Here is an article from Smarter Travel, I am not sure what the "new plans" are?


New plans for the Paul Gauguin in 2008 Posted May 3, 2007 at 9:54 am ET by Erica Silverstein, SmarterTravel.com Staff


Regent Seven Seas' Paul Gauguin has been sailing the waters of Tahiti year-round for over a decade. As the ship enters its 11th year, Regent is planning a few changes for the 2008 season.

In response to customer demand, the Paul Gauguin will increase the number of seven-night itineraries. Guests who wish for longer vacations can do so with seven pre- and post-cruise land packages in Tahiti.

A partnership with Jean-Michel Cousteau's conservation organization, Ocean Futures Society, allows kids and parents sailing with Regent Seven Seas to participate in an "Ambassadors of the Environment" Circles of Interest program on 12 sailings. Cruisers learn about marine and island ecosystems and Polynesian culture through onboard and offshore activities.

In addition, all 2008 itineraries feature calls in Bora Bora and Moorea, two of the top-rated island destinations in the South Pacific. Many sailings also include visits to Motu Mahana, Regent's private island, as well as trips to a private beach on Bora Bora.

Long-standing highlights include learning to dive through Regent's PADI-certified diving program, and enjoying Polynesian music and dance performances by local entertainers and the ship's staff.

Prices for seven-night sailings in 2008 start at $2,195 per person. For more information or to book a cruise, call Regent Seven Seas at 800-285-1835 or contact a travel agent.

Karen, as the PG used to be ALL seven night itineraries except one or two Marquesas itineraries per year, this doesn't make much sense. The 2008 calendar still shows plenty of 10, 11 and 14 day itineraries along with a nine day itinerary with an OVERNIGHT at the motu on Tahaa. Maybe they have been getting flak from folks who are disappointed that they have gone from continuous seven day itineraries and are therefore adding a few more for next year.

Of course, it could be another example of poor writing by Regent's marketing department. :D

I agree, Marc. I guess maybe it means no Fiji trips again? I like the idea of some variety, since we could never do the Marquesas trip because it was only once a year. Now we have had some hope of doing that one, or just the Rangiroa-Huahine variation perhaps, if we go back. Not sure about the Marquesas now, and certainly not Fiji, because of the sea days. The nice thing about the 7-day is that the ship is just a floating hotel taking you to those wonderful islands!

Karen's post included: "Many sailings also include visits to Motu Mahana."

Those other cruises would have to be extremely special for me to even consider giving up that part of the cruise.

-- David