Duration
16 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
8 Ports
15 April
Setting sail from Darwin
More of a large town than a city, Darwin is less about what's contained within the city limits and more about the huge expanse of wild landscape that's outside it. Closer to Jakarta than Sydney, the city really does feel remote in its tropical perch. There are a number of waterfront restaurants and pretty parks, making it a pleasant place to relax after a long flight. For those with the energy we highly recommend a visit to Litchfield and Kakadu National Parks.
Our tip
Visit Litchfield National Park and embark on a crocodile-spotting boat trip, where you can see these intimidating, prehistoric beasts jump clean out of the water for a meal.
16-17 April
At sea
18 April
Australia: Thursday Island
Thursday Island is one of the Torres Strait Islands, situated to the north of Cape York. Proximity to Papua New Guinea makes for an interesting cultural mix, and the island has a fascinating military history. Be aware that swimming off the beautiful beaches is not recommended due to the presence of crocodiles and marine stingers.
19 April
At sea
20 April
Papua New Guinea: Alotau
Alotau is the capital of Milne Bay province, on the remote eastern tip of mainland Papua New Guinea. Milne Bay was the scene of heavy fighting during the Second World War, and today you can dive amongst the wreckage left behind. Alotau also serves as a base for visiting the nearby islands, including the fascinating Trobriand archipelago.
21 April
Papua New Guinea: Samarai Island
22 April
At sea
23-24 April
Solomon Islands: Honiara
Honiara is the capital of the Solomon Islands and the nation’s only real port, situated on the largely unspoilt island of Guadalcanal. Reminders of the famous Second World War battle that took place here can be seen all over the island, as well as under the water at the fantastic dive sites off the north coast.
25-26 April
At sea
27 April
Vanuatu: Espiritu Santo
Espiritu Santo is the largest of Vanuatu’s islands, home to the famous Champagne Beach, a stunning stretch of perfect white sand on the east coast. The beach is named after a bizarre natural phenomenon, in which gas escaping from volcanic rocks on the sea floor causes the water to bubble and fizz at low tide.
28 April
Vanuatu: Port Vila
Situated on a magnificent natural harbour, Port Vila is the sleepy and seductive capital of Vanuatu. This friendly town is the perfect introduction to this intriguing Pacific island nation, with colourful markets, a unique Melanesian culture and some jaw-dropping nearby beaches.
29-30 April
At sea
1 May
Arriving in Lautoka
Lautoka is Fiji's second largest city, known as the 'Sugar City' due to its important role in the local sugarcane industry. The waterfront area is pleasant enough, but we'd recommend using Lautoka as a jumping off point to visit some of the smaller surrounding islands, or the forests and waterfalls of the interior.
Your home from home
Designed specifically to cruise the shallow waters of the South Pacific islands, the MS Paul Gauguin perfectly embodies the famous Polynesian warmth and flair.
What we love
This much awarded little ship carries 332 fortunate guests. A recent addition to the Ponant fleet what we love is the way in which, after 16 years cruising year round in this part of the South Pacific, she has absorbed everything that is special about the islands into her very DNA, making her the perfect choice to holiday in the area.
Capacity | 332 Guests |
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Crew | 217 International Staff |
Style | The Polynesian paradise is permanent home to Paul Gauguin, allowing her to offer a better experience aboard and ashore than any other vessel visiting the area, in a laid back, warm and welcoming style. |
Inclusions |
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Tailor-make your trip
Where to stay near Darwin
Don’t hang around in Darwin itself; if you want to see more of the Top End, we recommend Bamurru Plains.
Visit the Red Centre
From Darwin take a flight to the Red Centre to see the magical sites of Uluru and Kings Canyon, yet another one of those once in a lifetime experiences!