New York, NY – 20 October 2025 – Paul Gauguin Cruises has confirmed that its family‑focused Moana Explorer Programme will continue into 2027, marking the seventh consecutive year the complimentary educational initiative has been offered aboard the line’s flagship vessel, m/s Paul Gauguin. Designed to enrich young travellers’ understanding of French Polynesia through hands‑on exploration, the programme will be featured on 12 dedicated voyages throughout the 2027 season.
Developed in partnership with Te mana o te moana, the South Pacific’s leading marine education and conservation foundation, the Moana Explorer Programme first launched in 2020 as a way to introduce children aged six to 15 to the region’s fragile ecosystems, vibrant marine life and cultural traditions. The initiative blends onboard learning with immersive shore‑based activities, all led by trained naturalists and conservation specialists.
A Continued Commitment to Education and Sustainability
Paul Gauguin Cruises, recognised for its sustainability leadership in French Polynesia, has positioned the Moana Explorer Programme as a cornerstone of its family offering. Children participating in the programme engage in a wide range of “edu‑taining” experiences that vary by itinerary. These may include guided snorkelling excursions, water‑based experiments, treasure hunts, stargazing sessions, pool games and board games designed to introduce young guests to life beneath the waves. Creative workshops inspired by Polynesian culture—such as natural jewellery‑making and designing traditional tattoo motifs—also form part of the curriculum.
“Travel opens so many doors for children to learn, expand their minds, and nurture their creativity,” said Susan Robison, Vice President of Marketing and Communications for PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP Americas. “We’re honoured to partner with Te mana o te moana for a seventh consecutive year—reaffirming our commitment to help preserve the natural wonders and cultures of French Polynesia while also inspiring the minds of our next generation’s environmental leaders in fun, interactive ways.”
Laëtitia Bisarah, Operations Director at Te mana o te moana, added: “We’re delighted to continue this meaningful collaboration that allows young travellers to better understand and appreciate the marine ecosystems of French Polynesia. Through fun and inspiring activities, we hope to nurture a sense of responsibility and connection to our ocean among the next generation.”
2027 Voyages Featuring the Moana Explorer Programme
The Moana Explorer Programme will be offered on the following m/s Paul Gauguin voyages in 2027:
7‑Night Tahiti & the Society Islands Overnights in Bora Bora, Moorea and Tahiti • 19 June 2027 • 26 June 2027 • 14 August 2027 • 21 August 2027
7‑Night More Society Islands & Tahiti A return to sacred Raiatea; overnights in Bora Bora and Tahiti • 17 July 2027
10‑Night More Tuamotus & Society Islands Exploring lagoons in Fakarava and Rangiroa; overnights in Bora Bora and Moorea • 9 June 2027 • 4 August 2027 • 29 December 2027
11‑Night Society Islands & Tuamotus Featuring Fakarava’s UNESCO Marine Biosphere Reserve and Huahine’s rainforest landscapes • 24 July 2027
11‑Night Cook Islands & Society Islands Untouched scenery in Aitutaki and Rarotonga; overnight in Bora Bora • 18 December 2027
14‑Night Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands The dramatic Marquesan Islands paired with the lagoons of Fakarava and Bora Bora • 3 July 2027 • 28 August 2027
In addition to the 2027 departures, the Moana Explorer Programme will also be available on select remaining voyages in 2025 and on 11 departures scheduled throughout 2026. Travellers booking any 2026 sailing by 15 November will receive a US$1,000 shipboard credit.
Family‑Friendly Value at Sea
The Moana Explorer Programme is included within Paul Gauguin Cruises’ all‑inclusive fares at no additional cost. To further enhance value for families, children aged 17 and under sail free when sharing a stateroom or suite with their parents. The m/s Paul Gauguin—purpose‑built to navigate the shallow lagoons and smaller ports of French Polynesia—operates year‑round itineraries throughout the region.
Source: Official Paul Gauguin Cruises Press Center release, 20 October 2025, New York.
