Paul Gauguin Unveils Cruise Itineraries for 2010

Paul Gauguin Cruises unveiled the 2010 sailing schedule for its 332-passenger luxury ship Paul Gauguin, which operates in French Polynesia, and in the South Pacific.

As French Polynesia’s westernmost archipelago, the Society Islands include Tahiti, Raiatea, Taha’a, Bora Bora and Moorea. All cruises depart from Papeete, Tahiti.

Seven-night cruises highlighting the Society Islands start from $2,748 per person. Passengers will visit Paul Gauguin’s Motu Mahana private retreat and have use of its private beach in Bora Bora. Also, overnight calls at Moorea and Bora Bora allow for extended activity options.

The largest chain of coral atolls in the world, the Tuamotus boasts some of the world’s best snorkeling and diving. Cruises include port calls at Rangiroa, rated as one of the world’s top diving locales.

Ten-night cruises highlighting the Tuamotus and Society Islands start from $3,648. Overnight port calls are made in Rangiroa, Bora Bora and Moorea.

Among the 10-night itineraries is a President’s Cruise, departing for Tuamotus and the Society Islands on Jan. 6. With Paul Gauguin President and CEO David A. Giersdorf onboard, the voyage marks the year’s first cruise and will feature Polynesian-themed events, a wine tasting night and a sunset cocktail party.

Cruise fares start at $3,648 per person. Any past guest of Paul Gauguin Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea, the Yachts of Seabourn, Crystal Cruises, SeaDream Yacht Club or Windstar Cruises will receive an additional 5 percent savings on any Paul Gauguin cruise fare.

In related news, Paul Gauguin Cruises last month was acquired by Pacific Beachcomber, a luxury hotel operator in the South Pacific.

According to a statement from the company, the joining of the two firms “will provide compelling opportunities to connect extraordinary cruise itineraries with some of the world’s most premier resorts.”