Overview
On cosmopolitan Thursday Island, in the far north of the Australian territory, make the most of a visit to discover the history of this part of read more the Pacific during the Second World War. The Paul Gauguin will set sail for Papua New Guinea, a fascinating land that is home to no fewer than 700 ethnic groups within a highly diverse yet mainly unexplored, ecosystem. Setting sail for the Salomon Islands! You will stop over in Honiara on the large island of Guadalcanal, where exoticism and beauty go hand in hand, from paradisiacal waterfalls to lush green hills.
Then, the Paul Gauguin sails towards heavenly lands, where white sandy beaches encircle luxuriant forests with unique ecosystems, and legends and myths remain engraved in memories and traditions... In Port-Vila, capital of Vanuatu, you will relish the unforgettable sight of magnificent bays, a colonial heritage, paradise beaches and enchanting waterfalls. In Espiritu Santo, the archipelago's main island, you are sure to be captivated by the unspoilt seabed surrounding this luxuriant islet. Your journey will end in Lautoka in Fiji, famous for its sugar cane crops.
17 Days
Darwin
Lautoka
330
217
1997
2025
DRWLTK16
Itinerary
Australia's only tropical capital city, Darwin is rich in culture and ethnically diverse. While the Northern Territory boasts some of the most incredible wildlife on the planet, the city's museums celebrate the city's past and the galleries showcase the region's rich indigenous art. Ships will dock at Fort Hill Wharf.
Top Things to Do in Darwin:
- cruise the Darwin Harbour
- explore Litchfield or Kakadu National Park
- visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
- take a Jumping Crocodile Cruise
- visit the Darwin Botanic Gardens
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.
This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Discover the distinct Torres Strait culture of this remote island and its people, who follow a traditional lifestyle. Enjoy the spectacular scenery and expansive views over the Torres Strait. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the port.
Top Things to Do in Thursday Island:
- fly over Thursday Island in a helicopter
- take the ferry to Horn Island
- visit the Kazu Pearl Farm on Friday Island
- visit the Green Hill Fort
- enjoy fresh seafood in delightful waterfront settings.
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.
This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Capital of Papua New Guinea’s Milne Bay Province, Alotau is steeped in history, rich in culture and blessed with natural beauty.The gateway to some of the most remote island communities remaining in the world today, this is a place that is enriched with age-old culture and traditions. Ships will dock at the port.
Top Things to Do in Alotau:
- explore skull cave
- visit the memorial commemorating WWII’s Battle of Milne Bay
- take a traditional clay pot cooking class
- experience life in a traditional village
- snorkel the shipwreck at Waga Waga
Samarai, a small island in Papua New Guinea, is steeped in history and natural beauty. Once a bustling colonial trading port, the island now offers a peaceful retreat with its well-preserved colonial architecture and tranquil surroundings. Visitors can explore the remnants of its past, including the historic wharf and the old courthouse.
The island's lush landscapes and crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkelling and diving, revealing vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Stroll through the village to meet friendly locals and experience traditional Papuan culture.
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.
This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Honiara is the capital city of and the gateway to The Solomon Islands. Whether you take to the beautiful waters or explore the land around you, World War II history and stunning natural beauty mean that any option is the right one. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to shore.
Top Things to Do in Honiara:
- check out the busy Central Market
- explore the US War Memorial
- visit the Japanese Peace Park Memorial
- visit a Melanesian cultural village
- snorkel or Dive WWI shipwrecks
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.
This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Formed by volcanoes, Espiritu Santo (also known as Luganville) is the second largest city in the island nation of Vanuatu and is home to beautiful beaches, towering mountains, natural blue holes and fascinating WWII history. Ships will dock at the Luganville port.
Top Things to Do in Santo:
- visit the South Pacific WWII Museum
- snorkel or dive to see the WWII military equipment at Million Dollar Point
- swim at the stunning Blue Hole
- take a glass-bottom boat tour over the coral reef
- explore the Millennium Cave
In Port Vila, Vanuatu's energetic capital, you'll be greeted by friendly Bislama-speaking locals and street-side markets. The city is perfectly located around a beautiful harbour and still holds a touch of French influence in the form of bistros and murals. Ships will dock at the port.
Top Things to Do in Port Vila:
- Sail to Dream cove for a snorkel adventure
- visit the Cascade Waterfalls
- take a buggy on an off-road adventure
- join a thrilling jet boat ride in Port Vila's bay waters
- zip-line through the jungle
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.
This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Known as Sugar City, Lautoka is framed by the blue Pacific Ocean on the western side and green gold sugar cane and pine trees on the other sides. In the city you'll find wide-open streets lined with swaying palm trees and colonial-style houses. Ships will dock at the port.
Top Things to Do in Lautoka:
- snorkel at Savala or Bounty Island
- bathe in a natural geothermal mud pond
- visit a traditional village
- explore the Koroyanitu National Heritage Park
- visit the nearby town of Nadi
Life On Board
With the hallmarks of Ponant’s elegant decor and chic sophistication, Le Paul Gauguin showcases luxury innovations. Read more
Gain an understanding of the ancient customs, traditions and cultures of the peoples of the South Pacific. Read more
Freshly refurbished in 2021, the majority of staterooms and suites have balconies or verandas. Read more
Spend your evenings dining in front of magnificent Polynesian sunsets. From casual to upscale dining experiences. Read more
Book a treatment, relax by the pool or at the Piano bar, or engage in something more cerebral. Read more
A wide choice of excursions are offered depending on your itinerary and stopovers. Read more
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Ponant Winter Inspiring Voyages (2025-26)
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this cruise. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and is not operating this season. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view general release dates for all destinations.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
