Ponant gives the Paul Gauguin, Queen of Polynesia, a new lease of luxury life

• The MS Paul Gauguin has had a refit – and there is more to come
• With Tahiti suddenly on everyone’s bucket list, owners Ponant Explorations pushing the brand that is synonymous with French Polynesia.
• Cruise Passenger had a special tour of the vessel before her first departure – and she is more impressive than ever.

Some ships are a brand in themselves. Paul Gauguin, the 28-year-old Queen of French Polynesia, is one of those vessels.

The Grand Dame of French Polynesian cruising has just emerged from a multi-million-dollar Singapore refit that has transformed restaurants, created a new and luxurious pool deck and introduced eight connected suites for the new trend of multi-generational or group cruising.

She is as bright as a button and almost as good as new (there is another refit down the track to take care of even more upgrades).

But there is more to this story. She is also a symbol of a new direction for her owners, Ponant Explorations Group.

The beloved French small ship luxury line, a favourite with Australians for both its Kimberley adventures and its iconic ice itineraries, has changed its name. The word ‘Explorations’ has been added to separate this dedicated adventure line from the champagne-swilling upstart hotel yachts springing up everywhere and confusing this market segment.

Not that Ponant Explorations Group is averse to swilling champagne. Far from it. But its beating heart is adventure and exploration, and it wants to be sure everyone knows this. Particularly as it grows into a global company.

The group acquired Paul Gauguin from a local Tahitian hotelier in 2019, and recently added Aqua Expeditions, a five-ship luxury line that includes three river ships on the Amazon and Mekong.

Paul Gauguin’s itineraries are exploration. She journeys frequently to remote islands and areas of Polynesia rarely seen by others. And with just over 300 passengers, she is a small luxury ship with fine French dining and plenty of Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve.

Deb Corbett, CEO of the company in Asia Pacific, explains: “It shows that we want to continue building a strong portfolio of brands that are each leaders in exploration or leaders in destination-focused voyages.

“They’ll be under our umbrella, but it’s really important that each of them remain true to their own DNA. They all share a common passion for discovery, environmental stewardship and enriching travel experiences.

“For us, it’s not about just scaling for the sake of scaling. It’s about thoughtful growth.”

Which brings us back to the Paul Gauguin, now sporting a creamier more sophisticated hull colour and the three sails of Ponant’s first yacht (the name Paul Gauguin is now nearer the bows in Ponant typography) on her funnel.

These are subtle changes for a ship whose devoted North American fans represent a crucial market and who recognise her by her name.

Cruise Passenger was in Darwin for a sneak peek at her new interiors. We sailed on her three years ago, so we can attest that she has never been in better shape. See our review here.

Her wonderful woodwork and carpentry in the owners’ suites remain works of art. Her beautiful wall murals representing Tahiti’s rich greens and yellows continue to adorn the Piano Bar and traditional French main dining room, L’Etoile.

This ship was specifically designed to sail 330 guests through the stunning lagoons of French Polynesia and the azure waters of the South Pacific. Her shallow draft of just over five metres means she is perfect for sneaking into the lagoons in safety, and her marine deck allows for water sports and diving.

Her captain, Michel Quoic, is a devotee. He worked as a young lieutenant on the bridge of the ship 20 years ago. He returned three years ago to take command and loves the region she sails in.

He is proud to have brought the vessel up to modern standards, including many sustainability upgrades, a new look for Le Grill restaurant and the pool deck and new soft furnishings throughout the ship.

See the captain interviewed here.

Paul Gauguin has seen an increase in families on board since launching its successful free Moana Explorer Program in 2020. The program provides activities for children aged six to 15, making Paul Gauguin Cruises the only year-round cruise line in French Polynesia to offer family-friendly experiences.

The changes couldn’t have come at a better time. Despite sailing French Polynesia almost alone for two decades, suddenly, pretenders are on the horizon. This year will see a record number of lines heading to Tahiti. And we know why.

It’s a cultural haven with friendly, hip-swinging, ukulele-playing islanders who love making tourists welcome.  We’re just surprised it has taken so long to be discovered.

It’s only four hours (excluding the pesky New Zealand stopover) from Australia.

