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Our shore excursions offer the most exciting experiences and dramatic scenary in the South Pacific. The opportunity to experience each destination in the most authentic, in-depth meaningful way is the very essence of luxury cruising with Paul Gauguin. To that end, we have created a variety of unique opportunities for you to explore the local environment. Enjoy the white sand beaches with swaying palms, hike the spectacular mountain peaks, or snorkel in the multi-hued lagoons.
 Aito Off Road Safari
Travel in a four-wheel drive vehicle for a journey inside the volcanic crater that created Moorea. Discover the heart of a huge pineapple plantation, stop at the island's Agricultural School to sample homemade jam, and explore a marae (open-air temple) before ascending to the top of the mountain for a tremendous view over Cook's and Opunohu bays.
 Catamaran Sail with Snorkel
Explore Moorea's beauty aboard a catamaran. Ride to Moorea's northern coast, then on to Cook's and Opunohu Bays. Upon reaching Opunohu Bay, the captain will drop anchor in the clear blue waters of a coral garden. Your crew will guide you on a snorkeling discovery and provide you with assistance in the water. Afterward, sail along the beautiful coral reef towards Cook's Bay.
 Circle Island Tour
Explore Rarotonga's culture, history and traditions via an orientation drive around the island. Along the way, visit Ngatangiia Harbour, the departure point of the Polynesian Migration to New Zealand in 1350 A.D., and the Road of Toi, built in 1050 AD. Pass by ceremonial sites including Arai Te Tonga, along with the theological college, the library, the museum, and fruit and vegetable plantations.
 Coral Gardens Drift Snorkeling
After a short ride by motorboat, walk across an uninhabited motu off the coast, where your guide will lead you as the current carries you through the shallow lagoon on the way back to the boat. You will be delighted to find that this area abounds with a spectacular variety of tropical fish and amazing coral. This shore excursion is available from both Raiatea and Taha'a.
 Dolphin Watching Expedition
Join marine biologist Dr. Michael Poole or his assistant for this eco-tour. With luck, you'll see schools of spinner dolphins while listening to informative commentary about their remarkable society. Dolphins are found on 95% of the tours, but the engaging narrative and magnificence of Moorea's coastline ensure a rewarding time. Guests visiting between July and early November may also view humpback whales in their annual mating and calfing rituals.
 Drift Snorkeling
Experience the sensation of drifting through the current of the Tiputa Channel, one of Rangiroa's finest snorkeling locales. As you drift with the current inside the Tiputa Channel where the Pacific Ocean meets Rangiroa's inside lagoon, you will discover an incredible array of tropical fish of all colors and sizes. Fish common to the area include sharks, dolphins and rays.
 Exploration of Taha'a
You'll drive via a safari off-road vehicle across one of Taha'a highest mountains. Visit a scenic viewpoint, learn the traditional use of local plants and trees, and learn the tamure, a Tahitian dance. Then tour a local vanilla plantation and a black pearl farm to learn how these treasures are cultured and harvested.
 Faaroa River and Island Exploration
Via safari off-road vehicle, discover the interior of Raiatea and view vegetation including bamboo forests, mango trees, and ginger flowers. Then visit Marae Taputapuatea, the sacred site from where the ancient Polynesians departed to discover Hawaii, New Zealand, and Easter Island. Then board a motorized outrigger canoe to explore the Faaroa River, viewing wild hibiscus, chestnut trees, and more.
 Glass Bottom Boat
Discover the coral gardens and tropical fish of Rangiroa on a glass-bottom boat tour. You'll slowly float over the huge coral heads that cluster in shallow areas inside the Tiputa Channel, viewing a colorful world full of parrot fish, butterfly fish, and surgeon fish through the large windows. Your boat crew will attract the fish under the glass panels to make it easy for you to observe and photography them.
 Golf in Paradise at the Moorea Green Pearl
Enjoy magnificent mountain and ocean views while playing this 18-hole championship course. The Nicklaus Design team created the course around the natural beauty of the island. Amateurs and professionals alike will find the Moorea Green Pearl Golf Course to be both challenging and inspirational.
