Hey adventure seekers! If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable trip where luxury meets wild, nature-packed experiences, Galaxy Cruises has got you covered. Whether you want to explore the incredible wildlife in the Galapagos or soak up the sun and thrills of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, these cruises offer the perfect blend of excitement, comfort, and unique discoveries.
🛥️ A Cruise for Every Explorer
Galaxy Cruises has expanded its fleet to 9 amazing boats, catering to all kinds of travelers—from those who want to indulge in luxury with jacuzzis and gorgeous balconies onboard the Galaxy Sirius, to the budget-conscious adventurers looking for great value without skimping on fun and comfort. If you travel with family or friends, there’s even an eco-friendly option built with kids in mind!
🌿 Galapagos: A Wildlife Wonderland Like No Other
With 8 boats sailing around the Galapagos islands, you get to experience nature in its purest form. Picture snorkeling alongside sea turtles, kayaking near playful sea lions, or hiking breathtaking volcanic landscapes. Onboard luxury boats, you’ll enjoy international cuisine, comfy cabins, and expert guides who’ll bring this natural paradise to life. If you’re a diving fan, the Galaxy Diver II offers spectacular underwater adventures suited for experienced divers.
🌴 Costa Rica: Adventure and Relaxation Combined
If Costa Rica’s lush jungles and sparkling beaches call your name, the brand-new Galaxy Si yacht is your ticket. This intimate cruise takes you to private coastal spots away from the crowds, with fun activities like jet skiing, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and even a water slide! Perfect for families or active travelers craving both thrill and chill vibes.
💡 Why Choose Galaxy Cruises for Your Next Vacation?
Small groups mean a personal and exclusive experience—no crowded ships here!
Eco-friendly boats that care for the amazing places you’ll visit
Delicious meals tailored to your tastes, with plenty of options
Friendly crews and guides to help you connect with nature and local culture
Flexible cruise options to suit your adventurous spirit and budget
Ready for a trip that’s all about freeing your senses and connecting with stunning nature? Let us at EZTravelPad help you plan your dream cruise with Galaxy Cruises. Whether you want to explore the Galapagos or sail Costa Rica’s wild coast, we’ve got the perfect getaway waiting for you.
Hey travel lovers! If you’re dreaming of pristine seas, timeless history, and luxury cruising, we’ve got a special gem to share with you. Picture yourself aboard one of the newest and most elegant ships at sea — the Celebrity Xcel — setting sail July 18 on a dazzling Mediterranean voyage that touches Greece, Turkey, Malta, and ends in vibrant Barcelona. This is not just any cruise; it’s a premium experience tailored for the discerning traveler.
🚢 Why Celebrity Xcel?
The Celebrity Xcel combines cutting-edge design with sophisticated comfort. Expect spacious, modern concierge level cabins designed to be your sanctuary at sea, outstanding dining options, and world-class amenities. This isn’t just a cruise; it’s a floating luxury retreat.
📅 Your Mediterranean Itinerary — A Journey to Remember
Sat, 18 Jul: Board in Athens (Piraeus), Greece at 5:00 PM — the gateway to ancient wonders and Greek hospitality
Mon, 20 Jul: Mykonos, Greece (7:00 AM – 7:00 PM, tendered) — enjoy the lively streets, beautiful beaches, and charming windmills
Tue, 21 Jul: Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey (7:00 AM – 6:00 PM, docked) — deeply explore the ancient city during your exclusive shore event, soaking in the grandeur of history
Wed, 22 Jul: Cruising — relax and indulge in all the ship’s luxurious amenities while sailing the Mediterranean
Thu, 23 Jul: Valletta, Malta (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, docked) — step into a medieval treasure trove of Baroque architecture, quaint streets, and stunning seaside views
Fri, 24 Jul: Cruising — another glorious day at sea to enjoy the endless ocean and onboard experiences
Sat, 25 Jul: Disembark in vibrant Barcelona, Spain at 5:00 AM — ready to explore a city with incredible art, food, and energy (or continue your travels!)
