Paul Gauguin Get Exotic With Shore Excursions

We already know that Paul Gauguin Cruises - operator of the highest-rated and longest continually sailing luxury ship in the South Pacific - have an exotic array of voyages in that part of the world.

And now they are adding still further to their exotic quotient with the details of new, optional shore excursions this year for their Australia & South East Asia voyages.

On these 14-night itineraries, the Paul Gauguin sails between Cairns and Singapore, visiting less-travelled tropical ports of Australia such as Thursday Island, once a World War II military outpost, and Darwin, with its lively yet laidback ambiance. 

 

Indonesian ports include Komodo Island, home of the Komodo dragon; beautiful Bali, a coveted destination for generations; and Semarang, with its fascinating history and gateway to the temples of Borobudur. Two departures are offered: June 25 and August 4, with cruise fares from £3,890 per person if booked before March 31. Both sailings include round-trip airfare from Los Angeles.

Highlights of the optional shore excursions offered on the Australia & South East Asia voyages include:

• Thursday Island, Australia—Thursday Island Discovery: Gain insight into Thursday Island’s people, history, commercial base and culture; visit the refurbished Torres Strait Museum and Green Hill Fort; and see the Japanese Pearl Divers Memorial.
• Darwin, Australia—Crocodylus Park: Visit a park featuring more than 1,000 saltwater and freshwater crocodiles, ranging in length from 11 inches to 15 feet.
• Komodo Island, Indonesia—Komodo Trekking Tour: Trek through Tamarind Woods in search of Komodo Dragons, the largest reptiles on Earth.
• Benoa, Bali, Indonesia—Elephant Safari Ride & Monkey Forest: Acclaimed as one of the world’s best, the Elephant Safari Park is home to 29 of these gentle giants. Enjoy a 30-minute elephant ride then travel to Sangeh Village to visit the Sangeh Monkey Forest.
• Benoa, Bali, Indonesia—Bali Safari & Marine Park: 400 animals, representing 80 species, live here. Interact with the many different animals within these gardens and enjoy the water park, which has slides for both adults and children.
• Semarang, Indonesia—Fascinating Borobudur Temple: See the dramatic landscape of Central Java en route to Borobudur Temple, the world’s largest Buddhist monument and a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take in a performance by local entertainers.

Onboard the ship, a variety of special guests will lecture, perform or provide demonstrations which are in the all-inclusive fares. Parisian celebrity chef Jean-Pierre Vigato, champion freediver Herbert Nitsch, “extreme artist” Jean Francois Detaille and soprano Françoise Krief will be on the June 25 voyage. 

 

Joining the August 4 voyage are Nobel Peace Prize winner John E. Hay, islands expert Helen Henry, destination specialist Mick Fogg and Paul Gauguin Cruises chairman Richard Bailey. On both voyages, art history professor and Paul Gauguin expert Caroline Boyle-Turner, renowned archaeologist and scholar Mark Eddowes and a World War II expert will provide a series of lectures.

More info: call 020 7399 7691 or visit www.pgcruises.com.

 

The new edition of World of Cruising is now out, and you can see the digital version online on our home page at www.worldofcruising.co.uk. To subscribe at our special offer rate for 2014, see this link.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Paul Gauguin's Papua New Guinea Bonus

Paul Gauguin Cruises remain one of the cruise world's individual stylists in the South Pacific, and any new itinerary with them is something to highlight. Couple the 'something new' factor with the opportunity to visit Papua New Guinea, and you have a very tempting option.

 

The 11-night Fiji to Australia voyage departing June 14 is a unique voyage that charts a course to popular and undiscovered ports alike from exotic Fiji to the Great Barrier Reef. Guests will embark Paul Gauguin in Lautoka, Fiji’s “Sugar City” and heart of its sugarcane industry, and cruise to Vanuatu, the island chain that inspired James A Michener’s Pulitzer Prize-winning Tales of the South Pacific.

 

Next stop is Guadalcanal, whose very name is synonymous with a turning point of World War II, followed by the real highlight of Papua New Guinea, set on the second-largest island in the world. Here, guests will visit the island of Bougainville, with its World War II sites, traditional handicrafts and natural wonders; Samarai Island, a National Historical Heritage Island; and Port Moresby, the capital and most populous city in the country.

 

The cruise will finish in Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Prices are from £4,290 per person for 11 nights accommodation in an ocean view stateroom with all meals, soft drinks, selected alcoholic beverages and gratuities. Also included is airfare from Los Angeles.

