- DEALS
- AUSTRALIA CRUISE DEALS
- AFRICA, MIDDLE EAST & INDIAN OCEAN CRUISE DEALS
- ALASKA CRUISE DEALS
- ANTARCTICA CRUISE DEALS
- ARCTIC CRUISES
- ASIA CRUISE DEALS
- ATLANTIC ISLANDS CRUISE DEALS
- CARIBBEAN CRUISE DEALS
- CENTRAL AMERICA CRUISE DEALS
- CHRISTMAS CRUISES
- EUROPE CRUISES
- ICELAND CRUISES
- KIMBERLEY CRUISE DEALS
- MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE DEALS
- NEW ZEALAND CRUISE DEALS
- NORTH AMERICA CRUISE DEALS
- NORTHERN EUROPE & SCANDINAVIA CRUISE DEALS
- OCEANIA & PACIFIC ISLANDS CRUISE DEALS
- SOLO TRAVELLER CRUISE DEALS
- SOUTH AMERICA CRUISE DEALS
- TAHITI, TONGA & COOK ISLANDS
- TRANSATLANTIC CRUISE DEALS
- LATEST PONANT CRUISE DEALS
- All dealsSee all
- DESTINATIONS
- SHIPS
- EXPERIENCES
- LUXURY EXPEDITION CRUISES
- LUXURY YACHT CRUISES
- SMALL SHIP CRUISES
- EXPEDITION CRUISES
- LUXURY ADVENTURE CRUISES
- KIMBERLEY CRUISES
- POLAR CRUISES
- WILDLIFE CRUISES
- CULTURAL CRUISES
- PHOTOGRAPHY CRUISES
- SOLO CRUISES
- FAMILY LUXURY CRUISES
- LUXURY HONEYMOON CRUISES
- LUXURY CRUISES FOR COUPLES
- A DIFFERENT WAY TO CRUISE
- OUR VIDEOS
- PLAN YOUR CRUISE
- CRUISE THEMES
- ABOUT
PREV
NEXT
11 Days | Papeete, Tahiti Island (French Polynesia) to Papeete, Tahiti Island (French Polynesia)
Escape to the extraordinary beauty of French Polynesia on the Society Islands & The Tuamotus PONANT Cruise Deal.
This 11-day voyage aboard Le Paul Gauguin takes you from Papeete through some of the most spectacular islands and atolls of the South Pacific, combining turquoise lagoons, volcanic landscapes, vibrant marine life and authentic Polynesian culture.
From the legendary beauty of Bora Bora to the underwater wonders of Rangiroa and Fakarava, this is a journey designed for travellers who want to experience French Polynesia in comfort, style and exceptional surroundings.
FROM $9,520 AUD PER PERSON*
| Ship | LE PAUL GAUGUIN | View Cabins | View Deck Plans |
| Departure Date | 02 December 2026 |
| Other Available Cruise dates |
*Last updated 13 September 2026. |
| Return Date | 12 December 2026 |
| Duration | 11 Days / 10 Nights |
| Departure Port | Papeete, Tahiti Islands (French Polynesia) |
| Arrival Port | Papeete, Tahiti Islands (French Polynesia) |
| Price From | AU$9,520 per person* |
| Offer | Back-to-back offer + Onboard credit + Free solo supplement + Tempting Tahiti + PONANT Bonus 20% |
*Prices are per person based on double occupancy, subject to availability and change. PONANT Bonus conditions apply. Contact BlueSun Travel at 1300 799 758 for current pricing and availability.
French Polynesia is one of the world's most spectacular cruising destinations.
On this PONANT Tahiti cruise, you'll discover islands surrounded by brilliant turquoise lagoons, lush vegetation and coral reefs filled with marine life.
The Society Islands offer a combination of beautiful landscapes and Polynesian culture, while the Tuamotus provide a more remote experience centred around coral atolls and exceptional underwater environments.
