Smooth sailing on our way to Raiatea. Not sure how often I will post, but thought I would share some random thoughts among my notes for a full post-cruise review/travelogue (by the way, Cindy was still logged in for the LCT site at this terminal from her recent PG cruise!)

First .... a brief background of our group, so you know whether to read these comments with a grain or pound of salt. Paula and I were on this cruise in 2001 for our 25th anniversary. We have returned with our kids, daughter Meredith (21) and son Oz (17). My folks (O.L. and Joan) have joined us to round out our three-generation contingent (we continue to baffle gate agents and ship staff because we three males have the same given name; people are not used to Jr., III, and IV traveling together). Our sixsome last sailed together on the RSSC Voyager in 2004 on NorFjor723).

We did a 2-night precruise at the Intercontinental Tahiti. A VERY wise decision. We were in 2 lagoon OWBs. More later on that; suffice to say it was a wonderful way to unwind and recharge for the cruise (how/why do you recharge to relax?).

We boarded the ship at about 3:00 yesterday. A $28 cab ride from the hotel (yes, the taxis accept US$). We asked the hotel to call for a van which allowed us to all ride together. The greeting was typical RSSC (whether Radisson or Regent) class. The singing Gauguines, the effortless check-in, the welcome flute of champagne, the smile-filled escort to our cabin. We are in 312, 314, and 316 ... yes, the balcony would be great, but we opted to put the extra expense toward getting ALL of us on the cruise (maybe when Oz graduates from H.S. we'll return for a balcony). Our luggage was in our cabin when we left the Grand Salon checkin.

Commenting on a few recent posts -- no bottle of champagne in the cabin. We completed our bar setup request and our bar was stocked within the hour. (yes, great service even for those of us in steerage [although that's a relative term on RSSC!]). I also brought some Hinano beer on board after a visit to the 3 Brasseurs brewery in Papeete (Cindy, I sent your regards).

No sign of "Regent" other than on a few printed items (e.g., excursion list). No sign of purple. No sign of any new logos.

The ship looks spic and span ... the drydock really spruced things up. Others have reported on the few changes (casino downsize, etc.); I'll report anything else that we notice.

I wanted to see one of the new aft balconies, but the doors were locked. Looking at them from dockside, it is apparent that they are larger than the standard balcony, but not as much as the aft balcony we had on a RCCL ship or what we saw on the RSSC Voyager. We'll see if we can befriend one of the occupants and sneak a tour.

160 of the passengers are from Spain ... a group outing for Renault personnel. Meredith is excited because she studied abroad in Seville last spring and is chatting up a storm with the Spaniards (interesting that we went to Spain to see her last year and once-again we have a Spanish flair to our spring break ... in the South Pacific!).

We have reservations at La Verandah tonight and the Pacific Grill on Thursday night. We miss the Apicius option, but we look forward to each meal at each venue.

As we finished our dinner in La Verandah last night, we had our first SURPRISE of the cruise. We saw a couple of kids about our kids' age and then realized ... the family of four are DEAR friends from El Paso! Chris and I were law school classmates 25 years ago, and Cindy & Paula were the supportive wives! We visited frequently after law school until we all became focused on kid activities, but have not seen each other in almost 10 years. What a bonus for this trip!

I welcome the oppportunity to answer questions while we're onboard.

More soon from paradise.

Luke

Wonderful report, Luke! Sounds like a great start to a spring break cruise for your three generations of Davises. Please pass along our hellos to your parents and to Meredith and Oz. We enjoyed them all so much on Norfor723.

What fun for Meredith to have a group of Spaniards to converse with after her study abroad last year! And what a super surprise to have encountered your law school pal and his family. That's unbelievable!

Thanks for reporting in, Luke. What a great experience to have three generations of your family sharing the fun. Can't wait to read more about your cruise.

Luke, it sounds like you've begun a wonderful vacation. It's a small world, isn't it?

Sounds great Luke! Are Kelly, Jonathan, Ricky, Meliton, and Raffy still aboard? Have a wonderful sail....how could you not!

Luke, how exciting that your friends are on board! It sounds like you are off to a great start, I hope the rest of your cruise follows suit!

