Diving 
Porthole Stateroom F – Deck 3
25% Ponant Bonus
204 ft²
2
From Fiji to Bali
Lautoka, Viti Levu Island - Benoa, Bali
Dates:
19/01/2025
to
08/02/2025
days
nights on board
Leaving from Lautoka, in Fiji, PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises offers you a unique cruise of 21 days exploring six magnificent countries in the South Seas. On board The Paul Gauguin, a ship with a decidedly Polynesian ambience especially designed to navigate the shallow turquoise waters, set off to discover untamed nature on the paradise islands of Vanuatu, the Solomons, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Indonesia.
In these limpid waters, 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.
Setting sail for the Solomon 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.
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.
After a port of call in the Timorese capital, Dili, you will sail towards the magnificent Indonesian archipelago. You will explore the marvellous Komodo National Park where the famous dragons, from the prehistoric age, reign supreme over the island’s herbaceous landscapes.
Your journey will end on the paradisiacal and enchanting island of Bali. Renowned for the kindness of its inhabitants, Bali offers beautiful discoveries including lush paddy fields, sacred ceremonies, and abundant marine life.
Ref : PG190125
Your itinerary
A cruise into the heart of the South Pacific’s most beautiful archipelagos, discovering six countries: Papua New Guinea, the Salomon Islands, Vanuatu, Fiji, Indonesia and Timor-Leste. A new call in...
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Your trip in detail
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28/08/2024 to the 19/09/2024
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Algotherm top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- 2 ADA stateroom
Select your stateroom category
CLOTHING ABOARD SHIP
Country Club Casual, or elegant resort wear, is appropriate dress for all evenings aboard The Paul Gauguin. Country Club Casual consists of a dress, or skirt or slacks with a blouse or sweater for ladies, and slacks and collared shirts for gentleman. No ties are required at any time, although gentlemen may opt to wear a jacket to the Captain’s Welcome Reception. Please note that casual wear such as shorts, t-shirts, casual jeans (frayed and/or with holes), baseball caps, flip-flops, and Crocs are not considered appropriate after 6:00 pm in all restaurants and lounges. Bathrobes and bathing suits are not appropriate in the ship’s restaurants and lounges, and shirts and shoes are required in all public areas at all times.
PACK LIST
Complimentary snorkeling equipment is available on board, but don’t forget to pack these essentials:
- Comfortable walking shoes/ Water shoes*
- Comfortable active wear for daytime activities
- Country Club resort wear for evenings
- Sun hat, sunglasses, sun block–strongly recommended
- Swimsuits and beach cover-ups
- Swimming rash guard (swim shirt)
- Insect repellent
- Jacket or sweater for cool evenings
- Camera/Underwater camera. For safety and security reasons, drones are not permitted
- Medication—If you require prescription medication, be sure to bring enough to last for your entire vacation and pack it in your carry-on luggage
*Shoes suitable for wearing in the water—whether they are reef shoes, sneakers, or old sandals—are imperative for water-based activities. There are corals, urchins, and other marine life that can cause painful cuts and injuries that can be prevented by bringing footwear from home. There is limited opportunity for purchase in the South Pacific. Note that flip-flops are not suitable for this function.
PONANT activities
Diving & initiation dive
Supervision of the dives
Your dives will be led by your PONANT instructor. He will take care of your safety and that all goes smoothly. On some diving sites, as in natural reserves or if the local regulations require it, a local guide will escort the diving.
Level required for scuba diving on this cruise
The minimum level required for scuba diving on this cruise is 1 star CMAS or the PADI Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to our main diving instructor.
Process of the dives (certified divers)
The instructor reserves the right to check divers’ ability for maximum safety. As we will dive in remote places, the dives will be done without decompression stop. A safety stop of 3 minutes at 5 metres will be mandatory. The depth that can be reached will depend on the certification of the divers:
- For those with PADI Open Water Diver certificate (or equivalent), the maximum depth can be up to 20 metres.
- If two Stars CMAS or PADI Advanced Open Water Divers (or equivalent) wish to dive together independently, they must have a briefing first. They must have dive computers and are allowed to go to a maximum depth of 20 metres.
Process of the initiation dives (novice divers)
Before your initiation dive, your instructor will show you the equipment and will explain to you how to communicate underwater using hand gestures and how to breathe through a regulator. Once in the water, equipped with your material, you will learn how to breathe through your regulator on the surface for a couple of minutes. When your instructor feels you are ready, he will immerse you in water for about 20 minutes to a depth of 6 metres maximum.
Duration of the dives
The diving activity lasts from 2 to 3 hours, which includes the journey to the diving site and the diving. This duration may vary according to the site, the level of divers, weather conditions and the number of participants. For experienced divers, the duration of dives varies between 35 and 60 minutes depending on the site, the diver’s experience and consumption.
Supplied equipment
- Diving wetsuit
- Stabilising jacket
- Regulator with octopus and pressure gauge
- Diving computer (for divers mastering their use)
- Fins
Mask and snorkel: for health reasons due to Covid-19, we strongly recommend that you come on board with your own mask and snorkel .As an exception, you will be able to borrow them in accordance with sanitary conditions.