With Le Paul Gauguin designed specifically for cruising these shallow South Pacific waters, the journey combines relaxed luxury with the opportunity to discover some of French Polynesia's most iconic destinations.
BLUE LAGOONS AND TROPICAL LANDSCAPES
The scenery is one of the great attractions of this French Polynesia cruise.
Expect lush green mountains, palm-fringed beaches, coral reefs and impossibly clear lagoons as you travel between the islands.
Bora Bora provides the iconic volcanic backdrop, while Moorea combines dramatic mountains with tropical landscapes. The Tuamotus offer a very different character, with low-lying coral atolls surrounded by extraordinary blue water.
One of the greatest advantages of this Society Islands and Tuamotus cruise is the variety of destinations included.
Bora Bora
Spend extended time discovering the legendary beauty of Bora Bora, where Mount Otemanu rises above a spectacular turquoise lagoon.
The itinerary includes two full days around Bora Bora, providing more time to enjoy the island and its remarkable surroundings.
Rangiroa
Rangiroa is the largest atoll in French Polynesia and is renowned for its spectacular underwater environment.
The atoll is particularly famous for its black pearls and marine life, with opportunities to explore the lagoon and discover colourful fish, rays and sharks.
Fakarava
Fakarava is a UNESCO-classified nature reserve and one of the highlights of the Tuamotus.
Its vast lagoon and coral reefs create an extraordinary setting for exploring the underwater world, with opportunities to encounter sharks, rays and colourful tropical fish.
Moorea
Before returning to Papeete, discover Moorea, one of French Polynesia's most beautiful islands.
Lush mountains, tropical vegetation and clear surrounding waters create the perfect finale to your South Pacific journey.
This PONANT voyage is about more than beautiful scenery.
Guests can experience aspects of Polynesian culture through local traditions, music, dancing and activities hosted by Polynesian hosts known as the Gauguines and Gauguins.
Raiatea is particularly significant, combining lush natural surroundings with an important place in Polynesian heritage.
For travellers interested in discovering the culture behind the postcard-perfect scenery, this itinerary provides a more meaningful way to experience the Society Islands.
The Tuamotus are particularly appealing to travellers who love the ocean.
Rangiroa and Fakarava are known for their rich underwater environments, creating opportunities to discover coral reefs and tropical marine life.
Depending on the conditions and activities available during the voyage, guests may encounter:
- Manta rays
- Eagle rays
- Reef sharks
- Sea turtles
- Colourful tropical fish
- Other marine life
The PONANT listing also identifies diving and introductory diving as activities associated with this voyage, with diving opportunities available with an experienced instructor for appropriately qualified guests.
Wildlife and marine-life sightings are not guaranteed and activities are subject to local conditions and applicable requirements.
Motu Mahana offers one of the most relaxed experiences of the voyage.
This private islet provides the perfect setting to enjoy the warm South Pacific surroundings, with white sand, swaying palms and clear tropical waters.
Guests can relax on the beach, enjoy a barbecue lunch and experience the laid-back atmosphere of French Polynesia.
It is the kind of day that captures the slower pace and natural beauty of the South Pacific.
Our journey takes place aboard Le Paul Gauguin, a PONANT ship specifically designed for cruising the shallow waters of French Polynesia.
The ship offers an intimate and relaxed atmosphere while maintaining the refined service and comfort associated with PONANT.
Rather than simply using the ship as transportation between islands, the experience combines the destination with elegant onboard living.
After a day exploring lagoons, beaches and islands, return to the ship to relax, dine and enjoy the scenery from the deck.
A balance of relaxation, culture and exploration
This itinerary is particularly appealing if you want a luxury cruise that combines:
- Iconic South Pacific islands
- Tropical beaches and turquoise lagoons
- Polynesian culture
- Marine-life encounters
- Snorkelling and diving opportunities
- Scenic cruising
- Small-ship luxury
- French-inspired hospitality
- Time to relax and enjoy the destination
It is a particularly good choice for travellers who want to experience French Polynesia by small luxury ship, rather than simply staying at one island resort.