Brilliant sun and a calm, steady breeze in Raiatea were a lure for the masses to head to the pool this morning. Oz is accepting wagers to determine who will have the most intense sunburn tomorrow.

By noon, the clouds arrived as folks departed for their exursions. We opted out of our scheduled tour to further rest and enjoy the ship. The highlight of the afternoon was Oz waterskiing in the lagoon. His legs tired quickly because of the waves, but I imagine he will return to the marnia for further skiing in Moorea.

The children of Raiatea show was moved inside due to threatening weather. The captain's cocktail party was as much/little fun as always. We had a great time with friends.

Black pearl shopping continues to be the sport of choice for many. Cynthia is the black pearl guru in the boutique and is wonderful to work with. She is a rep. for Tahia Collins f/k/a Black Pearl Gem Co. No sales/discounts in the gift shop, even for Radisson items.

Dinner in La Verandah was a memorable evening. The Davises feasted on their favorite ... escargots. Of course, we also had table servings of several other appetizers. Combined, I think we tried all of the main courses, and the favorites were the lamb (with Ngaire in mind) and the Mahi Mahi. Desserts ended a splurge evening ... outstanding cuisine and fun-filled family time and conversation.

We skipped the show (piano performance), opting for rest, casino, and shopping ... but not necessarily in that order.

We're ready for THE day of this cruise ... bring on the motu.

Luke

Ah, motu day. Can't wait to hear about it. Thanks for reporting in Luke. Keep having fun.

Luke,
Sounds like you are off to a great start. We are all green with envy. I'm sure you have realized this by now, but the middle computer on the right side of the room is the only one that has a word pad. I was able to do all my typing and cut and paste in when the "meter was running". Enjoy the hinano, and your glorious trip!!!

Luke, I am living vicariously through you. Your posts are awesome. Thanks for thinking of us in the midst of what sounds like a fantastic vacation!

Oh, (whispering) if you're up by the bridge and the stewards are cleaning #7003, be rude and peek inside--that's going to be mine and it's brand new and I'm curious! Ha. But seriously, can't wait to hear about the motu! Enjoy!

Rest assured that I continue to stroll (no, not stalk or lurk) by the new cabins. I, too, want to see those cabins as I already look forward to a Marquesas cruise in our future.

Luke

A spectacular postcard sunrise in Raiatea before we sail for Motu Mahana. (unfortunately my camera was not prepared for the early morning transition from air conditioning to ocean humidity so a cloudy lens prevents me from sharing the image).

My mind and body exhibit an interesting dichotomy on this cruise, much as I remember in 2001. Most would find the malady worthy of treatment. I have NEVER been as relaxed, rested, and stress-free as on the Paul Gauguin. And the same time, my adrenaline remains at peak levels; how can I sleep and miss a moment of paradise? Confounding for sure; maybe it is “excited contentment.”

My parents do not share my adrenaline. Rather, they have commented that they have never been so relaxed. It is as if someone inserted a syringe and withdrew each ounce of stress, distraction, deadlines, obligations, and even to-do lists. Two words summarize my hopes for their cruise … Mission Accomplished.

I remain convinced that the Paul Gauguin is the ideal means/platform from which to experience French Polynesia. The focus remains on the islands and her people. Yes, there are excursions, activities, and the like … however, passengers are more prone to “experience” rather than “do.” More so than any other vacation/trip we have ever taken, I feel like a sponge, soaking up each moment, sight, sound, person, event, and encounter with all of my senses. The PG cruise allows people to begin to know and understand, and not just “visit”, an “exotic” place and culture.

I highly recommend Larry McMurtry's "Paradise" for anyone coming to French Polynesia for their first or even tenth time. It is a quick read and presents one person's insights into a "cruise" aboard a freighter traveling to the Marqeusas. I read the book on our 2001 cruise and then reread it on our flight here. Mother and Dad have now read it and commented that McMurtry's observations heightened their anticipation for and appreciation of French Polynesia.

