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Several major cruise lines, including Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line, offer voyages to the stunning islands of French Polynesia. These top picks provide immersive itineraries that highlight Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea, combining luxury, cultural experiences, and breathtaking natural beauty. Smaller luxury and expedition lines like Paul Gauguin Cruises and Seabourn also deliver exclusive, intimate journeys perfect for exploring this remote paradise.
Key Takeaways
- Choose Ponant for luxury: French-owned line with immersive Polynesian experiences.
- Paul Gauguin Cruises specializes: Exclusively sails French Polynesia with cultural focus.
- Oceania offers mid-range elegance: Balanced mix of exploration and onboard comfort.
- Windstar’s small ships access: Intimate yacht-like experience in remote islands.
- Check seasonal itineraries: Most lines operate only during dry season (April–October).
- Book Tahiti departures early: Papeete is the main hub; flights fill fast.
📑 Table of Contents
- Which Cruise Lines Go to French Polynesia: Discover Top Picks
- Why Cruise to French Polynesia? The Allure of Island-Hopping by Sea
- Top Luxury Cruise Lines Sailing to French Polynesia
- Mid-Range and Premium Cruise Lines with Polynesian Itineraries
- Small-Ship and Expedition Cruises: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
- Seasonality, Itineraries, and What to Expect
- Comparing Cruise Lines: A Data Table for Quick Reference
- Conclusion: Choosing the Perfect French Polynesia Cruise for You
Which Cruise Lines Go to French Polynesia: Discover Top Picks
French Polynesia, a dazzling archipelago scattered across the South Pacific, has long been a dream destination for travelers seeking paradise on Earth. Comprising 118 islands and atolls—including the iconic Bora Bora, Moorea, Tahiti, and Raiatea—this French overseas territory offers a mesmerizing blend of turquoise lagoons, lush volcanic peaks, vibrant coral reefs, and rich Polynesian culture. Whether you’re drawn to overwater bungalows, world-class snorkeling, or the romantic allure of swaying palm trees and sunset cruises, French Polynesia delivers an unforgettable escape. And while many visitors opt for land-based resorts, an increasing number are discovering the magic of experiencing this tropical haven by sea—on a cruise.
But with so many cruise lines offering South Pacific itineraries, which cruise lines go to French Polynesia? The answer isn’t as simple as it might seem. Not all cruise lines sail to these remote islands, and those that do vary widely in terms of ship size, itinerary length, luxury level, and cultural immersion. From intimate luxury yachts to mid-sized expedition vessels and even select large ocean liners, the options are diverse—and choosing the right one can make or break your Polynesian adventure. This guide dives deep into the top cruise lines that sail to French Polynesia, highlighting what makes each unique, what to expect, and how to pick the perfect voyage for your travel style, budget, and bucket list.
Why Cruise to French Polynesia? The Allure of Island-Hopping by Sea
The Unmatched Beauty of the South Pacific
French Polynesia is more than just a collection of postcard-perfect islands—it’s a region of extraordinary natural diversity. The Society Islands (Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Taha’a), the Tuamotus (a ring of atolls famed for diving), and the Marquesas (remote, rugged, and culturally rich) each offer distinct experiences. Cruising allows you to sample multiple islands in one trip without the logistical hassle of inter-island flights or ferries. Imagine waking up to a new island each morning, with the ocean as your private highway and the horizon as your guide.
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Convenience and Comfort Combined
Unlike land-based stays, which often limit you to one or two islands, a cruise lets you visit five, six, or even more islands in a single journey. This is especially valuable in French Polynesia, where domestic flights between islands can be expensive and infrequent. Cruising also eliminates the need to pack and unpack repeatedly—your floating hotel moves with you. Plus, most cruise lines include meals, onboard entertainment, and shore excursions, making it a seamless and stress-free way to explore.
Unique Cultural and Natural Experiences
Many cruise lines partner with local guides and cultural ambassadors to offer authentic Polynesian experiences. Think: traditional dance performances on deck, coconut husking demonstrations, guided visits to sacred marae (ancient temples), and snorkeling in pristine lagoons teeming with reef sharks, manta rays, and colorful fish. Some even offer overnight stays in ports like Bora Bora, allowing you to experience the island’s famous sunset views from the water—something few land-based guests get to see.
Environmental and Sustainable Travel
With growing awareness of overtourism, French Polynesia has implemented strict sustainability measures. Many cruise lines now adhere to eco-friendly practices, such as waste reduction, reef-safe sunscreen policies, and low-impact excursions. Smaller ships, in particular, have a lower environmental footprint and can access smaller, less-visited atolls that larger vessels can’t reach, promoting responsible tourism.
