The delightfully informal, unhurried and unregimented way of life of Polynesia is emulated on board. A visit to the ship's Fare Tahiti Gallery, featuring Polynesian art and artifacts, will introduce you to the islands' colorful heritage. The pool invites you to an early morning dip while you can enjoy a full range of complimentary watersports at the state-of-the-art retractable watersports platform.

Watersports Platform Watersports are a highlight of the Polynesian experience. The ship’s small size allows it to navigate in shallow lagoons and narrow channels where larger ships may not sail. The Paul Gauguin is specially designed with a retractable watersports platform, taking guests down to sea level where they may conveniently hop aboard a Windsurfer, launch a kayak, try a little waterskiing, or set out for a SCUBA diving expedition.

Guest Lecturers Each cruise is hosted by a special guest lecturer to provide fascinating insights and a greater understanding of the Polynesian people.

Other Diversions Play table tennis on deck. Shop for a flower-splashed pareu top to wear to the pool party in the duty-free boutique, or take a lesson in the technique of paddling an outrigger canoe. A wide selection of books is available in the Reading Gallery, and videotapes may be rented at the Reception Area on a complimentary basis.

Evenings center around relaxation and camaraderie. Entertainment might include listening to a talented soloist in Le Grand Salon, dancing on deck in the indoor-outdoor La Palette Lounge, perhaps a few hands of blackjack or bets on the roulette wheel in the Casino, or savoring French Cognac, vintage wines, and fine cigars in the intimate Connoisseur Club.

The Tahitians, renowned for their health, physical beauty and spiritual serenity, are more than familiar with the medicinal and cosmetic benefits of the plants, flowers and trees of their islands. Aboard the Paul Gauguin, it is our desire to offer you an environment that is equally conducive to health, beauty and happiness. The pool invites you to an early morning dip while the Fitness Center features a full range of exercise equipment. And for the ultimate refreshment of body and soul, we chose Carita, the premier name in beauty in Paris, to create and operate our on-board spa.