Kids Aboard Boating, Fishing & Watersports Magazine
For Children & Families
Posted Wednesday, May 18, 2005
FT. LAUDERDALE, FL., May 16, 2005 - Luxury and learning come together in idyllic French Polynesia on eight Paul Gauguin® voyages this summer, as young cruise guests participate in a seagoing program promoting good stewardship of the oceans. After launching to applause last year from youngsters and parents alike, Radisson Seven Seas Cruises®, in its exclusive partnership with Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ocean Futures Society, will once again offer the fun and engaging "Ambassadors of the Environment" program for children sailing the South Pacific June 11 - August 20. Though most of these summer cruises are already sold out, limited space is still available on the ultra-deluxe 320-guest Paul Gauguin's August 13, 20 and 27 seven-night luxury voyages (the last of which will not offer the children's program), sailing roundtrip from Papeete, Tahiti, calling at Raiatea, Tahaa, Motu Mahana, Bora Bora and Moorea. The "Ambassadors of the Environment" program was designed by Cousteau to encourage ocean responsibility and inspire curiosity among youngsters. Utilizing methods in experiential education pioneered by the famed ocean explorer, the program aims to give young cruise guest participants aged nine to 15 direct interactive experience with and knowledge of marine and island ecosystems, emphasizing the critical importance of coral reefs, sustainable lifestyles and traditional Polynesian culture. "Ambassadors" are encouraged to share their new skills and insights with friends when they return home. In the program, participants will explore coral reef habitats, hike rainforest trails, visit ancient temples (marae), learn how black pearls and vanilla are cultivated, come to see how volcanic islands become coral atolls, learn from Polynesian youth how to paddle an outrigger canoe, prepare traditional food, dance Polynesian style and play team-building games while enjoying the ways the practice of nature conservation contributes to daily life in French Polynesia. Children are supervised by qualified naturalist counselors who have a degree in natural or environment science, experience working with young people and are first aid/CPR and lifeguard-certified. Families are invited to join select activities, paying for their shore excursions if space is available. The Paul Gauguin is specially designed for cruising Tahiti & Her Islands. The intimate vessel offers spacious, ocean view accommodations (50 percent with private balconies), boasts her own retractable watersports platform and offers complimentary kayaking, water-skiing and windsurfing. Optional PADI certification and full scuba dive programs are available. The onboard cuisine is inspired by two-star Michelin chef Jean-Pierre Vigato in two fine restaurants whose open-seating policy allows guests to dine when and with whomever they wish. Nightly entertainment includes international performers plus the talents of Les Gauguines, an all-female troupe of
Polynesian singers and dancers. Per person prices for the Paul Gauguin's August 13, 20 and 27 seven-night voyages start at $2,195 and include shipboard gratuities, wine with lunch and dinner, all juices and soft beverages, and an in-stateroom bar set-up. Optional enrollment in the "Ambassadors of the Environment" program is $199 per child in addition to the cruise fare. Participation is limited. The Paul Gauguin was the #2 rated small-size ship in the world in Condé Nast Traveler's 2005 Cruise Poll.
Radisson Seven Seas Cruises® is part of Carlson Hospitality Worldwide, a global leader in hospitality services encompassing more than 1,700 hotel, resort, restaurant and cruise ship operations in 82 countries. Specific brands include: Regent International Hotels; Radisson Hotels & Resorts; Country Inns & Suites By Carlson; Park Plaza and Park Inn hotels in North America; T.G.I. Friday's and Pick Up Stix restaurants. Carlson Companies, Inc. was named one of Fortune magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For in America." For further information, contact Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, 600 Corporate Drive, Suite 410, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 33334; or toll-free 800-477-7500; for brochures and reservation information toll-free 800-285-1835; or visit the Web site: www.rssc.com. To make reservations contact your travel professional.