💼 Exclusive Group Space & Pricing
We’ve secured a special group block of space onboard the Celebrity Xcel — and here’s the kicker — concierge level cabins are available with nearly $1,200 off the current best rates! This is an unbeatable opportunity to enjoy the premium lifestyle onboard while saving big.
🌟 Perks Just for You
Booking within our held group space unlocks incredible extras to elevate your journey:
A dedicated onboard host ensuring your trip is seamless and stress-free
An exclusive private reception for all guests in the group—great chance to mingle and toast to an unforgettable voyage
An included exclusive shore event exploring the ancient wonders of Ephesus, where you’ll step back in time and uncover the stories of one of history’s greatest civilizations
🎟️ Perfect for the Discerning Traveler
If you value refined experiences, exclusive access, and traveling in style, this Mediterranean sailing on the Celebrity Xcel is made for you. Spaces are limited in this special group block, so don’t miss your chance to sail in comfort and sophistication at a fantastic rate.
See a few snapshots of life aboard Celebrity Xcel at this link shot on a recent cruise experience I had on board the naming ceremony in November
Ready to reserve your cabin or want more info? Reach out to Scott at EZTravelPad — your gateway to the cruise of a lifetime – but DO NOT delay – this special pricing is for a very limited time only, now is the time to decide to save!
French Polynesia—the very name conjures images of shimmering turquoise lagoons, dramatic volcanic peaks, and postcard-perfect overwater bungalows. If you are dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime trip, cruising these magical islands on either the Paul Gauguin or Windstar yachts will unlock a world of unforgettable experiences.
Here’s why either choice makes an incredible journey for honeymooners, empty nesters, or any traveller checking off that bucket list:
❤️ For Honeymooners: Romance Meets Adventure
Imagine gazing over calm, crystal-clear waters as the sun sets behind Bora Bora’s iconic Mt. Otemanu. Both Paul Gauguin and Windstar offer intimate settings perfect for couples starting their new life together. The Paul Gauguin’s Polynesian-inspired elegance is tailor-made for a honeymoon steeped in luxury and island culture—from private beach picnics to snorkeling hidden lagoons. Meanwhile, Windstar’s stylish, yacht-like atmosphere invites couples to savor every moment with a blend of relaxed luxury and flexible exploration, sometimes with stops at multiple South Pacific jewels for added adventure.
🌺 For Empty Nesters: Leisurely Luxury & Exploration
With grown children and time to truly unwind, empty nesters can dive deep into the wonders of French Polynesia at a perfect pace. Paul Gauguin’s slower-paced and immersive itineraries allow guests to linger longer on each island, soaking in local history, lush landscapes, and exquisite dining experiences. Windstar’s more varied routes present the chance to combine French Polynesia with other scenic South Pacific destinations while enjoying the refined comfort of a yacht. Both options provide plenty of gentle land excursions and onboard amenities designed for a leisurely, enriching escape.
🗺️ For Bucket List Travelers: The Best of Both Worlds
If crossing French Polynesia off your bucket list means embracing variety—from vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life to serene cultural encounters—these cruises deliver it all. Paul Gauguin offers unparalleled access to hidden island gems through onboard water toys and expertly guided tours, capturing the essence of the islands. Windstar’s smaller yachts navigate intimate ports larger ships can’t, opening doors to unique harbors and lesser-visited islands. Whether you crave authentic island traditions or breathtaking natural beauty, these cruises are gateway experiences you’ll cherish forever.
Choosing between Paul Gauguin and Windstar comes down to your style and travel dreams—whether you seek a culturally rich Polynesian immersion or a sophisticated, yacht-style adventure spanning the South Pacific.
See some photos and videos from my experience on Paul Gaguin crusing in the Society Islands of French Polynesia at this link – it is stunning, beyond just the descriptions of photos and videos…but it can give you a taste until you are ready to expereince the real thing
Ready to start planning your dream French Polynesian escape? Reach out and let’s make paradise happen.
