Pandaw Cruises to Resume Irrawaddy Delta Expeditions After Six-Year Hiatus

River cruise operator Pandaw Cruises will resume expeditions in Myanmar's Irrawaddy Delta in November, marking a return to the region after a six-year layup.

The company said its vessels RV Kanee Pandaw and RV Kha Byoo Pandaw sailed from Bagan to Yangon last month for dry docking and survey. Both ships have secured permissions to operate the delta route.

Laying the keel of the RV Kochi Pandaw

#expeditioncruising .

On the auspicious day of 10th December the Kochi Pandaw keel was laid at a shipyard in Kerala with the blessings of a Roman Catholic priest in this predominantly Christian community.

Technically a houseboat, the Kochi Pandaw will be designed in true Pandaw style with 10 state rooms. Launch date is October 2025 and the ship will make a one week circular expedition around the Kerala backwaters and lakes. This is a very beautiful area with a rich and diverse culture with so much to see and do.

Source: Pandaw Media Release

+

Tweet

Pandaw Expeditions Closure *update*

#expeditioncruising . Press release

UPDATE Dec 2021: Pandaw Back in Business (Seatrade Cruise News)

Pandaw regrets to announce that due to the continuing Covid 19 impact on international leisure travel, the closure of its destinations in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and India, and the critical political situation in Myanmar, the company has no alternative but to cease its river cruise operations due to the lack of financial liquidity and failure to find additional funding in the wake of the Covid 19 crisis.

Myanmar update from Pandaw

#expeditioncruising .

The situation in Myanmar has now broken down and shootings and other acts of violence by the military proliferate on the streets, not just of big cities, but every town and village in the country.

The Pandaw Clinics medical teams are actively providing medical aid to injured people in the Middle Burma towns and villages in which we operate. Our doctors are out with the demonstrators and ready to assist.

Pandaw adds ship to India

#expeditioncruising .

With the safe arrival of the KATHA PANDAW in Kolkata last week by tug tow from Burma, Pandaw are delighted to announce a third vessel will go out to India this month – being the eighteen cabin KINDAT PANDAW, that will join her identical sister the KALAW also sailing out this month.

As many departures have sold out now, on both the seven-night Lower Ganges, from Kolkata to Farakka, plied by the KALAW, and the fourteen night ‘Upper Ganges’ from Kolkata to Varanasi, on the KATHA, the KINDAT will be used to provide additional departures on either.

The KINDAT, like her sister ships, belong to Pandaw’s unique ultra-shallow draft K-class. These were pioneered by the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company in the 1880s as the shallowest draft vessels of such a size on the planet, which they remain so today. This means that year-round they can sail all the way up to Varanasi and beyond. Being only twin-decked, they can also get under low bridges!

In 2020 Pandaw will expand operations to include the mighty Brahmaputra River and again with such shallow draft vessels can go far further than any other vessels operating on the river. The company plans to offer river expeditions as far up stream as Dibrugarh.

Pandaw founder Paul Strachan comments, “India is the jewel in the crown for river cruising, there are no other rivers in the world where there is such a magnificent combination of cultural treasures and majestic beauty; there is no other country where river cruising offers the ultimate travel solution to see all in tranquility and comfort”.

Pandaw India river cruise debut

#expeditioncruising

Pandaw has announced the launch of an India river expedition that will take guests on an epic journey along The Lower Ganges, aboard the stately, "Orient Pandaw".

The seven-night, "The Lower Ganges" sailing from Kolkata to Farraka and vice versa, will debut on 23 December 2018 and will offer weekly departures until the end of April 2019. It will re-commence in July 2019 through to April 2020.

New from Pandaw: Secret Salay

#expeditioncruising .

Pandaw expedition managers are constantly carrying out reconnaissance on the routes they sail in search of undiscovered treasures for inquisitive guests to explore.

“Salay can truly claim to have stepped off the beaten tourist track,” claims Founder Paul Strachan.

The quality of organised activities and excursions are also monitored, so when Paul recently came across the secret of Salay, he was so impressed by the wealth of history, preserved temples and sheer beauty, that he decided it was an essential addition to the Irrawaddy itinerary.

Salay is one of the most beautiful and least visited places in all of Burma, its history rooted in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries as an overspill of Old Pagan. To this day, Salay remains an active religious centre with almost fifty monasteries and many Pagan-era shrines to explore on foot, offering a truly peaceful insight into Buddhist culture. These are amazingly well-preserved thanks to the constant loving attention of the monks who tend to them.

This colourful, ancient village lies twenty-two miles from Pagan. Once a bustling trading port under British rule, Salay is now a sleepy village filled with colonial architectural treasures and timeless teak monasteries.

SALAY HOUSE, a recently restored trading company warehouse built on the banks of the Irrawaddy in 1906 is now operated as a museum. This is a cultural and historical addition to PANDAW’s itinerary where you can enjoy learning about British Colonial Burma through information panels set among artifacts and antiques. There is an extensive outdoor decking and garden area where you can pause to enjoy classic Burmese tea and admire the view over the Irrawaddy. http://www.salayhouseburma.com

Read more about Pandaw expeditions on the Irrawaddy featuring Salay https://www.pandaw.com/expeditions/mandalay-pagan-packet/

Pandaw 2017-18 Itineraies

#expeditioncruising .

Pandaw is delighted to reveal their new 2017/18 itineraries leaflet detailing their collection of small ship, off-the-beaten-track expeditions, inviting your customers to travel into the heart of Asia in comfort and style.

click to download

Pandaw’s China landing heralds a new era on the Mekong

PANDAW'S CHINA LANDING HERALDS A NEW ERA ON THE MEKONG

Pandaw River Expeditions has become the first Western operator to reach China's Yunnan Province via the Mekong River, when the RV Champa Pandaw moored yesterday at Guanlei.

The Champa Pandaw, which has 14 teak-finished staterooms, was specially built to withstand the strong currents and challenging navigational conditions of the Upper Mekong and deliver Southeast Asia's first ever "four country" river expedition.

Running from Oct-April, Pandaw's 14-night cruise The Mekong: from Laos to China operates upstream and downstream between the Lao capital Vientiane and Jinghong in China, via moorings in Thailand and Burma.

The cruise is the latest in a long line of pioneering river expeditions from the company which, since its foundation in 1995 has led the way on high-end experiential cruising on the rivers of Asia. Champa Pandaw is the latest edition to Pandaw's growing fleet of unique,  colonial-era ships. Built and finished to the highest levels of engineering and craftsmanship 17 of the ships currently ply Asia's waterways,  including the Irrawaddy, the Chindwin and the Mekong rivers.  

Paul Strachan, Pandaw's founder said:  "It has been a long-held dream of ours to offer travellers the chance to journey on a Pandaw ship on the Upper Mekong all the way to China, so today marks a major milestone in our history".

"We have faced many challenges developing this new and exciting route into Yunnan Province and I would thank all our team and partners for their part overcoming the difficulties to make it happen.

"Exploring the Upper Mekong on a four country river expedition from Laos to Thailand, Burma to China is a fascinating and unforgettable off the beaten track adventure, and passengers make the trip knowing that they entering exciting new territory."

Tony Deng, Managing Director on China Kindness Tour, Kunming, Pandaw's partner in China said:  "The arrival of the Champa Pandaw marks the beginning of a new era on Mekong River, and its an honour to be playing a part. We are very pleased to be partnering with a company of Pandaw's reputation on the Mekong in China. We see this as an important way of opening up Yunnan Province, which is, to high-end experiential tourism "

"Bigger than the entire country of the Netherlands or  Denmark, with a population of 45 million, Yunnan Province has so much to offer the traveller, from glorious mountain scenery, fabled cities such as Lijiang, Dali and Zhongdian, also known as 'Shangri-La'. It is also home to over 50 ethnic minorities".

Pandaws' four-country river expedition allows passengers to enjoy discovering charming villages and experience stunning scenery amidst pristine jungle. Highlights include the Golden Triangle, spectacular defiles, the Tat Kuang Si waterfall, and the very emerald green waters of the Mekong in China's Yunnan province. The journey includes overnight stops in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Chiang Saen and Jinghong.

Built in a specially created shipyard on the Burmese Mekong, using a methodology and design based on Pandaw's unparalleled knowledge of local riverine conditions, the Champa Pandaw was designed with ultra-low draft and extra powerful engines generating 1400 horsepower, almost twice the power of other ships in the Pandaw fleet.

For more information, visit www.pandaw.com

Pandaw Southeast Asia cruises with MY Andaman Explorer

#expeditioncruising
Pandaw has announced that it has acquired the MY Andaman Explorer, which the line will deploy on the coasts of Southeast Asia.

MY Andaman Explorer

The Andaman Explorer has a hull built to "ice class" with extra thick plates. The ship is on its way to Rangoon, where it will be redecorated and refurnished in Pandaw's style. A fuller refit will follow in 2017.

Each of the ship's suites consists of a sitting room, bedroom and marble bathroom. There is a saloon, indoor dining room and two teak decks aft, the lower for outdoor dining and the upper with a Jacuzzi for lounging. There is also a forward observation deck below the bridge. The ship comes with two RIB tenders for excursions to islands and beaches.

Pandaw plans an informal recce cruise between Rangoon and Ranong in Thailand in February. Interested agents should get in contact with Pandaw about the recce cruise by emailing angela@pandaw.com.

From June to September 2016 Pandaw will start its first official voyages out of Bali exploring Indonesian coastal waters: Lombok, Sumbawa, Komodo Islands and Flores. From October 2016 to April 2017 the yacht will offer cruises on the Burma coast between Ranong and Rangoon, an area that includes the Mergui Archipelago and old colonial seaports like Moulmein.

Visit www.pandaw.com

Pandaw's new South American river adventure – Rio, Iguacu Falls and the Amazon

#expeditioncruising

Luxury river expeditions company Pandaw has announced the expansion of its partner river cruise programmes with its first ever departures in South America in conjunction with the Amazon Dream.

Amazon Dream

To launch the new partnership Pandaw will be offering five special 14-night departures in 2016 exploring the lesser-visited and scenically varied region of the Amazon River from Santarem, where the blue waters of the Tapajos River and the Amazon meet for several kilometres, creating a delightful, ever-changing spectacle.

Lined by the forests, beaches of fine white sand stretch into the distance and the crystal-clear waters of the Tapajos bring to mind the Caribbean.

Commenting on the new partner programme Hugh Clayson, Pandaw’s Commercial Director, said: “This is an exciting addition to the Pandaw partner programme, which also includes the Brahmaputra, Ganges and Hooghly in India and River Kwai in Thailand. It has been introduced due to requests from Pandaw travellers, who will be able to discover the natural wonders of the great rainforest with its varied wildlife, flora and fauna, and like Pandaw expeditions in Asia will visit friendly local villages and discover the unique way of life of the people living on the Amazon”.

Pandaw’s partner ship, the Amazon Dream, carries just 18 passengers offering a comfortable base with excellent French-influenced cuisine. The nine-night cruise is combined with land arrangements staying three nights at the elegant 5 star Sofitel Hotel, Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro, with an included excursion to Corcovado and Sugar Loaf Mountain, and a two-night stay at the iconic Hotel Das Cataratas located next to the jaw-dropping Iguacu Falls.

Travellers can also choose to extend their journey with two nights in both Manaus and Salvador.

Highlights on the programme include:

• 3-night stay at the Sofitel on Rio’s Copacabana Beach, with included visits to Corcovado and Sugar Loaf Mountain.
• 2-night stay at the iconic Hotel das Cataratas, Iguacu, with visits to the falls in both Brazil and Argentina.
• 9-night cruise on the Amazon Dream in the company of expert local naturalist guides.
• See the meeting of two rivers where the blue Tapajos interlaces with the yellow waters of the Amazon – plus spot beautiful pink dolphins and grey dolphins.
• Discover the flora and fauna of the Amazon rainforest on guided walks and river expeditions, some by canoe.
• Visit Maguari and Munduruku villages and meet the communities who make their lives in the rain forest.
• Visit Alter do Chao, one of the best freshwater beaches in the world.
• Visit the charming waterfront area at Santarem.
• Venture out on a night expedition to experience the sounds of the rainforest after dark.

Iguacu Falls

The 14 night ‘Rio, Iguacu Falls & the Amazon’ tour costs from usd 4,795 per person based 2 people sharing a twin main deck cabin on 16th January 2016 departure. The prices includes all airport and other transfers, three-night stay at the 5 star Sofitel Hotel, in Rio (bed and breakfast basis), full day excursion to Corcovado and Sugar Loaf Mountain, domestic flights from Rio to Iguacu and Iguacu to Santarem, 2-night stay at 5 star Hotel Das Cataratas, Iguacu (bed and breakfast basis), half day guided visits to the Brazilian and Argentinean sides of the Iguacu Falls including entrance fees, nine-night cruise (full board) on the Amazon Dream (sharing a twin main deck stateroom), all shore excursions, entrance fees, port taxes, porterage, mineral waters, services of the resident Amazon Dream cruise director and expert guides.