Then, the 12-night Australia to Fiji voyage departing August 18 is the same as the above but in reverse. It also includes an additional port of call in the serene island of Malolo where guests will experience the ultimate in relaxation. Special guests include oceanographer Jean-Michel Cousteau, Nobel Peace Prize winner John E Hay, onboard lecturer Helen Henry, concert rock violinist Aaron Meyer, musicians Seth Taylor and Monica Ripamonti and Polynesian anthropologist Mark Eddowes. Prices are from £4,579 per person for 12 nights accommodation in an ocean view stateroom with all meals, soft drinks, selected alcoholic beverages and gratuities. Also included is airfare from Los Angeles.

More info: call  020 7399 7691 or visit www.pgcruises.com.

The new edition of World of Cruising is now out, and you can see the digital version online on our home page at www.worldofcruising.co.uk. To subscribe at our special offer rate for 2014, see this link.

.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Cruise News Round-Up - P&O, Crystal & Paul Gauguin

Yikes, but it's a busy week for cruise news! The stories and press releases have been pouring in thick and fast - so fast, in fact, we have had to turn to a round-up story today to include as many as possible.

So, with no further ado, here is the hot-off-the-press latest...

P&O Cruises has added departures from seven regional airports on selected Fly-Med cruises on Ventura for this summer. The direct regional charter flights will be available, at no extra cost, on 16 Fly-Med cruises across seven regional airports, namely Bournemouth, Belfast, Cardiff, East Midlands, Glasgow, Newcastle and Stansted. Flights are also available from London, Manchester or Birmingham as standard.

A variety of seven and 14-night fly-cruise holidays are available from March to October as Ventura sails from either Venice or Genoa, round the Greek Islands, Dalmatian coast, French Riviera and iconic cities like Rome, Venice, Naples, Dubrovnik and Florence. Book by February 28 to receive additional free on board spending money to use for drinks, shore excursions, spa treatments or fine dining.

More info: visit www.pocruises.co.uk or call 0843 373 0111.

Crystal Cruises has announced the latest perk to its All Inclusive luxury cruise experience: free Wi-Fi for Crystal Society members, the line’s “club” of repeat guests, starting this autumn. Effective with Crystal Serenity’s September 19 New England/Canada sailing and Crystal Symphony’s October 15 Panama Canal cruise, each Crystal Society guest will receive 60 minutes of complimentary internet access for every day of the cruise.

Crystal Society members can use the new complimentary access time wirelessly via iPad, iPhone, laptop or other wireless device or on Crystal’s own Computer University@Sea 27” dual-compatible iMac computers. A multi-million dollar Wi-Fi upgrade rolled out in recent months will help guests enjoy maximum onboard connectivity.

More info: call 020 7399 7601 or visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk.

Paul Gauguin Cruises is introducing two exciting new itineraries this summer that take in the amazing destination of Papua New Guinea. The 11-night Fiji to Australia voyage departing June 14 is a unique voyage that charts a course to popular and undiscovered ports from exotic Fiji to the Great Barrier Reef, while the 12-night Australia to Fiji voyage departing August 18 is the same as the above but in reverse.

Islands visited include Vanuatu, Guadalcanal, whose very name is synonymous with a turning point of World War II, and by Papua New Guinea itself, the second-largest island in the world. Prices start from £4,290 per person for 11 nights accommodation in an ocean view stateroom with all meals, soft drinks, selected alcoholic beverages and gratuities. Also included is airfare from Los Angeles.

 

More info: call  020 7399 7691 or visit www.pgcruises.com.

The new edition of World of Cruising is now out, and you can see the digital version online on our home page at www.worldofcruising.co.uk. To subscribe at our special offer rate of 50% off for 2014, see this link.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Paul Gauguin Unveil 2015 Delights

It's tempting to think of the first few weeks of the year as one gigantic sales opportunity for the cruise lines (and you could be forgiven for thinking that is actually the case after the past week or so!). But it is also the time of year when many companies tempt us with looking a bit ahead than the next few months by unveiling their programmes for next year.

And the latest details from Paul Gauguin Cruises for 2015 voyages feature a new 10-night Round-trip Fiji itinerary on Paul Gauguin (above) and a new seven-night Round-trip Venice itinerary on MV Moana, along with popular favourites.

Paul Gauguin Cruises is also extending savings of 50% off standard cruise fares on all 2015 voyages of both ships, plus included airfare from Los Angeles on Paul Gauguin itineraries.  

Paul Gauguin

New for next year is the 10-night Round-trip Fiji voyage visiting Lautoka, Fiji; lle des Pins, New Caledonia; Noumea, New Caledonia; IIe De Mare, New Caledonia; IIe Lifou, New Caledonia; Port Vila, Vanuatu; and Lautoka, Fiji. The cruise departs October 31, 2015, with cruise fares from £2,721 per person, including airfare from Los Angeles.  

