When the gentle sway of crystalline waters nudges you awake and the aroma of fresh coffee mingles with the salt air, you know you're in for another extraordinary day aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin. This intimate vessel, carrying no more than 330 adventurers, serves as your floating home base—an overwater “bungalow” that sails, if you will—for exploring the legendary islands of French Polynesia.

Picture this: coral atolls so blue they seem painted, mountains rising like emerald pyramids from the sea, and a culture as warm and welcoming as the tropical sun. From the Society Islands' fabled lagoons to the UNESCO-listed treasures of the Tuamotus and the mystical Marquesas, every moment aboard The Gauguin promises something spectacular.

A Typical Day on Board The Gauguin
(though nothing about it is typical at all!)

Taking in spectacular views while dining on gourmet food and in the comfort of your own balcony is another version of paradise. 

Guests are serenaded by our Les Gauguines, with lovely folkloric songs that speak of the old days of Polynesian life. 

3 PM: Cultural Immersion 

Here's where The Gauguin truly shines. You're whisked away to Motu Mahana, the ship's private motu (islet)—a pristine slice of paradise exclusively for guests. Under swaying palms, Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins, the ship's cultural ambassadors, share traditional dance, music, and stories. It's not just watching Polynesian culture; it's participating in it, learning to tie pareos, weave palm fronds, or master a few steps of the tamure dance.

A bowl of fragrant tiare flowers welcome you to your peaceful and indulgent self-care sanctuary, the spa. 

4 PM: Indulgence and Serenity 

Time to pamper yourself. Perhaps a traditional Polynesian massage at The Gauguin’s Algotherm® Dermo Ocean Spa, where treatments incorporate local ingredients like monoï oil and tropical scents. Or maybe you prefer a workout at the fitness center with its ocean views, or simply lounging on the pool deck with a brewed cup of tea (served daily at 4 PM, naturally), a good book, and incredible views.

Sunsets are even more beautiful in French Polynesia.

6 PM: Sunset Cocktails 

As the day winds down, gather on deck with fellow travelers (many now friends) for sundowner cocktails. Watch as the sky transforms into an artist's palette—fiery oranges melting into deep magentas, reflected in the translucence of mirror-like lagoons. It's the moment when everyone falls silent and you realize you're witnessing something truly magical. The bartenders craft signature cocktails with fresh tropical fruits, Les Gauguines perform traditional dances, and there's always that delightful Polynesian music drifting on the breeze.

Gourmet dining at sea at its best aboard Paul Gauguin Cruises.

7 PM: Culinary Excellence 

Dinner aboard The Gauguin is a celebration. The ship's expert chefs, trained in the finest culinary traditions, blend classical French techniques with Polynesian flavors, creating dishes that surprise and delight. Fresh local seafood, tender lamb, organic vegetables from island gardens—each meal is an adventure unto itself. Three unique restaurants—La Veranda for fine dining on French-inspired menus, Le Grill for Asian-Pacific island cuisine enjoyed al fresco, and L’Etoile featuring an ever-changing menu of international and Polynesian fare—foster conversation and new friendships, as stories of the day's adventures are shared over an endless pour of perfectly paired wines..

Guests enjoy live entertainment courtesy of our onboard Les Gauguines who share their culture with pride. 

9 PM: Island Entertainment 

As darkness falls, the real party begins. Les Gauguines take the stage with traditional songs, drums, and ukuleles that get everybody's toes tapping. Often, local performers from each island are invited aboard to share their unique cultural expressions—fire dancing, traditional chants, or the hypnotic rhythms of the pahu drum. Before you know it, guests are learning traditional dances, and the line between audience and performers beautifully blurs.

This is more than a cruise; it's a complete immersion into the soul of French Polynesia. Every day The Gauguin offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, cultural discovery and luxurious comfort. Whether you're snorkeling with sharks at dawn, learning to crack coconuts at noon, or dancing under the stars at night, the magic of these islands weaves itself into every moment.

As you drift off to sleep in your comfortable stateroom or suite, lulled by gentle waves and distant island melodies, you'll find yourself already dreaming of tomorrow's adventures. After all, in paradise, every day promises new wonders to discover.

Find your perfect voyage here and explore paradise with French Polynesia’s destination expert.