For reservations and further information, please contact:
+44 208 326 5620 - www.pandaw.com

Pandaw launches 2016/17 program with generous early booking savings

Luxury river cruise company, Pandaw  (www.pandaw.com) has announced the details of its 2016/17 programme, with early booking discounts of up to 20% and no single supplements for cruises booked before 31st July 2015, on selected departures up to April 2017.

Pandaw's fleet of 13 stunning colonial-style river ships offer exceptional all-inclusive value with a choice of unique itineraries in Burma, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and China, with all meals, shore excursions, crew gratuities and drinks included in the price*.

New for 2016/17 – The Upper Mekong: 14 nights from Laos to China

Pandaw is the only river cruise operator to offer expedition cruises exploring the undiscovered Upper Mekong River from Vientiane to Jinghong in China (or vice versa). New for 2016 the Laos Pandaw offers a 14 -night cruise from September 2016 to April 2017 with overnight stays in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Chiang Saen (for the Golden Triangle) and Jinghong. Cruise only prices start from usd 5355 per person sharing a main deck stateroom.

Travellers can combine this new expedition with Pandaw's 'Classic Mekong' cruise from Saigon to Siem Reap (or vice versa), thus exploring the length of the Mekong in one great adventure. Passengers booking before 31st July 2015 will receive three nights in Siem Reap, including one full day excursion to Angkor Wat, free of charge.

Classic Asia river journeys

Pandaw's 2016/17 portfolio also includes cruises perfectly suited to the first-time river cruiser in Asia. Options include:

'Classic Mekong'

Pandaw pioneered cruising on the Mekong and operates seven-night itineraries from Saigon to Siem Reap aboard the beautiful Mekong Pandaw. Visiting charming villages, the Tonle River wetlands and Wat Hanchey with highlights to include an overnight stay in Phnom Penh. Cruise only from usd 1560 per person.

'The Irrawaddy'

For a full exploration of the Irrawaddy this 14-night cruise travels from Rangoon to Pagan and onward to Mandalay aboard the elegant Pandaw II, taking in the Irrawaddy Delta, Prome and a fabulous overnight stay in Pagan. Cruise only prices from usd 4576 per person.

'The Golden Land'

Alternatively a 10-night cruise from Mandalay to Rangoon on the Pandaw II, includes an overnight stay in Pagan and visits to U Bein Bridge, Ava and many charming villages. Cruise only prices from usd 3112 per person.

'Mandalay Pagan Packet'

For the best value introductory cruise the seven night Mandalay Pagan Packet offers passengers the opportunity to explore Burma's ancient capitals, charming villages and the temples of Pagan. Cruise only prices from only usd 1534 per person.

River expeditions 'off the beaten track'

The new programme also highlights Pandaw's smaller ships whose low draughts enable them to explore off the beaten track. Options include:

'Pagan & the Upper Irrawaddy'

A 10-night adventure north from Pagan to Mandalay and onward to Katha (the location for George Orwell's novel Burmese Days) and the scenic Irrawaddy Gorges. Cruise only prices from usd 3600 per person.

'The Chindwin'

This seven-night itinerary explores the villages and colonial history of the famous Chindwin River aboard the newly built 10 stateroom Zawgyi Pandaw. Highlights include scenic forested hills and Sitthuang where the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company steamers were scuppered in 1942. Cruise only prices from usd 2800 per person.

'Halong Bay & the Red River'

Sailing on the Angkor Pandaw,  this 10-day itinerary travels from scenic Halong Bay to Hanoi and on in to the remote and undiscovered Northern Vietnamese towns and villages. Cruise only prices from usd 2600 per person.

For more information and to book visit www.pandaw.com. To see the entire product over view for 2016-17 go to  https://www.pandaw.com/downloads/Expedition_Overview_2017.pdf

Note: all prices are per person and include 20% early booking discount, based on 2 people sharing a twin main deck stateroom. Local soft drinks, local beer and local spirits are included on every Pandaw-owned cruise.

