We were beyond thrilled to receive the award for “Top Small-Ship Cruise Line for Families” from Travel + Leisure magazine.  Our President Diane Moore received the award at the “World’s Best Awards” gala event held Thursday, July 18, 2013, in New York City.  

During the awards ceremony, Travel + Leisure recognized us for our Ambassadors of the Environment Youth Program (AOTE), which is offered on our summer and holiday sailings to families aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin.

^{Families Explore French Polynesia on AOTE Land Excursions}

We are proud of this unique, groundbreaking program.  It was created by oceanographer and environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau and his Ocean Futures Society and introduces young travelers (ages 9 to 17) to the extraordinary natural wonders of French Polynesia through direct, hands-on, interactive experiences with marine and island ecosystems. 

^{Discover Marine Life in the AOTE Program}

Participants explore coral reefs, hike rainforest trails, and visit marae (ancient Polynesian temples), and also learn how black pearls and vanilla are cultivated and how volcanic islands become coral atolls.

^{Youth Participating in the AOTE Program Aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin}

Parents are encouraged to join their children on eco-excursions and other activities aboard and ashore.  If you are interested in learning more about this program, click here.

We were also delighted to be listed as one of Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best Small-Ship Cruise Lines” of 2013 and to be honored on the magazine’s “World’s Best Service 2013” list in June in the category of “Top Cruises: Small Ships.”

^{m/s Paul Gauguin in Bora Bora}

The magazine’s prestigious annual readers’ survey reveals favorite cities, hotels, islands, cruise lines, spas, airlines, airports, and more. Cruise lines were rated in categories of cabins, restaurants/food, service, itineraries/destinations, excursions, activities, and value.

To see the full list of “World’s Best Awards” winners you can visit www.travelandleisure.com or pick up a copy of the August issue of Travel + Leisure magazine, on newsstands now. Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best Family” winners, which spotlight the best adventure outfitters, cruise lines, and hotels, will be featured in the magazine’s November issue.

We look forward to continuing to provide our guests with the most memorable, luxurious, and enriching cruise vacations.   For a full list of our awards and accolades Paul Gauguin Cruises has received over the years, click here.