28 Triples Installed Onboard To Accommodate Families

     Ft. Lauderdale, FL., June 7, 2004 - To best appreciate the aquatic wonders of French Polynesia's marine environment, Radisson Seven Seas Cruises - as part of an ambitious program to promote ocean responsibility and engage youngsters aboard the Paul Gauguin with fun learning activities - announced today that it is embarking on a joint venture program with Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ocean Futures Society.

     The program, which the famed ocean explorer calls "Ambassadors of the Environment," will be held during the summer months each year, commencing this summer on the ultra-deluxe 320-guest Paul Gauguin's June 26 to August 28 cruises. 

     Utilizing methods in experimental education pioneered by Cousteau, the program aims to give young cruise guest participants aged nine to fifteen 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.

Educational Adventures

     "Here's the real meaning of learning vacation," Cousteau said.  "I want kids to have fun with the 'Ambassadors of the Environment' program.  But I also want these educational adventures to inspire their curiosity and appreciation for the underwater world through first hand exploration and discovery.  These are values they'll carry with them their entire lives, starting with an understanding of Polynesian culture and the value of traditional knowledge.  If I can encourage their critical thinking, they'll see the profound inter-relationships and connections that exist between land and sea, and ourselves and the natural world around us - which will make it all worthwhile."

     During the seven-night luxury voyages, sailing roundtrip from Papeete, Tahiti, every Saturday night, calling at Raiatea, Tahaa, Motu Mahana, Bora Bora and Moorea, the young Ambassadors will partake in a variety of daily activities.  In the program, they'll 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.

     The program is supervised by qualified naturalis counselors who have a degree in natural or environment science, experience working with young people and are first aid/CPR and lifeguard-certified.

Tripling Family Fun

     To better accommodate families, the Paul Gauguin now boasts 28 triples in categories C, D and E.  the staterooms' existing love seats have been adapted to comfortable and stylishly fit a frame and mattress, leaving the appealing decor of the rooms intact.  The new convertible pullout beds are slightly smaller than a regular twin, but will comfortably accommodate an average size adult.

     Categories B and above, as well as the ship's wheelchair accessible cabin, will continue to accommodate third berths through the use of rollaway beds.

     Per person prices from $3,145 include all shipboard gratuities, wine with lunch and dinner, soft drinks throughout and an in-stateroom bar set-up.  The June 26, July 3, 10, 17, 31 and August 7 cruises also include complimentary roundtrip Economy airfare from 86 North American gateways.  Other voyages offer low-cos air add-ons from $379, depending on gateway.  Prices for a third berth are 50% off the per person double rate.  Optional enrollment in the Ambassadors of the Environment program is $50 per child.  Participation is limited.

     Radisson Seven Seas Cruises was voted "Best Small-Ship Cruise Line" in Conde Nast Traveler's 2003  "Best in the World" Readers' Choice Awards.  The Paul Gauguin was rated the world's #1 ship; the line's Seven Seas Navigator was rated #2.