The reason why some ocean water is more turquoise than others is due to the absorption and scattering of light, with absorption being a larger factor than scattering for clear ocean water. Waters in places like the Caribbean, South Pacific like in Bora Bora, and Greece are shallower and almost free of plankton, causing them to be a specific shade of azure blue. These waters are also usually home to heavier sand and sediment, which churn up less, leaving waters more clear. Additionally, these little slices of paradise tend to experience less "upwelling," which can turn water murkier.
Stefanie Waldek shares her personal experience of cruising through French Polynesia on Windstar's Star Breeze ship. She highlights the ship's luxurious decor and friendly staff and raves about the natural beauty of French Polynesia, including the crystal-clear waters and lush vegetation. Stefanie particularly enjoyed the many opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking and snorkeling, and notes the delicious food and exceptional service on board the ship. Overall, she highly recommends Windstar's Star Breeze for anyone seeking a luxurious and immersive experience while exploring the stunning islands of French Polynesia.
Windstar Cruises has launched SpaceX's Starlink internet service on its Star Pride vessel during a Caribbean voyage, with plans to introduce it to other ships in its fleet. Windstar aims to add Starlink to most of its fleet worldwide by mid-2023, starting with Star Legend this spring, followed by Wind Surf, Wind Star, and Star Breeze. Wind Spirit will activate the new technology as soon as it's available in French Polynesia. According to Windstar's technology director, Gregg Wagner, Starlink will offer faster speeds, alleviating the frustration felt at peak use times.
Paul Gauguin Cruises has announced its plans for 2024, which include launching new itineraries and adding new ports in French Polynesia and the South Pacific. The new 14-night Islands of the Marquesas & Tuamotus voyage will feature five calls in the Marquesas, including two new ports. Paul Gauguin will offer seven itineraries on 33 all-inclusive journeys ranging from seven to 14 nights, sailing roundtrip from Papeete, with the exception of one itinerary that sails between Papeete and Lautoka, Fiji.
The Gauguin continues to charm travelers worldwide, enticing couples, honeymooners, families, nature lovers, and adventure-seekers to discover the wonders of French Polynesia with one-of-a-kind expertise, artful authenticity, and all-inclusive excellence. As the Gauiguin celebrates its 25th year, they expressed how incredibly grateful they are to their loyal guests and valued travel partners for their continued devotion to Paul Gauguin Cruises. Look forward to a year of nostalgic celebration and new discovery with Paul Gauguin Cruises.
What could be more romantic than a tropical island getaway? A cruise to Tahiti and Bora Bora offers an immersive experience with an overwater bungalow, crystal clear waters, and lush vegetation resulting in unspoiled beauty. The Paul Gauguin cruise line is custom-purposed for the most well-known islands of the South Pacific. Couples will find adventure or relaxation with the many shore excursions available on this exciting cruise line.
Photographer Julien Gardot takes us through his personal quest to design and build traditional Tahitian Sailing Canoes. Yachting World's article shares the details of this excellent and worthwhile effort to recapture the spirit and heritage of Ancient Tahiti.
Have you been on the edge of your seat waiting for Cruising to come back? Look no further than Paul Gauguin to get your cruising fix in the paradise of French Polynesia. AFAR gives a great overview of the "something for everyone" Islands of Tahiti cruise.
Given discussions held between French Polynesian leaders and their French counterparts, Tourisme Tahiti expects current border closure, enacted on February 3, 2021, to be "very temporary". Eduoard Fritch, the President of French Polynesia, strenuously requested that the temporary closure of Tahiti be no more than three months in duration. Tahiti has seen much improvement in their COVID trends. However, leaders of France mandated the closure for all of its overseas territories due to fear of new COVID variants they were already seeing in Europe. French Polynesia's economy, and it people, depend on tourism. A closure of more than 2 or 3 months would be a devastating and avoidable mistake. Expectations are that the borders will be open for travel in April or May.
Pent up demand, vaccine rollouts and realigned priorities are resulting in luxury cruises booking up more than a year in advance. Interest in cruises, specifically luxury cruises, is heating up as travelers are ready to hit the open seas again. French Polynesia is always a favorite destination on high end itineraries and deservedly so. BusinessWorld explores this trend as ships are selling out more than 1 year in advance.
Holland America has unveiled its 2022 itineraries featuring the South Pacific. Both the 34 night, "South Pacific Crossing" and the 45 night, "Tales of the South Pacific" make stops in our favorite destination.
As of February 3, 2021, Tahiti's borders will be closed again, temporarily. We expect borders to open again after 2-3 months. French Polynesia has been welcoming back guests since July, 2020. As of February 3, 2021, their borders will be closed again, temporarily. Despite Tahiti's progress in combatting the COVID virus, other areas under French rule have not fared so well. As a precaution, the leaders of France have mandated that all French Territories close their borders for a two month period. This is due to concerns in France about new COVID variants and is not correlated to the progress made on the ground in Tahiti. In the months preceding this mandate, Tahiti was trending very positively with decline numbers of cases. The leaders of French Polynesia have been very clear that this closure should not last more than 2-3 months.
We have been watching the ELYT Charter Floating Villa/ Luxury Solar Powered Houseboat very closely as it has been developed. Deservedly so, it has made its way to Secret Manchester's list of 8 "Seriously Lavish" getaways and it hasn't even opened for business yet. It is set to anchor in the Bora Bora lagoon on August 1, 2021. Let us know if you'd like to make a pre-opening reservation. They are currently offering 30% off.
For some people a postcard or a Tahitian Black Pearl is enough. But, for others, and you know who you are, souvenirs have to be over the top. Well, this one lasts for ever (and it looks pretty cool). Our friends onboard The Aranui 5 have you covered.
Le Bora Bora's new solar powered boat is making a big splash. To experience this eco-friendly, sustainable water-craft, book some time at Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts. It's one of our favorites and a great value. Check out their current special offers if you need some convincing.
French Polynesia advances protocols and safety measures to lead to a July 15, 2020 reopening to tourism. This makes Tahiti one of the first countries to reopen to travelers. Forbes lays out the details.
