Taking the slow boat to paradise
FRENCH Polynesia is a string of idyllic South Pacific atolls and islands that all deserve to be explored. Fortunately there is a vessel custom-built to do just that.
The MS Paul Gauguin’s effortless (and all-inclusive) service provides the perfect compromise for travellers who want to explore the region in comfort, and for thrill-seekers who crave deep-sea diving, kayaking and other watersports.
Over seven nights, our itinerary included all the highlights such as the majestic scenery of Bora Bora, the untamed jungles of Moorea, and the veritable paradise that is Huahine.
Sailing out of Papeete, the islands’ capital on Tahiti, the cruise started on a high in the ship’s upmarket La Veranda restaurant, which serves a range of mouthwatering French dishes.
Indeed, on a vessel simply designed to serve as a comfortable background to the scenery, there is much to enjoy on board. In addition to several excellent bars and restaurants, there’s a fitness centre, pool, spa and a retractable marina, where guests can try their hand at windsurfing, kayaking or paddleboarding, at no extra charge.
Better still is the programme of lectures from an assortment of marine biologists, anthropologists and naturalists. They gave us fascinating insights into the unique wildlife and conservation efforts in Polynesia.
Of course, nothing comes close to experiencing the magic of these islands first-hand. Everyone should see the classic tropical paradise of Bora Bora.
It took our breath away even before we moored: the spectacular main island, with its eerie cloudswathed peak, Mount Otemanu, is surrounded by a crystal-clear blue lagoon.
Taking the plunge for the first time in my life, I dived into waters full of gentle manta rays, sharks and stunning coral. The sharks must be totally untroubled to the
presence of divers by now, as several approached me and even let me feed them.
Moorea is less famous, and all the better for it. It lacks Bora Bora’s lagoon but its spectacular mountains are captivating and offer numerous hiking trails for the adventurous. We hiked up the lower slopes of Mount Tohiea to take in the stunning views.
For sheer unabashed hedonism, our barbecue on the white-sand beach of the tiny island of Motu Mahana was truly memorable.
We snorkelled on the reef before joining fellow passengers for a sumptuous feast.
The only real catch is that from the UK it takes more than 22 hours to reach Tahiti. Once you arrive there’s the proposition of further expensive and complicated travel to the outlying islands.
My advice? Let Paul Gauguin handle all your arrangements, giving you peace of mind and an unforgettable, hassle-free holiday.