Day 1: Embark the m/s Paul Gauguin in Papeete, Tahiti
Begin your voyage through paradise in the capital of Tahiti, the largest and most populated of the French Polynesian islands. There you'll embark the luxurious yet casual m/s Paul Gauguin. With an endless choice of things to do, from relaxing poolside with a book to playing the slots in the casino, you will never be bored
Day 2: Huahine, Society Islands
Today, you'll call on Huahine, known as the “Garden Island” for its lush rainforests and dramatic terrain
While there, you might explore the island’s sacred sites and legendary landmarks that are among the best-preserved archaeological remains in French Polynesia
Enjoy snorkeling or SCUBA diving in the expansive lagoon. Or picnic on the beach
Day 3: Taha'a (Motu Mahana)
Motu Mahana, an islet adjacent to Taha'a, is a very own South Seas paradise, featuring white-sand beaches with swaying palms, crystal-clear waters, and gentle breezes
As an exclusive Paul Gauguin event, you will spend a full day on this idyllic island, pursuing your own pleasures from swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking in the turquoise lagoon to playing volleyball, learn Tahitian cooking secrets, or simply relaxing on the beach. Also included is a delicious barbecue lunch and Polynesian entertainment featuring strolling musicians and singers
Day 4: Bora Bora
Immediately recognizable by Mount Otemanu rising from the ocean, this half-atoll, half-mountain is surrounded by a spectacular lagoon and a series of smaller islands. Ancient Polynesians called it Parapora, or “firstborn,” because they thought it was the first island created after Raiatea
Day 5: Bora Bora
Explore more of this magical isle on your own or on a choice of optional shore excursions
Choose from several, like a jitney tour on “Le Truck,” a 4-wheel-drive safari, or a glass-bottom boat ride
Back on board and sailing before dinner, enjoying a relaxing evening on board
Day 6: Moorea
Graced with an abundance of fresh fruits and flowers, spectacular mountain peaks, peaceful multi-hued lagoons, and palm-fringed beaches, Moorea boasts an awesome beauty that is unsurpassed
During your visit, you might wish to shop for local crafts, embark on a dolphin-watching expedition with a marine biologist and witness these fascinating animals in their amazing natural habitat, or try out some of the local pineapples, said to be the most delicious in all of French Polynesia
An overnight here affords us two full days to explore the gorgeous island
Day 7: Moorea/Papeete (Tahiti)
Explore more of this peaceful oasis. Perhaps you will choose to trek on the “Trails of the Ancients” or snorkel one of the world's most beautiful lagoons. At the end of the afternoon, cruise to home port in Papeete, docking for the night
Day 8: Disembark in Papeete
Cap off your epic journey where it all began. You won't be the same as when you first set sail – these exotic isles are said to touch people in magical ways
