South Pacific: Want some Valentine’s Day extras with that cruise? Think Tahiti

If you’re really stuck for a Valentine’s Day gift and have deep pockets, Paul Gauguin Cruises can make shopping simple. Book a cruise before Feb. 19 and score romantic extras such as Champagne and chocolates. That and a cruise of the stunning South Pacific, of course.

The deal: The Valentine’s Day Gift offer includes the following extras when you make a reservation for any 2011 sailing: a Tahitian black pearl and sterling silver pendant, a bottle of Champagne, Leonides chocolates and flower turndown service. The extras are in addition to half-off brochure fares and free airfare the cruise line is offering with all 2011 cruises.

Ship-board credit: Passengers also can receive a ship-board credit of $1,000 per stateroom on selected 14-day cruises or a $500 credit on all others that can be used for shore excursions, spa services or a purchase at the ship’s store. The credit comes with cruises sailing between February and June.

When: The gift offer and shipboard credit offers must be booked by Feb. 19.

Tested: You can look at itineraries and a description of the deals online, but you have to book by phone or with a travel agent. I went to the Paul Gauguin Cruises website to find the special offers. I browsed rates for a seven-night cruise of Tahiti & Society Islands. The lowest-priced stateroom starts at $3,997 a person for this cruise, excluding tax and fees.

I found availability for a Dec. 3 sailing; Feb. 19 and 26 dates already were sold out, I was told. Sailings in April and May start at $4,147 per person, excluding tax and fees. And though you don’t get the goodies until you set foot on the ship, cruise tickets should make for a great Feb. 14 surprise gift.

Contact: Paul Gauguin Cruises, (800) 848-6172, or call a travel agent.