New Pandaw Expeditions on Red River and Halong Bay in Vietnam

#expeditioncruising

Single Supplements Waived and Discounts up to 20% on New Pandaw Expeditions on Red River and Halong Bay in Vietnam



Single supplements have been waived and discounts of up to 20 per cent offered on nine new, deluxe river expeditions in northern Vietnam encompassing the beautiful Red River and famous Halong Bay with its 1500 dramatic limestone islands.

Available for bookings made until May 31, 2015, through Australian travel agency, Active Travel, which specialises in river cruises, the discounted, 10-night Pandaw river cruises operate between September, 2015, and October, 2016.

The new ‘Red River and Halong Bay’ sailings aboard the 32-passenger, colonially styled, RV Angkor Pandaw, which is hand-crafted in brass and teak, will set a course from Viet Tri near Hanoi along the Red River which has been a key trade route between Vietnam and China for centuries. The route along the upper stretches of the wild river takes passengers deep into highland Vietnam with its remote and sleepy tribal villages and rugged mountain scenery.

The itinerary then heads downstream along the little-known Da, Duon and Kingh Thay rivers in the fertile Red River delta region, with a visit to the bustling capital, Hanoi, where guests are taken on an excursion including the notorious Vietnam war prison known as the Hanoi Hilton, a water puppets show and the 1000-year-old Temple of Literature, dedicated to Confucius. Sailing past emerald green rice paddies, more authentic, craft-making villages are visited on the journey towards Halong Bay where the vessel anchors in a sheltered bay on the final and tenth night before a spectacular sail around the iconic bay the next day, visiting limestone caves and floating villages and schools.

The 10-night packages include land transfers from and to Hanoi, excursions, cooking classes and cultural performances onboard the vessel, local beer and spirits, soft drinks, a welcome cocktail, farewell reception, fruit and flowers on arrival, spa-branded toiletries, kimonos and slippers in staterooms and refreshing drink and cold towel after tours ashore.

A discount of 20 per cent and no solo supplements are available on RV Angkor Pandaw’s Red River and Halong Bay sailing on January 18, 2016, with fares starting from US$2600 per person (including the discount) for twin-share or solo passengers. A 15 per cent saving and no single supplements are available on a February 7, 2016, departure, with fares from US$2762.50 (including the discount) twin-share or solo. And a 10 per cent discount and no single supplements are also available for departures on September 30, 2015, and January 8, February 27, March 8 and 18, September 29 and October 19 in 2016, with fares from US$2925 (including discount) twin-share or solo. The deals are valid for bookings made before May 31, 2015, and are available until sold out. Airfares to Vietnam are extra.

For details, visit www.activetravel.com.au or call 1300 783 188.

click to visit site

Pandaw Burma River Cruise - Voyage to Nagaland, September 2015

#expeditioncruising



Pandaw announces new river adventure on Burma's Chindwin River 'A Voyage to Nagaland'

Luxury river cruise adventures company, Pandaw, is delighted to announce a new 7-night itinerary on Burma's Chindwin River exploring the remote region of Nagaland, beyond Homalin and close to the Indian border. This journey is only possible on Pandaw's tiny ultra-low draught Kalay Pandaw in September 2015 when the water levels are high enough to sail in this area.

Nagaland Warrior

Hugh Clayson, Pandaw's Commercial Director, said: "Once again, Pandaw is pioneering with a new voyage on the Upper Chindwin River to truly 'off the beaten track' Nagaland, an area in Burma famous for the colorful Naga Warrior. Our short series of cruises this September are a one-off opportunity for travelers to discover this remote region from the comfort and style of the beautiful 5-stateroom Kalay Pandaw."

Highlights on the voyage include:

Explore Mawlaik with its magnificent colonial history and architecture, such as the 'Dak Bungalows' set around an old golf course!

Visit Sitthaung where the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company steamers were scuppered in 1942 in an 'act of denial' from the advancing Japanese who were a matter of hours behind.

Visit Homalin's beautiful Buddha Lotus Garden with its exquisite temple and stunning views.

Enjoy scenic 'off the beaten track' river cruising and explore Nagaland stopping at local villages to meet the friendly Naga people.

Visit Khamti, known as 'the land full of gold' due to the prevalence of gold panning in the nearby tributary of the Chindwin.

