Bora Bora Lagoon
Originally operated by Regent, the 5+ star Paul Gauguin is now operated by the newly formed Paul Gauguin cruises. The new company is committed to providing the same level of impeccable service as Regent, and initial reports have been positive.
She was purpose built for sailing the shallow waters and coral reefs of French Polynesia. And she sails nowhere else. So the onboard experience –from the décor to the entertainment — complements the destination more than on most cruise ships.
She entered service in 1998 and was renovated in 2006.
Although she’s on the small side, passengers find her quite roomy, and the staff-to-guest ratio of 1:1.5 is one of the highest at sea.
The vibe is casually elegant, and at dinner, there’s not a tux in sight. This is arguably the most romantic ship at sea, and love is always in the air. It’s a great choice for a honeymoon, anniversary, or renewal of vows. And the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.
Food aboard Paul Gaughin.
The main dining room — l’Etoile — serves French food with a Polynesian accent at lunch and dinner, which are both open seating. It recalls a turn-of-the-century Parisian brasserie, and tasting menus, vegetarian selections, and heart- and waist-healthy options are available.
La Veranda, which features a menu from Le Cordon Bleu, is a second option for dinner. Reservations are required, but there’s no surcharge. And the pool-side Le Grills serves burgers by day and grilled lamb chops or chicken breasts by night.
Room service is also available 24 hours a day.
When the ship visits their exclusive islet for a day of relaxing in a private paradise, a gourmet barbecue is prepared for guests right on the beach.
Beverages, including wine, are included with lunch and dinner. And there’s an open bar policy aboard ship. La Palette is a lovely spot for an al fresco cocktail. And with its wood paneling and leather club chairs, the Coinnoisseur Club has a classic nautical feel.
Accommodations aboard Paul Gauguin.
All staterooms are outside queens, though some can be made into twins. And 70% of them have balconies. Cabins have European linens and toiletries, fresh flowers and fruit, small refrigerators with a bar set up, personal safes, WiFi, VCRs, and marble bathrooms with tubs.
Suites have a small dressing room, a bath with separate tub and shower compartments, and large balconies. Categories B and above include butler service.
Facilities aboard Paul Gaughin.
One of the most appealing features of the Paul Gauguin is the watersports platform at the back of the ship. From there, passengers can go for a dip, or hop on a kayak, windsufer, or wave runner. Water skiing and scuba diving are also available. If you’re not certified, you can get certified during your cruise.
The gym is well equipped for a ship this size, and you can arrange all kinds of pampering at the Carita of Paris Spa.
Although Paul Gauguin isn’t the best choice for families with young children, the Ambassadors of the Environment Program, created by Jean-Michel Cousteau, is a great experience for kids between 9 and 15. It’s offer in summer and during holiday periods.
For incredible natural beauty, kid-glove service, and excellent dining, Paul Gaughin is in a class of its own.
Find our list of the Top 10 Cruise Ships for Couples here.
Bora Bora Lagoon Image Flickr: rachel_thecat