Cruise to Tahiti - Paul Gauguin Tour

Life is like a song. You have to enjoy it while it plays because you never know if it will come on again.  Ã?¢??Paul Gauguin Created by ancient submarine fires and sculpted by waves and wind over countless millenia, the enchanting isles of Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea have beckoned travelers to their coasts for centuries. Discover an earthly paradise where forest-clad mountains, fragrant with the scent of white-petaled tiare blossoms, rise dramatically from the azure waters of tropical lagoons and the ancient customs and traditional hospitality of the islanders survive to the present day. We invite you to follow in the wake of ancient Polynesian mariners as you explore the fascinating culture and history of the South Pacific during this spectacular, seven-night voyage. Cruise aboard the exclusively chartered S.Y. STAR FLYER, a four-masted barkentine that evokes the great ocean voyages of the 19th century. Retrace the course of the legendary Captain Cook as our tall ship plies a course through deep-blue waters, its sails billowing majestically in the wind. Enjoy state-of-the-art amenities, impeccable standards of comfort and service, and the distinctive experience that only a sailing yacht can provide. To enhance our travel experience, we have arranged a series of in-depth private lectures on the ecology, culture and natural history of the South Seas delivered by resident environmental expert Frank Murphy, a specialist in the phenomenon of global warming and its effects on coastal communities. Also included on this program are the unique VILLAGE FORUM, where local residents will share their perspectives and insights into life in Polynesia; exclusive expert-led excursions; opportunities to meet with islanders; and an aquatic program including swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. This itinerary is ideal for exploring the regions alluring beauty, culture and way of life. The camaraderie of fellow Trust members and the exceptional value which includes accommodations, meals and the convenience of unpacking only once combine with a magical destination to create a truly enticing program that will sell out quickly. Sincerely, Scott Gerloff Director, National Trust Tours Discussion Leader(s): Frank Murphy was born in British Columbia and raised in Southern California. Frank Murphy is a current resident of Tahiti, where he lives with his Moorean-born wife Hinano Teavai, a schoolteacher and cultural specialist. Frank holds undergraduate degrees in biology and environmental studies from the University of California, Santa Cruz and a graduate degree in geography from the University of California, Berkeley. Currently he serves as the General Manager of the Richard B. Gump South Pacific Research Station on Moorea. For the past 18 years he has devoted himself to environmental research of the effects that sea-level change has on the small reef islands known as motu and to the promotion of ecotourism in French Polynesia. With an in-depth comprehension ofÃ?¢??Ã?¢??and a passion forÃ?¢??Ã?¢??the ecology and culture of his adopted home, he speaks with intimate knowledge on the environmental issues that affect all South Sea islanders, including global warming and its impact on traditional lifestyles. He looks forward to enhancing your travel experience on ISLAND LIFE IN TAHITI AND FRENCH POLYNESIA through a series of informative lectures: The Flora and Fauna of French Polynesia; Environmental Issues in Paradise: Local to Global; and Island KnowledgeÃ?¢??Polynesian Insights into Ecology. Advertisement: Location: Tahiti, French Polynesia, Bora Bora, Moorea Date(s): April 6th-14th, 2008 Fees: Land/cruise arrangements: from $2,895Ã?¢??$5,895 Single rate: $6,795 or $6,895 DEPOSIT: $600 Accomodations: The S.Y. Star Flyer and day room accommodations in Sofitel Tahiti Resort Advertisement: