the island. During British colonial rule in Fiji, many Indian migrants came to work on sugar cane plantations. They arrived with a contract of employment from the British government. At the end of their contract, many of them choose to settle in Fiji and brought with them the Hindu culture and religion.

In 1984, eight artists from India were invited to participate in the construction of this huge complex of temples. Take the time to admire the pyramidal shape of the various buildings, all characterized by a staircase architecture and fine sculptures of deities, kings and knights.

Continue to the Sleeping Giant garden, a horticultural garden specialized in native plants from Fiji with a very impressive collection of orchids. There are over 2000 listed orchid species. The Sleeping Giant is a mountain range that can be seen from Nadi. It has this name (sleeping giant), because the ridge line represents the profile of a lying man.

Your sightseeing tour will end at the hotel Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa 5*.

Lunch will be served at the hotel, you will then complete the check-in formalities for your room.

The hotel Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa offers all comfort to relax in your room, by its swimming pools or on its beach.

Dinner is on your own.

Day 2 - Lautoka / Nadi

Breakfast at the hotel and day at leisure.

Lunch and dinners are on your own.

Your room will be available until 6:00p.m.

You will be transferred to the international airport of Nadi in time for check-in for the PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises selected flight.

Your hotel :

Located by the sparkling bay of Nai, the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa is the ideal base to combine relaxation and discovery of Lautoka. You will have access to all the infrastructures of the hotel: the swimming pools, the beachfront restaurant, as well as the Spa and the diving center, both available on a supplement basis.

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

Your programme includes:

  • 1 night in Superior room from at the hotel Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa 5*, local standards (or similar), breakfast included.
  • Lunch at the hotel.
  • Late check-out until 6:00p.m on day 2.
  • Visits and transfers as mentioned in the programme.
  • Services of our local representative.

Your programme does not include:

  • The availability of your room outside the hours mentioned above.
  • Dinner.
  • Tips for the driver and the guide.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Other services not mentioned in the programme.

Please note:

  • The check-out time at the hotel Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa is at 6.00p.m.
  • As respecting the environment is important to us, we highly recommend you take your filled Ponant water bottle with you after your cruise, so you can use it on shore and avoid the use of plastic bottles whenever it is not strictly necessary.

Contact of your hotel:

Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa
Denarau Island
Nadi, Fiji Islands
Telephone number: +679 675 1111

To know your PAUL GAUGUIN flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Total : $1,120

Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.

POST CRUISE RELAXING SOJOURN IN FIJI ISLANDS

(2 nuits)

With PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises extend your trip with a restful stopover as you enjoy three relaxing days in a pleasant and comfortable setting.

Day 1 – Lautoka

After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative. You will depart the pier by coach for a panoramic tour of Lautoka.

You will visit the largest Hindu Temple of the island. During British colonial rule in Fiji, many Indian migrants came to work on sugar cane plantations. They arrived with a contract of employment from the British government. At the end of their contract, many of them choose to settle in Fiji and brought with them the Hindu culture and religion.

In 1984, eight artists from India were invited to participate in the construction of this huge complex of temples. Take the time to admire the pyramidal shape of the various buildings, all characterized by a staircase architecture and fine sculptures of deities, kings and knights.

Continue to the Sleeping Giant garden, a horticultural garden specialized in native plants from Fiji with a very impressive collection of orchids. There are over 2000 listed orchid species. The Sleeping Giant is a mountain range that can be seen from Nadi. It has this name (sleeping giant), because the ridge line represents the profile of a lying man.

Your sightseeing tour will end at the hotel Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa 5*.

Lunch will be served at the hotel, you will then complete the check-in formalities for your room.

The hotel Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa offers all comfort to relax in your room, by its swimming pools or on its beach.

Dinner is on your own.

Day 2 & 3 – Lautoka

The days are at leisure.

Lunches and dinners are on your own.

On Day 3, your room will be available until 6.00p.m.

You will be transferred to the international airport of Nadi in time for check-in for the PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises selected flight.

Your hotel:

Located by the sparkling bay of Nai, the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa is the ideal base to combine relaxation and discovery of Lautoka. You will have access to all the infrastructures of the hotel: the swimming pools, the beachfront restaurant, as well as the Spa and the diving center, both available on a supplement basis.

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

Your programme includes:

  • 2-night accommodation in Luxury room at the hotel Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa 5*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
  • The late check-out until 6.00p.m. on Day 3.
  • The lunch on Day 1.
  • Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
  • The services of a local English-speaking guide.

Your programme does not include:

  • Lunches and dinners.
  • Tips for the driver and local guide.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Other services not mentioned in the programme.

Please note:

  • The check-out time at the hotel Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa is at 6.00p.m.
  • As respecting the environment is important to us, we highly recommend you take your filled Ponant water bottle with you after your cruise, so you can use it on shore and avoid the use of plastic bottles whenever it is not strictly necessary.

Contact of your hotel:

Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa
Denarau Island
Nadi, Fiji Islands
Telephone number: +679 675 1111

To know your PAUL GAUGUIN flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Total : $1,950

Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.

POST CRUISE RELAXING DAY IN FIJI ISLANDS

(1 nuit)

PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises converts your transfer into a restful stopover as you enjoy a relaxing day in a pleasant and comfortable setting.

Lautoka

After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative. You will depart the pier by coach for a panoramic tour of Lautoka.

You will visit the largest Hindu Temple of the island. During British colonial rule in Fiji, many Indian migrants came to work on sugar cane plantations. They arrived with a contract of employment from the British government. At the end of their contract, many of them choose to settle in Fiji and brought with them the Hindu culture and religion.

In 1984, eight artists from India were invited to participate in the construction of this huge complex of temples. Take the time to admire the pyramidal shape of the various buildings, all characterized by a staircase architecture and fine sculptures of deities, kings and knights.

Continue to the Sleeping Giant garden, a horticultural garden specialized in native plants from Fiji with a very impressive collection of orchids. There are over 2000 listed orchid species. The Sleeping Giant is a mountain range that can be seen from Nadi. It has this name (sleeping giant), because the ridge line represents the profile of a lying man.

Your sightseeing tour will end at the hotel Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa 5*.

Lunch will be served at the hotel, you will then complete the check-in formalities for your room.

The hotel Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa offers all comfort to relax in your room, by its swimming pools or on its beach.

Your room will be available until 6.00p.m.

Dinner is on your own.

You will be transferred to the International airport of Nadi in time for check-in for the PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises selected flight.

Your hotel:

Located by the sparkling bay of Nai, the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa is the ideal base to combine relaxation and discovery of Lautoka. You will have access to all the infrastructures of the hotel: the swimming pools, the beachfront restaurant, as well as the Spa and the diving center, both available on a supplement basis.

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

Your programme includes:

  • 1 day-use Superior room from 2.00p.m. to 6.00p.m., at the hotel Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa 5*, local standards (or similar).
  • Lunch at the hotel.
  • Visits and transfers as mentioned in the programme.
  • Services of our local representative.

Your programme does not include:

  • The availability of your room outside the hours mentioned above.
  • Dinner.
  • Tips for the driver and the guide.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Other services not mentioned in the programme.

Please note:

  • The check-out time at the hotel Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa is at 6.00p.m.
  • As respecting the environment is important to us, we highly recommend you take your filled Ponant water bottle with you after your cruise, so you can use it on shore and avoid the use of plastic bottles whenever it is not strictly necessary.

Contacts of your hotel:

Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa
Denarau Island
Nadi, Fiji Islands
Telephone number: +679 675 1111

To know your PAUL GAUGUIN flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Total : $760

Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.