The Gauguin will also be featuring its most popular itineraries in 2015: the seven-night Tahiti & Society Islands; 10-night Society Islands & Tuamotus; 11-night Cook Islands & Society Islands; and 14-night Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands. Other highlights include 12- and 13-night Fiji, Tonga, Cook & Society Islands voyages.

Tere Moana

New for 2015 on Moana is a seven-night Round-trip Venice voyage with visits to the Croatian ports of Rovinj, Island SV Andrea, Hvar, Dubrovnik, Vis, Sibenick and Split. The cruise departs August 1, 2015, with cruise fares from £2,993 per person. Other European itineraries Moana will be offering include Athens to Venice  and Istanbul to Athens.

More info: call 020 7399 7691 or visit www.pgcruises.com

Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? We have a very special, limited-time offer to save 50% off a full year's subscription, which includes six issues PLUS our new year-end Cruise Directory. That means a year's worth of Europe's leading cruise publication will be only £15. Check out the special rate on this link!

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Cruising With Jean-Michel Cousteau

Cruise ship lectures are now a significant part of the cruise experience, and several lines are now making them a headline feature in their own right. It's not uncommon to find big-name speakers among the lecturers, hence it is something we keep a close eye on these days.

Luxury line Paul Gauguin Cruises has just revealed its guest speaker line-up for 2014, and we thought it was worth passing on as the line-up includes speakers who are experts in the culinary arts, wine, photography, fine art, history, music and the wonders of the deep.

Foremost among them is world-famous oceanographer and environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau, who joins several sailings aboard the Paul Gauguin in 2014: to the Society Islands & Tuamotus Marquesas; Fiji & Australia; and Tonga, Cook & Society Islands. In addition to presenting lectures and videos of his work, he will accompany several dives from the ship.

They also include Chef Propriétaire of one of the finest restaurants in Paris, the two Michelin-starred Restaurant Apicius, Jean-Pierre Vigato, who has inspired signature menus for Paul Gauguin Cruises for several years. This celebrated chef will be onboard the Gauguin’s June 25 Australia & South-east Asia voyage and will provide culinary demonstrations featuring his gastronomic techniques. 

From the vineyards of California’s Sonoma County and Central Coast to the great estates of Bordeaux, Daniel Baron has learned the importance of the pursuit of excellence in winemaking. Today, he serves as winemaker for the Napa Valley’s prestigious Silver Oak Cellars. Baron will be aboard the Gauguin’s December 3 Tuamotus & Society Islands sailing for a lecture and wine-tasting.

The full list is long and equally impressive and you can see more on this link.

More info: 020 7399 7691 or visit www.pgcruises.com.

Have you subscribed to World of Cruising magazine yet? We have a fabulous offer for all new subscribers this year - 50 per cent OFF the regular rate AND the chance to win a cruise in our free prize draw offer. See this link!

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

More Tahiti & South Pacific From Paul Gauguin Cruises

Paul Gauguin Cruises, operator of the highest-rated and longest continually sailing luxury cruise ship in the South Pacific, the MS Paul Gauguin, and the newly launched MV Tere Moana, has released its new Voyages by Gauguin 2014 Collection brochure.

The brochure features 26 itineraries and 62 voyages by the cruise line’s two deluxe small ships, which both offer an elegant yet casual ambiance, luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, trademark Polynesian hospitality and all-inclusive value. Fleet distinctions, dining venues, entertainment, activities, destination guides, deck plans and sailing schedules are also highlighted.

For 2014, seven-14-night voyages are offered on both ships, with the Gauguin sailing in French Polynesia, the South Pacific and South-east Asia, and The Moana offering voyages in Europe, the Caribbean and Latin America.

New itineraries on Gauguin include an 11-night Fiji to Australia voyage, a 12-night Australia to Fiji voyage and two 14-night voyages between Australia and South-east Asia. Maiden ports include: Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands; Kieta, Bougainville, Rabaul, and Samarai Island, Papua New Guinea; Thursday Island and Darwin, Australia; Komodo Island, Benoa, Bali and Semarang, Indonesia; Singapore; and Maupiti, Society Islands.

Returning favourites on The Gauguin include: 12 and 13-night Fiji, Tonga, Cook & Society Islands; 7-night Tahiti & the Society Islands; 10-night Society Islands & Tuamotus; 11-night Cook Islands & Society Islands; and 14-night Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands.

In 2014, Tere Moana offers a variety of new seven-night itineraries: Round-trip Rome; Rome to Nice; Round-trip Nice; Nice to Barcelona; Panama to St. Martin; and Round-trip Costa Rica. New ports include: Mahón, Menorca and Palamós, Spain; Villefranche, Sanary-sur-Mer and Antibes, France; Ponza and San Remo, Italy; San Blas and Isla Gamez, Panama; and Golfito, Drake Bay, Quepos, and Isla Tortuga/Curú Wildlife Reserve, all in Costa Rica.