7-nights - A Voyage to Nagaland, Departure dates: 12, 19 and 26 September 2015

Cruise only prices from USD 3'500.- per person sharing a twin main deck stateroom

Cruise price includes: domestic flights Yangon or Mandalay-Kalewa and Homalin-Yangon or Mandalay, entrance fees, guide services, main meals, locally made soft drinks, local beer and local spirits, jugged coffee and selection of teas, mineral water, crew gratuities, quality mountain bikes available for independent exploration.

Cruise Price excludes: international flights, port dues (if levied), laundry, all visa costs, fuels surcharges (see terms and conditions), imported beverages such as wines, premium spirits and liqueurs, fancy soft drinks and tips to tour guides, local guides, bus drivers, boat operators and cyclo drivers.

Visit Pandaw at ITB Berlin! hall 26b, booth 225

For all bookings, see Active Travel

Pandaw River Expeditions 14-night exploration of Bhutan & the Brahmaputra

#expeditioncruising

MV Mahabaahu

Luxury river cruise adventures company, Pandaw, is delighted to announce a new 14-night itinerary which will explore the ancient kingdom of Bhutan, one of the world’s most intriguing countries, plus an exciting river expedition aboard Pandaw’s partnership the MV Mahabaahu, on the mighty Brahmaputra.

The package includes:

Seven-nights land accommodation (two-night stay at the Taj Bengal Hotel, two-night stay at the Druk Hotel, overnight stay at the Damchen Resort and two-night stay at the Tashi Namgay).

Seven-nights sailing on-board MV Mahabaahu on the Brahmaputra River

A panoramic flight into the Himalayas to Paro.

Trip by pony through stunning mountain scenery to Taktsang Monastery, the most famous of Bhutanese monasteries, which can be observed from a viewpoint nearby.

A visit to the UNESCO accredited Kaziranga National Park where guests can enjoy a safari on elephant searching for the elusive Greater One-Horned Indian rhinoceros and Indian tiger.

Discovery of the charming village of Biswanath Ghat by small boat.

A boat safari on the Eastern range of Kaziranga to observe wildlife.

Plus, numerous breath-taking excursions including St Paul’s Cathedral, Mother Teresa’s House, Thimphu and the Memorial Chorten, Tashichhodzong, to explore the beautiful medieval fortress housing most of the Government's office and King's Throne room, Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten, a newly built stupa and the Shiva Dol, the highest Shiva temple in India built in 1734.

Hugh Clayson, Pandaw’s Commercial Director, said:

“The convenient flight schedules from Paro to Guwahati mean we can offer a tour of Bhutan with our upstream Brahmaputra River Expeditions in one incredible and great value journey”.

MV Mahabaahu outside cabin

14-night Bhutan & the Brahmaputra

Join MV Mahabaahu (www.pandaw.com; +44 203 773 8796) on a 14-night programme. Price includes: 7-nights in hotels as described (or similar), 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 5 dinners on the land section of the tour, all transfers, porterage at hotels, airports and cruise, all taxes, entrance fees, all transport in Bhutan, services of an English speaking guide in Bhutan, Bhutan Government Royalty, Taxes, Bhutan Visa Fee. 7-night cruise on the MV Mahabaahu including all main meals, excursions as described, port dues, guide services), jugged coffee and selection of teas, mineral water, crew gratuities and services of a Pandaw Expeditions cruise director.

Cruise price Excludes: International flights, laundry, all visa costs, drinks, fuel surcharges, espressos and cappuccinos at bar, tips for the naturalist, tour leader, safari guides and drivers.There are 3 sailings scheduled for late 2015/early 2016 for 15 November 2015, 7 February 2016 and 6 March 2016, with land/cruise only prices from USD 5’172.- per person sharing a twin room and cabin without balcony.

Pandaw cruises in Kerala

Pandaw River Expeditions explores the tranquil waters of Kerala, southern India

Luxury river cruise adventures company, Pandaw, has announced a new 7-day programme through the tranquil 'Backwaters of Kerala'. The late 2015 and early 2016 itineraries will offer Pandaw guests an in-depth exploration of this lush, green, southern Indian landscape, which boasts over 40 waterways, churches, temples and rich exotic life such as kingfishers, otters and turtles.

Hugh Clayson, Pandaw's Commercial Director, said:

"Pandaw was one of the founders of river cruising in India and we are now delighted to offer this combined cruise and land package, exploring some of the most fascinating and historically-interesting waterways in the world."

