The Two Flavours of French Polynesia with Ponant
Dreaming of discovering French Polynesia? Ultimate Cruising and its partner Ponant invite you to unravel the magic of Tahiti in not one, but two exquisite styles—with the timeless charm of Le Paul Gauguin, and the sleek sophistication of Le Jacques Cartier.
Le Paul Gauguin — Polynesian Classic with a Renewed Spark
A beloved stalwart in these waters, Le Paul Gauguin offers an intimate, authentic Tahitian experience. Since joining the Ponant family in 2019, she has retained her relaxed, destination-focused personality and small-ship elegance.
Purposely designed for lagoon cruising, her shallow draft allows close and respectful access to secluded motus, hidden reefs, and tranquil bays. Whether you’re lounging on deck or savouring island flavours in the freshly revamped restaurant, the connection to the South Seas is immersive and timeless. Her serene décor—warm woods, Polynesian-inspired textiles, and spacious staterooms—celebrates island aesthetics in every corner.
In early 2025, she emerged from a multi-million-dollar refurbishment, featuring a reimagined pool deck, panoramic dining, family-friendly connecting staterooms, and sustainable technologies. It was not just a facelift but a renewal that blended comfort, style, and environmental responsibility.
Onboard, the ambiance is as authentic as it is luxurious: a predominantly Tahitian crew brings warmth and local charm, traditional Polynesian dance and music fill the Grand Salon, and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding launch directly from the ship’s marina. With just over 300 guests, every journey feels personal and deeply connected to the islands themselves.
Destinations with Le Paul Gauguin
Le Paul Gauguin explores the heart of French Polynesia—the legendary Society Islands including Moorea, Huahine, Taha’a, and Bora Bora, as well as voyages further afield to the Cook Islands and the remote Tuamotu archipelago. Each itinerary reflects the ship’s long history of navigating these waters, offering travellers authentic encounters with lagoons, coral reefs, and traditional Polynesian culture.
Le Jacques Cartier — Modern French Elegance Meets Island Splendour
By contrast, Le Jacques Cartier presents French Polynesia through a more refined, modern lens. Sleek lines and contemporary design deliver a sophisticated onboard experience, melding French elegance with Polynesian charm. Perfect for discerning travellers—especially those who have already sailed with Ponant—this is French Polynesia elevated to a new level of luxury.
Onboard, guests are treated to spacious staterooms with private balconies, fine French cuisine, included beverages, and a high staff-to-guest ratio that ensures attentive, personalised service. Each day ashore is enhanced with thoughtfully curated excursions, ranging from cultural encounters to adventurous explorations of the islands.
Destinations with Le Jacques Cartier
Le Jacques Cartier takes travellers beyond the classic circuits to the Marquesas Islands, famed for their dramatic volcanic peaks and remote beauty, as well as to the Tuamotu atolls and the Society Islands. Select itineraries extend even further to the legendary Pitcairn Islands, steeped in maritime history and natural splendour. These journeys offer an unparalleled way to discover some of the Pacific’s most fascinating and seldom-visited destinations.
Image: PONANT | GwenvaelEngel
French Polynesia is endlessly captivating—whether you are drawn to the soft rhythms of island life, the pulse of Polynesian culture, or the sheer beauty of its lagoons and volcanic landscapes. Ponant gives travellers a rare choice:
- Le Paul Gauguin, with her authentic Tahitian spirit and long-standing connection to the region.
- Le Jacques Cartier, offering refined French luxury and access to the more far-flung corners of the archipelagos.
Whichever ship you choose, one thing is certain—you’ll return home forever changed by the colours, culture, and soul of French Polynesia.