Tere Moana will again offer a seven-night Panama, to St. Maarten, voyage; a seven-night Round-trip St. Maarten itinerary; 14-night Transatlantic cruises; and seven-night European sailings in the Greek isles, Spanish isles, Dalmatian coast and coastal France, Italy and Spain.

Paul Gauguin Cruises is also extending included airfare from Los Angeles on Paul Gauguin itineraries. Past guests will enjoy additional savings of 5% off final cruise fares on any sailing of either ship or 10% on select sailings, when booked by September 30.Prices start from £4,001 per person fly/cruise on Gauguin and from £1,497 cruise only on Tere Moana.

For bookings, follow this link to The Cruise Line, the UK's luxury cruising specialists.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

A South Seas Wildlife Odyssey With Paul Gauguin

This autumn, Paul Gauguin Cruises is offering a unique 11-night Australs & Society Islands voyage on the MS Paul Gauguin that visits prime locations for humpback whale viewing. On this cruise, there will be two opportunities for whale watching: Moorea in the Society Islands and Rurutu, an island in the rarely visited Australs chain. 

There will also be three experts on board to enhance the experience through a series of lectures: renowned oceanographer and environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau; distinguished marine biologist Dr Scott Baker; and Cécile Gaspar, President of Te Mana O Te Moana, a non-profit conservation organisation that strives to protect the marine environment of French Polynesia and to educate the public.

The 11-night sailing departs September 21 from Papeete, Tahiti, and visits Huahine, Bora Bora, Taha’a (Motu Mahana), Raiatea, and Moorea in the Society Islands along with Rurutu in the Australs Islands. Cruise fares start from £4,857 per person for 11 nights' accommodation in an ocean view stateroom with all meals, soft drinks, selected alcoholic beverages and gratuities.

For bookings, follow this link to The Cruise Line, the UK's luxury cruising specialists.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Gauguin's 2014 Collection

Paul Gauguin Cruises, operator of the highest-rated and longest continually sailing luxury cruise ship in the South Pacific, the MS Paul Gauguin, and the newly launched MV Tere Moana (above), has released its new "Voyages by Gauguin 2014 Collection" brochure.

The brochure features 26 itineraries and 62 voyages by the line’s two deluxe small ships, which both offer an elegant yet casual ambiance, luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, trademark Polynesian hospitality and extraordinary all-inclusive value. Fleet distinctions, dining venues, entertainment, activities, destination guides, deck plans and sailing schedules are also highlighted.

For 2014, seven to 14-night voyages are offered on both ships, with the Gauguin sailing in French Polynesia, the South Pacific and South-east Asia, and Moana offering voyages in Europe, the Caribbean and Latin America.

New itineraries on Gauguin include an 11-night Fiji to Australia voyage, a 12-night Australia to Fiji voyage and two 14-night voyages between Australia and South-east Asia. Maiden ports include: Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands; Kieta, Bougainville, Papua New Guinea; Rabaul, Papua New Guinea; Samarai Island, Papua New Guinea; Thursday Island, Australia; Darwin, Australia; Komodo Island, Indonesia; Benoa, Bali, Indonesia; Semarang, Indonesia; Singapore; and Maupiti, Society Islands.

Returning favourites on Gauguin include: 12 and 13-night Fiji, Tonga, Cook & Society Islands; 7-night Tahiti & Society Islands; 10-night Society Islands & Tuamotus; 11-night Cook Islands & Society Islands; and 14-night Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands.

In 2014, Moana offers a variety of new seven-night itineraries: Round-trip Rome; Rome to Nice; Round-trip Nice; Nice to Barcelona; Colón, Panama to St. Martin; and Round-trip Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica. New ports include: Mahón, Menorca; Palamós; Villefranche; Sanary-sur-Mer; Antibes; Ponza; San Remo; San Blas and Isla Gamez, Panama; Golfito, Drake Bay, Quepos and Isla Tortuga/Curú Wildlife Reserve, Costa Rica.

Moana will again offer a seven-night Colón to St. Maarten, voyage; a seven-night Round-trip St. Maarten itinerary; 14-night Transatlantic cruises; and seven-night European sailings in the Greek isles, Spanish isles, Dalmatian coast, and coastal France, Italy, and Spain.

Paul Gauguin Cruises is also extending included airfare from Los Angeles on Paul Gauguin itineraries. Prices start from £4,001 per person fly/cruise and from £1,497 cruise-only on Moana.

For bookings, follow this link to The Cruise Line, the UK's luxury cruising specialists.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Paul Gauguin Unveils Shore Excursions For New Ship

Paul Gauguin Cruises has revealed an enticing array of shore excursion options for guests on seven-night Caribbean and 13 and 14-night Panama Canal voyages on board the new Tere Moana in 2013.