The package includes:

A three-night land programme with guests staying at the 5* Heritage Vivanta by Taj Malabar Hotel, Cochin. Visits to Fort Cochin, believed to be the oldest settlement in India, St. Francis church and the Dutch Palace which features mythological murals and traditional Keralite flooring. A three-night cruise aboard MV Vaikundam, the only wooden boat to boast 9 bedrooms with premium five-star facilities, from Thottapally through Kanjipada, before sailing on to Champakkulam village.

Excursions comprising a scenic walk through picturesque villages, a canoe ride, fishing and an opportunity to explore the local Cochin spice market with a chef to learn about the spices of Kerala.

7-day Backwaters of Kerala

Join MV Vaikundam on a 6-night programme, including 3-nights at the 5* Heritage Vivanta by Taj Hotel, with 3 breakfasts and one dinner, excursions as described, entrance fees, port dues, govt tax, porterage, guide services (English language), 3-night cruise on the MV Vaikundam on a full board basis, jugged coffee, selection of teas, mineral water. Transfers between Cochin and MV Vaikundam before and after your cruise, services of a local representative and cruise director.

Cruise Price Excludes: International flights, laundry, all visa costs, drinks, fuel surcharges (see terms and conditions), espressos and cappuccinos at bar, tips.

There are 4 sailings scheduled for 2 December 2015, 12 January 2016, 23 February 2016 and 22 March 2016, priced from USD 1530.-, based on two people sharing a twin room/cabin 2 December 2015 package.

www.pandaw.com

Pandaw New Hooghly and Ganges Cruises for 2015

#expeditioncruising



Pandaw River Expeditions announces new cruise on the Ganges and Hooghly Rivers for 2015

Luxury river expedition company Pandaw has announced its new 16-night ‘The Holy Ganges and The Hooghly Rivers’ programme in partnership with RV Rajmahal. The one-off itinerary on 27th October 2015 will offer Pandaw guests an in-depth exploration of the region, from the famous Ghats at Varanasi to Kolkata.
Guests will visit the holy Dasaswamedh Ghat steps at sunset for the Varanasi Ganga Aarti spiritual ceremony and explore the city’s intoxicating street life. After a three-night land programme, guests will board the MV Rajmahal at Sujata Kuti, going ashore along the banks of the Ganges to discover Sikh temples and Buddhist monasteries along the way. Pandaw guests will also visit the famous bridge at Mokameh before sailing onto the scenic Rajmahal Hills, the childhood home of Shah Jehan, builder of the Taj Mahal.
As the RV Rajmahal enters the Hooghly River, daily excursions will take in the great Katra Mosque and stunning Nashipara and Katgola Palaces, built in 18th century Georgian style. In Kalna, cycle rickshaws will take guests to see some of Bengal’s most attractive terracotta temples, as well as the unique Shiva temple with concentric rings before travelling onto the historic city of Kolkata.
Pandaw guests will enjoy a ‘yacht-like’ feel onboard the 22-suite RV Rajmahal as well as attentive service and a crew to passenger ratio of 2:1.
In addition to the 16-night itinerary, Pandaw offers pre and post-expedition extensions in Delhi (including a day trip to the Taj Mahal) and Kolkata.
Hugh Clayson, Pandaw’s Commercial Director, said:
“Pandaw was one of the founders of river cruising in India and we are pleased to once again offer cruises on one of the most fascinating and historically-interesting rivers in the world.”

16-night Holy Ganges and Hooghly River
Join RV Rajmahal (www.pandaw.com) on a 16-night Holy Ganges and Hooghly tour and cruise from USD 5’100.- per person (based on two people sharing an upper deck stateroom). This price represents a saving of 15% - available for bookings up to 31st January 2015.
The price includes a two-night stay at the Taj Gateway Hotel, Varanasi, a one-night stay at Hotel Royal Residency in Bodh Goya and a 13-night full board cruise from Patna to Kolkata. Also included are airport transfers, excursions, crew gratuities and on board lectures.

https://www.pandaw.com/expeditions/holy-ganges-hooghly/#Overview

New 10-night Burma journey from Pandaw

#expeditioncruising

Travel from Rangoon to Prome by coach and then onwards aboard the Pandaw II on an amazing 10-night Irrawaddy journey to Pagan and Mandalay. Departures from July 2015 to February 2016. Prices from only USD 3676 per person sharing a main deck stateroom.

