Had to to stay at the Intercontinental Resort Tahiti for two nights which sadly did not live up to the image and 5 star status. Word of advice - if you drink tea and coffee take your own and the alcohol prices are ludicrous. Embarking on the Ship Ms Paul Gaugin was so easy and we were escorted to our cabin, luggage following. The Cruise Director Michael Shapiro has already introduced himself and led us through the initial check-in and he was a delight through out the cruise; especially enjoyed his show - I am muscial theatre lover and he is incredibly talented. He took the time to talk to us throughout the cruise.
The staff on board were amazing as was the service and the food; we were surprised that there was three restaurants as the ship only holds 320 passengers and they were all different. For a first cruise we would recommend it highly - their only desire appeared to be to give you an enjoyable trip - there were shows on in the Grand Salon as well as a the Santa Rosa Band and Marius on the Piano and Violin in the Piano Bar . We were honestly surprised by the very high standard of entertainment on board what is a small vessel; looking forward to our next trip. The only drawback is that the Paul Gaugin is not a family cruise ship but then they are honest about that at the start. It is a cruise for adults. ON board our trip was Tahiti Family reunion group and they also added to the ambience by playing and singing for us. SO we had a fantastic time.
Was surprise as we had never cruised before. Old world charm but clean and pleasant. Very comfortable and felt like home from the moment we walked into it it. Bathroom amazed us with railings and step up but the cabin had every amenity except tea/coffee making facilties. However room service was available for this and were just a phone call and five minutes away. Our stewardess did a great job and coming back at night to a turned down bed andPaul Gaugin chocolate was a lovely touch.