Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
30% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
Secret Polynesia from the Society to the Austral Islands
Papeete, Tahiti Island - Papeete, Tahiti Island
Dates:
13/12/2026
to
27/12/2026
Other available dates
days
nights on board
At the edges of the world, set off on an all-new adventure discovering Polynesia’s best-kept secrets. Far off the beaten path, the shores of Tuamotu, the wild Gambier Islands and the Austral archipelago will unveil their sovereign nature and insular culture, which is very much still alive. Atolls just above the water, turquoise lagoons, fine sandy beaches and cliffs sculpted by the ocean serve as a decor for the special ports of call and the activities designed hand-in-hand with the local communities. Sail from island to island, encountering their unique traditions and fascinating ecosystems.
Ref : EX131226
Your itinerary
Discover the Gambier and Austral archipelagos, little-known territories that are among the wildest and the most isolated in Polynesia. Immersion in the heart of typical landscapes (lagoons, coral reefs,...
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Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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LE PAUL GAUGUIN
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Selection of Clarins top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
This cruise can include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Naturalist team may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
- Light weight long trousers
- Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
- Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
- Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming
- Aquatic non-slip sandals
- Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
- Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
- Comfortable walking shoes
Accessories:
- Snorkelling equipment will be offered onboard (for adults only).
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Please note:
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
- Shorts / bermudas
- Light weight long trousers
- Wind and waterproof light “breathable” outer layer
- Sweater/pullover for the evening
- Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
- Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
- Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
- Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
- Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Mosquito and insect repellent
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Diving
Supervision of the dives
Your dives will be led by your PONANT instructor. He will take care of your safety and that all goes smoothly. On some diving sites, as in natural reserves or if the local regulations require it, a local guide will escort the diving.
Level required for scuba diving on this cruise
The minimum level required for scuba diving on this cruise is 1 star CMAS or the PADI Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to our main diving instructor.
Process of the dives (certified divers)
The instructor reserves the right to check divers’ ability for maximum safety. As we will dive in remote places, the dives will be done without decompression stop. A safety stop of 3 minutes at 5 metres will be mandatory. The depth that can be reached will depend on the certification of the divers:
- For those with PADI Open Water Diver certificate (or equivalent), the maximum depth can be up to 20 metres.
- If two PADI Advanced Open Water Divers (or equivalent) wish to dive together independently, they must have a briefing first. They must have dive computers and are allowed to go to a maximum depth of 20 metres.
Duration of the dives
The diving activity lasts from 2 to 3 hours, which includes the journey to the diving site and the diving. This duration may vary according to the site, the level of divers, weather conditions and the number of participants. For experienced divers, the duration of dives varies between 35 and 60 minutes depending on the site, the diver’s experience and consumption.
Supplied equipment
- Diving wetsuit
- Stabilising jacket
- Regulator with octopus and pressure gauge
- Diving computer (for divers mastering their use)
- Fins
Mask and snorkel: for health reasons due to Covid-19, we strongly recommend that you come on board with your own mask and snorkel .As an exception, you will be able to borrow them in accordance with sanitary conditions.
The passenger may participate in scuba diving activities, subject to compliance with certain conditions established in accordance with the health, scientific and medical measures applicable on the day of the dive.
* within the limit of available stock.
Highlights
- Discover the Gambier and Austral archipelagos, little-known territories that are among the wildest and the most isolated in Polynesia.
- Immersion in the heart of typical landscapes (lagoons, coral reefs, atolls, lush mountains) and authentic encounters with insular communities from one little-known port of call to another.
- Included activities designed and operated with local guides and transport or led by our naturalist guides, subject to capacity.
Ports of Call & Excursions
13 December 2026 - Papeete, Tahiti Island
Embarkation 13/12/2026 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 13/12/2026 at 6:00 pm
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.
14 December 2026 - Fakarava, Tuamotu Islands
Arrival 14/12/2026
Departure 14/12/2026
Listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Fakarava’s coral ellipsis is a narrow stretch of land sitting on a crystal-clear sea. Travellers here are surprised by the immensity of the lagoon, whose colours evoke an infinite palette. The atoll, renowned for its immaculate beaches and preserved nature, is home to rare bird species, plants and crustaceans.
15 December 2026 - Anaa, Tuamotu Islands
Arrival 15/12/2026
Departure 15/12/2026
All the beauty of Polynesia is concentrated in Anaa Atoll, somewhere in the waters of the Pacific. Here, the most beautiful shades of blue and green are on display to create a heavenly setting. For the inhabitants of the Tuamotu archipelago, Anaa Atoll is intrinsically associated with the raids conducted by the so-called Parata warriors of old. In 1983, the island was completely destroyed by a cyclone that left behind only the Saint-Etienne de Tematahoa church, which remains standing elegantly on the edge of the beach to this day, against a backdrop of coconut trees. Featuring moments of relaxation and a dive into the history of Polynesia, the stop at Anaa promises to be unforgettable.
