Want to spend a few dreamy days in the South Pacific and also help conserve the planet? Well then, keep reading…and take note, because this is a trip to do as a family.
Paul Gauguin Cruises , a luxury cruise line that sails through Tahiti, French Polynesia, Fiji and the South Pacific, has partnered with the Wildlife Conservation Society to launch two entertainment and information programs on board its ships about wildlife in the South Pacific.
Regarding these programs, they will be carried out on board the MS Paul Gauguin , a 5-star ship with capacity for 332 tourists , designed to offer an intimate and high-end experience.
Onboard Conservation and Education Programs
The first of these programs is the Wildlife Discovery Series , which aims to disseminate knowledge about marine life. To this end, they have scientists, oceanographers, and conservationists who travel on the ship and share their research through talks and detailed presentations.
The second program is called Stewards of Nature and is specifically designed to engage children and teenagers between the ages of 7 and 17 , turning the holidays into a living lesson in ecology.
Each day combines guided excursions to explore the islands' natural beauty and beaches with science activities, games, and craft workshops. Depending on the itinerary, young people can snorkel , observe the ocean, or study the stars with telescopes and binoculars on board. To round off the experience, the whole family can participate in activities like Ocean Trivia or Oceanopoly to test what they've learned.
Exploring Paradise: Destinations and Biodiversity
Sailing through the South Pacific allows you to discover wild oases and volcanic landscapes. From French Polynesia , with its crystal-clear lagoons in Bora Bora and the imposing peaks of Moorea, to the Galapagos Islands , where you can observe marine iguanas, giant tortoises, and blue-footed boobies up close . In New Caledonia, the world's second-largest barrier reef stands out, a kaleidoscope of fish and extraordinary marine life.
For those seeking a complete experience, there are itineraries that combine Hawaii and French Polynesia . In Maui, you can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding , while in Raiatea, the goal is absolute relaxation amidst spectacular scenery. Furthermore, the South Pacific is home to UNESCO World Heritage sites , recognizing the geological richness and biodiversity of its lagoons and tropical forests.
Culture, Gastronomy and Local Experiences
The trip is also a cultural immersion. In New Caledonia, Kanak culture predominates , based on ancestral rites and the worship of ancestors represented by totems . It is essential to respect taboo places and request permission from local leaders to visit them.
The cuisine reflects this blend of traditions. Must-tries include bougna (meat and fish cooked in a stone oven with coconut milk), fresh seafood, green papaya , and the traditional elixir called kawa-kawa . In other areas, French influence merges with jungle life, creating a unique identity.
A Practical Guide to Your Sustainable Cruise
- Accommodation: The options range from the extreme luxury of Scenic Eclipse II with their suites and private jacuzzis, to more intimate vessels like the Monserrat in the Galapagos (only 20 passengers) or the Aranui 5, which merges French and Polynesian styles.
- Physical condition: While Polynesian cruises are relaxing, Galapagos cruises require a moderate condition for hiking on volcanic terrain and landings in zodiac boats.
- Duration: Trips range from 6 days in the Galapagos to epic journeys of 20 days that connect French Polynesia with Panama.
- Sustainability: Companies like MSC implement the RINA Dolphin certification and they support environmental causes through foundations to leave a positive mark on the ecosystems they visit.
The Wildlife Conservation Society , with over 120 years of experience, ensures a rigorous educational component, bringing its success from New York parks to the waters of the Pacific. Choosing these routes, especially between September and April , guarantees an unforgettable encounter with nature, Kanak culture, and sustainable luxury, allowing families to learn the importance of protecting the world's last remaining wildlife refuges.