If you (and your family) love watersports, and a true exploration of the marine environment, consider a cruise on Paul Gauguin Cruises. Thanks to their small ships, Paul Gauguin (offering Polynesian cruises) navigates narrow channels and shallow waters, allowing guests to explore seldom-visited marine environments.
The line’s flagship, the m/s Paul Gauguin, is well suited to sea exploration; the ship has a custom retractable platform that allows guests to descend directly to sea level. This feature creates a perfect spot to launch a kayak, snorkel, or begin a SCUBA expedition. (Not SCUBA certified? No problem. Paul Gauguin has a certification program onboard.)
The line also offers a really wonderful hands-on “Ambassadors of the Environment Youth Program” (for passengers aged 9-17). Pioneered by explorer and environmentalist Jean-Michael Cousteau, this landmark program introduces young travelers to the extraordinary natural wonders of the marine environment of French Polynesia. (Cousteau, who is also President of the Ocean Futures Society – http://www.oceanfutures.org/ – is focused on conservation and the preservation of our worldwide marine environments.)
The Ambassadors of the Environment program includes exploration of coral reefs, rainforest hikes, outrigger canoe instruction, and tours and education on the various ecological and cultural elements of Polynesia. Kids get a practical knowledge of marine environment and island ecosystems- information that will foster an appreciation for the ocean and the importance of protecting it.
The Ambassadors of the Environment Youth Program is available on all cruises from June 4 through August 20, 2011, as well as select holiday sailings; Mr. Cousteau will be aboard for the May 25 and June 29, 2011 sailings.
