Why the Best Way to See French Polynesia is on a Cruise Ship

Seasoned travelers often hear this greeting at tropical resorts, but reality sometimes falls short of the idyllic promise. Experiences of mosquito-infested nights in Jamaica or disruptive service at luxury properties in Acapulco can tarnish the image of paradise. However, French Polynesia, a cluster of islands in the South Pacific, truly embodies the paradise many dream of.

Discovering True Paradise in French Polynesia

French Polynesia, consisting of five archipelagoes and 118 islands, offers a quintessential tropical paradise. Its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush green mountains are the stuff of screensavers and travel brochures. This region receives a Level 1 travel advisory from the U.S. State Department, highlighting its safety for travelers.

Despite the distance and cost—flights from Los Angeles or San Francisco to Tahiti start at around $1,000 for an eight-hour journey—the return on investment is a dream vacation filled with beauty, unique culture, friendly locals, and a sense of seclusion. It’s no wonder that French Polynesia is a top choice for honeymooners and those celebrating special occasions.

The Challenge of Island Hopping

Most visitors to French Polynesia stay at luxurious resorts, often in iconic overwater bungalows. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, with its glass-bottom floors and private lagoon access, epitomizes luxury. However, exploring beyond the main island can be challenging due to limited flight and ferry schedules, even for the most resourceful hotel concierges.

The Cruise Solution

For those who want to experience multiple islands without the hassle, a cruise is the best option. Cruise ships offer the convenience of visiting several islands in a single trip without the need to repeatedly unpack. A typical 7- to 10-day cruise around the Society Islands includes stops in Moorea, Taha’a, Raiatea, Huahine, and Bora Bora. Cruise lines like Paul Gauguin, Windstar, and Silversea offer itineraries that often include overnight stays in Bora Bora.

On a recent Paul Gauguin cruise, guests enjoyed spacious staterooms and the opportunity to stay in overwater villas for a night, despite the logistics of repacking. The St. Regis Bora Bora’s offerings, such as snorkeling in the Lagoonarium, themed dining events, and personal bicycles for each guest, make it worth the effort.

Life Aboard the Paul Gauguin

The Paul Gauguin cruise ship excels in service, with a 1:1.5 crew-to-guest ratio ensuring attentive care. The ship’s entertainment includes Polynesian cultural shows and performances by talented musicians. Onboard activities, watersports, and organized excursions enhance the experience. Shore excursions, such as ATV tours in Huahine and snorkeling in Raiatea, offer thrilling adventures.

The ship’s cuisine, courtesy of French-based Ponant, is another highlight. Guests can enjoy a variety of gourmet dishes and a dazzling spread of French cheeses during themed nights.

Designed for smooth navigation in Polynesian waters, the Paul Gauguin has a shallow draft that allows it to access secluded lagoons and islands, maximizing the time spent at each destination. Recent refurbishments ensure the ship looks as distinguished as ever, making the cruise a truly luxurious experience.

For those seeking a hassle-free way to explore French Polynesia’s beauty, a cruise offers the perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and convenience.