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Fabulous French Polynesia

FAMILY FUN VIA PAUL GAUGIN CRUISES ’ MOANA EXPLORER PROGRAM

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WITH ITS PRISTINE PALM-FRINGED BEACHES, CALM GEMSTONE-COLORED WATERS, AND SIGNATURE OVER-WATER BUNGALOWS , French Polynesia has long been regarded as the quintessential honeymoon destination for the privileged. Considering the island nation is as exclusive as it is exotic, as unspoiled as it is uncrowded, and as idyllic as it is iconic, it’s little wonder newlyweds consistently pursue the area’s beauty and romance.

But in recent years, Paul Gauguin Cruises — the highest-rated and longest continually sailing cruise company in the South Pacific — has decided to share the love by catering to families just as much as couples.

After the box-office success of Disney’s Moana, Paul Gauguin Cruises recognized kids were equally as enchanted with the culture, traditions, beauty, and wonder of French Polynesia as their parents. This led to the Moana Explorer Program, an interactive combination of naturalistled excursions, science experiments, art projects, games, and adventure.

MOANA EXPLORER PROGRAM

Curated for passengers ages 7-15, the Moana Explorer Program is far from the traditional camp-like structure found on most cruises. Instead, kids will enjoy visiting a sea turtle rehabilitation center and learning about conservation efforts. Some itineraries include a trip to a local village to learn about dolphins or stopping by the Ministry of Marine Reserve for a lesson on giant clams. Team-building experiences like “Survivor, Tahitian-style” are always a favorite — kids get to build a shelter made from materials they find on the beach and forage for fruits. Hiking volcanic mountains, snorkeling in the pristine lagoons, making jewelry with collected seashells, learning about local marine life, stargazing, conservation talks, swimming with sharks and stingrays, and designing their own Polynesian tattoo (temporary of course) are also options.

Aspiring Adventurists. Enter OFFER M24991 on the website found on the back cover and discover true family bonding.

While educational, the Moana Explorer Program focuses on experiential learning. Video games and interactive discussions help to prepare for and unpack daily lessons learned in nature. Before their trip is over, kids will know how to make shrimp using palm leaves and how to use binoculars to explore island geography and spot wildlife.

And the best part? Except for a few optional excursions, the Moana Explorer Program is entirely complimentary.

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