The passenger may participate in scuba diving activities, subject to compliance with certain conditions established in accordance with the health, scientific and medical measures applicable on the day of the dive.
* within the limit of available stock.
Fauna and flora of the Pacific Ocean
The fauna of the Pacific Sea is very varied. During the various dives, divers can observe various species of benthic fauna such as napoleon fish, raccoon butterfly fish, and pelagic fauna such as manta rays, gray reef sharks, dolphin fish as well as endemic wildlife such as different soft corals.
Scuba diving activities on this cruise
|
PORTS OF CALL |
DIVES (for certified divers) |
DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING (for beginners) |
|
Fidji Lautoka, Viti Levu Island |
NO |
NO |
|
Vanuatu, Port Vila, Efate |
YES |
YES |
|
Vanuatu, Espiritu Santo Island |
YES |
YES |
|
Solomon Islands, Honiara, Guadalcanal Island |
NO |
NO |
|
Papua New Guinea, Alotau |
NO |
YES |
|
Papua New Guinea, Samarai Island |
YES |
YES |
|
Timor-Leste, Dili |
YES |
NO |
|
Indonesia, Loh Liang, Komodo National Park |
YES |
NO |
|
Indonesia, Bali |
NO |
NO |
These sites are indicative. The proposed diving excursions may be changed depending of weather and safety conditions and the number of divers.
Rates
Price per person
- Initiation dive:
- Introductory dive DSD (swimming pool): $99
- Introductory dive at sea (1 dive): $130
- Refresh dive (swimming pool): $50
- Dives:
- Exploration (1 dive): $120
- Exploration 2 tanks dive: $230
- Excellence Package (3 dives): $330
- Passion Package (6 dives): $660
- Courses:
- Nitrox Course: $120
- Referral Course: $599
- Advanced Open Water Course: $570
Highlights
- A cruise into the heart of the South Pacific’s most beautiful archipelagos, discovering six countries: Papua New Guinea, the Salomon Islands, Vanuatu, Fiji, Indonesia and Timor-Leste.
- A new call in Port-Vila, the capital of Vanuatu, in the very heart of a magical, unspoilt nature.
- UNESCO site: Komodo National Park.
- A gentle escapade aboard the Paul Gauguin, an expert in the destination, with an international and friendly atmosphere.
- From Espiritu Santo, don’t miss the unique performance from the ‘water music women’.
- The Solomon Islands, secret destination in the South Pacific and a real tropical Eden.
- Overnight in Bali, the island of the gods.
- Possibility of diving (PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board.
Ports of Call & Excursions
19 January 2025 - Lautoka, Viti Levu Island
Embarkation 19/01/2025 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 19/01/2025 at 18:00
Lautoka is the second largest city of Fiji. Located on the western side of the island of Viti Levu, 24 kilometres north of Nadi. Lying in the heart of Fiji's sugar cane growing region, it is known as the Sugar City. Lautoka is the gateway to Fiji’s “Sun coast” a land of abundant sunshine, azure skies and dramatic grass-covered peaks chequered with sugar-cane fields, rural villages and quaint market towns.
20 January 2025 21 January 2025 - At sea
Arrival 20/01/2025
Departure 21/01/2025
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.
22 January 2025 - Port Vila, Efate
Arrival 22/01/2025 early morning
Departure 22/01/2025 late afternoon
Port Vila is the cradle of an insular harmony where time seems to stand still, a tropical pearl in Vanuatu emerging from the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean, a place that inspires contemplation and daydreaming. Beneath an azure sky, the colourful markets reveal the very essence of Vanuatuan culture. The stalls here are overflowing with tropical fruit bursting with sunshine, while the artisans showcase their talents, weaving vegetable-fibre baskets and sculpting traditional masks with enigmatic faces. On the lush heights in the inland region of Vanuatu’s capital, the waterfalls whisper secret songs, creating an aquatic symphony that resonates in the heart of travellers in search of magic.
23 January 2025 - Espiritu Santo Island
Arrival 23/01/2025 early morning
Departure 23/01/2025 mid afternoon
At the end of the world, in the north of New Caledonia, lies Vanuatu, a little archipelago that subsists mainly from fishing and farming. It is composed of several islands, Espiritu Santo being the largest and one of the most beautiful. You can meet the people here who are very welcoming and who live in harmony with nature. Plus you will see unimaginable landscapes formed of volcanic rocks, as well as sandy beaches and lagoons beckoning you to dive into their of turquoise waters. You will be surprised to find, in the middle of dense vegetation, brackish water with an amazing ecosystem called “blue holes”. If paradise exists, it must be here.
24 January 2025 25 January 2025 - At sea
Arrival 24/01/2025
Departure 25/01/2025
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.
26 January 2025 - Honiara, Guadalcanal Island
Arrival 26/01/2025 early morning
Departure 26/01/2025 mid afternoon
Honiara is the capital city of The Solomon Islands, administered as a provincial town on the north-western coast of Guadalcanal Island. Honiara comes from the local Ghari Language “naho-ni-ara” meaning 'facing the ara', the place where the southeast winds meet the land. Discover this city, its beautiful landscape, and the significant role it played in World War II. Particularly The Battle of Henderson Field, the last of the three major land offensives conducted by the Japanese in 1942.