E-visa now also available for arrivals in Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw airports - in addition to Rangoon. See more >

Additional Mekong cruise departures in peak season

#expeditioncruising



7 Feb 2015 Saigon - Siem Reap/Angkor, 7 nights

7 Feb 2015 Saigon - Phnom Penh, 3 nights

10 Feb 2015 Phnom Penh - Siem Reap/Angkor, 4 nights

21 Feb 2015 Saigon - Siem Reap/Angkor, 7 nights

21 Feb 2015 Saigon - Phnom Penh, 3 nights

24 Feb 2015 Phnom Penh - Siem Reap/Angkor, 4 nights

7 Mar 2015 Saigon - Siem Reap/Angkor, 7 nights

7 Mar 2015 Saigon - Phnom Penh, 3 nights

10 Mar 2015 Phnom Penh - Siem Reap/Angkor, 4 nights





We are delighted to offer new departures between Saigon and Siem Reap on the stunning and intimate Angkor Pandaw, a classic Pandaw vessel carrying no more than

32 passengers. It's small size enables your Mekong journey to begin in central Saigon, providing the enjoyment of this charming French colonial city from the perspective of your luxury ship and the chance to sail through the Mekong Delta on your way to Cambodia.

Your journey discovers the fascinating and varied life on the Mekong River between Vietnam and Cambodia. With a full day in delightful Phnom Penh we then explore remoter waterways as we progress to the great monuments of Angkor.

The sixteen cabin Angkor Pandaw has been specially designed with a shallow draft to get further up river and a low air draft to get under the many new bridges being constructed up river in Cambodia. This ship can go where other larger ships are not able to explore.

* Based on 2 people sharing a main deck stateroom on 7th Mar 2015 departure.

Availability and prices subject to change.





www.pandaw.com | www.pandawcharity.com

Pandaw River Expeditions heading to Brahmaputra River in north-east India

Luxury river expedition company, Pandaw has announced its new eight-day Brahmaputra River programme in partnership with MV Mahabaahu. The itineraries will commence in March 2015, offering Pandaw guests an off-the-beaten track, luxury exploration of the Assam region in the north-east of India.

Guest onboard the Pandaw-led sailing will visit the largest river island in the world and meet the Mishing people that inhabit the region. Pandaw guests will head into the Assam province's rich, green hills, plains and forests to learn more about the aromatic tea that it is known for.

Travel by boat, jeep and elephant and get up close to single horned rhinos, buffaloes, Indian tigers and river dolphins, as well as experiencing the untouched scenery of the Kaziranga National Park.

Pandaw guests will enjoy a 'yacht-like' feel onboard the 23-suite MV Mahabaahu as well as five-star luxury service and a crew to passenger ratio of 2:1.

The Brahmaputra River is the only navigable river in the world from which the 6,500 metre high, snow covered Himalaya Mountains can be seen. It is also the only river, apart from the Zambezi River in Africa where elephant, jeep and boat safaris are found together. Guests will experience the rich living culture of the Assam region with visits to temples, tribal villages, monasteries, ancient palaces and tea estates.

In addition to the cruise, Pandaw also offers pre and post stays in luxury five-star hotels in Delhi and Kolkata, including domestic connecting flights.

Eight-day Brahmaputra River upstream sailing:

Ship: MV Mahabaahu

Departure information: 29 March 2015.

Price: Cruise-only from USD 2'430.- per person based on two people sharing a main deck stateroom, fully inclusive of all excursions, crew gratuities, meals and non-premium drinks. Transfers between ports of embarkation and the airport at the start and end of the voyage. Applicable on bookings made before 30 November 2014.

Itinerary:

Arrive Guwahati / M.V.Mahabaahu / Towards Silghat

Day 2: Monday: Sailing towards Silghat

Day 3: Tuesday: Arrive Silghat

Day 4: Wednesday: Silghat/Kaziranga National Park/Silghat/Bishwanath Ghat

Day 5: Thursday: Bishwanath Ghat/Towards Majuli

Day 6: Friday: Sailing towards Majuli

Day 7: Saturday: Arrive Majuli/Neamati Ghat/Sibsagar/Neamati Ghat

Day 8: Sunday: Neamati Ghat/Jorhat/Departure

For reservations and further information, please contact information@pandaw.com  or visit www.pandaw.com