This is the first time that we have returned to cruise familiar ports. Maybe that’s why I am not taking as many pictures. However, my excitement is just as heightened as our first trip here because I want my children and parents to have the same joy we experienced in 2001. It’s as if I am on a floating “show and tell” … “wait until you see this,” “you won’t believe how much fun this is,” and on and on. They tolerate me well (or at least humor me), but only because each of my superlatives is confirmed by their experience.

A few musings to begin the morning. Some are reflections for prospective PG passengers, and some will update the experience for past PG cruisers.

The wireless internet works fine in the Card Room (e.g., internet station on Deck 5) and some other areas. In fact, I will send this message from the Grill on Deck 8 as soon as I cut and paste it; I would MUCH rather compose notes while sipping a beverage at the Grill! The internet pricing plans are the same for wireless and the ship’s workstations.

Time plan #1 -- $0.20 per minute; 250 minutes for $50.00
Time plan #2 -- $0.25 per minute; 100 minutes for $25.00
Pay as you go -- $0.35 per minute
AND there is a one-time $3.95 account activation fee.
Using the printer costs $0.15 per page.

As always, the connection speeds vary, but I have been pleased so far; certainly more consistent than when we sailed in and out of the Norwegian fjords.

The PG boutique continues to sell quality items without pushing too many souvenirs. My complaint is that they only have a handful of RSSC logo items. Yes, I know there are new items on the way with Regent, but surely they would have some t-shirts and caps with a “generic” M/S Paul Gauguin motif. I’m not a huge souvenir shopper, but I continue to wear the PG items I purchased in 2001. I suggested in 2001 that they sell a poster (or at least larger than letter size map) of the route sailed on this unique itinerary. I am certain that many passengers buy such a memento. (no, I am not lobbying to be a buyer for the shop)

I also was surprised that some kind of clock was not added to the cabins during drydock. I remember noting the absence of a clock as part of my ’01 review. I realize that RSSC does not want folks to be focused on “time,” but then again, they do not want people to miss events, tenders, wakeup, etc.

I had to laugh when I saw the VHS movie library at the reception desk. I have not seen that many VHS tapes in one place in a long time … any chance of a conversion to DVD?

One final note of “constructive criticism” … with more people paying attention to personal fitness, I wish there had been some way to expand the workout area. Yes, I know the number of people who exercise will likely diminish each day of the cruise, but some additional room for a few treadmills would have been nice. (I know, how does a company balance the beauty of this small ship with the desires of passengers and the need to maximize space for revenue-generating items). We have recommended that, at the very least, signs be posted asking people to limit their use of the machines to 30 minutes if people are waiting to exercise.

Mother had been thinking that she would want (maybe even “need”) a balcony like we had on the Voyager. After one day of sailing, however, she was more than satisfied with our Deck 3 cabins, noting that she would rather put the extra dollars toward the precruise stay.

The casino was crowded last night … although that is not difficult when there is only a single blackjack table. There is another table used for “ocean poker”, but the poker players are not onboard and it has only been used as an “overflow” table for blackjack. People were bemused at the casino downsizing. However, I think the move will pay dividends beginning in 2007. The expanded piano bar/lounge will be a popular spot before and after dinner once the all-inclusive alcohol policy begins.

Time to find that exercise room for a bit before I indulge on the La Verandah breakfast buffet … looks like a morning to dine outside.

More soon.

Luke

From someone who is taking her first PG cruise in June, I am hanging on your every word...

Jill

Ah Luke, well said! I find myself heading for a relapse of the Polynesia flu!

Thanks for taking time to share, Luke. Your trip sounds like a magical escape. I love the relaxation comments .... Mission accomplished, indeed!

we know you're not a stalker, Luke. :) :) I don't have one of those new aft cabins. 7003 is next to the bridge-- forward starboard on deck 7. I mean RIGHT NEXT to the bridge. I could probably take over when the captain is tired.

Love your posts! Thank you!!!

Luke, it just dawned on me that your 2001 trip report (over on Cruise Critic) was the very first one that I took notes from in anticipation of a trip to FP one day. You are the one who gave me the FP flu! Thanks so much!

Kathy what a great picture!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes, great picture, aren't those trip reports great!!! i can just see Luke walking all over that ship.

