Regent Seven Seas to Stop Operating Paul Gauguin

[Goldryder]

More here....

http://www.travelpulse.com/Resources/Editorial.aspx?n=46690

[byrds_eye_view]

Thanks, I saw that today too. I'm still holding out hope (against hope) that they will agree to let RSSC keep it for a while.

But then maybe RSSC will leave the Mariner there more?

bev

[rickandpat]

Being afraid this might happen, we decided to move up our PG trip to Feb.2009 (New Zealand is now 2010). I am so glad we did!

[Wendy The Wanderer]

Sigh. I wonder if they will keep operating in FP? If so, it might be an interesting product.

[Travelcat2]

This isn't a surprise as it was announced on our May cruise by Regent executives. We had been hoping that the rumor about Regent purchasing the ship was correct. As soon as I heard that it was going into drydock for a 5 million dollar refurbishment I knew it was on it's way out. Had Regent purchased it, they would have done a complete refurbishment at a cost of at least 15 million (as they are doing with the Voyager and Mariner).

It wouldn't surprise me if it stayed in French Polynesia. What is doubtful is that it will remain a "almost" luxury all-inclusive:mad:

[vaitape]

Bummer... Love that ship!! Well Wendy, aren't you glad we're booked?

[martinchem]

We've been thinking of using Princess for our Tahiti to Hawaii cruise.

[parislady40]

To me, this is really sad news.:( So glad that we booked a long voyage with them. We may now have to try to edge one more in before the complete changeover. Agree with Travelcat2 that the "almost luxury all inclusive" may be a thing of the past. Just glad to have experienced her under Regent. Cannot wrap my mind around Princess at this point. Been there and do not like that. We cannot goback to signing chits. But this is just my opinion, and does not reflect on anyone else. I feel the Regent product is great, so move over Voyager, Mariner, and Navigator. Here we come!

[Wendy The Wanderer]

Oh boy Vaitape, yes indeed! I'm just hoping that the staff will not be too bummed out this December. When I was on in June 2005, morale was at rock bottom with the takeover and wrangling about costs. I suspect it will be fine for a while, but wonder what this will do to bookings in 2009, since morale is bound to descend.

[Wendy The Wanderer]

Every time we go, I say this, but this will probably be our last trip to FP. Trying to amass retirement funds, and right now it's looking like a long haul. We'll see.

I would not ever take the TP, unless the deals were amazing. Can't imagine formal nights in Polynesia!

[vaitape]

Yes Wendy.....we were on in 2005 too when they got word that things were changing and that jobs were in jeopardy.... We of course received the usual wonderful, personal, fun service but staff were obviously concerned. Just can't get my head around a ship any bigger than the PG in FP......and certainly don't want to go back to signing chits. Oh well, we are lucky that we are able to return this year and will be sad to think that this will be the last time for us.
See you in December Wendy........!

[parislady40]

Wendy, I was thinking exactly the same. I was a fan of the Windstar line until it was sold, and the same thing happened. Morale was very low, as many staff did not know what their fates would be. There was also a bit of confusion as to how situations were to be handled based on whether it was done with the old owners style or the new owners. The transition was not very kind, and actually the line lost a lot of their faithful as can be seen on their boards. It seems to be getting better, but transitions in management take time as we know.

[MtnDriver]

I have heard this same rumor every few years since the first time we booked on the PG. On every occasion, we too have jumped on the "I'd better book another sailing for next year 'cuz it's going to be the last" bandwagon. Each and EVERY time, amazingly enough, there has been a last minute agreement between RSSC and GC.

Don't get me wrong, if I am REALLY convinced that she is no longer going to be managed by RSSC, I will mortgage the farm to do JUST ONE MORE sailing. BUT, as for now...I don't believe it.:confused:

[Travelcat2]

This does sound like what has happened in previous years. However, Grand Circle Travel (owners of the PG) was sold to Court Square Capital Partners in the first quarter of 2008. So, the scenario is quite different this time as Regent was no longer negotiating with GCT. It does sound like the prices will be going up (based on the upcoming refurbishment and addition of balcony suites). The ship is so small that it could fill up fairly quickly for 2009.

[gr8lakes]

Regent has additional competition now also with Silversea's Prince Albert II about to do Tahiti when it finishes South America. Will be interesting to see how Silversea does in that market.

[MtnDriver]

Regent has additional competition now also with Silversea's Prince Albert II about to do Tahiti when it finishes South America. Will be interesting to see how Silversea does in that market.

The Crystal Serenity visits too, but she's too big...I prefer the PG.