With options to suit most interests, guests can discover the beauty, rich history and culture of the destinations they visit on a variety of shore excursions on Caribbean and Panama Canal itineraries. Guests can pre-reserve standard shore excursions and enjoy each with no more than 13 fellow travellers. Or, for a more intimate experience, pre-paid tours are also available for two to six guests which include private transportation with a personal driver/guide.

Tere Moana’s Caribbean voyages cruise round-trip from St Martin and visit Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, Basseterre, Les Saintes and St Barts. Eight departures are offered on December 29, 2012; March 9, 16 and 23; November 30; and December 07, 14 and 21, 2013, with cruise-only fares starting from £1,983 per person.

Shore excursion options for Caribbean voyages include: 

• Tortola: Dolphin Royal Swim; Certified SCUBA; and Eco-Snorkel & Kayaking.
• Jost Van Dyke: Hike & Beach Tour; and Certified SCUBA 
• Virgin Gorda: Best of Virgin Gorda; Baths Tour; and Certified SCUBA 
• Basseterre: Day at the Beach; Best of St Kitts - Full Island Tour; Best of St. Kitts - Full Island Private Tour; Private Yacht Tour; and Private SCUBA Diving Tour. 
• St Barts: St Barts Island Tour; Yellow Submarine Tour; ATV Adventure; BLUE CAT Snorkelling Tour; and BLUE CAT Snorkelling & One-Tank Dive Tour.

Tere Moana’s Panama Canal voyages cruise between St Martin and Puerto Caldera and visit St Barts, English Harbour, Les Saintes, Oranjestad, Willemstad, Cartagena, Panama Canal (transit), Isla de Coiba and Corcovado National Park (Marenco). Two departures are offered on January 5 and February 24, with cruise-only fares starting from £3,759pp.

Shore excursion options for Panama Canal voyages include: 

• Marenco: Corcovado National Park Hiking Tour; Horseback Riding to the Last Frontier; and Marine Wildlife Safari. 
• Cartagena: Cartagena City Tour; Rumba Tour by Chiva Bus; La Boquilla Mangrove Canoe Tour; and Cartagena City Walk.  
• English Harbour: Beach Deluxe Tour; Antiguan Crusoe Island Tour; Golf in Antigua; Segway Tour; Yacht Racing; and Antiguan Canopy Tour.
• Oranjestad: The Best of Aruba; and Aruba’s Treasures.
• Willemstad: Willemstad Walking Tour; Jewish Heritage Tour; and Curaçao Sea Aquarium Tour.

For bookings, follow this link to The Cruise Line Ltd, the UK's luxury cruising specialists.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Cousteau Sets Sail With Paul Gauguin

Paul Gauguin Cruises, operator of the highest-rated and longest continually sailing luxury ship in the South Pacific, the MS Paul Gauguin, has announced that world-renowned oceanographer and environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau will guest host four sailings in 2013.

Mr Cousteau is a diplomat for the environment, educator, author and film producer communicating his passion and concern for the Earth’s oceans. For more than 60 years, he, his father - the legendary Jacques Cousteau - and his family have been part of the greatest exploration of the oceans in all of history. 

During the four voyages on Paul Gauguin, Mr Cousteau will offer a series of lectures with videos of his work in the world’s oceans and accompany guests on several dives.

2013 Voyages Featuring Guest Host Jean-Michel Cousteau:

• 2^nd February: 14-night Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands Cruise – prices from £5,370 per person
• 26^th June: 10-night Society Islands & Tuamotus Cruise – prices from £4,472 per person
• 21^st September: 11-night Australs & Society Islands Cruise – prices from £4,757 per person
• 2^nd November: 11-night Cook Islands & Society Islands Cruise – prices from £4,757 per person

Prices include return scheduled flights, overseas transfers and accommodation in an ocean-view stateroom with all meals, soft drinks, selected alcoholic beverages and gratuities.

Also available in 2013 is Mr Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment Youth Programme, which introduces young travellers (ages 9-17) to the natural wonders of French Polynesia through interactive, hands-on experiences with island ecosystems. 

For bookings, follow this link to our sponsors, The Cruise Line Ltd, the UK's luxury cruise specialists.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Paul Gauguin's New Horizons

Paul Gauguin Cruises, operator of the highest-rated and longest continually sailing luxury cruise ship in the South Pacific, the MS Paul Gauguin, has unveiled its 2013 itineraries for the cruise line’s second ship—the 90-guest MV Tere Moana—which will offer voyages in Europe, the Caribbean and Latin America.

 
In the Gauguin tradition, cruise fares for Moana are all-inclusive with gratuities, soft drinks, select wines and spirits included. Also, with superior dining options, a luxury spa and a staff of 54 serving just 90 guests, the experience onboard promises to be nothing short of first class.

