The French sensibility to the finer enjoyments in life is apparent everywhere on the Paul Gauguin. And nowhere more so than in our galley. Just as you would expect on a ship named for one of France's greatest artists, you'll find that the pleasures of our table reflect the highest level of culinary artistry. In addition to rendering inspired interpretations of classic French accented cuisine, our chefs excel in adopting oriental and ethnic recipes and devisting innovative new dishes - the best of East and West. Our menus also feature superb international cuisine, lighter fare including selections for those with special diets, and inventive adaptations of traditional Polynesian dishes, all using the freshest tropical fruits, vegetables, seafood and other ingredients.

Two fine restaurants aboard the Paul Gauguin give guests a choice of dining venues. L'Etoile and La Veranda both feature open-seating dining in tasteful, understated surroundings. La Veranda also serves selections from the Apicius Restaurant in Paris, created by renowned 2-Star Michelin Chef Jean-Pierre Vigato. An open-air bistro, called Le Grill, offers casual, outdoor dining. Wines from the caves of France, California and other wine-growing domains are poured with our compliments at every lunch and dinner. And if you prefer to dine in your stateroom, our room service offers selections from L'Etoile during dinner, while an extensive room service menu is available 24 hours a day.

NIGHTLY GATHERINGS-Connoisseur Club When Cognac and cigars are in order, the Connoisseur Club provides a warmly relaxing environment, much like a favorite private club in London, Paris or New York. Chairs, bar, humidors and wine cabinets are richly decorated in warm woods and leathers in the colors of dried tobacco leaves. And unlike your club in town, this one has a splendid sea view!

Le Casino On any evening, Le casino is the center of excitement. The rich colors and textures of polished woods and hand-wrought Moroccan brass are reflected in shuttered mirrors lining the room. Around the inviting Zebra wood bar, onlookers gather to imbibe and watch the players. In hushed voices, the bets are called. The spin of the wheel or the luck of the cards decides who wins and who loses. And towers of chips climb beside the winners. C'est la vie - it's only a game!

Le Grand Salon Guests gather in the warmly inviting Grand Salon to enjoy a variety of entertainments. They may watch an electrifying performance of Polynesian dancing, with graceful dancers and reverberating drums telling on ancestral legends. Take in a fascinating lecture on Polynesian arts and culture. Or hear a soulful chanteuse sing the Parisian blues. And when the music and the spirit move you, a dance floor invites you to take a spin.

Card Room For a hand of rummy or a rubber of bridge, there's no place like the Card Room, tucked away near L'Etoile Restaurant. A great selection of coffee table books, games, puzzles and playinh cards is available in this attractive room.

THE TRADE WINDS GREET YOU TODAY- La Palette In La Palette, the delightfully informal and unregimented way of life of Polynesia is emulated on board. A palette of Polynesian blues and yellows greets your eye in the indoor/outdoor lounge, reflecting the colors of the sea and sun. Intricate wood carvings in native motifs remind you of the islands' open-sided thatched houses that invite in the gentle breezes on lazy, siesta-filled afternoons. A drink when the sun is over the yardarm is derigueur here. As is dancing under a glittering constellation of stars of the southern sky.

La Boutique contains unusually fine gifts as well as the usual necessities and sundries. You'll find lustrous south sea black pearls and unique Polynesian crafts. Plus gleaming silver, crystal glassware and resort clothing bearing chic French designer labels such as Hermes and Cartier.

Le Grill A lunch by the pool is a lovely way to take your noon repast, without having to break up your day. Grilled favorites and zesty salads and fresh tropical fruits are featured. You can also greet the sun with our buffet breakfast, or enjoy a casual dinner under the stars.