Top Luxury Cruise Lines Sailing to French Polynesia
Paul Gauguin Cruises: The Pioneer of Polynesian Voyages
When it comes to luxury cruising in French Polynesia, Paul Gauguin Cruises is the undisputed leader. Named after the famed French painter who found inspiration in Tahiti, this boutique line operates the 332-guest Paul Gauguin—a mid-sized ship designed specifically for South Pacific navigation. Since 1998, it has offered 7- to 14-night itineraries focused exclusively on the Society and Tuamotu Islands.
- Itinerary Highlights: 7-night “Society Islands & Tahiti” cruise (Papeete → Moorea → Bora Bora → Raiatea → Taha’a → Huahine → back to Papeete); 11-night “Tahiti & the Tuamotus” includes Rangiroa and Fakarava, both UNESCO Biosphere Reserves.
- Luxury Features: Butler service for all suites, open-seating dining with French and Polynesian cuisine, a watersports marina, and a spa with ocean views.
- Unique Perks: Complimentary scuba diving for certified divers, onboard Polynesian cultural experts, and a private beach day at Motu Mahana near Taha’a.
- Best For: Couples, honeymooners, and travelers seeking a seamless, all-inclusive luxury experience with deep cultural immersion.
Tip: Book early for the “Tahiti & the Tuamotus” itinerary—spots fill up fast due to limited availability and high demand for diving in Rangiroa’s famous Tiputa Pass.
Seabourn: Ultra-Luxury with a Polynesian Twist
Seabourn, known for its all-suite, all-butler service fleet, offers select 10- to 14-night French Polynesia voyages aboard the Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Sojourn. These itineraries are typically part of longer South Pacific or world cruises but include immersive stops in French Polynesia.
- Itinerary Highlights: 11-night “Tahiti & Society Islands” cruise (Papeete → Huahine → Bora Bora → Moorea → Raiatea → back to Papeete); often includes overnights in Bora Bora and Moorea.
- Luxury Features: All-inclusive premium beverages, fine dining by Thomas Keller, complimentary water sports (kayaking, paddleboarding), and a marina platform.
- Unique Perks: Seabourn’s “Conversations” program features Polynesian historians and marine biologists; private beach barbecues on remote motus.
- Best For: Affluent travelers who value personalized service, gourmet dining, and exclusive experiences.
Tip: Seabourn’s French Polynesia sailings often coincide with the annual Heiva festival (July), offering a rare chance to witness traditional dance and music competitions.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises: All-Inclusive Elegance
Regent Seven Seas combines ultra-luxury with all-inclusive value. Its 700-guest Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Voyager offer 10- to 12-night French Polynesia itineraries, often as part of longer Pacific crossings.
- Itinerary Highlights: 10-night “Tahiti & the Society Islands” (Papeete → Moorea → Bora Bora → Raiatea → Huahine → back to Papeete); includes a full-day excursion in Bora Bora.
- Luxury Features: All suites with private balconies, unlimited shore excursions, premium drinks, and gratuities included.
- Unique Perks: Regent’s “Go Local” tours—small-group excursions led by Polynesian artisans, farmers, and chefs.
- Best For: Travelers who want a no-worries, all-inclusive experience with maximum value.
Mid-Range and Premium Cruise Lines with Polynesian Itineraries
Princess Cruises: Accessible Island-Hopping with a Modern Touch
Princess Cruises brings French Polynesia to a broader audience with its mid-sized, modern ships like the Royal Princess and Discovery Princess. While not exclusive to the region, Princess offers seasonal 10- to 14-night voyages during the South Pacific’s peak season (April–October).
- Itinerary Highlights: 10-night “Tahiti & Society Islands” cruise (Papeete → Moorea → Bora Bora → Raiatea → Huahine → back to Papeete); often includes a day in Papeete before departure.
- Features: Multiple dining options (including a French bistro), a top-deck pool with retractable roof, and the “Discovery at Sea” enrichment program.
- Unique Perks: Princess’s “MedallionClass” technology for contactless service; complimentary Polynesian dance lessons and cooking classes.
- Best For: First-time cruisers, families, and travelers seeking a balance of affordability and comfort.
Tip: Book a balcony cabin—views of Moorea’s jagged peaks and Bora Bora’s lagoon are worth the upgrade. Look for “MedallionNet” packages for reliable Wi-Fi.
Holland America Line: Classic Elegance with Cultural Depth
Holland America Line (HAL) offers 12- to 14-night French Polynesia itineraries aboard the Noordam and Zaandam, often as part of longer Pacific or world cruises. These voyages emphasize cultural enrichment and scenic cruising.
- Itinerary Highlights: 12-night “Tahiti & Society Islands” (Papeete → Moorea → Bora Bora → Raiatea → Huahine → back to Papeete); includes a scenic sail through the Tuamotus.
- Features: Signature “Culinary Arts Center” with Polynesian cooking demos, a spa with ocean-view treatment rooms, and a dedicated enrichment program.