See more of French Polynesia in one journey
A luxury cruise through the Society Islands and Tuamotus allows you to experience several destinations without repeatedly packing and unpacking or arranging separate inter-island transfers.
PONANT's small-ship approach also provides a more intimate cruising experience than a conventional large cruise ship.
The focus is on the destination, with time to explore islands, enjoy the water, discover local culture and return to the comfort of your ship.
If you're considering other destinations, visit our PONANT French Polynesia Cruises guide for more South Pacific inspiration.
Save More on Your Society Islands & Tuamotus Cruise
The current PONANT listing features several offers for this tropical voyage, including:
BACK-TO-BACK OFFER
Travellers extending their journey with consecutive PONANT voyages may be eligible for a Back-to-Back Offer, providing added value when combining itineraries.
ONBOARD CREDIT
Eligible bookings may receive Onboard Credit to enjoy additional experiences during your PONANT voyage.
FREE SOLO SUPPLEMENT
Eligible solo travellers can take advantage of the current Free Solo Supplement offer, subject to availability and applicable conditions.
TEMPTING TAHITI
Travellers may also benefit from the current Tempting Tahiti offer, designed to add extra value to selected PONANT journeys in French Polynesia.
PONANT BONUS 20%*
The voyage is currently advertised with a PONANT Bonus of up to 20%*, offering significant savings on selected departures.
Offers, inclusions and pricing are subject to change and availability. Speak with BlueSun Travel for the latest deal and applicable conditions.
Elegant accommodation for your South Pacific journey
Le Paul Gauguin offers a range of accommodation categories, from window and porthole staterooms to balcony staterooms and suites.
Choosing the right cabin can make a significant difference to your experience, particularly when you're planning a special French Polynesia holiday.
For Cabin availability and pricing, call BlueSun Travel 1300 799 758 now!
The Society Islands & Tuamotus voyage may be particularly appealing if you:
- Dream of visiting Bora Bora and Tahiti
- Want to explore the Tuamotus
- Love tropical beaches and lagoons
- Enjoy snorkelling or diving
- Want to experience Polynesian culture
- Prefer small luxury ships
- Want to combine relaxation with exploration
- Enjoy beautiful scenery and photography
- Want to visit several French Polynesian islands in one journey
- Prefer an intimate alternative to large-ship cruising
If your priority is a luxury South Pacific cruise with a strong focus on scenery, culture and marine experiences, this itinerary deserves a place on your shortlist.
The capital of French Polynesia, Papeete sits on the north-west coast of Tahiti, offering a relaxed blend of urban energy and the famously laid-back Polynesian lifestyle. The city is rich in culture and history, with landmarks such as the colonial cathedral and Maison de la Reine Marau offering a glimpse into the archipelago’s past.
Nature lovers can explore the lush Vaipahi Gardens, known for their abundant tropical plant life and peaceful surroundings. For an authentic taste of local life, visit the bustling municipal market, where stalls are filled with fresh tropical fruit, fragrant spices and a wide selection of locally caught fish.
Listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Fakarava is a narrow coral atoll surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Its vast lagoon captivates travellers with an extraordinary range of colours, from brilliant turquoise to deep blue. Renowned for its pristine beaches and untouched natural beauty, Fakarava is also celebrated for its rich marine life. The atoll gained international attention through the Gombessa 2 and Gombessa 4 expeditions, which explored its fascinating populations of camouflage groupers and reef sharks.
A secluded atoll in the Tuamotu Archipelago, Rangiroa takes its name from the Polynesian words meaning “vast sky” — a fitting description for this extraordinary destination. The largest atoll in Polynesia is surrounded by a vast lagoon, where hundreds of sandy islets stretch across waters ranging from brilliant turquoise to deep blue, with beaches of pristine white and soft pink sand.
