Regent Seven Seas Cruises last week celebrated 10 years of uninterrupted South Pacific service by the Paul Gauguin. The company was joined by the Tahitian government at a gala ceremony in Papeete Harbor featuring fireworks and colored water streaming skyward from tugboats. French Polynesian Tourism Minister Marc Collins presented Regent President Mark Conroy with a commemorative plaque honoring the ship's 10th anniversary. "From her very first cruise, Paul Gauguin has provided our guests with a unique experience featuring an authentic Polynesian flavor," Conroy said. "We could not have achieved this success without the spirit of welcome and cooperation we continue to receive from the Tahitian government and people. Regent is proud to operate this magnificent ship in this beautiful destination, and to introduce Tahiti's charms to discerning travelers from around the world."

Paul Gauguin first arrived in French Polynesia's Society Islands in January 1998, having sailed from its shipyard in St. Nazaire, France. The ship has completed more than 400 South Pacific cruises, carrying more than 120,000 guests and contributing tens of millions of tourism dollars to Tahiti's economy. Since its construction, it has undergone four refurbishments at a cost of more than $15 million. Paul Gauguin offers year-around, seven-night cruises roundtrip from Papeete to Raiatea, Taha'a, Bora Bora and Moorea. The ship's schedule also features 11-night voyages that include Rangiroa and Hiva Oa and Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas Islands; 10-night cruises that include Huahine; and 14-night journeys that include Fatu Hiva and Ua Huka in the Marquesas and the remote Cook Islands. Seven-day rates start at $2,195 per person.