Here are a few observations about our recent trip (back 2 days) on the PG....

Weather - don't be afraid to go in December! We were so anxious about the weather, as we had several snorkling excursions planned......the weather was perfect - calm seas and balmy breezes with clear skies almost the entire cruise. When we got to Moorea, and then back to Pap., we got some rain, but not until then.....

The last time 4 years ago I went with one daughter, this time it was our whole family - hubby and both daughters - we had a great time! In my opinion, the thing that makes the PG stand out is the excellent service of the crew, and their friendly attitude. We had wonderful service at L'Etoile, and the meals there were the best. Only one sour note at that restaurant - one evening my 2 and 2 other young women ate together there. They were ignored for at least 20 minutes, and had to pluck someone's sleeve to get attention. They felt they were at the "kids table".

We dined twice at La Veranda, and once at Le Grill. Le Grill, as it is outside, can be windy and hot despite fans, so it depends a bit on the weather on any one evening.

Our favorite place to hang out was the La Pallette bar on the stern of the ship. Stargazed, and just enjoyed the evening breezes and whatever music was being offered - sometimes the Les Gaugines played and sang, and sometimes it was the Siglo trio.

Cabin service was fantastic! Our attendant had our room made up efficiently, and completely, every time we returned from breakfast.

Excursions were terrific, and as advertised, for the most part - also, the ones we took (snorkling trips) had at most 10-12 participants. Coral gardens in lovely condition, and wonderful snorkling. As I say, the seas and weather really cooperated!

I loved the extra 3 days - from the usual 7 to 10 days. The snorkling we did on Rangiroa was spectacular.

I simply can't think of any negatives. Not only that, the few times they offered a trivia game I was on both winning teams - nice gifts, too - a Regent travel diary, and a Regent visor. We had a snorkling excursion almost every day, so didn't do much in the way of lectures or classes offered on the ship.

Oh, BTW, we had a private excursion with Damien on Bora Bora. What a cutie he is! He took the 4 of us to 2 different snorkel spots. At the last one we did an adventurous walk across a deserted motu, and he pointed out the various features of the island - then we snorkled quite a long way back to the boat in pristine coral gardens.

One Negative for Damien - It was too difficult for me to use his ladder for the first snorkel stop - so I didn't go in. The second one was in shallow water, so no problem. Most of his clients are honeymooners, and presumably are younger and in better shape than yours truly. Its a lovely speedboat with room for 6-7 people, but shade for maybe 3 or 4. He's a lovely guy, and very informative, but get him to take a photo of his ladder if you have any concerns at all.....or, make sure he takes you to places where you can beach the boat.

Any questions for your upcoming PG sailors, let me know!

Oh, and I loved meeting Debbie and the other Texans, as well as Carol and the other B&K clients - I believe a wonderful time was had by all!