Sue, I went by 7003 before heading to the motu ... the door was closed, but the Captain's cabin was open --- maybe you can sneak over there for a visit during your cruise.

Luke

Just returned from the motu ... Paula was the final person allowed on the first tender and staked out our territory. The kids, Dad, and I were on the second tender (Mother had an upset stomach and stayed on the ship today). We were then on the next to last tender back to the ship; sorry to disappoint you that we were not on the first out and last back.

Bottom line ... I am exhausted from relaxing. (those of you who have been here can relate)

So, a shower and then maybe I can compose some thoughts before dinner.

The one thought I had about my food today: "Cheeseburger in Paradise" (with apologies to Jimmy Buffet). Sorry, I couldn't resist.

Luke

Thank you for trying! I am grinning here, picturing you strolling around the ship far from your room, trying to sneak peeks in doors! Someone's going to arrest you. What a fantastic time you're having. Hope your mom feels better soon.

Luke, for me it was hamburger in paradise (hold the cheese). I know I had the same Jimmy Buffet song in mind although I'm aware that various places in the Caribbean (especially the British Virgin Islands) claim to be the inspiration for the song.

I hope that your mother's not feeling well passed quickly.

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Luke, what about the band? Is Siglo still on hiatus? Any word on their return?

BTW Kathy, great pic! I have one very similar to that!

My mother is fine, thanks for your well wishes. She joined us for dinner, ate wisely, and was ready for breakfast outside La Verandah as we sailed into Bora Bora.

Luke

Motu Day … the ultimate “wish you were here” postcard.

Motu Day … the experience about which you cannot exaggerate.

Motu Day … a description with words and pictures is insufficient and borders on empty.

Motu Day … priceless


This is a day to unwind, yet absorb. The first tender was at 10:30 and the final return at 5:00. That sounds like SUCH a short time, but the sun, food, snorkeling, and beverages will sap your energy and most folks return to the ship by 3:00 or 4:00.

The day begins with a mad dash to the reefs for snorkeling; it reminded me of the old start to the Le Mans car race. The food is superb, a beach BBQ like none other. And how many other places are you drinking a Mai Tai or Pina Colada from a freshly opened coconut? I’ll have more information later, but this is a day that continues to bring us and so many others back to the Paul Gauguin cruise.

And of course, while onboard I already begin to dream about a return … maybe a back-to-back, but most definitely a Marquesas cruise sometime when I grow up.

We’re now in Bora Bora and ready for our waverunner expedition this a.m. Today should be a special day because we’re scheduled to meet up with best friends from our neighborhood … the Gray family of four that includes one of Oz’s best friends and, most importantly, Meredith’s boyfriend. Mother and Dad know the Grays well but they do NOT know that we are meeting them today! Ngaire’s office helped process the approval for the Grays to visit the ship tonight and have dinner onboard. Tomorrow we will likely spend time at the Bora Bora Pearl where the Grays are staying.

I hear the tender calling.

More soon.

Luke

Rumor du jour --- in April the PG casino will undergo another makeover: both table games will be removed and 15 slot machines will be added. I view this change, if true, as a big mistake.

Luke

Day one in Bora Bora was perfect in all respects. The sail-in was as captivating as I remember. Moorea may be a more beautiful island, but the peaks of Bora Bora are majestic and striking.

The dockside meeting with our friends from home truly stunned my parents ... it was not only a priceless moment, it was speechless.

The waverunner tour was again an almost surreal experience ... the best part today was watching my father race in and out of the wakes like a teenager. Pure joy. If anyone ever tries to one-up you at work or during a party, just nonchalantly mention that you recently rode waverunners around Bora Bora ...top that!

Our friends dined onboard with us tonight and it was a treat to share the PG experience with them. Now it's time to rest before heading to the BB Pearl for a visit tomorrow.

Still no sign of open doors to 7003 or the deck 7 aft cabins.

Luke

Luke - thanks for the details. I love hearing about PG cruises ... :)

Masaki

Thanks for taking the time to report in, Luke. Love reading about your fun!

