Top Shore Excursions That Bring Tahiti to Life
Best Shore Excursions in French Polynesia
There are so many things to do and see in French Polynesia from ancient archeological ruins to heart-stopping adventures and island traditions, visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to crafting an itinerary. One of the easiest, most seamless and relaxing ways to embark on a Tahitian discovery tour, however, is to set sail with Paul Gauguin Cruises.
The cruise line’s abundant offerings throughout the South Pacific mean that guests can board the m/s Paul Gauguin, unpack their bags and let the islands come to life through the exciting excursions available during the journey.
There truly is something for everyone from high-speed, exhilarating adventures to casual exploration circle island tours to underwater exploration. Guests can take out Jet Skis, e-bike, snorkel, scuba dive, aqua bike, take a helicopter ride, cruise a lagoon, go off-roading, sail on a catamaran and much more.
Here is a sampling of experiences awaiting guests traveling to Tahiti.
Exploration of Taha’a
During a stop at Paul Gauguin’s private island, Motu Mahana, visitors can explore Taha’a, known as the Vanilla Island on the Exploration of Taha’a shore excursion. The journey includes a ride across one of Taha’a’s highest mountains, a discussion of the local flora and fauna, a stop at a small, family vanilla plantation and a visit to a black pearl farm. Guests will learn how residents survive on these small cottage industries and hear tales of island life and lore along the way.
Atuona to Taaoa
Visitors learn about the ancient tribes of the Taaoa Valley during this journey to archeological ruins. Guests access the ruins via off-road vehicle and visit the Upeke Ceremonial Centre, exploring the area on foot. The ruins are comprised of house platforms, a tohua (tribal ceremonial center), public and sacred marae (archaeological ruins), and storage pits of breadfruit paste for feasts.
ATV Tour in Huahine
On an ATV Tour of Huahine, guests can enjoy a thrilling ride along the coast of the Motu Maeva while riding an all-terrain vehicle. The journey includes a visit to the Marae Manunue (an ancient Polynesian temple, a coconut drink at chez ‘Nini’ and snorkeling from the beach of the Sofitel Heiva. After the ATV adventure, the tour takes guests to Fare Potee and Marae Rauhuru as well as the ancient Fish Traps in Lake Fauna Nui.https://www.pgcruises.com/shore-excursions?cruise_link_embkport=PFHUH
Flying High Over Moorea
Guests looking for a real thrill will find it in Moorea. Paul Gauguin offers the chance to take a scenic flight and pilot lesson. The 60-minute adventure takes visitors over the islands of Moorea and Tetiaroa to see Cooks and Opunohu Bays, Mount Rotui and more. The crystal clear waters of French Polynesia also mean that passengers can spot a variety of sea life during their aerial adventure, including dolphins, sharks and stingrays swimming in the lagoon.
Helicopter Tour in Bora Bora
Guests can soar over Bora Bora as well as Moorea with a flightseeing helicopter tour over Bora Bora and Tupai. Guests fly high over the heart-shaped island of Tupai and get a bird’s-eye view of Bora Bora with spectacular views and photo ops of the beautiful Mount Otemanu and the area’s crystal-clear lagoons.
Wave Runner Adventures
On several of the islands, guests can embark on excursions via Jet Ski. In Huahine, Bora Bora, Fakarava and Moorea, there is the chance to explore the crystal-clear waters of French Polynesia via Wave Runner on guided tours around the lagoons.
Snorkeling
The clear blue waters of the South Pacific mean that snorkeling opportunities are abundant. Guests can combine snorkeling adventures with island tours, lagoon cruises, catamaran sails and more depending on what interests travelers. The abundant amount of marine life occupying lagoons in French Polynesia makes the destination an idyllic place for viewing.
Stand-up Paddleboarding from the Watersports Platform
Onboard the Paul Gauguin, the watersports platform makes it easy for guests to get out on the water without even going on shore. Guests don’t have to book a shore excursion to go out on the stand-up paddleboards, which are available right onboard.
Scuba Diving
Of course, underwater adventures are some of the most sought-after ways to experience the exquisite lagoons in French Polynesia. Onboard the Gauguin, there is a full scuba program available, providing opportunities to seasoned divers as well as those who are new to the sport. Guests can see rainbow-colored coral reefs and get up close to parrotfish, clownfish, giant clams, and sea turtles.