Fun facts about cruising Tahiti

A common way for visitors to extend their time in paradise is to take back-to-back cruises on the Paul Gauguin, since Regent runs frequent specials in the low season (our summer) that make this a rather economical choice for a two-week Tahitian vacation and also solves the frequent gripe that the seven-day Paul Gauguin cruise is just "too short!" Sometimes, back-to-back cruises are just 150 percent of the one-week cost instead of double. Plus, back-to-backers have the chance to enjoy more time onboard and be very selective about which excursions to take (as well as enjoy the cost savings compared to staying in a five-star hotel on land). In fact, both Regent and Princess have frequent specials (such as free air to Tahiti from Los Angeles) that can bring down the total cost of your vacation considerably.

Can't-Miss Shore Excursions

Not surprisingly, with the most incredible water and beautiful island scenery at every island stop, almost every shore excursion you pick will be a winner in French Polynesia. As in Hawaii, prices for shore excursions are on the high side (simple two-hour snorkel trips begin at $60 per person, two-hour Jet Skiing -- called waverunners here -- tours around Moorea or Bora Bora are around $210 per couple). The Paul Gauguin ship features its own water sports marinas, and many of the best activities are free -- like kayaking through Cook's Bay and snorkeling off of Regent's private island. On the smaller boutique ships like Bora Bora Cruises or the Aranui, the shore excursions are decidedly no-frills but still wonderful. Or you may choose just to explore one of the islands on your own by renting a car or Jeep to find secluded beaches, small covers and lovely hiking spots.

Here's just a selection of the best shore excursions in the major Tahitian Islands.

Tahiti
Take one of the many island tours that pass the beautiful west coast of the main island, following in the footsteps of the celebrated artist Paul Gauguin (or rent a car on your own to experience the same sights). Explore the dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation, tour the Paul Gauguin museum, see chic residential areas and find deserted beaches and grottos for swimming.

Bora Bora
This legendary island is justly famous for its magnificent lagoon and magical water, so the best way to see it all is by renting a waverunner for an exhilarating one-hour circle island tour. The shark and ray feeding excursion (it's totally safe!) is world-famous and will give you some of the best Kodak moments of your trip. Those who are curious about scuba and the underwater world it can reveal can try the "Aqua Safari" that mimics scuba -- all without getting your hair wet!

Moorea
While the waverunner expedition around Moorea is also exciting, the best views on the island are from the land, where you'll get an up-close view of the craggy peaks, lush valleys and the full splendor of Cook's and Oponohu Bays from the famous Belvedere Point. You'll probably stop at a pearl store to marvel at the unique black pearls found only in the Tahitian islands. The "Trails of the Ancient" trek to visit the Belvedere Point and ancient temples, which includes fascinating commentary from a renowned archeologist, is not to be missed. Encounters with dolphins can be booked, either in the more scientific/conservationist tour, or swimming with dolphins at the Dolphin Center.

Raiatea
Similar to Moorea, this island's lush land scenery is more spectacular than the crystalline water itself, so join an excursion that will take you from the main town of Uturoa up to Mount Temahani and finally to the ancient marae (temples) that give this island such an important religious and cultural significance to all Polynesians. The pearl farm expeditions (also available on Taha'a) are special ways to explore the elusive pearl oysters in their native environment.

Taha'a
The quiet sister island to Raiatea (they share the same lagoon) offers similar enchanting scenes from paradise-white sand beaches, an ancient volcano and deep valleys redolent with the scent of vanilla. Since Regent passengers almost all head to the private motu picnic the day the Paul Gauguin stops in Raiatea/Taha'a, the only other shore excursion is the Black Pearl Farm Adventure (also offered on the Raiatea port day).

Huahine
This more isolated and "savage" island (actually two sister islands linked together) features velvety slopes and lush tropical vegetation. It's also the right spot to venture beyond the reef to try your hand at some deep sea fishing or to enjoy a four-wheel drive safari through the rugged terrain.

In addition to writing about cruising trends in the burgeoning gay and lesbian market for Cruise Critic, Los Angeles-based Wu is also the travel editor of westhollywood.com and Metrosource Magazine.

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