 
After undergoing a multi-faceted renovation to be completed this December, the Moana will set sail under the Gauguin Cruises banner on December 29 on a gala seven-night Caribbean voyage with chairman Richard Bailey onboard.

The new ship - currently the chic Le Levant of Compagnie du Ponant - will sail 13 itineraries in 2013. Like the Gauguin, Moana will specialise in warm-weather destinations, with an emphasis on delivering unique voyages that larger ships cannot offer and exploring hidden ports throughout these regions. The ship will sail during the summer months in Europe and winter in the Caribbean and Latin America.

For booking details, be sure to check out this link with the UK's luxury cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

New Experiences For Paul Gauguin

Paul Gauguin Cruises have announced their 2013 sailing schedule, with guests aboard having the chance to experience some exciting itineraries and experiences on the newly-renovated ship.

The highlights include: Island of Whales - following 2012’s inaugural 11-night sailing to the Australs & Society Islands, the Gauguin will return on September 21, 2013, to witness the majestic humpback whales cavorting en masse off the coast of Rurutu.

The Society Islands - throughout 2013, Gauguin will visit the islands of French Polynesia for 7-, 10-, 11- and 14-night sailings. Guests will travel through this spectacular collection of islands with stops including the breathtaking lagoons of Bora Bora and Moorea, plus access to Paul Gauguin Cruises’ private Motu Mahana adjacent to the white-sand beaches of Taha’a. Special Guests: The launch of guest-host sailings proved so popular in 2012 that the line will be continuing this programme on select 2013 sailings.

Fully Renovated Ship: Having completed a $7million renovation, the Gauguin now features new flooring and carpeting, elegant new furniture, new window treatments and decorative wall panels, and new signage, providing a lighter, brighter feel. Additionally, all suites and staterooms have been updated with new teak railings and bathroom floors. 

Guests will also enjoy the newly expanded Le Casino and new built-in banquettes on the Promenade on Deck 5. Paul Gauguin Cruises is also offering extraordinary value in luxury cruising, with savings of 50% off standard cruise fares plus FREE airfare from Los Angeles. The 2013 prices start from £4,094 for a seven-night Tahiti & Society Islands sailing based on departures on March 9 and 16. Prices include return economy flights from the UK, overseas transfers, a night in Los Angeles and use of a day room post cruise. 

For booking details, be sure to check out this link with the UK's luxury cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Watch the Transit of Venus With Paul Gauguin Cruises

Experience one of the rarest of predictable astronomical phenomena, the Transit of Venus, during Paul Gauguin Cruises seven-night Tahiti & the Society Islands voyage, departing Papeete on June 2. The Transit of Venus will last six hours and will not occur again until 2117, so this is your last chance to see one!

Because you can actually see a planet move across the disk of the sun, transits provide a unique opportunity to watch the solar system in motion. For a Transit of Venus to take place, the planet must be located in line with both the Earth and the sun. This positioning doesn’t happen very often due to the track of Venus’ orbit. 

A telescope is necessary to even notice a transit, so the Transit of Venus was not observed until 1639. Since that time, there have been only five such Transits. The most recent was in 2004 and, before that, over a century ago, in 1882. There were no transits during the 20th century.

On June 5, the ship will be at anchor off the island of Bora Bora and safe solar-viewing tools will be available under the direction of an onboard solar expert. Guests will take a look through the solar telescope then wait a few minutes before looking again. Venus will have moved and they will have seen Venus pass Earth against the backdrop of the sun – a truly exhilarating experience. Venus will be visible against the surface of the sun all afternoon, barring clouds or other weather-related impediments.

Joining this sailing is Bill Kramer, an acknowledged expert in solar eclipse prediction mathematics, who will provide guests with in-depth information on this rare astronomical event. The seven-night voyage onboard the newly refurbished Paul Gauguin departs Papeete, Tahiti, on June 2 and visits Raiatea, Taha’a, Bora Bora (overnight) and Moorea before arriving back into Papeete. Prices from £4,140 per person include return economy flights from the UK, overseas transfers, a night in Los Angeles and use of a day room post cruise. 

For booking details, be sure to check out this link with the UK's luxury cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Paul Gauguin's Special Guest Line-Up

Paul Gauguin Cruises has announced details of an array of 2012 itineraries with special guest hosts appealing to a variety of interests – from cooking and astronomy to marine biology.

These include:

· 11th February: Daniel Baron, winemaker for Silver Oak Cellars will be joining the Paul Gauguin on this seven-night Tahiti & the Society Islands sailing.

· 3rd March: Legendary celebrity chef Art Smith, Oprah Winfrey’s personal chef for 10 years, will join the 11-night Cook & Society Islands sailing, bringing his culinary expertise on board.