Includes: Green fee, golf cart and set of clubs for 18 holes; roundtrip transfers.
Please note: It takes approximately 20 minutes to reach the golf course from Cook's Bay, and approximately 40 minutes from Opunohu Bay. Beverages nor snacks are included in this package, but can be purchased at guest's own expense.
 In Paul Gauguin's Footsteps
Take a walk in the footsteps of Paul Gauguin and explore the museum that bears his name during this scenic tour of Tahiti. Depart Papeete for the drive along the west coast of Tahiti. Upon arrival in the residential district of Punaauia, you will visit the Museum of Tahiti, along with the islands located on Fisherman's Point, or La Pointe des Pecheurs.
At the museum, you will view numerous archeological finds on display, learn about the island's geology, flora and fauna, and explore the culture and customs of both ancient and modern-day Tahiti.
Next, your drive will continue on to the Paul Gauguin Museum, which is nestled in a spacious garden. Gauguin lived in Polynesia from June 1891 to August 1893 and again from August 1895 to May 1903, the time of his death in the Marquesas Islands. The museum features a few of Gauguin's original works, and an interesting retrospective of his life in the islands as told through his documents, letters, writings and household objects. There is also a miniature display of Gauguin's work that depicts the location of all of his paintings.
On the return drive along the west coast road, a brief stop will be made at a grotto where Gauguin once swam. After a short walk, you will come upon the marae of Arahurahu, a sacred site situated in a beautiful valley. Following your Tahitian tour, you will re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier.
 Island Drive and Belvedere Lookout Point
On this casual tour highlighting daily life on Moorea, embark an air-conditioned coach for a ride around the island, passing local pineapple fields, taking in the magnificent views of Cook's Bay, Opunohu Bay and Mt. Rotui, and stopping in the village of Papetoai. Visit a marae, or ancient Tahitian stone temple. You will also visit "Le Petit Village" shopping center and Ia Ora lookout point.
 Lagoon Cruise and Beach Break
Experience the best Aitutaki has to offer in the short time available. Aitutaki's lagoon is considered to be one of the most beautiful in the world. Cruise through the lagoon visiting the offshore motus. Pass by Motu Akaiami, once used as a refueling stop for the Flying Boats back in the 1950s. At One Foot Island, stop for lunch of BBQ fish, salads, and fresh fruit, then spend approximately two hours relaxing and snorkeling.
 Raiatea Highlights Island Tour
Explore the interior of this picturesque island, climbing the hillside through untouched forests of bamboo, balsa and rosewood. Then pass pearl farms, local agriculture and conclude at the Botanical Garden with a guided nature walk.
 Romantic Escapade at Bora Bora Pearl Beach
Instead of spending the night aboard the ship, you can experience the dramatic splendor of Bora Bora from an overwater bungalow at one of the island's most luxurious hotels. You can admire the colorful underwater life of the lagoon through glass table tops right in your room. Exotic local materials such as bamboo, pandanus and tapa cloth have been used to create an authentic Polynesian style bungalow that appears to "float" in the haze above the sparkling blue lagoon. The sounds of the crystal-clear water lapping around the stilts and distant waves breaking on the shore will help you relax to the music of Mother Nature.
Includes: Roundtrip transfers to/from Vaitape pier (time to be determined with hotel); VIP greeting upon arrival, consisting of a welcome drink, necklace of flowers and chilled towel; full use of the hotel facilities; 1 night in an overwater bungalow; a welcome fruit basket; 1 romantic candlelit dinner for two including a bottle of champagne; one canoe breakfast for two delivered at the bungalow.
Please Note: This pre-bookable 1-night program is available on any cruise with an overnight in Bora Bora Check-in is any time after 1 p.m., check-out time is 11 a.m. Limited availability.