[DebbieH103]

The Prince Albert II sailings to the region look nice, but there are only a few, so it limits people on their choices. I do think they will do well. I am anxious to see.

[Dolebludger]

The strange thing about this is that the PG's flat, shallow hull makes here suitable to cruise few places in the world, except Polynesia. The PG and the entire experience associated with her has been a huge marketing success. People taken her time and again, even on the same itinerary. The PG has served as an "introduction to Regent" for many of us.

I hope that the free market will work this time, and Regent or some other comparable line will see the opportunity in the PG's itinerary and mode of operation, so that when she is gone, she will be replaced with something VERY similar.

[Wendy The Wanderer]

Well I'm hoping that the Paul Gauguin's owners will keep her there, in some form or other. I'm sure the islanders are hoping this as well, since much of their income comes from tourism.

[Jancruz]

I have heard this same rumor every few years since the first time we booked on the PG. On every occasion, we too have jumped on the "I'd better book another sailing for next year 'cuz it's going to be the last" bandwagon. Each and EVERY time, amazingly enough, there has been a last minute agreement between RSSC and GC.

Don't get me wrong, if I am REALLY convinced that she is no longer going to be managed by RSSC, I will mortgage the farm to do JUST ONE MORE sailing. BUT, as for now...I don't believe it.:confused:

I suggest you believe it and squeeze in your one last trip!
It is true..
Jancruz1

[Jancruz]

Just received!

Paul Gauguin to leave RSSC fleet in January 2010


Today we are announcing that the 332-guest Paul Gauguin will depart the RSSC fleet in January 2010 upon completion of our management agreement with Paul Gauguin Shipping Limited (PGSL), the owners of the vessel. Our last sailing will be the December 28, 2009 - January 6, 2010 cruise.

We are extremely proud of the success we have had in French Polynesia for more than ten years, and there is no doubt that much of this is due to your continued effort in choosing us for your clients' sailings. As we look to the future and consider our position as the leader in the luxury cruise segment, we have chosen to focus on the all-suite ships in our fleet, which are undergoing a $40 million dollar refurbishment project beginning December 2008.

We look forward to celebrating one last year on the Paul Gauguin in 2009, bringing more than 10,000 guests to Tahiti and providing them with the same luxury experience and six-star service levels that have won RSSC countless awards. This is the perfect time for your clients to experience Tahiti with RSSC. For the final year under the Regent flag, our guests will benefit from a scheduled 12-day dry-dock in January 2009, when the ship will receive technical and cosmetic upgrades and the addition of 26 private balconies to existing staterooms. In addition, we have protected any guests that are currently booked in these Category D staterooms, ensuring they will not pay any additional money for their new balcony.

We are proud to present special offers for our remaining Regent Tahiti sailings. On select voyages, your clients can still take advantage of Free Air from Los Angeles, third guest sailing free, category upgrades, inclusive hotel packages, Seven Seas Society savings and more. For more information or to book your client's Regent Tahiti sailing, please contact RSSC Reservations at 800-285-1835.

We look forward to welcoming your clients back again and we thank you for your continued support.

Kindest regards,


Mark Conroy
President, Regent Seven Seas Cruises



Regent Seven Seas Cruises | 1000 Corporate Drive, Suite 500, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33334 | Call RSSC at 866.225.5010
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[Travelcat2]

Sounds like TA's were the last to know:confused: As mentioned previously, Regent announced it in May on the Mariner. It's still questionable as to whether next years cruises will have the same negativity from staff as there was in 2005. Hope passengers in 2009 will have a positive experience.

[Wendy The Wanderer]

Having experienced that negativity in 2005, I can't imagine it's going to be unalloyed bliss next year. But it will still be pretty nice. The staff will have a certain sadness as the year progresses, but at least they have certainty, whereas before there was strife and doubt.

[Wendy The Wanderer]

Well it sounds pretty official now, with Mark Conroy mailing people to announce this. It's also apparently certain that the owners will keep the ship in FP, and operate it with help from a former Regent employee. So perhaps the product will continue to be nice, and some of the great staff on board may continue to have jobs--let's hope so. I'll see what I can find out in December, there will be bound to be lots of rumours floating around amongst the staff.

[RachelG]

The sad news was waiting in my email in box this am. Unfortunately I doubt we will be able to make another Tahiti trip before the end of next year--too much other stuff going on.

[RMS Olympic]

She could be put into FP from December till May to keep the RSSC presence. Then move her to Europe for the summer. Star Clipper has done this type of repositioning and now has a ship there.
I think the Navigator could be an acceptable fill in until such time as RSSC could either lease an acceptable ship or build a new one.
As for doing FP...I'd sail Star Clipper before I would do Princess, its no luxury product, but the idea of a sailing ship fits the region in a unique way.

