Paul Gauguin Cruises
Cook Islands & Society Islands
The South Pacific puts on quite a show, and the region’s incredible diversity of scenery is front and center on this 11-night journey through the Cook and Society Islands. From the rugged terrain of Rarotonga and coral reef-lined lagoon of Aitutaki to the jaw-dropping beauty of bucket-list mainstays Bora Bora and Moorea, you’ll be hard-pressed to pick your favorite port.
Highlights
- Hidden beneath the emerald foliage on the “Garden Island” of Huahine, you’ll find hidden temples surrounded by rare orchids, ancient archeological sites, and panoramic views that are sure to take your breath away. What more could you ask for?
- Spend two long, luxurious days in storied Bora Bora. You’ve seen the photos and magazine covers, but the real deal is even more beautiful than you could have ever imagined. Take it all in with a dip in the lagoon or a sunset sail.
- Live the life idyllic with a memorable day on Motu Mahana, our own private slice of paradise. On this exclusive islet, treat yourself to sand between your toes, the shade of swaying palm trees, a sumptuous barbecue lunch, and, of course, drinks sipped from coconuts
| Day 1 |
Papeete, Tahiti Island |
| Day 2 |
Huahine, Society Islands Arrive Time: 8:00 AM – Depart Time: 5:00 PM
|
| Day 3 |
At Sea |
| Day 4 |
Aitutaki Arrive Time: 8:00 AM – Depart Time: 6:00 PM
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| Day 5 |
Rarotonga Arrive Time: 9:00 AM – Depart Time: 5:00 PM
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| Day 6 |
At Sea |
| Day 7 |
Bora Bora, Society Islands |
| Day 8 |
Bora Bora, Society Islands |
| Day 9 |
Motu Mahana, Taha'a Island, Society Islands Arrive Time: 8:00 AM – Depart Time: 5:00 PM
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| Day 10 |
Moorea Island |
| Day 11 |
Moorea Island |
| Day 11 |
Papeete, Tahiti Island |
| Day 12 |
Papeete, Tahiti Island |
Aitutaki
Aitutaki
A visit to the Cook Islands is not complete without seeing the beautiful island of Aitutaki, 220 km north of Rarotonga and less than an hours flight away. Aitutaki is the second most visited of the magical Cook Islands and is recommended as a “must see” extension of your Rarotonga holiday. Day trips are also popular.
Partly volcanic and (in parts) of atoll origin, its highest hill, Maungapu (124 meters) is said to be the top of Rarotonga’s Raemaru Peak brought back by victorious Aitutaki warriors. Its large and spectacular lagoon (45 kms round) teems with colored fish of many varieties and many small and charming uninhabited islands (motus), are sprinkled along the fringes of the outer lagoon. This is a place of great natural beauty and tranquility, where crystal clear waters and
swaying palms provide a simple tonic to sooth away the pressures of the outside world.
With the arrival of Reverend John Williams, Aitutaki became the first island to receive Christianity back in 1821. The first Polynesian explorer was Ru from Raiatea in the Society Islands, while Captain William Bligh of “Bounty” fame is credited with being the first European to sight the island in 1789. Aitutaki was also a favorite stop for whalers in the 1950’s and in 1888 the British flag was raised and Aitutaki and Rarotonga were included in the boundaries of New Zealand.
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
04/15/23 - 04/26/23 |
Starting At $5,550 |
Room Options
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|
05/20/23 - 05/31/23 |
Starting At $6,240 |
Room Options
|
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|
09/09/23 - 09/20/23 |
Starting At $6,240 |
Room Options
|
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|
10/28/23 - 11/08/23 |
Starting At $6,240 |
Room Options
|
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|
04/13/24 - 04/24/24 |
Starting At $5,580 |
Room Options
|
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|
09/28/24 - 10/09/24 |
Starting At $5,980 |
Room Options
|
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|
11/30/24 - 12/11/24 |
Starting At $5,580 |
Room Options
|
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The rates of our cruises are per person and include the following:
- All meals while on board the ship (from dinner on the day of embarkation to breakfast on the day of disembarkation
- Captain’s welcome cocktail gala dinner
- “Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except for premium brands (List available upon request))
- Evening entertainment and events
- Room service 24h (special selection)
- English speaking lecturer on select sailings
- Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite
- Highly experienced bilingual (French-English) Expedition team for all cruises identified as Expeditions
- Park Entry fees into protected areas
- Port fees and safety taxes
- Gratuities to onboard crew, local guides and drivers
Cruise rates do not include:
- Any ground services before and/or after the cruise unless otherwise specified
- Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions mentioned in the cruise
- Airport taxes (other than those indicated as included on specific programs)
- Visa expenses and/or immigration reciprocity taxes if applicable
- Luggage handling
- Wi-fi
- Optional shore excursions
- Beverages other than those mentioned above
- Laundry services, hair salon and ala carte spa treatments
- Personal expenses, on board medical consultations and drug prescriptions
- Cancellation/luggage/assistance/repatriation/medical and evacuation insurance(s)