There’s magic in the word ‘Tahiti.’ It conjures up visions of the ultimate tropical escape and sailing serenely through pristine, jewel-toned waters that kiss the undeveloped, palm-lined shores and reflect dramatic peaks. Part of one of the most remote and romanticized regions of the world, the mere mention of Tahiti evokes fantasies of cruising through an exotic paradise – isolated from a busy world.
No wonder Tahiti is a bucket-list destination. But Tahiti is not alone.
Here’s a primer on a region begging for exploration by luxurious, small ship like the Paul Gauguin, a 330-guest ship that is devoted exclusively to the South Pacific.
Paul Gauguin Cruises’ itineraries begin at week-long sojourns through the South Pacific, and you can also connect them back-to-back to explore multiple groups of islands and their unique geography, activities, and cultural attractions – with spellbinding natural beauty on every horizon!
The South Pacific v. French Polynesia
The South Pacific:
This is a vast region encompassing thousands of islands in the Pacific Ocean, including countries and territories like Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, the Cook Islands, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, and more.
Cultural diversity is immense, with Melanesian, Polynesian, and Micronesian traditions, languages, cultures and cuisine.
French Polynesia:
This is a group of 118 islands and atolls spanning 1200 miles in the South Pacific Ocean that are a ‘collectivity’ of France. The most famous islands here are Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea.
The region blends traditional Polynesian culture with French influences. The official language is French, but many locals also speak Tahitian or other Polynesian languages. Traditional crafts, music, dance, and tattoos are important cultural expressions.
French Polynesia is divided into five archipelagos:
- Society Islands: Includes popular islands like Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora.
- Tuamotu Archipelago: Known for its coral atolls, such as Rangiroa and Fakarava.
- Marquesas Islands: Rugged and remote, known for cultural heritage and dramatic landscapes.
- Gambier Islands: Lesser-known and sparsely populated with untouched environments.
- Austral Islands: Quiet and off-the-beaten-path, with cool climates and pristine ecosystems.
- Society Islands
These islands boast turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and lush mountains, making them ideal for water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and sailing. Visitors can immerse themselves in Polynesian culture by exploring ancient marae (temples), enjoying local festivals, and sampling traditional dishes.
Don’t miss:Guests of Paul Gauguin Cruises get to spend a day at Motu Mahana, the cruise line’s exclusive retreat off the coast of Taha’a, featuring Polynesian hospitality, snorkeling, watersports, bar service, and a delicious feast.
Island by Island
Tahiti
The largest island in French Polynesia, this tropical paradise in the Society Islands is known as the “Queen of the Pacific” and it’s the jumping-off point for exploration of the region.
You’ll likely fly into its capital, Papeete, which provides urban convenience surrounded by Tahiti’s celebrated lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and crystal-clear waters.
Visitors can explore black-sand beaches, cascading waterfalls, and verdant mountains. The island’s signature activity is snorkeling or diving in its pristine lagoons, teeming with vibrant marine life. Cultural enthusiasts will enjoy the lively markets, traditional dance performances, and Polynesian cuisine featuring fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
Don’t miss: Tahiti’s world-class surf scene, in the region that invented surfing. Teahupo’o is home to one of the world’s most famous and powerful surf waves. While the rest of French Polynesia has incredible lagoons and reefs, Teahupo’o’s iconic wave, created by its unique reef formation and deep ocean trench, is a phenomenon specific to this small village. It was the site of surfing competitions during the Paris Olympics.
Bora Bora
Bora Bora, often called the “Jewel of the South Seas,” is synonymous with luxury and romance. This French Polynesian island is world-renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise lagoon, encircled by a coral reef and overlooked by the iconic Mount Otemanu.
Adventurous travelers can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, and shark-feeding excursions, while the lagoon’s calm waters are ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. Bora Bora also offers cultural insights through traditional Polynesian dance, local crafts, and delicious cuisine featuring fresh seafood.
Don’t miss: the iconic, overwater bungalows that have become seared into our travel imagination and have inspired similar accommodations in other tropical destinations.
Moorea
Moorea’s distinctive heart-shaped silhouette, formed by its twin bays (Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay), is iconic and is why the island is referred to as the "Heart of Polynesia."
Its smaller size makes it easy to explore, including pineapple plantations, and well-developed hiking trails, including Belvedere Lookout and the Three Coconut Trees Pass, offering panoramic views of the bays and valleys.
Experience Polynesian village life and visit the Tiki Village Cultural Center, where you can enjoy Polynesian dance shows, and traditional feasts, and learn about tattooing and other traditions.
Don’t miss: lucky whale encounters!
MARQUESAS ISLANDS
The Marquesas Islands, located in the northernmost part of French Polynesia, are the other major French Polynesian archipelago, and an untouched paradise for adventurous travelers.
Unlike the lagoons of other islands, the Marquesas boast rugged coastlines, volcanic peaks, and dramatic waterfalls. Known as the "Land of Men," the Marquesas offer unique cultural experiences, from ancient tiki statues to petroglyphs and traditional tattooing.
Nature enthusiasts can hike through lush valleys, ride horses to remote villages, or explore the vibrant marine life through diving and snorkeling.
Don’t miss:
- Nuku Hiva, the largest island’s archaeological sites, or
- Hiva Oa: the final resting place of artist Paul Gauguin.
START YOUR FRENCH POLYNESIAN CRUISE!
Images courtesy of Paul Gauguin Cruises
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