[Emdee]

My fifth and final trip on the PG is not until November 09.
Hope it is as good a trip as our as previous ones. But I am happy that we are getting one in there before the end.

Miriam

[Travelcat2]

Really enjoy the Navigator being where she is -- especially during the months when the Voyager and Mariner are going around the world (sometimes stopping in the Tahiti).

Perhaps Regent just does not want to compete in that area any longer. With SS being there (a good alternative), Princess, etc. there may not be a need for another luxury ship in that area.

We have been to FP four times -- the last time on the PG (loved it). The area is becoming so crowded -- overrun with huge resorts... if we wanted to return, we'd definitely book SS.

[Wendy The Wanderer]

I think if they considered putting Navigator into that area, they'd wait until the new build is complete (if it gets built.)

But, the PG will still be there, and it will be interesting to see how it is run, and what kind of product it is.

[Dolebludger]

As most of us who have cruised several times on the PG know, she was specifically designed for the waters of Polynesia. She has a shallow draft and a relatively flat bottom so she can go through the "shallows" and anchor inside the reefs that surround most (but not all) islands there. As a result, the PG is not designed to handle rough seas at all. These are rare in Polynesia, but the few times the PG has hit fairly rough water, the ride is very rough. As a result, she just isn't suitable for cruising in most other areas.

I recall when GCT first bought the PG, there was an announcement that GCT planned to cruise her around the South American "horn". Never happened, and it would have been a joke, as the waters there are among the roughest on earth! The fact that this was even contemplated by GCT was a reflection of GCT's total ignorance of cruising and ships.

It will be interesting to see what happens to the PG after the first of '10 -- something nobody knows. It will also be interesting to see how (and whether) Regent equips itself to continue Polynesian itineraries.

[Colonel(Ret.)Wes]

Richard, as Wendy points out and as reported on the other board, the PG
will be staying in FP but under different manangement (beginning in 2010) than Regent. As Ngaire pointed out a former Regent VP who knows the PG will run the PG for this mgmt company.

[Dolebludger]

Thanks, Colonel. This sounds just great.

[Ngaire]

Colonel Wes is correct. A VP who used to be with Regent and now is involved with the PG is coming to see me in early November to discuss the future of the PG. So if have more news that may be helpful I will post after that meeting.

[vaitape]

Thanks Ngaire...

[MtnDriver]

I suggest you believe it and squeeze in your one last trip!
It is true..
Jancruz1

I should have known that the one time I don't believe it...it's true. Bummer! Not the best year to mortgage the farm either!:(

[canadagal]

Paul Gauguin holds 2010 rates for limited time
21/10/2008
Paul Gauguin Shipping Ltd. announced 2010 itineraries and said it will hold rates at 2009 prices for bookings made by Dec. 31, 2008.
The Paul Gauguin in 2010 will again operate its signature seven-night cruises to the Society Islands plus a range of longer cruises throughout the South Pacific. The seven-night cruises operate year-round and depart from Papeete to Raiatea, Taha’a, Bora Bora and Moorea.

In addition to the Society Island itineraries, the ship will sail several nine- to 17-night cruises to Fiji, Tonga, New Caledonia, Australia, Cook Islands, Marquesas, Tuamotus, Australs and the Society Islands.

[vaitape]

Thanks for the info Canadagal...where are the 2010 sailings found?

[canadagal]

Thanks for the info Canadagal...where are the 2010 sailings found?

I read this article this morning and it says that reservation information will be released shortly.
Pat

Paul Gauguin to stay in Tahiti after leaving Regent Seven Seas

(Tahitipresse) - Next year will be a farewell season for the 332-passenger Paul Gauguin as a Regent Seven Seas Cruises ship, but the vessel will remain based in Tahiti for its 12th year in 2010, according to an official informed source.


The Paul Gauguin, which celebrated its 10th anniversary of cruising in French Polynesia waters on Jan. 15, will be operated from its Papeete Harbor base by its Boston-based owners, Paul Gauguin Shipping Ltd., starting in January 2010, the source told Tahitipresse on Friday.

The ship's farewell season as part of the Regent Seven Seas Cruises (RSSC) fleet was announced on Oct. 23 by Travel Agent Central, the official Internet Web site for Travel Agent, which provides multimedia intelligence for travel professionals.

The article making the announcement, quoted Mark Conroy, RSSC president, as saying, "We are extremely proud of the incredible product we created in French Polynesia. For more than 10 years, the magical and unique qualities of the Regent Tahiti experience have provided countless indelible memories for discerning travelers of all ages.