Luke,

Just wanted to thank you for sharing your PG cruise with us. It really brings me back to our October 2005 trip of a lifetime! I really appreciate you taking the time to write us!

Babs

It really makes me smile hearing about the great time you're having with your family. In paradise with the people you love. This is what it's all about, right?

Thanks so much for your reports, Luke. Luv 'em

Luke,

I am enjoying reading your great reports. Thanks! You and your family keep having fun and keep posting, if you can!

Betty

Luke,

Your reports are the next best thing to being there! Thanks for reporting in to us.

Great job Luke, thanks so much for taking the time to "report in". Have a Hinano and enjoy!!!!

Sailing away from Bora Bora. Sitting outside La Palette as the BB lagoon fades away.

We spent the day with friends who are vacationing the week at the BB Pearl resort. Their OWBs are fantastic and the resort is lovely with beautiful views. The day confirmed, however, that we are pleased to be onboard the PG for “our” week. Maybe it was the $18 hamburger, or having to coordinate times of the water taxi and land taxi, or knowing that you are “limited” to only one island. Nevertheless, the time with friends in the shadow of the Bora Bora peaks will be a memory our families will share forever.

We are at the end of the FP rain season and have only encountered a couple of showers (however, dark clouds are building as I type). Seas have been VERY calm with only the slightest, almost cradle-like roll/rocking.

A brief note about “Time Wasters,” the Ukranian band/combo that has taken the place of the much-loved Sigolo. The new group is talented, but they are not entertainers. We have opted out of their performances, whereas we were part of the cultlike following of Sigolo. I was told that Sigolo “may” return if/when they can pass their RSSC physicals (evidently one or two members failed their tests, but their situations were not serious).

I realize that I have not reported much on the PG dining experience. We always eat our breakfasts outside of La Veranda … the waiters quickly learned our names and preferences and we look forward to seeing their smiling faces each morning. We are VERY pleased with L’Etoile as the main dining room. We have garnered a 10-top table the last two evenings and dinner lasted at least 2 hours. I think that I have written before that our children enjoy “dining” more than “eating.” Our pattern is to try virtually everything on the menu via “table” servings of each appetizer, etc. We are particularly impressed with the dessert chef … WOW. We have forgotten to ask for menus each night, but we will try and rectify that on these final 3 dinners. The wines have been consistent, from very good to excellent. I have splurged for champagne on two nights … how can you celebrate being with law school friends and then neighborhood friends without a proper toast and clinking of champagne flutes?

Our plan for Moorea tomorrow is pretty basic. We arise early to watch the approach to Moorea. The Davis women are scheduled for a.m. facials at the spa, while Dad and I cheer on Oz as he takes his first try at windsurfing. We parasail at 1:30 and then we’ll likely find our way to a couple of pearl shops. Or at least that’s the current plan.

Savoring the final days.

Luke

Love reading your reports, Luke. Moorea is one of my favorites. The Davis women will have a fun time pearl shopping! Good luck to Oz on his windsurfing attempt.

Luke, your report on the Siglo situation is interesting. Siglo himself is getting up in years, and was talking about retiring I think. He was making himself a video of his experiences when were on last June. But the rest of the band are fairly young, so I'm wondering which one is not fit. Maybe they are re-grouping following their band-leader's retirement. Let's hope they come back some day.

Is Siglo the heavyset man who plays the keyboard and does the Elvis impression? He is married to the female singer. And one of the guitar players is his son (I'm not sure if his wife is the mother or step-mother of the boy). We purchased one of their CD's on our last trip.

Luke, you can request menu's from L'Etoile for your entire trip from the Maitre D or head waiter. He'll have them for you on your last night aboard as you leave the dining room. The only confusing thing is figuring out which night they each represent. The activities listed on the dessert page help to jog your memory. On one of our trips another set of menus was delivered to our cabin during the evening.

In La Veranda I requested and received a copy of the menu on the nights we ate there.

Yeh, that's Siglo (I met him finally last time, trying to remember his real name, Romeo comes to mind.) Did not know he was married to that girl, she's got to be half his age. But not surprised. His son is also a singer, built kind of like him, short and a little round. Good singer, quite outgoing personality, often the front-man.