16 December 2026 - Hikueru
Arrival 16/12/2026
Departure 16/12/2026
An isolated atoll in the Tuamotus, Hikueru’s charm stems from the beauty of its landscapes and the authenticity of its inhabitants. Its crystal-clear lagoon, bordered by beaches of white sand and coral reefs, offers ideal conditions for scuba diving and snorkelling. On land, Polynesian songs, dances and handicrafts set the rhythm of daily life. Facing a calm horizon, explore the island at leisure, from a dugout canoe or by following the many paths.
17 December 2026 - At sea
Arrival 17/12/2026
Departure 17/12/2026
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
18 December 2026 - Aukena, Gambier Islands
Arrival 18/12/2026
Departure 18/12/2026
Located 5 kilometres southeast of Mangareva, Aukena is today the 4th-largest of the Gambier Islands in French Polynesia, with a population of around thirty inhabitants. This port of call will be an opportunity for you to dive into the past, to the era when Aukena was discovered by the sailor James Wilson in 1797. There are several remnants of this missionary period, such as the watchtower serving as a landmark on the southwest of the island or the Church of St. Raphael, constructed in 1839. These buildings nestling in the forest lead to sumptuous white sand beaches and turquoise waters. Take the time to explore this island in the Gambier archipelago, and get a taste of French Polynesia’s gentle way of life.
19 December 2026 - Rikitea, Gambier Islands
Arrival 19/12/2026
Departure 19/12/2026
Discover Mangareva, which means “floating mountain” in Polynesian. Located in the Gambier Islands, surrounded by a magnificent coral reef and blessed with generous vegetation, this island, a cradle of Catholicism, has exceptional cultural heritage, with many vestiges of religious buildings dating from the 19th century. Nestling in the heart of this historic site with idyllic landscapes, do not miss the small village of Rikitea, where one of Polynesia’s wonders, Saint Michael’s Cathedral, stands proudly, entirely built from coral and timber.
20 December 2026 - At sea
Arrival 20/12/2026
Departure 20/12/2026
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
21 December 2026 22 December 2026 - Rapa
Arrival 21/12/2026
Departure 22/12/2026
Wild and unspoilt Rapa is one of the best kept secrets of the Austral Islands. From majestic mountains to trails winding through lush forests and crystal-clear lagoons, everything here invites contemplation and exploration. In this mysterious land, Polynesian culture vibrates intensely to the rhythm of songs, dances and local traditions, and both the encounters and hikes immerse you in a timeless interlude.
23 December 2026 - Raivavae, Austral Islands
Arrival 23/12/2026
Departure 23/12/2026
Situated 730 km to the south-east of Tahiti, Raivavae is part of the Austral Islands. This volcanic island surrounded by a vast emerald-coloured lagoon has fewer than 1,000 inhabitants for four villages and two roads ─ one running around the island and the other through it. It is an island with an original culture and a still untouched environment, known for making sewn dugout canoes that are still used today. Often described as one of the most beautiful islands in the Pacific, Raivavae comprises 28 islets where nest a multitude of seabirds. You will have the possibility of exploring the island during an enchanting ride aboard one of the island’s rare 4-wheel drive vehicles.
24 December 2026 - Tubuai, Austral Islands
Arrival 24/12/2026
Departure 24/12/2026
Located in the Austral Islands in French Polynesia, 640 km south of Tahiti, Tubuai is a 45 km2 volcanic island situated just south of the Tropic of Capricorn. Very well preserved, it is ringed by a 85 km2 lagoon, one of the vastest in the Austral Islands. As it is rather shallow, it gives the ocean waters a distinctive shade of turquoise blue. Eight islets surround Tubuai and, with their beaches of fine soft sand, offer a landscape that is unique in Polynesia. You will love basking with your feet in the warm, clear water, or discovering an exceptional underwater world with a multitude of colourful tropical fish as you spend unforgettable moments snorkelling or diving.
25 December 2026 - Rurutu, Austral Islands
Arrival 25/12/2026
Departure 25/12/2026
Far from the traditional tourist circuits, you’ll discover the wildest and most surprising parts of French Polynesia. In the heart of the Austral archipelago, over 500 km south-west of Tahiti, your ship will make a port of call at Rurutu, an elevated coral island of absolutely unique beauty. Carved with countless caves and surrounded by spectacular cliffs, this land of volcanic origin will reveal its mysterious and preserved landscapes to you. A real geological phenomenon, the troglodyte island also offers magnificent summits covered in lush vegetation that will delight hiking fans.