· 2nd June: Joining this seven-night Tahiti & the Society Islands sailing is Bill Kramer, an acknowledged expert in solar eclipse prediction mathematics. Kramer will share with guests the opportunity to witness a rare astronomical event on 5th June – the Transit of Venus.

· 23rd June: Celebrated chef Jean-Pierre Vigato, Chef Propriétaire of the two-star Michelin-rated Restaurant Apicius in Paris, will prepare gourmet dishes and offer culinary demonstrations featuring his gastronomic techniques on this seven-night Tahiti & the Society Islands sailing.

· 23rd May/11th July/20th November/1st December: World-renowned oceanographer and environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau will join these four sailings, providing lectures with videos of his work and accompanying guests on several dives throughout the cruise.

· 11th July: For music lovers, what is better than opera in the South Pacific? Join American lyric soprano Kristin Clayton, star of the world-premiere of At the Statue of Venus, and renowned bass-baritone Bojan Knezevic on this 10-night Society Islands & Tuamotus sailing for an extraordinary opportunity to hear these legendary performers in concert throughout the cruise.

Following her multi-million dollar refurbishment in January 2012, the MS Paul Gauguin will embark on a series of 40 stunning itineraries with prices starting from just £3,933 per person for a seven-night Society Islands cruise including return economy flights from the UK, overseas transfers, a night in Los Angeles and use of a day room post cruise.

For further information and booking, check out this link to luxury cruise specialists The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

New Ship for Paul Gauguin Cruises

The best thing about deadlines is that they are fixed, immovable, and they get the job done. The worst thing about deadlines is they are fixed, immovable - and new stories crop up the minute a deadline has passed.

That was certainly the case with the latest edition of World of Cruising magazine (our Autumn issue - see it here). No sooner had we gone to print with issue 52 than Paul Gauguin Cruises announced a new ship for 2012, MV Moana.

The current Tahiti-based one-ship South Seas operation has been offering the Paul Gauguin for five years now, a deluxe one-off adventurer in this blissful region.

But now they are stepping things up with the acquisition of the sleek, 90-passenger Le Levant (above) from La Compagnie du Ponant, which will get a major makeover next year and then offer a greatly-enhanced range of cruises under the Gauguin banner, including the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

Moana will begin operations in December 2012, starting with a winter season in the West Indies and Latin America before repositioning to the Med for the summer. She will offer an upmarket choice for the destinations, and add to Gauguin's reputation for a distinctive, niche style.

Diane Moore, president of Paul Gauguin Cruises, said: "We are monumentally proud to add a second ship to our Pacific Beachcomber portfolio and Paul Gauguin Cruises family. This is an incredibly huge branding achievement for the growth of our cruise line and I look forward to welcoming fans of The Gauguin onboard our latest addition."

The 332-passenger Paul Gauguin is currently undergoing a $7million refurbishment and will be back in business in January.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Enjoy A White (Sand) Christmas In French Polynesia

Paul Gauguin Cruises gives “White Christmas” a whole new meaning during their two festive voyages on December 21 and 28 this year, bringing guests to the white-sand beaches of magical French Polynesia, where children may even see Santa Claus (or Pere Noel as local children know him) travelling from island to island in his outrigger canoe!

Couples, families and friends can also toast the New Year on the December 28 sailing, or learn Polynesian dances with the popular Les Gauguines – a local Tahitian dance group serving as cruise staff, entertainers and storytellers on each sailing.

Another unique feature is that passengers on the chic MS Paul Gauguin are invited to relax on the company's private white-sand beach on Bora Bora, an idyllic hideaway with jaw-dropping views – the perfect place for snorkelling or sunbathing.

For further information, visit www.pgcruises.com or luxury cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Paul Gauguin's South Pacific Sale

Paul Gauguin Cruises has launched a South Pacific Sale offering fabulous savings of up to £1,258 per person on selected winter 2011/2012 sailings with prices starting from just £3,119 per person if booked by August 31.

These offers are available on seven-night Society Islands voyages round trip from Tahiti visiting Raiatea, Taha’a, Bora Bora (overnight) and Moorea (overnight) with departures on the following dates: November 5 and 12; December 3 and 21; and February 25, 2012.

Prices start from £3,119 per person fly-cruise based on a seven-night Society Islands voyage departing in November and including return scheduled flights, transfers, seven nights in an ocean-view stateroom with all meals, soft drinks, selected alcoholic beverages and gratuities.

For more info, visit www.pgcruises.com or the UK's leading adventure-cruise specialists The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Big South Pacific Savings With Paul Gauguin

Paul Gauguin Cruises is offering fabulous savings of up to £1,584 per couple on a selection of late 2011 South Pacific voyages booked before July 15. Savings are available on the following seven-night Society Island voyages round trip from Papeete:

· 20th August - prices from £3,119 per person fly/cruise with a saving of £1,584 per couple.