- Unique Perks: HAL’s “On Location” program features local musicians, artisans, and historians; complimentary shore excursions in select ports.
- Best For: Mature travelers, culture enthusiasts, and repeat cruisers who appreciate classic service.
Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury with a Polynesian Flair
Celebrity Cruises brings its “Modern Luxury” concept to French Polynesia with 11-night voyages on the Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Eclipse. These ships feature sleek design, gourmet dining, and a strong focus on wellness.
- Itinerary Highlights: 11-night “Tahiti & the Society Islands” (Papeete → Moorea → Bora Bora → Raiatea → Huahine → back to Papeete); includes overnight in Bora Bora.
- Features: Rooftop terrace with lawn club, “Le Petit Chef” dining experience, and a state-of-the-art spa.
- Unique Perks: Complimentary snorkeling gear; “Celebrity Life” program with Polynesian cultural workshops.
- Best For: Travelers who want contemporary style, wellness amenities, and a vibrant onboard atmosphere.
Small-Ship and Expedition Cruises: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
Ponant: French Elegance Meets Polynesian Exploration
Ponant, the French luxury expedition line, offers intimate, French-speaking voyages to French Polynesia aboard its sleek, 184-guest Le Paul Gauguin (not to be confused with Paul Gauguin Cruises) and other Explorer-class ships. These are ideal for travelers seeking a blend of luxury and adventure.
- Itinerary Highlights: 7- to 12-night voyages to the Society, Tuamotu, and Marquesas Islands; includes remote atolls like Hiva Oa and Nuku Hiva.
- Features: All-balcony cabins, Zodiac excursions, onboard naturalists, and French haute cuisine.
- Unique Perks: Ponant’s “Expedition” itineraries include snorkeling in pristine lagoons, visits to archaeological sites, and cultural exchanges with Marquesan elders.
- Best For: Francophiles, adventure seekers, and travelers interested in anthropology and marine biology.
Tip: Ponant’s Marquesas itineraries are rare and highly sought after—book at least 12 months in advance.
Silversea Expeditions: All-Inclusive Adventure
Silversea Expeditions operates the 254-guest Silver Explorer and Silver Cloud on 10- to 14-night French Polynesia voyages. These are true expedition cruises, with a focus on wildlife, conservation, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
- Itinerary Highlights: 12-night “Tuamotus & Marquesas” cruise (Papeete → Rangiroa → Fakarava → Hiva Oa → Nuku Hiva → back to Papeete); includes UNESCO Biosphere Reserves.
- Features: All-inclusive (including gratuities and premium drinks), Zodiac landings, onboard scientists, and enrichment lectures.
- Unique Perks: Silversea’s “Wildlife & Conservation” program; opportunities to snorkel with sharks and rays in protected lagoons.
- Best For: Nature lovers, photographers, and travelers seeking a deeper connection with the environment.
Lindblad Expeditions (with National Geographic): Science Meets Culture
In partnership with National Geographic, Lindblad Expeditions offers educational, conservation-focused voyages to French Polynesia aboard the 102-guest National Geographic Orion and National Geographic Venture.
- Itinerary Highlights: 12-night “Society & Tuamotu Islands” cruise (Papeete → Moorea → Bora Bora → Raiatea → Rangiroa → back to Papeete).
- Features: Underwater cameras, hydrophones, and a team of National Geographic experts (photographers, biologists, historians).
- Unique Perks: Citizen science opportunities; snorkeling with marine biologists; cultural immersion with local communities.
- Best For: Educators, families with teens, and travelers passionate about science and sustainability.
Seasonality, Itineraries, and What to Expect
Best Time to Cruise French Polynesia
The optimal time to cruise French Polynesia is during the dry season: April to October. This period offers sunny skies, low humidity, and calm seas—ideal for snorkeling, diving, and scenic cruising. The shoulder months (April–May and September–October) are particularly pleasant, with fewer crowds and slightly lower prices. Avoid November to March, which is the wet season with higher chances of rain, humidity, and occasional cyclones.
Typical Itinerary Lengths and Routes
Most French Polynesia cruises range from 7 to 14 nights, with the following common routes:
- 7-night: Society Islands loop (Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Taha’a, Huahine).
- 10-14 night: Extended Society Islands + Tuamotus (Rangiroa, Fakarava) or Marquesas (Hiva Oa, Nuku Hiva).
- Overnight stays: Bora Bora, Moorea, and Raiatea often feature overnight port calls for sunset views and evening excursions.
What’s Included (and What’s Not)
While luxury lines like Paul Gauguin, Seabourn, and Regent include nearly everything (meals, drinks, excursions, gratuities), mid-range lines like Princess and Celebrity may charge extra for premium dining, spa services, and some shore excursions. Expedition lines (Ponant, Silversea, Lindblad) include all Zodiac excursions and expert-led activities. Always check the fine print—some “all-inclusive” packages exclude specialty restaurants or premium alcohol.