26 December 2026 - At sea
Arrival 26/12/2026
Departure 26/12/2026
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
27 December 2026 - Papeete, Tahiti Island
Arrival 27/12/2026 early morning
Disembarkation 27/12/2026 at 5:07 pm
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.
Le Jacques Cartier
In keeping with the philosophy of PONANT and the PONANT EXPLORERS, Le Jacques-Cartier is a modern ship with slender, tapered lines, it is environmentally friendly and equipped with innovative technology.
Tastefully decorated, Le Jacques-Cartier reflects the universe so dear to PONANT, with its light tones and open-to-the-sea design providing soft light and luminosity at every instant of the day. Its ethnic chic ambiance pays homage to the destinations we visit.
Located below the waterline, the Blue Eye offers a unique experience: the opportunity to enjoy undersea views and the sounds of the marine world whilst sharing a glass together.
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Christmas Cruise
Christmas celebrations in an exceptional environment: change of scenery guaranteed.
Free solo supplement
FREE SOLO SUPPLEMENT *
*The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories.
Diving
During an introduction to scuba diving or a more advanced dive for holders of the necessary certifications (level 1 on yachting cruises and 2 on expedition cruises), explore the planet’s most beautiful underwater environments in the company of a PONANT diving instructor, as well as a local instructor when required by local legislation. They will ensure that your dives are conducted smoothly and safely: supervision of four certified divers at a time, evaluation of diving skills and experience, adherence to safety stops, zones and the maximum depth authorised.
A recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to the main diving instructor.
Discoveries
Embark on a journey where every destination is approached with fresh wonder and refined curiosity. Included excursions (one per day, per guest) and carefully curated optional experiences alternate with outings led by your team of expert naturalist guides. A bespoke approach to exploration, ensuring every stopover is as enriching as it is unforgettable.
- Activities: One included excursion per day and per guest. Optional paid excursions are also available depending on the port of call. Activities guided by our team of naturalists (depending on the destination) are included and organised directly on board.
- Landings (depending on the destination): By dock, tender boat, local boats, or Zodiac.
- Your experts on board: The team of naturalist guides.
- Children: Children from 6 years of age are welcome on board (from 8 years old on Le Commandant Charcot).
The full program of all excursions, both included and optional, is available eight months prior to departure. Reservations open approximately two months before departure.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
TAHITIAN RELAXATION (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and make the most of your trip to the islands with a relaxing one-night pre-cruise stay at a beautiful Tahitian resort.
Day 1 – Papeete
Meet at Faa’a International Airport in the Arrival hall. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
Transfer to the hotel Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts 4* and check in upon arrival.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 – Papeete
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel and enjoy a leisurely morning relaxing in your room or taking advantage of the hotel facilities. Check-out is at 11 a.m. followed by lunch at the hotel.
In the afternoon, you will then be transferred to the pier to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
Located in the historical Matavai Bay, Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts is surrounded by the Lafayette Beach. The hotel offers an infinity swimming pool, a renowned spa and a local arts and crafts 'fare'.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in Ocean View room or Signature Ocean Front Room at the hotel Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts 4*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).
- Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
- Assistance from our local English-speaking representative.
- Accommodation tax.
Your program does not include:
- Dinner on Day 1.
- Tips for the driver and the guide.
- Personal expenses: beverages, meals (other than the ones listed in the “included” list), sightseeing, diving, spa, etc.
- Early check-in and late check-out.
- Any other services not mentioned in the “included” list.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- The official check-in time at the hotel is at 3 p.m.
- The official check-out time at the hotel is at 11 a.m.
- Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
- A minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.
Contact of your hotel:
Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts
BP 14170 - 98701
Arue, Tahiti
Polynésie française
Telephone number: +689 4086 5110
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$640
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.DISCOVER PAPEETE AND DAY USE AT THE HOTEL
PONANT converts your transfer into a restful stopover as you enjoy a relaxing day in a pleasant and comfortable setting.
Papeete
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative and you will depart by coach on an island exploration.
After passing through downtown Papeete, several stops or visit will be offered during this morning tour.
The tour will end at your 4* hotel, where lunh will be served.
After lunch, check in to your day room. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon/evening relaxing in your room or taking advantage of the hotel facilities.
Dinner is on your own. You will then be transferred to the Faa’a International Airport in the late afternoon in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
- 1 day-use room from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., at a hotel 4*, local standards (or similar).
- Meal as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverages package during lunch (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).
- Transfers as mentioned in the programme
- The assistance of an English-speaking representative.
- Accommodation tax.
Your programme does not include:
- Dinner.
- Tips for the driver and the guide.
- Personal expenses (beverages, meals at the resort, etc.).
- Any other services not mentioned in the “included” list.
Please note:
- The contact of the hotel will be given closer to the departure.
- A minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : AU$760
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.