· 5th November – prices from £3,119 per person fly/cruise with a saving of £1,116 per couple.

· 12th November – prices from £3,119 per person fly/cruise with a saving of £1,116 per couple.

· 3rd December – prices from £3,119 per person fly/cruise with a saving of £916 per couple.

· 21st December – prices from £3,379 per person fly/cruise with a saving of £1,116 per couple.

Prices include return scheduled flights, transfers and seven nights in an ocean-view stateroom with all meals, soft drinks, selected alcoholic beverages and gratuities.

For more info, visit www.pgcruises.com or contact the luxury cruise specialists, The Cruise Line Ltd on 0800 008 6677.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Paul Gauguin 2012 Itineraries

Paul Gauguin Cruises, operator of the highest rated and longest continually-sailing luxury cruise ship in the South Pacific, the MS Paul Gauguin, has announced details of its 2012 itineraries, which will once again feature FREE flights between Los Angeles and Papeete. To ensure every sailing continues to be the cruise of a lifetime, Paul Gauguin Cruises will continue to focus on the exotic regions in which it specialises - Tahiti, French Polynesia, the Cook Islands, the Society Islands, the Marquesas and Tuamotus – while adding the spectacular destinations of Fiji and New Caledonia into the mix.

Following a multi-million dollar refurbishment in January 2012, the ship will embark on a series of 40 stunning itineraries, with prices starting from just £3,933 per person for a seven-night Society Islands cruise, including return economy flights from the UK, overseas transfers, a night in Los Angeles and use of a day room post-cruise.

Other programme highlights include:

· A 20-night South Pacific Discovery cruise and land package, which allows guests to discover the scenic splendours of Australia, New Caledonia, Fiji, Tonga, the Cook Islands and the Society Islands.

· An 11-night whale-watching itinerary in September, taking in Rurutu, Bora Bora and Moorea.

· A seven-night Society Islands voyage on June 2 taking in the transit of Venus.

· Two new Fiji voyages in October and November visiting Fiji, Tonga and the Cook Islands.

· Unique Ambassadors of the Environment Youth Programme to operate onboard from June 2 to the end of August. This groundbreaking programme introduces travellers to the extraordinary natural wonders of French Polynesia and aims to give young participants direct, hands-on interactive experience with knowledge of marine and island ecosystems.

· Any guests new to Paul Gauguin Cruises who have previously sailed with another luxury cruise line will benefit from a 10% saving on selected 2012 voyages.

The full sailing schedule will include:

Raiatea: the island was once the cultural, religious, royal and political heart of Polynesia and was, according to legend, one of Tahiti's most significant archaeological sites.

Taha’a: adjacent to Paul Gauguin Cruises’ private Motu Mahana, featuring white sand beaches with swaying palms, crystal-clear waters and gentle breezes, where guests can enjoy a barbecue lunch serenaded by Polynesian singers.

Bora Bora: immediately recognisable by the basalt tombstone of Mount Otemanu rising from the ocean, this half-atoll, half-mountain is surrounded by a spectacular lagoon and a series of smaller islands.

Moorea/Tahiti: covered in an abundance of fresh fruits and flowers, spectacular mountain peaks, peaceful multi-hued lagoons and palm-fringed beaches. Here guests can shop for local crafts, trek on the “Trails of the Ancients,” snorkel one of the world's most beautiful lagoons, or embark on a dolphin-watching expedition with a marine biologist.

Cook Islands: guests will marvel at the contrast of arid Aitutaki, where the ocean is always in view, and Rarotonga, an island of lush valleys and jagged peaks.

For more info, see www.pgcruises.com or contact the UK's leading adventure-cruise specialists of the Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.

Paul Gauguin's Big Spring Sale

Paul Gauguin Cruises has launched its Spring Sale offering fabulous savings of up to £4,850 per couple on sailings throughout July and August. This offer is valid for new bookings made between now and May 31.

In July and August, the MS Paul Gauguin will sail four seven-night Society Island cruises round trip from Papeete; a ten-night Tuamotus & Society Islands cruise round trip from Papeete; an 11-night Cook & Society Islands cruise round trip from Papeete; and a 14-night Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands cruise round trip from Papeete.

Prices start from £2,998 per person fly-cruise, based on a seven-night Society Islands voyage departing August 20, including return scheduled flights, transfers, seven nights in an ocean-view stateroom with all meals, soft drinks, selected alcoholic beverages and gratuities.

For further information, visit http://www.pgcruises.com/ or contact the UK's luxury cruise specialists of The Cruise Line Ltd.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.