Packing and Preparation Tips
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen—French Polynesia bans oxybenzone and octinoxate.
- Bring snorkeling gear (mask, fins, rash guard) for better quality and hygiene.
- Include lightweight, breathable clothing and a waterproof bag.
- Download offline maps and apps—Wi-Fi can be spotty on remote islands.
Comparing Cruise Lines: A Data Table for Quick Reference
| Cruise Line | Ship Name | Passenger Capacity | Itinerary Length | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paul Gauguin Cruises | Paul Gauguin | 332 | 7–14 nights | Private beach, diving, cultural experts | Honeymooners, luxury seekers |
| Seabourn | Seabourn Quest/Sojourn | 450–600 | 10–14 nights | Butler service, gourmet dining, marina | Affluent couples, foodies |
| Regent Seven Seas | Seven Seas Mariner/Voyager | 700 | 10–12 nights | All-inclusive, unlimited excursions | Value-focused luxury travelers |
| Princess Cruises | Royal/Discovery Princess | 3,600 | 10–14 nights | MedallionClass tech, family-friendly | First-time cruisers, families |
| Ponant | Le Paul Gauguin/Explorers | 184–264 | 7–12 nights | Zodiacs, French cuisine, Marquesas | Adventure seekers, Francophiles |
| Silversea Expeditions | Silver Explorer/Cloud | 200–254 | 10–14 nights | All-inclusive, scientists onboard | Nature lovers, conservationists |
Conclusion: Choosing the Perfect French Polynesia Cruise for You
French Polynesia is a destination that transcends ordinary travel—it’s a sensory journey through some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes and cultures. Whether you’re drawn to the romance of Bora Bora’s overwater bungalows, the raw beauty of the Marquesas, or the vibrant coral reefs of the Tuamotus, there’s a cruise line that can make your dream a reality. From the all-inclusive luxury of Paul Gauguin Cruises and Seabourn to the adventurous spirit of Ponant and Lindblad Expeditions, and the accessible elegance of Princess and Celebrity, the options are as diverse as the islands themselves.
When deciding which cruise lines go to French Polynesia, consider your priorities: Do you want intimacy or variety? Luxury or adventure? Cultural immersion or relaxation? Use this guide to match your travel style with the right ship, itinerary, and season. And remember—French Polynesia is best experienced slowly, with time to savor each island’s unique charm. So whether you’re sipping a fresh coconut on a private motu, dancing to a traditional tamure, or snorkeling alongside reef sharks, let the rhythm of the Pacific guide your journey. With the right cruise, you’re not just visiting French Polynesia—you’re becoming part of its timeless story.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cruise lines go to French Polynesia?
Top cruise lines that sail to French Polynesia include Paul Gauguin Cruises, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Windstar Cruises. These operators offer itineraries ranging from 7 to 14 days, often calling at iconic islands like Bora Bora and Tahiti. Smaller luxury ships like those from Regent Seven Seas also provide exclusive experiences.
What are the best luxury cruise lines for French Polynesia?
Paul Gauguin Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises are standout luxury options for French Polynesia, with all-inclusive fares and intimate ships designed for South Pacific navigation. Windstar Cruises’ small yachts also deliver high-end service with unique access to secluded anchorages. Both emphasize Polynesian culture and pristine natural settings.
Do any mainstream cruise lines visit French Polynesia?
Yes, mainstream cruise lines like Princess Cruises and Holland America Line offer seasonal voyages to French Polynesia, typically as part of longer Pacific itineraries. These cruises often include stops in Tahiti, Moorea, and Raiatea, blending modern amenities with local excursions. They’re ideal for travelers seeking comfort and structured activities.
Which cruise lines go to French Polynesia with family-friendly options?
Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line (via select repositioning cruises) provide family-friendly amenities like kids’ clubs and onboard entertainment while visiting French Polynesia. Their itineraries often include water sports and cultural tours suitable for all ages. However, most dedicated French Polynesia sailings cater to adults.
Are there small-ship cruise lines sailing to French Polynesia?
Windstar Cruises and Paul Gauguin Cruises operate small-ship vessels (under 400 passengers) that navigate French Polynesia’s narrow passages and private motus. These ships offer personalized service, water-level excursions (like snorkeling from the ship), and immersive local experiences. Their size allows access to less crowded ports.
How long are typical cruise itineraries to French Polynesia?
Most French Polynesia cruise itineraries last 7–10 days, with longer 14-day voyages available on lines like Princess and Holland America. Paul Gauguin Cruises offers a 7-night “Dreams of Tahiti” route as a highlight. Shorter repositioning cruises may include 2–3 days in the region during trans-Pacific crossings.