"As we look to the future and consider our position as the leader in the luxury cruise segment, we have chose to focus on the all-suite ships that are the core of four fleet, which are undergoing a $40 million refurbishment project beginning December 2008."

The Paul Gauguin will be outfitted with new upholstery and carpeting and 26 added private balconies to existing staterooms, Travel Agent Central reported. This will occur during the ship's scheduled 12-day dry dock in Australia in January.

"Special offers for remaining Regent Tahiti sailings in 2009 are available on select sailings, including free airfare from Los Angeles, third guest sailing free, category upgrades, inclusive hotel packages and Seven Seas Society savings," the Web site article reported.

Paul Gauguin Shipping Ltd., a holding company controlled by Boston brothers Alan and Hank Lewis, will soon announce reservations and sales information for the Paul Gauguin for January 2010 cruises in French Polynesia and the South Pacific, Travel Agent Central reported. The Lewis brothers also separately own Grand Circle Corporation and Vantage Deluxe World Travel.

The Paul Gauguin was built at the Chantier de l'Atlantique de Saint Nazaire in France. Its owner, a French transport company, took delivery of the vessel in the fall of 1997. The ship was baptized at Fort Lauderdale, Fla., with the presence of Maria Gauguin, the great-granddaughter of the famous French painter the vessel is named after.

Radisson Seven Seas Cruises began operating the Paul Gauguin's schedule of inter-island cruises in French Polynesia. It became Regent Seven Seas, a part of the Carlson Group in Minneapolis. Carlson later sold Regent to Apollo Management, the owner of Prestige Cruise Holdings.

The Paul Gauguin is one of Regent Seven Seas' fleet of four small to mid-size luxury cruise ships.

The Jan. 15 celebration of the ship's 10th anniversary in Papeete Harbor, complete with a 10-minute fireworks display, was the second anniversary celebration for the ship. The first occurred a week earlier at Hiva Oa in the Marquesas Islands as part of an 11-night "President's Cruise". The ship was welcomed at sea by a traditional sailing canoe.

The Paul Gauguin is due to leave Papeete for Brisbane, Australia, on a 17-night cruise before going into dry dock. It will leave Brisbane on Feb. 5 for a 17-night cruise back to Tahiti.

There will be eight seven-, 10-, 11- and 14-night cruise departures from June 6 through Aug. 22 being featuring Jean-Michel Cousteau's "ambassadors of the environment youth program". There also will be nine-night Cousteau cruises leaving Papeete on Dec. 19 and Dec. 28, according to the RSSC Internet Web site.

[vaitape]

Thanks Canadagirl...... Wow, hopefully 2010 schedule will be available before the Dec 2008 deadline so folks can take advantage of 2009 rates! Please keep us informed, if you wouldn't mind.........

[ColumbiaMDCanadian]

This will be our first cruise on PG, and from what I've heard from all of you 'veterans' I am more excited about this cruise than any other (ok, except our honeymoon on Song of America in '84!)

I was curious to see what other information was out there and found this link http://goldringtravel.blogspot.com/2008/10/paul-gauguin-future.html
The poster there says that he has spoken to "Roy Grimsland, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Paul Gauguin Shipping Limited, the owner and soon to be exclusive operator of the Paul Gauguin"

Apparently, from his site, "the plan seems to be to keep everything that works and to keep the staff as well. So, the liquor inclusive policy, Ambassadors of the Environment, scuba program, etc. are all anticipated to remain in place. Similarly, the idea appears to be to keep the present staff on the ship."

Let's hope so! I'm already certain that we'll want to go back and I'd hate to see them mess with what by all accounts is already a very good thing!!!

[Travelcat2]

Although it would be nice to think that everything will be the same, the takeover of the PG is over a year away. . . a lot has to be worked out before it happens. Travel agents do get what they perceive to be "insider information". . . however, the information is from one individual -- not the corporation that owns the PG. The same "blog" that you quote has stated that Regent will probably cut back on the upgrades of the Voyager and Mariner. The drydock is only a few weeks away and I seriously doubt if any major cutbacks will be forthcoming.

If someone wants the Regent experience on the PG, they have until December 31, 2009 to get it.

[Wendy The Wanderer]

I think I pretty well agree with you Travelcat. The new 2010 Paul Gauguin product may be very nice, and I will be looking forward to hearing reports of how it goes, but...

Having been on the PG in mid-2005 and hearing about the fights that were going on between ownership and management (Grand Circle versus Regent) over things like daily food budget per passenger, I am skeptical.