Polynesian Bliss on a newly refurbished Paul Gauguin Cruises’ ship

The longest continually operating year-round luxury cruise ship in the South Pacific, MS Paul Gauguin is set to reveal a new look – and new itineraries – this year

There are plenty of legends of the South Pacific. Among them is m/s Paul Gauguin, a 330-guest ship that has been exploring remote and ravishing islands since 1998. The vessel has always been a scene-stealer, but is looking better than ever thanks to a multi-million-dollar refurbishment in recent months.

This madeover beauty sets sail once again in April 2025, with upgrades to sustainable technology, a reimagined pool deck, a new look for Le Grill restaurant and the addition of eight connecting staterooms, among other enhancements.  

A focus on culture

The cultural ethos of the ship remains the same, with a strong focus on offering authentic Polynesian experiences including storytelling, dance, music and traditional workshops. This philosophy extends on land – step ashore for enriching excursions that might include visits to sacred marae sites or participating in traditional Polynesian ceremonies.

Given its intimate size, m/s Paul Gauguin can reach shores and explore lagoons that many other cruise ships simply can’t go – ensuring easy and exclusive access to many destinations, while preserving the pristine environment.     

Space for all

Multi-generational travel is booming, particularly to destinations that are as educational as they are beautiful – like the South Pacific.

With this in mind, the new-look m/s Paul Gauguin features eight new connecting staterooms, giving families voyaging together space when needed, and connectivity when needed. If you are cruising with kids, make the most of the Moana Explorer Program, offered on select voyages to provide young travellers with engaging activities that reveal the culture, history, flora and fauna of French Polynesia.

Dining with a view

From the islands to the gleaming sea, your setting rightly steals the scene when you’re cruising on m/s Paul Gauguin. And remodelled Le Grill restaurant never lets you forget your location, with floor-to-ceiling windows bringing the outdoors, in – you can also dine alfresco beside the pool.

The fresh look is pared-back and stylish: think white and wood screens, ceramic tiles, designer bamboo lighting and soft oak furnishings. All meals are served here, whether you opt for Polynesian specialities or international favourites.

Time to cool off

While there are plenty of opportunities to dive into the sea that surrounds, m/s Paul Gauguin comes with the added perk of a pool – and newly refurbished teak pool deck. This means you can now lounge on cabanas or chaise loungers under a sweeping white canopy, before ordering a cocktail from the Pool Bar. Does sunset with a view get any better than this?

Environment front of mind

Reflecting its commitment to environmental sustainability, Paul Gauguin Cruises has introduced a suite of cutting-edge technology into m/s Paul Gauguin, to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Energy performance upgrades include advanced heat recovery systems, efficient chillers and an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) system to generate electricity from heat. A new seawater treatment system, meanwhile, produces fresh water onboard, while the Nordaq filtration system eliminates plastic waterbottles, significantly reducing single-use plastics.

New itineraries on the horizon

m/s Paul Gauguin has its sights set on fresh horizons, with new itineraries that showcase the beauty of Indonesia, Melanesia and the South Pacific.

Indonesia’s Sacred Temples and Natural Sanctuaries

This 15-day journey from Singapore to Darwin cruises between five Indonesian islands, including Bangka, Java, Bali, Komodo and Timor. It’s a deep dive into Indonesian culture, exploring remote shores, ancient marvels like Borobudur, lush rice terraces and temples, and epic wildlife including Komodo dragons.  

An Escapade in the Heart of Melanesia

Spend 17 days journeying between Darwin and Fiji, taking in five breathtaking island nations along the way: Australia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and Fiji. Highlights include visiting Thursday Island in the Torres Strait, diving into the traditions of Alotau and Samarai in PNG, witnessing waterfalls and jungle in the Solomons, meeting locals at market in Vanuatu, and jumping off to explore the ‘Sun Coast’ in Lautoka, Fiji.

South Pacific classics with a special offer

On 17 select and much-loved itineraries in French Polynesia, you can enjoy a $1,500 flight credit per person if you book by April 30. The itineraries include Tahiti & the Society Islands (eight Days), Pearls of the Society Islands (eight Days), Society Islands & The Tuamotus (11 Days), and Marquesas, The Tuamotus & Society Islands (15 Days). Conditions Apply.

‘Book your next escape with Paul Gauguin Cruises!