Through Paul Gauguin Cruises partnership with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), two programs were conceived and developed for guests to engage in aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin on select sailings in 2017 and 2018. The educational programing (lecture program; kids & family program) will enhance the guests' experience on board while learning about the wonders of marine life and the importance of marine conservation.

Wildlife Discovery Series: Guests learn about marine wildlife and habitats when some of the worlds most interesting scientists, oceanographers, and conservationists share their research and expertise during lectures and presentations on board select sailings. Lecture program topics include:

o WCS Global Marine Conservation
o Coral Reefs: People and Fisheries
o Corals and the 2016 Bleaching Event
o The South Pacific
o Women in Fisheries
o Conservation Approaches in Fiji
o Marine Conservation and Wildlife of the South Pacific
o Sea Change: The Resilience of Pacific Islands in a Changing World


Stewards of Nature: This experiential, hands-on educational program inspires children (ages 7-17) and their families to value nature and explore the local environment. Available on summer and holiday sailings for a nominal fee. Every day of the voyage, there is a combination of naturalist-led island and/or beach excursions, science activities, crafts, games, and other adventures. Depending on their itinerary, children might learn about underwater life during a snorkeling excursion, observe the ocean or the stars through binoculars or an onboard telescope, learn about different kinds of marine life and their habitats, reinforce their discoveries by playing Ocean Trivia or Oceanopoly, go on a dolphin-watching expedition, swim with sharks and rays, play beach games and race hermit crabs, enjoy a dance performance or a movie and a pizza party on board, and learn what it means to be a Steward of Nature. While all of the activities on the itinerary are included for children and teens through the nominal fee that reserves the program for them, family members are invited and encouraged to participate in most activities for the additional cost of the shore excursions.