27 January 2025 - At sea
Arrival 27/01/2025
Departure 27/01/2025
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.
28 January 2025 - Alotau
Arrival 28/01/2025 midday
Departure 28/01/2025 late evening
Alotau became the provincial capital of Milne Bay in 1969 and today has a population of approximately 16,000. It serves as our port of entry into Papua New Guinea. Missionaries, miners, pearlers, Japanese and American warships have all contributed to the History of Milne Bay. Perhaps the most significant history surrounds the Battle of Milne Bay. It was here that the invading Japanese army suffered their first land defeat in the Pacific War in 1942. A memorial park at the battle site commemorates the event. The local people are warm and welcoming resulting in one of the most relaxed, secure and easy-going towns in Papua New Guinea. Join your expedition team for a tour taking in the town markets and WWII memorials.
29 January 2025 - Samarai Island
Arrival 29/01/2025 early morning
Departure 29/01/2025 early afternoon
The Samarai islands are located in the China Strait off the south-eastern tip of New Guinea. In its colonial heyday it was said to be one of the most beautiful places in the Pacific. The island was declared a National Historical Heritage Island by the government of Papua New Guinea in 2006. Just 3km west of Samarai, Kwato Island was once an educational center and home to a thriving boat building industry. Following the old tree-lined road to the top of the island reveals a stonewalled church that was built in 1937 and remains a testimony to the missionaries of a bygone era. Join your expedition team for a guided walk on Samarai and Kwato Islands. You also will enjoy swimming and snorkelling on nearby Deka Deka island.
30 January 2025 2 February 2025 - At sea
Arrival 30/01/2025
Departure 02/02/2025
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.
3 February 2025 - Dili
Arrival 03/02/2025 early morning
Departure 03/02/2025 evening
Located on the northern coast of the island of Timor, along the narrow plains between the central mountains and the Ombai Strait, the seaside resort of Dili is the capital of East Timor, a former Portuguese colony that has been independent since May 2002. The uniqueness of this territory, still preserved from the tourist routes, is unveiled thanks to the beauty of its intact landscapes, with dense tropical forest covering undulating hills, coral reef and immaculate sandy beaches. You will be enchanted by this small and peaceful town with a distinctive Portuguese atmosphere, and will discover the riches of its historic and cultural heritage during your visit.
4 February 2025 - At sea
Arrival 04/02/2025
Departure 04/02/2025
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.
5 February 2025 - Komodo National Park
Arrival 05/02/2025 early morning
Departure 05/02/2025 late afternoon
Between the islands of Sumbawa and Florès, Komodo National Park welcomes you to discover its natural wonders. At the very heart of the Indonesian archipelago, the three islands that form it – Komodo, Rinca and Padar - owe their renown to the famous eponymous dragons, enormous lizards over two metres long, which live in its grassy savannah. This jagged and hilly volcanic territory belonging to the Sunda Islands is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its incredible terrestrial and marine biodiversity. Admire its palette of colours, intermingling the sparkling whites of the beaches, the deep blues of the coral-filled water and the soft greens of its pastures.
6 February 2025 - At sea
Arrival 06/02/2025
Departure 06/02/2025
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.
7 February 2025 8 February 2025 - Benoa, Bali
Arrival 07/02/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 08/02/2025 at 06:41
If it's a taste of exotic authenticity you're after, prepare to be spell-bound by the island of Bali, tucked away in the heart of the Indonesian archipelago. The beauty and diversity of its landscapes, the depth and richness of its cultural heritage and the plethora of activities on offer here make Bali a little slice of heaven on Earth. The island's southern coast enthrals with its white sand beaches, its picturesque little fishing villages such as Benoa, and its hills patchworked with terraced rice paddies further inland. Nicknamed 'the Island of Gods' for its sumptuous temples, Bali is the beating heart of Indonesian Hinduism.
Le Paul Gauguin
In September 2019, PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises joined the PONANT family, while retaining its personality: its relaxed, international atmosphere and destination expertise; an atmosphere that is decidedly different from the company's other ships. Le Paul Gauguin has been specially designed to sail in Polynesian waters. Her shallow draft allows for close access to shallow lagoons and isolated islands for optimal docking time. The ship's new interior designed by Studio Jean-Philippe Nuel and its recent fittings evoke South Seas elegance. All 165 cabins and suites have a view of the outside world.
Decks
Diving
During an introduction to scuba diving or a more advanced dive for holders of the necessary certifications (level 1 on yachting cruises and 2 on expedition cruises), explore the planet’s most beautiful underwater environments in the company of a PONANT diving instructor, as well as a local instructor when required by local legislation. They will ensure that your dives are conducted smoothly and safely: supervision of four certified divers at a time, evaluation of diving skills and experience, adherence to safety stops, zones and the maximum depth authorised.
A recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to the main diving instructor.