What’s changed aboard Paul Gauguin

• Connecting Staterooms:
  Eight new connecting staterooms on Deck 7 will cater to the growing trend of multi-generational travel, which Paul Gauguin Cruises anticipated when launching its successful Moana Explorer Program in 2020. This complimentary program, offered on select summer and holiday voyages, provides engaging activities for children aged six to 15, making Paul Gauguin Cruises the only year-round cruise line in French Polynesia to offer such a family-friendly experience.
• Le Grill:
  Boasting floor-to-ceiling views, this popular indoor/outdoor restaurant adjacent to the pool has received a complete makeover. White and wood screens, ceramic tiles, and stylish bamboo light fixtures, soft oak furnishings are now its hallmarks. The restaurant has open-seating breakfast buffets, casual lunches, and dinner by reservation, showcasing authentic Polynesian and international specialities.
• Pool Deck:
  A huge white canopy will provide shade over cabana-like seating on the port side of the newly refinished teak pool deck. White chaise loungers create the setting for sunshine and scenic views.
• Pool Bar:
  The Pool Bar now features the same white wood-carved screens as Le Grill. There is new lighting for a soft, ambient evening glow.
• New soft furnishings:
  Throughout the ship, public spaces and staterooms have reupholstered furnishings, new carpeting in a tropically chic palette, and woodwork restorations, ensuring a modern and elegant look.
• Sustainability Upgrades:
  Reflecting Ponant Expeditions’ commitment to environmental sustainability, Paul Gauguin Cruises will introduce cutting-edge technology to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Energy performance upgrades include advanced heat recovery systems, efficient chillers, and an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) system to generate electricity from heat. A new seawater treatment system will produce fresh water onboard, while the Nordaq filtration system will eliminate plastic water bottles, significantly reducing single-use plastics. Additionally, waste management improvements will include a glass crusher and a cardboard compactor for efficient recycling.

What you get on the voyages

• Authentic Cultural Experiences: Be welcomed by local hosts Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines, who bring Polynesia to life through storytelling, traditional dance, music, and engaging workshops.
• Shore Excursions: Connect with local heritage on excursions to sacred marae sites, participate in traditional Polynesian ceremonies, and explore the vibrant local culture.
• Exclusive Island Access: Enjoy private experiences in Bora Bora or on Motu Mahana, an exclusive islet off the coast of Taha’a. Whether kayaking, snorkelling, meditating or simply soaking in the serene beauty, every moment is infused with the island’s tranquil spirit.
• Effortless Exploration: Seamlessly visit multiple islands without the hassle of unpacking or transfers.
• Beyond the Usual Path: Venture to remote destinations such as the Tuamotus, Marquesas, and Cook Islands, offering a unique perspective on the region’s untouched beauty and cultural richness.

New itineraries for 2025

After its refurbishment, Paul Gauguin will sail two brand-new itineraries in April and May 2025, showcasing stunning destinations across Indonesia, Melanesia, and the South Pacific.

Indonesia’s Sacred Temples and Natural Sanctuaries (15 Days)

Islands visited: Bangka Island, Java (Semarang and Surabaya), Bali, Komodo, Timor (Dili)
Summary:
Embark on a 15-day voyage from Singapore to Darwin, exploring Indonesia’s cultural heritage and natural wonders. Begin on the pristine shores of Bangka Island before discovering the ancient marvel of Borobudur from Semarang. In Surabaya, delve into the colonial past of the “City of Heroes,” then experience the spiritual charm of Bali with its lush rice terraces and iconic temples. Encounter Komodo dragons in Komodo National Park, and visit Dili, the capital of Timor-Leste, where untouched landscapes meet rich Portuguese heritage. Conclude the journey in Darwin, a vibrant multicultural city in Australia’s Northern Territory.

An Escapade in the Heart of Melanesia (17 Days)

Itinerary: Darwin – Lautoka, Viti Levu Island
Countries visited: Australia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Fiji
Summary:
Set sail on a 17-day voyage from Darwin to Lautoka aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin, exploring the breathtaking archipelagos of the South Pacific. Begin in Darwin, known for its rich cultural diversity, before sailing to Thursday Island in the Torres Strait. Experience the warm hospitality of Alotau and the historic charm of Samarai Island in Papua New Guinea.
Discover the untouched beauty of the Solomon Islands, be captivated by the unique ‘water music women’ in Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu, and explore vibrant markets in Port Vila. The journey concludes in Lautoka, Fiji, known as the gateway to the idyllic Sun Coast.

French Polynesian itineraries

After these new explorations, the m/s Paul Gauguin will return to sail the much-loved itineraries in French Polynesia, including:

• Tahiti & the Society Islands (8 Days): Visit Tahiti, Huahine, Taha’a, Bora Bora, and Moorea, featuring tranquil beaches, vibrant lagoons, and rich Polynesian heritage.
• Pearls of the Society Islands (8 Days): Discover the heart of French Polynesia, including Raiatea, the sacred birthplace of Polynesian culture.
• Cook Islands & Society Islands (12 Days): A blend of the Society Islands’ beauty with the remote wonders of the Cook Islands, including Aitutaki and Rarotonga.
• Society Islands & The Tuamotus (11 Days): Sail from volcanic peaks to remote coral atolls, including Fakarava, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
• Marquesas, The Tuamotus & Society Islands (15 Days): An epic journey from the rugged Marquesas to the lush Society Islands, showcasing the dramatic cliffs of Nuku Hiva and the artistic heritage of Hiva Oa.

For more, go here.