Paul Gauguin

Fort Lauderdale-based Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, resulting from the 1994 merger of Seven Seas Cruises and Radisson Cruises, is part of Carlson Hospitality Worldwide of Carlson Companies, Inc., one of America’s largest privately-owned corporations. RSSC sails to more than 300 ports on six continents aboard vessels designed for guests numbering in hundreds, not thousands. Upscale, “but not uptight” is how the line describes onboard ambiance. RSSC is the first cruise line to enjoy membership in the Guild of English Butlers. With 2003’s debut of Seven Seas Voyager, RSSC’s newest all-suite, all-balcony ship, the line’s fleet of six-star vessels has reached nearly 3,000 luxury berths. Radisson’s small to mid-size ships also include Seven Seas Mariner, Seven Seas Navigator, the twin-hulled Radisson Diamond, the yacht-like Song of Flower (sold and leaving the fleet in October, 2004) and Paul Gauguin, dedicated to sailing the South Pacific.

Quick View

Purpose-designed for sailing Tahiti and French Polynesia, Paul Gauguin entered service under the French flag as the most deluxe cruise ship ever based year-round in the region. With all ocean-view staterooms (50 percent with private balconies), the elegant ship maintains a casual dress code. Dining, with French chef inspired cuisine, is also without the regimentation of assigned seats or rushing dessert to make way for a second seating. Ties are forgotten and the only code for dinner is "relaxed." A Gauguines troupe (ship staff doubling as entertertainers/storytellers) helps make every sailing exceptionally memorable. Paul Gauguin sails 7-, 10-, 11-, and 14-day adventures round-trip from Papeete. Seven-day sailings include calls at Raiatea, Taha-Moto Mahana, Bora Bora, and Moorea. For Tahiti, often called the "Island of Love" and largest of Polynesia’s 118 islands and atolls, shore options include Natural Treasures, Lagoon Discovery, Off The Beaten Path, and In Paul Gauguin’s Footsteps, the latter stopping at a grotto where Gauguin swam. Many adventures, including a Moorea shark dive for certified divers, are water-oriented.

About Gratuities
Shipboard gratuities are included in cruise fare. If guests feel strongly about expressing additional gratitude to the crew, they are encouraged to donate to the Crew Welfare Fund at the purser office. Proceeds are used for crew parties and events.

Disabled Access
The ship's medical center is designed to provide medical care for certain temporary illnesses and accidents, and is not intended or capable of providing on-going treatment of pre-existing medical conditions. An oxygen concentrator is the only form of oxygen equipment allowed aboard ship, and it must be provided by the guest. RSSC wheelchairs on board are for emergency purposes only.

Ship Features

Paul Gauguin’s size and draft allow navigation of lagoons and narrow channels, and a retractable marina platform for complimentary water sports lets guests easily hop aboard a windsurfer, launch kayaks, waterski or set out on dives. A scuba certification program is offered on board.

Staterooms
Interiors, with classic crown moldings and cherry-colored wood, are furnished with a love seat, wardrobe and vanity/desk. Every stateroom features a queen bed (some convertible to twins), marble-appointed bath with full-sized tub and shower, sitting area and storage.

Stateroom amenities
Fresh fruit and flowers grace Owners suites and Grand Suites, and staterooms in categories A through F. Amenities include cotton robes, hair dryer, TV/ VCR, a refrigerator stocked with soft drinks and mineral water, a complimentary bar set-up with wine or liquor upon embarkation and 24-hour room service.

Kid & Teen Stuff
RSSC may restrict the number of children on board, and is unable to accept infants under 6 months.

Life Aboard

Dining
L’Etoile, with fluted shell illumination reminiscent of Paris, serves French cuisine with a Polynesian accent. La Veranda has been likened to a yacht club terrace dining on the Côte d'Azur. Le Grill, by the pool, serves a buffet breakfast and lunch, by night transforming into a cozy indoor/outdoor restaurant. Complimentary wines are served with lunch as well as dinner, or guests may purchase alternative vintages. During dining hours, guests may choose from restaurant menus for dinner in staterooms or suites. A 24-hour room service menu is also available.

Sports / Health / Fitness
Created by the Carita sisters of Paris, the tranquil Carita Spa, a sanctuary of fountains and marble, revitalizes with exclusive beautifying services as well as regimens including massage, aromatherapy, wraps and steam room treatments. Stairmasters, weight machines, treadmills, cycles await at the health club. Guests also can swim in the ship’s pool, windsurf, waterski, kayak, or participate in an exclusive PADI diving program.

Entertainment
Unhurried Polynesian life is emulated on board. In Le Grand Salon, Polynesian performances reflect island culture. Cruises are hosted by guest lecturers providing greater understanding of the Polynesian people.

Casino
Gaming prevails in the casual ambiance of Le Casino.

Bars
La Palette Lounge, an observation bar atop ship, doubles as a nightclub with dancing and a chanteuse singing the blues. Cognac and cigars are in order at the Connoisseur Club.