If you love ocean cruising but are curious about something new and uniquely enriching, it’s time to consider a European river cruise—especially with AmaWaterways, a leader in luxury river cruising. Whether you’ve dreamed of exploring Europe’s rich history and culture or want a magical holiday markets adventure, a river cruise offers an intimate and elegant way to immerse yourself deeply in Europe’s most iconic destinations.
Why Consider a European River Cruise? Here’s Why It’s Perfect for Ocean Cruise Lovers Seeking Something Different:
Up-Close and Personal Experiences: Unlike vast ocean ships, AmaWaterways’ stunning river ships glide through the heart of cities like Amsterdam, Vienna, Budapest, Paris, and Strasbourg. You dock right in town, meaning less time at sea and more time exploring charming streets, local markets, and UNESCO treasures.
Luxury and Spaciousness Redefined: AmaWaterways ships combine elegant design, spacious staterooms with river views, and high-class amenities. You’ll enjoy world-class dining, wellness facilities including spas and fitness centres, and personalized service that rivals the best ocean cruise lines.
Rich Cultural Immersion: River cruises are tailored to enrich your senses with authentic European experiences. Daily excursions include guided tours of historic castles, local artisan workshops, wine tastings in boutique vineyards, and visits to centuries-old cathedrals—all curated to bring history and culture to life.
Seasonal Magic: Summer & Holiday Markets: Dreaming of a summer vacation full of sunshine and festivals? Or maybe a winter escape surrounded by twinkling lights and festive stalls? AmaWaterways offers perfectly timed itineraries: from idyllic summer cruises on the Danube or Rhône to enchanting holiday market voyages that feel straight out of a fairy tale.
Intimate Social Atmosphere: With smaller ships hosting far fewer guests than large ocean liners, you get an intimate vibe that fosters friendships and a personal touch with your crew and fellow travellers. It’s luxury without feeling crowded.
Why Choose AmaWaterways Over Larger, More Famous Brands Like Viking?
A Boutique Experience with Big Benefits: While brands like Viking are household names, AmaWaterways offers a distinct, boutique cruise experience that feels more personalized and less “cookie-cutter.” With fewer ships and smaller groups, you often get a more tailored experience designed to delight every type of traveller.
Innovative Itineraries and Unique Extras: AmaWaterways stands out with thoughtfully crafted routes that explore lesser-known gems alongside iconic sites. Plus, they offer extras like complimentary bicycles for onshore exploration, wine and cheese tastings onboard, and a partnership with luxury wellness brands, resulting in spa and fitness options that many competitors lack.
Exceptional Culinary Experiences: AmaWaterways consistently receives praise for its cuisine—from regional dishes crafted by expert chefs to extensive wine pairings included with dinner. The food experience feels elevated and authentic, adding a luxurious layer to your journey.
Personalized Service You’ll Remember: Because AmaWaterways maintains a smaller fleet, your journey benefits from a crew that often goes the extra mile to remember your preferences and create memorable moments. It’s the kind of service that bigger brands can sometimes struggle to consistently deliver when managing a larger guest volume.
Value with Luxury: AmaWaterways strikes an incredible balance between high-end luxury and value, often including extras in the base fare like shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and drinks package options. This means less concern about add-ons and more focus on enjoying your cruise.
If you’ve always loved ocean cruising but crave a more immersive, culturally rich, and truly tailored way to travel Europe this summer or holiday season, explore the AmaWaterways river cruise experience. It’s luxury reimagined on some of the world’s most scenic and historic waterways.
You can see just a tate of the sights, sounds anf flavors of what cruising with AmaWaterways is all about in the photo album at this link – this is really just a sliver of what awaits on a cruise through southern France on the Essence of Burgundy and Provence itinerary – you can also see a video of the cruise on YouTube at this link
Ready to explore this elegant new way to experience Europe?
Reach out, and let’s start planning your unforgettable river cruise adventure!
Here’s an invite for a webinar presentation on Monday Feb 19 that you won’t want to miss if you are thinking of an adults-only cruise with the hottest most awarded new brand at sea – Virgin Voyages!
AHOY Sailors!
Learn what it means to SET SAIL THE VIRGIN WAY with Virgin Voyages! Join your Travel Advisor (SCOTT JONES), along with members of the Virgin Voyages Sales Crew to hear about all the excitement and BRAND NEW ITINERARIES:
Monday, February 19 7PM – 7:30PM CST/ 8PM – 8:30PM EST
*Sailing Caribbean, Mediterranean, Australia, UK, Iceland, Norway, Bahamas – Featuring Beach Club at Bimini – Virgin’s Private Beach Club
*Adults Only – No Kids! *Food + Tips + WiFi + Basic Bevvies + Fitness Classes – $1000 Value
*Find out about the latest promotions and offers, including an exclusive booking offer, up to $400 OBC!
Grab a bevvie, hop on, say HI and join a 30 min webinar to learn about it all!
Sea you soon,
Virgin Voyages Sales Crew
Want to do a bit of homework first? Here’s a few reasons why Virgin is so popular and such a great overall experience – Here’s a link to more
10 Reasons Why Virgin Voyages Should Be Your Next Cruise Choice
As a travel agency owner with years of experience in the industry, I’ve had the pleasure of recommending various cruise lines to my clients. However, there’s one that stands out from the rest: Virgin Voyages. Here are ten compelling reasons why you should consider cruising with them for your next vacation.
Unique Adult-Only Experience: One of the standout features of Virgin Voyages is its adult-only policy, offering a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere for travelers seeking a getaway without children. Guests consistently rave about the peace and tranquility onboard, allowing for a truly rejuvenating escape. But it’s not just about peace and tranquility – there’s plenty of opportunities for fun too!
Modern and Stylish Ships: Virgin Voyages’ ships, including the Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady & soon coming Brilliant Lady boast contemporary design and luxurious amenities. From chic lounges to sleek staterooms, every aspect of the ship exudes casual elegance and comfort, earning praise from travelers for its attention to detail.
Innovative Dining Options: Foodies rejoice aboard Virgin Voyages, as the culinary offerings are nothing short of extraordinary. With a diverse array of restaurants curated by top chefs, guests can indulge in gourmet cuisine ranging from traditional favorites to avant-garde creations, earning accolades for both quality and variety.
Immersive Shore Excursions: Virgin Voyages goes above and beyond to curate unforgettable shore excursions that cater to every interest and preference. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, or simply relaxation on pristine beaches, their carefully crafted experiences ensure that every moment ashore is memorable.
Entertainment Like No Other: From captivating live performances to innovative immersive experiences, entertainment is a highlight of the Virgin Voyages cruise experience. Guests are treated to world-class shows, interactive events, and themed parties that keep the excitement going from morning till night, earning rave reviews for their creativity and energy.
Wellness and Fitness Focus: For travelers prioritizing health and wellness, Virgin Voyages offers a wealth of options to nourish the body and soul. From state-of-the-art fitness facilities to rejuvenating spa treatments, guests can embark on a journey of self-care and relaxation that leaves them feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Exceptional Service: The crew onboard Virgin Voyages consistently receives high praise for their professionalism, attentiveness, and friendly demeanor. From the moment guests step onboard, they are greeted with warm hospitality and personalized service that enhances the overall cruise experience, leaving a lasting impression of excellence.
Environmental Sustainability: As a company committed to sustainability, Virgin Voyages implements eco-friendly practices and initiatives to minimize its environmental impact. From reducing single-use plastics to investing in alternative energy sources, guests can cruise with peace of mind knowing that their vacation is contributing to a more sustainable future.
Flexibility and Freedom: Unlike traditional cruise lines, Virgin Voyages offers a flexible approach to cruising, allowing guests to customize their experience according to their preferences. Whether you prefer to relax by the pool, explore new destinations, or immerse yourself in onboard activities, you have the freedom to design your perfect vacation.
Unforgettable Memories: Above all, cruising with Virgin Voyages is about creating unforgettable memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, embarking on a romantic getaway, or simply seeking adventure and relaxation, their unparalleled combination of luxury, innovation, and excitement ensures that every moment at sea is nothing short of extraordinary.
IVirgin Voyages offers a cruise experience like no other, combining sophistication, style, and adventure to create a vacation that exceeds expectations. From the moment you step onboard to the final farewell, you’ll be immersed in a world of luxury, relaxation, and excitement that leaves you longing to return again and again.
Trust “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad for help all along the way – Best Service & Best Price = Best Deal!
Cruising on Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady is a cruise like no other
There are many aspects that set Virgin Voyages apart from the rest of the brands in the world of ocean going cruises. Most apparent is that the brand is exclusive to adults only. This alone sets Virgin apart from most other cruiselines, but there are many other things that are different cruising on Virgin.
Dining –
Like other cruise brands, there are a variety or dining options to choose from – more than you will be able to experience in a typical 5 night voyage (unless you are eating your way through the entire cruise) – and the food is very good!
Popular evening dining options include-
The Wake (Steakhouse)
Extra Virgin (Italian)
Gunbae (Korean BBQ)
Razzle Dazzle (Vegan forward with a naughy list that allows for adding protein)
Many other options (with a total of 20+ eateries) including….
My personal favorite was Pink Agave (Mexican)…excellent traditional Mexican cuisine. Check out the 1st course-
Also notable is that many cruise ships these days offer specialty dining options at a premium price (sometime $65 additional per person) but not on Virgin – it’s all included here! There are some occasional premium items on the menu for special celebrations, but you don’t miss much if you just stick to the menu.
Wellness –
It is apparent early on that a tremendous amount of space, time and equipment that has been dedicated to wellness. Several group classes (Yoga, Spin, Core & more) – all offered complimentary (as opposed to most cruises where group classes incur additional costs), or just do your own thing in terrific workout facilities with excellent equipment and facilities – even a boxing ring.
Relax –
You can relax in your own style – whether it’s taking some time to paint a mural
or relax at one of the 2 pools on board…
or doing some shopping at one of the unique shops on board….
It’s not uncommon to relax on a cruise… but it is uncommon to take a nap in a most comfortable hammock on your own private balcony…
Note – this hammock, along with every other hammock in the fleet, was designed specifically for the ship, and crafted by a group of artisans in a remote village in Northern Thailand…just one of the small things in a long list of commitments to sustainability that is the Virgin way.
Unique Destinations and Itineraries –
Virgin will soon have 3 ships cruising various itineraries in the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Transatlantic on 4, 5, 7 and longer cruises.
Whether it’s in the Caribbean, or the Mediterranean, there are unique itineraries that feature destinations that you may not have previously experienced (like overnighting in Ibiza for example) or a crown jewel in the Caribbean – the Bimini Beach Club
Bimini Beach Club –
The private beach club on the Bahamian island of Bimini combines beauty, style, fun and luxe comfort. You can make the day what you want it to be – from full on pool party…
to enjoying excellent food & beverage offerings, to chilling on a pristine beach and an incredible sunset…
Bar Tab –
Virgin’s Bar Tab is a good value for those wanting to add some premium coffees from the baristas or premium alcoholic beverages from the mixologists. Alcohol drinks price resonable to start with (they are not included in the cruise fare and beverage packages are not offered) but you can get a better value by pre-purchasing a Bar Tab for $300 and when you do you get an extra $50 for a total of $350 on-board spend (at the time of writing this post). My wife and I like to enjoy a nice glass of wine (or 2) with dinner, and a pre-dinner cocktail (or 3), and we had plenty of room on our bar tab…even enough to “Shake for Champagne” on the app (where you can literally shake your app to have a bottle of Moet & Chandon deliverd to your specific location on board)!
See much more in the video with some cruise highlights below…
Looking for a Couples’ Getaway? A Bachelor or Bachelorette vacation solution? Looking for a unique way to spend a Honeymoon or a welcoming solution for a vacation friendly to the LGBT community? This may be for you!
There are far too many things to say about the commitment to diversity, the uniqueness in entertainment, and the overall different vibe that is offered by Virgin Voyages, but for full details, best deal, and help all along the way, get with “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad
Join us on 7 Nights through France THIS September 30 – Oct 7, 2021
EZTravelPad is delighted to announce that we are headed back to Europe this September and would love for you to join us.
We will be embarking the AmaWaterways ship AmaCello at Chalon-Sur-Saone on Sep 30 to cruise the Rhone and the Saone rivers in route to Arles, France. Additionally, there are options to extend pre-cruise for 3 nights in Geneva, Switzerland and/or 3 nights in Barcelona, Spain post-cruise.
With a maximum of just 130 guests, the AmaCello is a perfect size to relax, enjoy, and meet new friends along the way.
Indulge in French flavors on a palate-pleasing itinerary that highlights the essence of France’s Burgundy and Provence. Uncover the Roman history of Chalon-sur Saône and delight in charming Tournus with its towering Romanesque abbey and historic apothecary shop. Visit French châteaux from Burgundy to Provence, taste your way through the French culinary capital of Lyon and visit the Papal Palace in Avignon. While you’ll get more than a taste of Burgundy and Provence during this itinerary, the essence of these destinations will linger on your palate – and in your heart – for a lifetime!
Along the way we will experience cities and towns including Tournus, Macon, Lyon, Vienne, Avignon, Arles & more
Celebrating a birthday in style
On day 5 (October 4) we will celebrate Scott’s 60th birthday with a Tasting Tour in Lyon – “France’s Culinary Capital” followed by a bike tour along the ViaRhona Bike Route. These are just 2 of the daily tour options which include many hiking, biking or tasting options multiple times per day (over 30 options throughout the week).
Every day you can choose to relax, or you can choose to explore, and every day your tours and your meals are included in the fare along with champagne for breakfast plus local beers & wines for lunch & dinner.
If you have always wanted to experience a river cruise
– or you have always wanted to explore more of France outside of Paris
– or you are just itching to get back to traveling and want to be included in a terrific experience that you will never forget, then this may be for you.
Pricing starts from only $3395 per person based on double occupancy (just $4814 for single occupancy)
We hope that you can join us, but if not then do consider this type of experience in the future – it is a wonderful way to experience Europe and beyond.
EZTravelPad set to cruise Caribbean and Mediterranean in 2021
Scarlet Lady in Caribbean and Valiant Lady in Mediterranean
Bimini Beach Club on Virgin’s private island in Bahamas
Join us on either or both – each will be awesome and unique as we cruise-
Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady from Miami to Bimini Beach Club + Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic
Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady from Barcelona to Mallorca, Malaga. Gibralter & an overnight in Ibiza
In case you are not aware, Virgin Voyages is a new brand and a new style of cruising as imagined by Sir Richard Branson. They brought in some of the world’s best designers to completely re-imagine what an open-ocean cruise is all about. Some of the unique differences include-
It is exclusive to adults-only (18+)
20+ unique dining options All-included (and NO buffets!)
Unlimited Wifi is included!
Group workout classes are included!
Basic Bevvies (waters, sodas, juices & more) are included!
Gratuities are included!
See more about the Virgin Voyages brand at this link
2020 has been a long year already, and it’s only a little more than 1/2 over with at this point, but here are a couple reasons to look forward to 2021 I know I am!
Dominican Daze
On February 28, 2021 we will set sail from Miami on a 5 night trip to the Caribbean on board Scarlet Lady with this itinerary-
Without a doubt, the highlight is the Bimini Beach Club on Virgin’s private island – it’s all day and most of the evening enjoying an unspoiled beautiful Bahamian paradise
But the best part of this entire cruise experience is the price – starting at just $902 per person based on double occupancy ($1804 total) – complete!
That’s 30% off right now, but that price won’t last long…. so reach out now to EZTravelpad for details
OR
Spanish Obsession
Choose to join us on an epic journey from Barcelona through the Baleaeric Islands and even on to one of the most geographically significant places in human history -Gibraltar
The cruise begins on October 3, 2021 and extends for 7 nights aboard the newest ship in the Virgin fleet – Valiant Lady
The itinerary looks like this-
Amazingly, pricing on this 7 night itinerary starts at a total cruise fare of just $1044 per person based on double occupancy. It’s a steal! But again, it won’t last long. You’re not going to want to miss this….
But wait, there’s more!
Pre-pay your bar tab of $300 before departure (cocktails, beer, wine) and get $350 credit – so $50 more bonus beverage!!
There’s much more to relate….and plenty of questions to answer…like, what are we going to do on Palma de Mallorca for Scott’s 60th? Who is going to get a new tattoo at Squid Ink while on board? and what might we do post-cruise in Barcelona?
Join us on either – or BOTH – it’s gonna be fun!
As always – we are “Your friends….in the travel business”
A Cruise on MS Paul Gauguin in French Polynesia’s Society Islands is Unforgettable and Completely Unique
Cruising with Paul Gauguin is unique and different in so many ways.
First, there is the size on the ship. With a maximum capacity of 334 passengers and a staff to guest ratio of 1 staff member to every 1.5 guests, the vibe, feel & level of service are a complete departure from what you may have experienced on a larger mass market ship.
The check-in experience was jaw-dropping. Literally, from the time that we arrived at the embarkation pier through the medical screening process** to the greetings, documents, getting a cabin key & making out way to our cabin where our luggage was already in room took approx 22 minutes. We were enjoying what waited in no time!
Compared to a larger ship this is unheard of and a brilliant way to start the cruise off right.
The same convenience is to be enjoyed on a daily basis in catching the tender from ship to pier at each of the destinations experienced. It just couldn’t be more convenient.
True, you will give up a certain amount of diversity in cuisine and entertainment options vs a much larger ship, but the entertainment staff is engaging and authentic. They amplify the experience of the destination beyond just “putting on a show”. Beyond the entertainment staff known as “Le Gauguines”, the access to and the ability to interact with the chef & other officers is truly a big plus!
Of particular interest while in Taha’a was the carving of the catch of the day – freshly caught Moon Fish was for dinner a couple hours after this video was shot…
As for the itinerary, it is iconic. Bucket List islands such as Tahiti, Bora Bora & Mo’orea as well as off the radar gems like Huahine and Taha’a were included in our itinerary which was the ever-popular Tahiti & Society islands for 7 Nights, but other itineraries a bit longer or incorporating the Cook Islands or the Tuamotus Islands or even Fiji are options as well.
One of the main reasons to choose MS Paul Gauguin is that it offers unmatched access to these iconic destinations. Other ships simply can’t get close enough, but this ship was built for the destination and even includes a watersports marina on the aft of the ship which allows for Stand-up Paddleboarding or Kayaking directly from the ship – and if you are a SCUBA diver then you’re in luck because not only is the team outstanding but the convenience of taking the zodiac from the marina to a dive site usually not more than a 5-10 minute ride is outstanding (as are the dives, with abundant sharks, sea turtles & of course…more!)
Beach Party on Private Motu off of Taha’a is an unforgettable Day in Paradise!
One of the highlights of the entire cruise is the beach day on the Paul Gauguin private motu (one of several small islands surrounding the main island) just off the coast of the island of Taha’a on the 2nd full day of the cruise. It’s like you and several dozen of your best new friends arrive at a comfortable paradise waiting with abundant beach chairs in the sun or the shade of hundreds of coconut palms. The cookout is terrific with lots of engagement with Les Gauguines including a demonstration on how to process a coconut by hand (there’s much more to it than you might imagine but it’s easier than you might think) and yes, there is a floating bar which could not be more relaxing…
On to Bora…
Then of course there’s THE most iconic island – Bora Bora. No island conjures up visions of an idyllic paradise quite like Bora Bora and there’s good reason why – it is simply one of, if not THE most beautiful island on the planet. If you enjoy dramatic mountain peaks, crystal blue lagoons and epic skyscapes it’s tough to beat. Whether it’s biking around the island, catching the food truck rodeo for dinner, paddle boarding on another small motu with private beach or simply enjoying the views as you sail away at sunset there are few destinations more memorable.
Biking around Bora Bora
Stopping at world-famous Bloody Mary’s for a drink
Food truck rodeo at Bora Bora
Private beach on motu near Bora Bora
Paddleboarding with mt Oemanu as a backdrop
Sailing away with wonderful memories
But Wait, There’s More!
A full day at Huahine followed up with a full day at Taha’a are then topped with 2 full days to experience Bora Bora, but there’s still 2 more full days to experience Mo’orea, which most people tend to agree tops even Bora Bora for sheer beauty on the island. The view from the top of Magic Mountain is surreal – and the satisfaction of knowing that you hiked it from sea level is a reward in itself!
While the exhilaration of the 45-60 minute hike to the top is worthwhile, the entire thing can be avoided and still not miss a thing with an organized small group guided tour on an ATV or open back jeep with 8 passengers. The excursion stops at Magic Mountain as well as a few stops at Opanohu Bay, Cook Bay, a pineapple plantation (cooler than it sounds), a juice distillery for some tastings and the highlight of the day – Belvedere Lookout- stunning!
One thing that a short blog post like this can do is to open your eyes to this type of bucket list experience, but one thing this blog post cannot do is come even remotely close to capturing the full experience. French Polynesia’s Society Islands feature unmatched beauty for sure, but the warmth and beauty of the crew and the people who call French Polynesia home is something that must just be experienced for yourself.
When it’s time for you to check this off of your Bucket list then reach out to “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad.
We’re here to help – we have experience that a call center cannot match – we know people – and we work to help make your experiences as memorable as they are seamless.
Well, it’s warm in the summer and cool in the winter – but as far as popular destinations are concerned Croatia is HOT!
Why? Well there are many reasons –
Croatia is one of several destinations made more popular by the HBO series Game of Thrones
Croatia offers a terrific array of medieval cities
Croatia offers some amazing small ship cruises (mostly from cruiselines you have never heard of)
Croatia offers some of the most spectacular natural beauty to be found
Krka
Krka National Park is a popular place for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of pristine waterfalls and more. On a recent cruise vacation we enjoyed a stop in the port city of Zadar (famous for it’s Sea Organ – a very unique piece of musical art). The Krka National Park was an offered excursion from Celebrity cruises so we checked it out and here’s what we found….
a beautiful forest populated by dozens of cascading waterfalls (too many and too vast to experience them all)
The hike was too short,..but it was beautiful
with some swimming possible…
in the waters just past the most beautiful of the falls in this area
Zadar-
Whether spending some time in port or staying in a hotel or nearby resort, the city of Zadar is a good place to spend some time shopping or dining. Actually I could not believe how affordable it was to purchase some great pastries!
There are some cool tours that allow you to experience the city by foot, bike, segway, kayak or e-scooter – or do something really exhilarating like going skydiving!
Yes…Croatia is beautiful with several national parks and other places of outstanding beauty, but there is so much more. Whether it’s an excursion while cruising on a mass market cruise ship, or a small ship cruise with several stops along the long Croatian coastline, or a fully independent yet structured tour incorporating several stops such as Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik & other parts of the interior of the country you can count on “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad for sound advice and the ability to leverage our relationships to make sure that you have the best possible experience!
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