Renowned by Captain Cousteau as one of the world’s most beautiful diving destinations, Rangiroa is perhaps even more spectacular beneath the surface. Snorkelling and glass-bottom boat excursions offer the chance to discover its remarkable marine life and vibrant underwater world. Rangiroa is also an important centre of Polynesian pearl cultivation, adding another fascinating dimension to this remote island paradise.
Located less than 200 kilometres north-west of Tahiti, Huahine is a hidden gem in French Polynesia. Its lush landscapes, dramatic contours and wild vegetation create a captivating atmosphere, while secluded creeks and remote corners invite you to explore beyond the usual tourist trail.
Discover both sides of the island — Grande Huahine to the north and Petite Huahine to the south — and uncover hidden treasures, including archaeological remains that offer a glimpse into Polynesia’s rich past. In the main town of Fare and the coastal villages, you can also experience the warm character of local island life and meet the people who call Huahine home.
A paradisiacal atoll in the Leeward Islands of French Polynesia, mythical Bora Bora is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. Its pristine white-sand beaches surround a famous turquoise lagoon, where colourful tropical fish thrive in crystal-clear waters.
Lush tropical vegetation blankets the island, while the majestic silhouette of Mount Otemanu rises dramatically above the landscape. Exploring Bora Bora offers the opportunity to discover its volcanic scenery, visit charming villages and connect with local communities, adding a cultural dimension to this spectacular island paradise.
A volcanic island located between Huahine and Bora Bora, Raiatea is often regarded as the cultural and spiritual heart of Polynesia. The island is home to some of the oldest traces of Polynesian settlement and, according to legend, was once considered the birthplace of the gods.
Its rich heritage can be discovered at historic sites such as the Te-Po religious centre and Marae Taputapuatea, one of the most important sacred sites in Polynesia, featuring a traditional stone and coral altar. While Raiatea is not known for extensive beaches, its natural beauty is undeniable. Lush landscapes, dramatic volcanic scenery and idyllic coral islets create a captivating setting, with secluded coves scattered throughout the surrounding waters.
With your feet in the sand, Motu Mahana offers an unforgettable escape on a private islet in the heart of the Taha’a lagoon. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters in endless shades of turquoise, this idyllic Polynesian paradise provides the perfect setting for a traditional barbecue and a memorable taste of island life. The lagoon’s vibrant marine life also invites you to admire colourful tropical fish in their natural surroundings.
Beyond the lagoon, the volcanic island of Taha’a rises beneath the majestic peaks of Mount Ohiri and Mount Puurauti. Its fertile, lush landscapes provide ideal conditions for cultivating two of French Polynesia’s most treasured products: black pearls and vanilla. Known as the Vanilla Island, Taha’a is particularly famous for its fragrant vanilla, a prized ingredient beloved by gourmets around the world.
Part of the Windward Islands archipelago, just west of Tahiti, Mo’orea is a captivating island of turquoise waters, lush landscapes and dramatic mountain scenery. Relax on its heavenly beaches, swim in the crystal-clear lagoon and discover the island’s vibrant vegetation, where fragrant tropical flowers fill the inland valleys.
For some of the most spectacular views of Mo’orea, head to the Belvedere. From this elevated viewpoint, the majestic Mount Rotui rises between Opunohu Bay and its verdant valley on one side, and the iconic Cook’s Bay on the other. Surrounded by jagged, cathedral-like peaks, these breathtaking landscapes showcase the natural beauty that makes Mo’orea so unforgettable.
Capital of French Polynesia, the city of Papeete is on the north-west coast of the island of Tahiti. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere here,where urban buzz combines with the legendary laid-back Polynesian lifestyle. Culture is not lacking. You can enjoy sites narrating the history of the archipelago, including the colonial cathedral and the Maison de la reine Marau. The Vaipahi public gardens will win you over by their abundant plant-life. The large municipal market offers local specialities: fresh fruit, spices and all kinds of fish abound on their stalls.
For more information on our Society Islands & the Tuamotus Cruise Deal, or other cruise packages,
Call 1300 799 758 now.
Call us 7 days a week!