An escapade in the hear of Melanesia, Darwin to Fiji
Deal number 21359199
Paul Gauguin Cruises
Le Paul Gauguin
29th Mar 2027
Oceania
17-night cruise
Departing from Darwin
from
$18,189*
per person, twin-share
Offer expires 31st Aug 2025
What's Included
- Travel Associates Bonus US$200 Day Spa voucher per stateroom.
- 17 Night cruise, from Darwin to Lautoka, Fiji, onboard Le Paul Gauguin, in a Balcony Stateroom Deck 7.
- Gourmet meals in a choice of three restaurants.
- Complimentary beverages, including French Champagne, spirits, beer, wine, soft drinks.
- 24-Hour Room Service.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship.
- Evening entertainment.
- Presentations by onboard experts, and select sailings feature guest hosts.
- Watersports, including complimentary kayaking and paddleboarding from our marina or destination beaches.
- Certified & Initiation Dive optional excursions available (additional fees apply) Onboard gratuities for room stewards, dining and bar staff.
- Wide choice of optional shore excursions.
- Port charges and government fees.
- Pricing includes Travel Associates non-refundable Purple Ribbon Service Booking and Management fees of $50 per person.
Itinerary
Le Paul Gauguin leaves from Darwin offering a unique 18-day journey featuring idyllic landscapes, lush nature and ancestral civilisations with secular traditions. Exploring the natural and historic treasures of the Java and Timor Seas, featuring monumental temples, paradisiacal beaches and lush nature.
Discovering an exceptional heritage at archaeological sites of Trowulan and Bordobudur and fascinating nature in Komodo National Park. All locations are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Itinerary
Day 1 Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
Embark Ship
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 Parliament 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.
Days 2 - 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 Thursday Island
Located at Australia'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 At Sea to relax
Day 6 Alotau, Papua New Guinea
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 7 Samarai Island, New Guinea
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. Explore these two islands during a guided walk and enjoy swimming or snorkelling on nearby Deka Deka island.
Day 8 At Sea to relax
Days 9 - 10 Honiara, Guadalcanal Island, Solomon Islands
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.
Days 11 - 12 At Sea to relax
Day 13 Espiritu Santo Island, Vanuatu
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 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. Day 14 Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu
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.
Days 15 - 16 At Sea to relax
Day 17 Suva, Viti Levu Island, Fiji
Viti Levu, the largest island in Fiji, is teeming with natural and cultural richness. Dominated by Mount Tomanivi, the island is covered with dense and luxuriant tropical vegetation to the south and vast sugar cane plantations to the north. Suva, the modern and dynamic capital of Fiji, is home to the historical heritage of the islands. In Thurston Gardens, the Fiji Museum showcases the magnificent collections of archaeological objects, illustrating human activity for more than 3,000 years. Whether under the green and luminous highlights of the vertiginous forest canopy or under the turquoise waters of the Beqa lagoon, exploring the natural treasures of Viti Levu is an unforgettable experience.
Day 18 Lautoka, Viti Levu Island, Fiji
Disembark Ship in the morning.
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.
Discovering an exceptional heritage at archaeological sites of Trowulan and Bordobudur and fascinating nature in Komodo National Park. All locations are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Itinerary
Day 1 Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
Embark Ship
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 Parliament 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.
Days 2 - 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 Thursday Island
Located at Australia'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 At Sea to relax
Day 6 Alotau, Papua New Guinea
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 7 Samarai Island, New Guinea
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. Explore these two islands during a guided walk and enjoy swimming or snorkelling on nearby Deka Deka island.
Day 8 At Sea to relax
Days 9 - 10 Honiara, Guadalcanal Island, Solomon Islands
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.
Days 11 - 12 At Sea to relax
Day 13 Espiritu Santo Island, Vanuatu
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 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. Day 14 Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu
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.
Days 15 - 16 At Sea to relax
Day 17 Suva, Viti Levu Island, Fiji
Viti Levu, the largest island in Fiji, is teeming with natural and cultural richness. Dominated by Mount Tomanivi, the island is covered with dense and luxuriant tropical vegetation to the south and vast sugar cane plantations to the north. Suva, the modern and dynamic capital of Fiji, is home to the historical heritage of the islands. In Thurston Gardens, the Fiji Museum showcases the magnificent collections of archaeological objects, illustrating human activity for more than 3,000 years. Whether under the green and luminous highlights of the vertiginous forest canopy or under the turquoise waters of the Beqa lagoon, exploring the natural treasures of Viti Levu is an unforgettable experience.
Day 18 Lautoka, Viti Levu Island, Fiji
Disembark Ship in the morning.
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.
Terms of service
- The following product terms and conditions apply in addition to our Booking Terms and Conditions (available on our website) and terms and conditions of the relevant travel service provider.
- Prices quoted valid for sale until 31 July 2025 for travel during the period specified (if applicable) unless otherwise stated or sold out prior.
- Pricing includes Travel Associates non-refundable Purple Ribbon Service Booking and Management fees of $50 per person.
- Pricing is inclusive current 20% Ponant Bonus at time of booking. Subject to change at time of booking.
- *Free Solo Supplement on Paul Gauguin is: ONLY applicable for room categories E, C & CS categories.
- All prices are per person (unless otherwise stated), subject to availability and may be withdrawn or varied without notice. Accommodation (if included) is based on twin share unless otherwise stated.
- The advertised itineraries (Itinerary) are subject to the grant of Australian and international regulatory approvals for operations within Australian territorial waters. If final regulatory approvals are granted, the Supplier and the Itinerary will still be subject to any Federal, State or Local government restrictions based on current pandemic protocols. These may include travel restrictions, quarantine regulations and border closures. In those circumstances, we may need to cancel or alter all or part of the Itinerary, either prior to or once the voyage has begun. Alteration of the Itinerary may include (without limitation) substituting or removing ports of call and shore excursions; delaying or bringing forward the commencement of all or any part of the Itinerary; reducing or extending the duration of all or any part of the Itinerary. The Supplier's terms and conditions contain the parties rights in the event that any of these protocols or restrictions are introduced, or regulatory approvals are not obtained.
- Advertised price includes bonus nights and/or stated saving (if applicable).
- Additional supplier conditions and travel restrictions may apply. Please enquire for further details.
- Airfare (including internal flights) is not included unless otherwise stated and, if included, is economy class unless otherwise stated.
- Components of the total price including local payments, "resort fees", "national park fees", "trip kitties" and food funds (if applicable) may be payable direct to the supplier on arrival or to your travel consultant prior to your departure. Where applicable, these payments are included in the total price quoted.
- Gratuities are not included unless otherwise stated.
- Prices shown are fully inclusive of taxes, levies and government charges current at the time of publication.
- Additional levies, government charges & other applicable fees, including additional taxes, surcharges and visa fees specific to your departure date or flight routing, may apply and are beyond our control.
- Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply depending on date of travel.
- Prices shown are for payments made by cash in store.
- Payments made in store by credit card will incur a surcharge (see Booking Terms and Conditions for further details).
- Prices quoted are based on cheapest available at time of advertising and may be higher depending on date of purchase and date of travel. Please enquire for further details..