 Rotorua - Geysers and Maori Culture
Explore a center of thermal activity and traditional Maori culture during this full-day visit to Rotorua. Visit stunning Rainbow Springs and see huge rainbow trout swimming in spring-fed pools. Take a cable car to the Skyline Skyrides Restaurant for a buffet-style lunch accompanied by a Maori concert. After lunch, visit the New Zealand Arts and Crafts Institute. Finish with a walk through the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. Witness steam hissing from the ground, bubbling mud pools and geysers shooting water skyward.
 Snorkel and Black Pearl Farm
Discover the Motu Pearl Farm, where you'll learn all about the magnificent black pearl. Continue to a small motu for some snorkeling in the crystal clear lagoon of Taha'a and get acquainted with the myriad of tropical fish there. You'll also find a small lagoonarium where you can swim with turtles, rays, and fish enclosed in different pools.
 Snorkeling Rangiroa Aquarium
Discover Rangiroa's spectacular and diverse marine life during this scenic dive at Motu Nui Nui, a natural, open-water aquarium. Upon arrival, you will receive your safety instructions, then enter the water to explore your surroundings. Observe an abundance of colorful fish, coral and marine life. Your guide will offer assistance in the water and throughout the tour. You will also have an opportunity to hand-feed the fish.
 Suva and Rainforest Walk
Indulge your senses with Fiji's exquisite mountains, pools and rainforest during this hiking tour in Forest Park. Take a guided hike through the peaceful green Fijian rainforest. See the lower pool in the peaceful forest surrounded by bush land and an abundance of bird life Have an opportunity to swim in the crystalclear mountain pools. Then visit the Raintree Lodge and relax with a drink, snack on seasonal fruits and listen to a singing trio's serenade.
 Swallows Cave and Nuku Island
Vava'u's harbor is considered one of the most picturesque in the Pacific. Cruise through the harbor to the island of Kapa to visit the famous Swallow's Cave, sanctuary for thousands of swallows every autumn. Continue to the island of Nuku, one of the most exquisite islands in Tonga. There, you will have time to stroll, swim, and relax on the beach. Refreshments will also be served.
 Tahiti - Off the Beaten Path
Explore a side of Tahiti not commonly seen by visitors during a scenic off-road journey through this idyllic island. Depart the pier with your guide in an off-road vehicle for the scenic drive through Tahiti's pristine interior. You will then drive towards the east coast, and on to the Papenoo Valley. Along the way, you will pass by cascading waterfalls, luxuriant tropical vegetation, exotic flowers and lush valleys offering wonderful views and photo opportunities. You may opt to take a refreshing dip in a river while en route.
Your sightseeing itinerary will depend on the weather and track conditions during your visit. Following your tour, you will be returned to the pier. Please note: As this tour involves travel in off-road vehicles over bumpy surfaces, guests with back and/or neck problems are discouraged from participating. The itinerary may be modified due to weather conditions. Guests who wish to take a dip in the waterfall's pool should wear a swimsuit under a cover-up, and bring a towel from the ship. There are no changing facilities. Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses are strongly advised. Your driver will also be your guide, and commentary will be limited.
 Trails of the Ancients Trek
Discover a side of Tahiti rarely experienced by visitors during a journey through the Opunohu Valley with resident archaeologist Mark Eddowes. Visit Belvedere lookout point for breathtaking views of Cook's Bay. Descend to an ancient temple at the edge of the native forest. Mark will describe the rites and ceremonies conducted in honor of ancestral spirits. Then take a guided walking tour along the ancient trails.
 Ambassadors of the Environment Youth Program
Created by explorer and environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau and his Ocean Futures Society, Ambassadors of the Environment is a unique, groundbreaking program that introduces young travelers to the extraordinary natural wonders of French Polynesia. The program aims to give young participants aged 9 to 17 direct, hands-on, interactive experience with knowledge of marine and island ecosystems. Young Ambassadors will explore coral reefs, hike rainforest trails and visit marae (ancient Polynesian temples). They'll learn how black pearls and vanilla are cultivated, how volcanic islands become coral atolls, and how to paddle an outrigger canoe. Parents are encouraged to join children on eco-excursions and other activities aboard and ashore.
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