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Paul Gauguin Cruises Reigns Supreme Again as Best Small Cruise

In an impressive feat, Paul Gauguin Cruises has secured the title of Best Small Cruise for the second consecutive year in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers' Choice Awards for 2025. This prestigious honor was determined by the overwhelming support of more than 750,000 votes from readers who shared their travel experiences over various categories. The award not only validates the unique offerings of Paul Gauguin Cruises but also highlights the company’s commitment to providing enriching and culturally immersive travel experiences centered around the beauty of French Polynesia.

Commitment to Cultural Experiences

Paul Gauguin Cruises has consistently delivered a blend of luxury, personalized service, and cultural enrichment, ensuring that every moment spent on board the m/s Paul Gauguin is a memorable experience. According to Samuel Chamberlain, CEO of PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP Americas, this award reflects the profound connection and loyalty guests feel towards the ship and its dedicated crew. He emphasized the importance of showcasing the stunning landscapes and rich culture of French Polynesia while also giving back to the local communities.

Many crew members have dedicated years, with some even having grown up on the islands, which fosters a genuine warmth and hospitality that enhances the overall cruising experience. The Gauguin Experience thrives on the relationship between the crew and guests, creating an atmosphere of shared joy and cultural appreciation.

Elegant and Sustainable Ship Design

The m/s Paul Gauguin, with its capacity of just 330 guests, provides an intimate and elegant cruising atmosphere akin to an overwater bungalow. Its sustainable design enables it to navigate the shallow waters of various magnificent islands in the South Pacific, including the Society Islands, Tuamotus, Marquesas, and Cook Islands. This focus on sustainability not only aligns with modern travel expectations but also ensures minimal environmental impact, preserving the breathtaking beauty of the destinations it visits.

Recent multimillion-dollar renovations have further uplifted the ship’s ambiance, with improvements including a revamped Le Grill restaurant, a new pool deck with shaded cabanas, and connecting staterooms to accommodate families. The upgrade also includes a new seawater filtration system, reflecting a commitment to sustainable tourism and luxury.

Activities and Enriching Programs

Life aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin is filled with engaging activities that are deeply intertwined with the rich local culture. Guests can experience live music, traditional storytelling, and classes that feature local crafts led by Les Gauguines, a group of Tahitian entertainers. Additionally, families will particularly enjoy the complimentary children's program that engages young travelers with the local environment through workshops and excursions, making it an educational and fun experience for all ages.

For those who seek adventure, the ship’s watersports marina offers complimentary paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling gear, as well as a unique PADI-certified dive program, making Paul Gauguin Cruises not just a travel option but an adventure-packed journey.

Awards and Recognition

Paul Gauguin Cruises has not only been recognized as the Best Small Cruise in 2024 and 2025, but it has also recently received the Sustainability Initiative of the Year from Seatrade for its healthcare partnership with the French Polynesian Government. The accolades are a testament to the cruise line’s commitment to excellence and service, which also includes being a perennial favorite in French Polynesia for over 27 years.

The list of accolades continues, such as being named World's Best Small-Ship Ocean Cruise Line by Travel + Leisure in 2022 and receiving multiple awards for its cruises in French Polynesia.

In conclusion, the excellence behind Paul Gauguin Cruises is not merely confined to luxury, but it extends to building deep connections with cultural heritage, enhancing guest experiences, and preserving the breathtaking environment of the South Pacific. The m/s Paul Gauguin embodies all these elements, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure.