An Artist’s Review of Paul Gauguin Cruises
Aerial view of the Paul Gauguin cruise liner in Moorea
La Oraana! My name is Kim McDonald and I’m an artist from the island of Maui. My focus and subject matter have been primarily painting the majestic landscapes of the islands of the North and South Pacific while highlighting the beauty and grace of the Polynesian culture.
Recently I had the great pleasure to have been chosen to be one of the guest lecturers on Paul Gauguin Cruises. I spoke about my life's work as an artist of the post-impressionist genre. Needless to say, one of my biggest inspirations is the work by Paul Gauguin, particularly the body of work he did while living in French Polynesia, so this was an opportunity to revisit my favorite place on earth and share my love for the South Pacific (while on board a luxurious vessel dedicated to exploring every aspect of this paradise!).
Kim McDonald on board the Gauguin
Map of our trip through French Polynesia
Why Paul Gauguin Cruises? What makes Paul Gauguin Cruises so special?
The Ship-MS Paul Gauguin
From an artist’s perspective, the ship is a marvel—it reflects a deep understanding of the aesthetic of Paul Gauguin, the Pacific atolls and the lush tropical islands. The interiors are bathed in ocean color palettes– almost an extension of what you see when you look out your window. Onboard, you are immersed in Gauguin’s world. The fabrics could have emanated out of a Gauguin painting. In the gallery, there are eye-catching red-orange chairs whose color could have come right out of his “When Will You Marry?”. As if that weren’t enough in the gallery there are three actual original Gauguin’s art pieces! The cabins are sumptuous and spotless, and each one has a panoramic view of the most endless scenery in the Pacific.
Original Paul Gauguin wood carving
Original Paul Gauguin wood engraving
PGC piano bar
PGC art gallery
What are the excursions like on the Paul Gauguin cruises?
I’ll get back to the ship in a second, but before I do, it’s time to enumerate all of the amazing adventures, shopping opportunities, delicious discoveries, and must-see experiences on our Odyssey.
PGC private beach
What is the experience like on the private island of Paul Gauguin cruises?
Between Bora-Bora and Moorea, we slipped off into our own private island, where we were greeted by the spirits of the island, “The Gauguines & the Gauguins”, an exuberant, talented group of local dancers, musicians, guides, and masters of all things Polynesian
Mo'orea
Mo'orea is my all-time favorite island—my spirit animal! Besides the spectacular scenery, we were able to get up close and personal with bottlenose and spinner dolphins, sharks, rays, and constellations of bright colorful tropical reef fish.
The view that inspired Moonrise over Mo’orea
O Tahiti E
These Moorean natives are described as “The Fabulous professional folkloric dance group of Tahiti''. That description does not do this Broadway–worthy extravaganza justice. It is soulful and spiritual, and perhaps I imagined it, but I could feel the bone-deep spirit of the islands in the rhythm and joy of this group.
O Tahiti E dance group
The Cook Islands
PGC will shuttle you across the unbelievably clear water to untouched, uninhabited islands where you can spend the day snorkeling, shell-collecting, or perfecting your tan in Paradise.
On the way to Cook Island
Bora Bora
Wow! This barrier reef journey offers (amazingly inexpensive) helicopter tours, wave-runners (great for thrill-seekers), lunchtime jaunts to secluded islands, scuba diving, and crystal clear lagoons. Bora Bora and Moorea were my greatest sources of artistic inspiration.
The mountain range that inspired the painting “Bora Bora”
OK, full disclosure – I am obsessed with pearls. And in my many years of admiring, bargaining for, and collecting pearls, I have discovered two favorites. One is the on-board gallery at PGC, and the other is the fabulous family-owned “Pearl Romance” with 2 shops on Mo’orea.
Tahitian Pearls
Tahitian Pearls on a Palestinian women
Island Flowers
Paddle boarders leave directly from the Gauguin
What is the most memorable aspect of Paul Gauguin cruises?
Whether dining, exploring, or just relaxing on board, the defining essence of an experience, the thing that makes it memorable, is the grace and manners of the staff. Every experience is part theater—if you are dining and have a surly and dismissive waiter, the whole evening is ruined, you are just eating food.
On the other hand, a knowledgeable, heartfelt, genuine, delightful waiter elevates the whole experience to something transcendent: one-of-a-kind and memorable. The waitstaff on PGC are almost too good to be true—by the second day, they know where you like to sit, whether you take cream in your coffee, your favorite wine choice with fish—it’s indescribable. I have been to many 5-star hotels, 3-star restaurants, etc. and none came close. Honestly, one of the things I will remember the most, among the islands, activities, and perfect sunsets, is how exceptional the staff (including Captain Renè Paul Boucher and Cruise Director Gaëlle Pichon) was. Simply brilliant.
Guests aboard the Gauguin for dinner
Kim McDonald presenting to the cruise
Kim McDonald with Cruise Director Gaëlle Pichon
What else separates Paul Gauguin Cruises from other cruise lines?
Unless you are on Harvard Alumni Cruise lines, I doubt that you could match the caliber of presentations given in the Paul Gauguin state-of-the-art lecture hall. Pascal Erhel is a renowned cultural anthropologist who makes the origin story of the South Pacific come to life with encyclopedic knowledge and enthusiasm. Estelle Davies is a world-traveled and world-renowned marine biologist with a daunting resume-I won’t even try to list her degrees. She gave a mesmerizing presentation on the formation of the islands, the aquatic ecosystem, phylum chondrichthyes (sharks and rays), and her work with Jacques Cousteau, among other topics. In my presentation, I dove into my 30 years as a successful post-impressionist oil painter, my love for the islands, my inspirations (Henri Matisse, Georgia O’Keefe, Paul Gaugin, Vincent Van Gogh) and the process Post-Impressionism: depicting not what you see, but what you feel.
What do I wear to dinner on the Paul Gauguin cruises?
I love to dress up for dinner- who doesn’t? Paul Gauguin Cruise’s three elegant restaurants provide the perfect setting for showing off your fun tropical elegant attire. The dress code says "Country club casual, no jeans or shorts “, But remember, this is a French cruise line, and the French know how to dress. So take this as a perfect opportunity to wear those colorful, exotic dresses worthy of Moana — after all, we’re on a magical voyage through the most dream-like islands in the world. Why not dress for it?
Mo'orea ocean excursion
What are some of the best activities to do on Paul Gauguin Cruises?
You should definitely check out the PGC website—my head is still spinning from the banquet of activities we were offered every day (and night), but I enjoyed all of these immensely:
Lei-making
Piano Bar
Fitness Center
Deep Massage /Spa
Disco (La Palette)
Island jaunts
Scuba
Snorkeling (photo from the website)
Shark swims
Stand-Up Paddling
What are the best Hotels in Papeete, Tahiti?
(While these choices look like generic recommendations, they’re not. I’ve stayed in everything from tree houses to houseboats, and these 2 hotels are exceptional–luxurious without losing the special local Tahitian touches that let you know you’re deep in French Polynesia.)
Hilton Hotel Tahiti, Papeete (800 293 0718) This hotel would be my number one choice. It’s state-of-the-art and has incredible views of Mo’orea at sunset. The rooms are opulent, and the morning breakfast was delicious.
Intercontinental, Tahiti, resort and spa (689 40 86 51 10) This would be my second choice. It’s very Polynesian, and it has huts out over the water. Great rooms, good food, friendly staff, local vibe—what more could you ask?
The view from Papeete
What is there to do in Papeete, Tahiti?
I’ve been to French Polynesia over a dozen times now and I spent a couple of months in Papeete over 25 years ago. I know this town pretty well and have found many hidden treasures here.
Are there any museums in Papeete, Tahiti?
Yes! I visited the new museum just outside of Papeete, called Tahiti and Island’s Museum. This is a must-see, well worth experiencing. Very Polynesian modern. It’s a small museum, but it has remarkable historical findings. I would highly suggest spending two hours so you can take the fascinating headset-guided tour. The museum features Tikkis, cultural iconography, early Polynesian canoes, different formats of paddles, and a comprehensive history of the origins of the Polynesian peoples.
Historical carvings inside the Tahiti and Island’s Museum
Downtown Papeete:
What is the best bookstore in downtown Papeete, Tahiti?
Odyssey Tahiti Bookstore: Directly across from Notre Dame Cathedral is my favorite bookstore in the whole world – it has a wealth of information. The Odyssey never fails to provide me with an incredible source of inspiration for my current works, with picturesque Polynesian coffee table books, historical and vintage photography books of French Polynesia. It also has souvenirs and a handsome selection of art supplies.
Are there pearl stores in Papeete, Tahiti?
Is the sky blue? There are dozens of Pearl shops in Papeete to wander through and get familiar with what you like, but I would recommend saving your pearl BUYING for the on-board boutique, which features an exquisite line of Grade A designer pearl jewelry, created specifically for the discerning clientele of PGC.
What is the name of the iconic yellow church in downtown Papeete?
Paris isn't the only capital that boasts a Notre Dame Cathedral. It is also the name of one of Papeete’s most popular landmarks. The interior of this charming cathedral features both European and Polynesian design elements.
Tahitian Pearls
Notre Dame Cathedral in Papeete
Are there Ferries to Mo'orea?
Catching the ferry to Mo'orea is a great outing for the day.
The two commercial fairies are called Aremiti and Tervau. It is a quick jump over to Mo’orea – about a half-hour ferry ride. It is a great way to steal an extra day on this wonderful island!
What is the name of the market in downtown Papeete?
One block from Notre Dame church is a fabulous local market called "Municipal Market”. This extensive marketplace is full of fresh fruits, fresh seafood and meats, as well as fresh tropical flowers, souvenirs, and Polynesian handcrafted goods.
Downtown Papeete market
How would you sum up a Paul Gauguin Cruise Vacation?
You know how in some movies the person is looking at a painting and then magically steps into it, and the whole world depicted by the painting unfolds in real life? I felt that way on the PGC ship—it was a portal, a magic carpet to the world that Gauguin depicted, (complete with friendly guides and wave-runners!) I can only hope that you get to share this experience!
–Mauruuru!!
The Gauguin Experience
World’s Best Luxury Tahiti, French Polynesia, Fiji and South Pacific Cruises
Paul Gauguin Cruises operates the award-winning luxury small-ship the
m/s Paul Gauguin, providing an exceptional cruise experience. Discover the difference of cruising with purpose and allow us to introduce you to authentic Polynesia.
Kim McDonald Gives Back to Coral Gardners to Help Save the Reef
Kim McDonald Art is donating 10% off all online sales through June 15th to
“Coral Gardeners”
“We are on a mission to revolutionize ocean conservation and create a global movement to save the world’s coral reefs through reef restoration, community awareness and innovation development.”
Restoring the ocean, one coral at a time.
REEF RESTORATION
30,980 CORALS PLANTED
The core of our work is built around coral reef restoration. Using the latest techniques and methods, our team of gardeners grow and plant resilient corals to revive reef ecosystems. Our aim is to expand restoration around the world and empower the local communities to become coral gardeners as part of a bluer economy.
INNOVATION
4 CONNECTED REEFS
The CG Labs is developing novel tools and techniques to further our coral knowledge and improve our coral reef restoration and monitoring methodology. Our scientists and engineers are continually working together to optimize and scale up coral reef conservation in an open-source, collaborative and effective way.
AWARENESS
200 MILLION PEOPLE REACHED
We raise awareness to inspire people to take action for the reef and tackle climate change. Locally, we educate the islanders on the importance of coral reefs by involving them in hands-on workshops. Globally, we use various medias and unconventional collaborations to reach the world and make ocean conservation impossible to ignore.
KIM McDONALD’S SOUTH PACIFIC
This 11-night odyssey showcases the region's incredible diversity of scenery, from Aitutaki's low-lying islands to the jagged peaks and deep valleys of fertile Rarotonga, which was simply called “Paradise” by the first European explorers. Continue to the Society Islands to delight in the South Pacific's crown jewels — Bora Bora, Taha'a, Huahine, and Moorea.
Highlights
While in the Cook Islands, call upon Aitutaki, a tiny island that's home to one of the world's most spectacular lagoons.
Spend a relaxing day on Motu Mahana, our very own private islet, complete with white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees, a barbecue lunch, drinks served in coconuts, and a floating lagoon bar.
The waters around Moorea are home to an amazing array of sea creatures. Take an optional SCUBA excursion to swim among the sea turtles and vibrant schools of fish.
In Bora Bora, spend time at our exclusive white-sand beach on a motu enjoying snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, volleyball, and stunning views of Mount Otemanu.
My Gauguin—An artist’s legacy
The Gauguin experience is proud to present celebrated post -impressionist Kim McDonald, in a series of on-board talks exploring Gauguin’s profound influence on her work and life.
In “Talks With Artist Kim McDonald“, Kim will explore how the Frenchman influenced her artistic approach, from color theory to choice of subject matter, to symbolic talismans to the artists’ crusade—conjuring images of paradise to bring grace and beauty to life in our modern world.
Hawai'i and the South Pacific’s pre-eminent artist, according to a friend, "Eats, sleeps and breathes the tropics, and then somehow magically transforms her experience into art". It's true; whether paddle boarding in Maui, outrigger canoeing, diving for pearls, or journeying up jungle trails to Tahiti’s breathtaking waterfalls, Kim McDonald revels in the lush beauty and excitement of the islands — both as an acute observer and enthusiastic participant.
Perhaps that is why her works resonate so deeply. Because she doesn't just paint what she sees, she paints what she knows. Kim has spent decades exploring: the uncanny light and shadows, the liquid moon, the impossibly lush colors and fragrances, the rich, strange music of the surf and the reef, the exhilaration of being an active part of it all — Kim knows her islands.
And she has created a gift of them, through her art, just for us.
It is our distinct honor at Paul Gauguin Cruises, that Kim will be joining us on special trips, providing fellow enthusiasts with a fascinating multimedia exploration of Paul Gauguin’s artistic love affair with Tahiti, and 120 years later, her own. Part history, part art theory, part poetry, Kim’s talk will explore the unparalleled allure of the islands—and the artistic challenge involved in evoking that beauty on canvas. (For a lucky few, you will be invited to join Kim at her artist table to continue the conversation!)
Having Kim onboard to provide in-depth layers of knowledge and experience to our guests is a special gift—one we know you will appreciate when you experience her in person!
Photo courtesy of Paul Gauguin Cruises
Photo courtesy of Paul Gauguin Cruises
The Gauguin Experience
World’s Best Luxury Tahiti, French Polynesia, Fiji and South Pacific Cruises
Paul Gauguin Cruises operates the award-winning luxury small-ship the
m/s Paul Gauguin, providing an exceptional cruise experience. Discover the difference of cruising with purpose and allow us to introduce you to authentic Polynesia.
The Gauguin at sunset - Photo courtesy of Paul Gauguin Cruises
“Daydream” - Click each photo to learn more.
“Color Me Beautiful” - Click the photo to learn more!
Design by Angelynn Bair
Fresh Off The Easel! My most sought after work featuring the MOON...
My newest moon paintings capture the shimmering, reflective quality of the night sky in the tropics. A focus on the soft, dreamy texture of the clouds being a pleasant reminder of the beauty and power of nature.
Call us to talk more about the art.
808-281-3108 or email Kim@KimMcDonald.com
Moonrise Over Aqua Shores
$10,200.00
I had a blast painting this piece while really being able to express myself. The exuberant brushstrokes and exaggerating the size of the images was so much fun! Although the subject matter is so familiar to me, I was able to get into the nitty-gritty of some of the details such as the fish, lemons and the banana stock hanging from the hut. The full moon is seen glowing through the palm trees while enhancing the water’s edge.
This painting is an incredibly impactful statement piece featuring the drama and subject matter of Maui’s full moon.
I hope you enjoy this piece as much as I enjoyed painting it.
-Kim
Moonrise Over Surf Haven
$10,200.00
Is there anything more beautiful than the glow emanating from a tropical moon? When I first arrived in Maui 30 years ago, among all of the island’s beautiful features, the thing that struck me with singularity were the magical night skies. It might have been the atmospheric moisture magnifying the light, but something made the stars move and dance in front of your eyes. When the moon rose, it was so luminous and huge, it lit up the landscape (and seascape) like firelight transforming our familiar island into a magical sanctuary for the 'Aumakua — the ancestral spirits of the Islands. In my moon paintings I attempt to conjure up the otherworldly luminosity that only a moonlit Maui night sky possesses.
Moonlit Pau Hana
$10,200.00
Crescent Moonrise
$9,200.00
Color Me Beautiful
Size 24”x36”
Original Oil Painting
BoardLams Along With Kim McDonald Art Present a Designer Surfboard Series
EXCITING NEWS!
Artist series surfboards are now available!
If you’ve ever thought about collecting a Kim McDonald surfboard, now is the time! We now have three designs available for interior applications. These stunning surfboards can be displayed on the wall vertically, horizontally or with a surfboard stand. Which one is your favorite?
Size 5’10”
Contact us for more details!
808-281-3108
Meet the men behind BoardLams. BoardLams the company, is a team of hard working board shapers, surfers, skaters, entrepreneurs and idea people like you. Dedicated to providing monumental service and cutting edge solutions for professional builders, enthusiasts and creatives like you.
A surfboard is so much more than an object. It's a compass that directs us to new oceans and lands. New experiences and new friends found. Everything good in our lives was influenced by surfing.
Honor the journey with a board that is as unique as you.
Ready to ride, display in a gallery or beautify your space! All boards are custom built in Costa Mesa, California by head shaper John Reinhard and a team of highly seasoned professionals. - BoardLams
Ideas on how to hang your
Kim McDonald surfboard
Have you ever dreamed of owning a surfboard hand painted by world renown artist Kim McDonald? Don't know where to start or where to display it? The possibilities are endless! Anything you dream can become a reality. Here are a few examples of ways they can be displayed.
Board Hooks
Padded steel hooks available on Amazon
Vertical Mount
Acrylic vertical wall mount to display your board anywhere.
Wood
Authentic Koa wood look for a classic look
Vertical V-Stand Display for easy maneuvering to be displayed virtually anywhere
Paul Gauguin Cruises Presents "Talks With Artist Kim McDonald"
KIM McDONALD’S SOUTH PACIFIC
This 11-night odyssey showcases the region's incredible diversity of scenery, from Aitutaki's low-lying islands to the jagged peaks and deep valleys of fertile Rarotonga, which was simply called “Paradise” by the first European explorers. Continue to the Society Islands to delight in the South Pacific's crown jewels — Bora Bora, Taha'a, Huahine, and Moorea.
Highlights
While in the Cook Islands, call upon Aitutaki, a tiny island that's home to one of the world's most spectacular lagoons.
Spend a relaxing day on Motu Mahana, our very own private islet, complete with white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees, a barbecue lunch, drinks served in coconuts, and a floating lagoon bar.
The waters around Moorea are home to an amazing array of sea creatures. Take an optional SCUBA excursion to swim among the sea turtles and vibrant schools of fish.
In Bora Bora, spend time at our exclusive white-sand beach on a motu enjoying snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, volleyball, and stunning views of Mount Otemanu.
My Gauguin—An artist’s legacy
The Gauguin experience is proud to present celebrated post -impressionist Kim McDonald, in a series of on-board talks exploring Gauguin’s profound influence on her work and life.
In “Talks With Artist Kim McDonald“, Kim will explore how the Frenchman influenced her artistic approach, from color theory to choice of subject matter, to symbolic talismans to the artists’ crusade—conjuring images of paradise to bring grace and beauty to life in our modern world.
Hawai'i and the South Pacific’s pre-eminent artist, according to a friend, "Eats, sleeps and breathes the tropics, and then somehow magically transforms her experience into art". It's true; whether paddle boarding in Maui, outrigger canoeing, diving for pearls, or journeying up jungle trails to Tahiti’s breathtaking waterfalls, Kim McDonald revels in the lush beauty and excitement of the islands — both as an acute observer and enthusiastic participant.
Perhaps that is why her works resonate so deeply. Because she doesn't just paint what she sees, she paints what she knows. Kim has spent decades exploring: the uncanny light and shadows, the liquid moon, the impossibly lush colors and fragrances, the rich, strange music of the surf and the reef, the exhilaration of being an active part of it all — Kim knows her islands.
And she has created a gift of them, through her art, just for us.
It is our distinct honor at Paul Gauguin Cruises, that Kim will be joining us on special trips, providing fellow enthusiasts with a fascinating multimedia exploration of Paul Gauguin’s artistic love affair with Tahiti, and 120 years later, her own. Part history, part art theory, part poetry, Kim’s talk will explore the unparalleled allure of the islands—and the artistic challenge involved in evoking that beauty on canvas. (For a lucky few, you will be invited to join Kim at her artist table to continue the conversation!)
Having Kim onboard to provide in-depth layers of knowledge and experience to our guests is a special gift—one we know you will appreciate when you experience her in person!
Photo courtesy of Paul Gauguin Cruises
Photo courtesy of Paul Gauguin Cruises
The Gauguin Experience
World’s Best Luxury Tahiti, French Polynesia, Fiji and South Pacific Cruises
Paul Gauguin Cruises operates the award-winning luxury small-ship the
m/s Paul Gauguin, providing an exceptional cruise experience. Discover the difference of cruising with purpose and allow us to introduce you to authentic Polynesia.
The Gauguin at sunset - Photo courtesy of Paul Gauguin Cruises
“Daydream” - Click each photo to learn more.
“Color Me Beautiful” - Click the photo to learn more!
Design by Angelynn Bair
NEW Artist Series Surfboards | Three Design Options To Freshen Up Your Interior
EXCITING NEWS!
Artist series surfboards are now available!
If you’ve ever thought about collecting a Kim McDonald surfboard, now is the time! We now have three designs available for interior applications. These stunning surfboards can be displayed on the wall vertically, horizontally or with a surfboard stand. Which one is your favorite?
Size 5’10”
Contact us for more details!
808-281-3108
Ideas on how to hang your
Kim McDonald surfboard
Have you ever dreamed of owning a surfboard hand painted by world renown artist Kim McDonald? Don't know where to start or where to display it? The possibilities are endless! Anything you dream can become a reality. Here are a few examples of ways they can be displayed.
Board Hooks
Padded steel hooks available on Amazon
Vertical Mount
Acrylic vertical wall mount to display your board anywhere.
Wood
Authentic Koa wood look for a classic look
