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Little-Known Treasures of Melanesia – Luxury Cruise

Little-Known Treasures of Melanesia – Luxury Cruise

From AUD $10,960

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Description

Set sail to discover the ancestral lands of Australia and four treasures of Melanesia: Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and Fiji. Amid tropical landscapes, pristine beaches and lush ecosystems, explore unspoilt lands shaped by nature and tradition. On Thursday Island, discover a history marked by the Second World War, then immerse yourself in the cultures of Papua New Guinea, home to more than 700 ethnic groups and centuries-old traditions. Fall in love with the wild landscapes of the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, featuring waterfalls, verdant hills, fine-sand beaches and coral reefs. Along the way, discover idyllic landscapes of lush forests alongside colonial heritage, myths and traditions. 

Trip Name
Little-Known Treasures of Melanesia - Luxury Cruise
Days
16
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition Length: 504 feet / 153.6 meters Passenger Capacity: 330 Paul Gauguin operates as a dedicated South Pacific specialist, built around warm ambience, relaxed sophistication and immersion in Polynesian culture. Its shallow draft allows close access to lagoons, reefs and sheltered anchorages that larger ships cannot reach, anchoring the experience in the region’s landscapes and traditions. Interiors emphasise openness to the horizon, with lounges, promenades and a marina platform creating steady contact with the outdoors. Daily life centres on gastronomy influenced by both French culinary tradition and local flavours, unhurried social spaces, and a calm, international atmosphere that supports easy movement between relaxation and exploration. The ship carries a maximum of 330 guests across 165 staterooms and suites, balancing intimacy with facilities suited to tropical cruising. Accommodation ranges from porthole staterooms to large owner’s suites, all designed for comfort during long days in the islands. A marina at the stern supports water-based activities, and the Moana Explorer programme adds structured discovery for younger travellers. Combined with attentive crew and region-specific expertise, Paul Gauguin provides a focused, quietly refined platform for exploring the Pacific with consistent proximity to its lagoons, culture and natural rhythms.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 - Darwin
Darwin is located in Australia’s Northern Territory which is also known as the “Top End”. It is the capital city and the most populated town of the Northern Territory. Darwin is a beautiful tropical city, a melting pot of people and cultures, over 50 different cultures live and work side by side that prides itself in its unique and friendly laid-back lifestyle. Come discover the town’s still recent history through its emblematic buildings such as the new Parliamant House opened in 1994, a magnificent example of tropical architecture or Admiralty House declared heritage place, a tropical-style home elevated on stilts that has survived two cyclones and numerous air raids.
Day 2 - Day 2 - At sea
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.
Day 3 - Day 3 - At sea
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.
Day 4 - Day 4 - Thursday Island
Located at Australiaﾒs northernmost tip, Thursday Island is one of more than a hundred in the Torres Strait ,between Cape York Peninsula and Papua New Guinea. The historic military fort of Green Hill offers magnificent views and you can discover more about the region and its pearling history at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre.
Day 5 - Day 5 - At sea
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.
Day 6 - Day 6 - Samarai Island
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 PacificDeclared a “National Historical Heritage Island” by the government of Papua New Guinea in 2006, the islet was - at the time of English administration - a compulsory stop for all merchant ships sailing between Australia and South-East Asia, making the island the country’s second commercial port. Founded in the 1800s, the town quickly attracted gold miners and other traders, who helped shape its history.
Day 7 - Day 7 - Alotau
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.
Day 8 - Day 8 - At sea
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.
Day 9 - Day 9 - Honiara, Guadalcanal Island
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. 
Day 10 - Day 10 - Roderick Bay, Florida Islands
Part of the Florida Islands, Roderick bay is surrounded by beautiful white sand beaches and fringing coral reefs. These clear warm tropical waters give rise to a myriad of colourful corals only metres from the shore. To add to this stunning environment, nosed up onto a nearby beach, listing heavily to its starboard side is the wreck of the World Discoverer; an expedition cruise ship beached here in 2001 after striking a charted rock at the Northern entrance to Sandfly Passage. Venture ashore for a welcome ceremony, take a walk through the village or snorkel around the wreck to witness the marine environment attempting to reclaim this invader.
Day 11 - Day 11 - At sea
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.
Day 12 - Day 12 - Champagne Beach, Espiritu Santo Island
On the northern coast of Espiritu Santo lies Champagne Beach, a place of striking natural purity. Its remarkably fine pale sand borders striking turquoise waters, with the light of the Pacific revealing the full softness of the landscape. This setting, ideal for relaxation, swimming or discovering the marine life, offers a moment marked by simplicity and enchantment.
Day 13 - Day 13 - Port Vila, Efate
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.
Day 14 - Day 14 - Mystery Island
Originally known as Inyeug, Mystery Island is an uninhabited island with a discreet charm, located in the southern part of the Vanuatu archipelago. During the Second World War, the island was used as an airstrip, and its isolated location made the arrival of Allied aircraft mysterious to the enemy, hence its name. Today, the island is a truly idyllic haven, where white-sand beaches, wind-swayed palm trees and turquoise waters form a pristine refuge in which the beauty of untouched nature is revealed.
Day 15 - Day 15 - At sea
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.
Day 16 - Day 16 - Lautoka, Viti Levu Island
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. 
Day 17 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
22-03-202906-04-2029AUD $0Porthole Stateroom
22-03-202906-04-2029AUD $0Window Stateroom
22-03-202906-04-2029AUD $0Balcony Stateroom
22-03-202906-04-2029AUD $0Balcony Stateroom CS
22-03-202906-04-2029AUD $0Balcony Stateroom C
22-03-202906-04-2029AUD $0Veranda Stateroom
22-03-202906-04-2029AUD $0Veranda Suite
22-03-202906-04-2029AUD $0Grand Suite
22-03-202906-04-2029AUD $0Owner's Suite

Inclusions

    • An escape to the heart of the most beautiful archipelagos of the South Pacific, exploring five countries: Fiji, Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, and Australia.
    • Discover the culture and way of life of the region, particularly through encounters with local communities.
    • Possibility of diving (PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor to admire the local marine life.

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