(1) Mandalay to Bagan (AND ) Bagan to Mandalay
On Board the Pandaw
A journey on Myanmar's Ayeyarwaddy (Irrawaddy) River is one of life's great travel experiences. No vessel could be more appropriate for this than the MV Pandaw. Built in Scotland in 1947, the Pandaw is the same design as the original Irrawaddy Flotilla Company steamers that coped so well with the difficult condition of the Irrawaddy. The old Irrawaddy Flotilla was a Scot's company founded in 1865. By the 1920s the 'fabulous
flotilla', as it became known, was the largest privately owned fleet of ships in the world. The company was revived in 1995 and has since then specialized in river cruises in Myanmar.
The Pandaw is 150 feet long and was powered by a stern paddle, now replaced by modern engines. Up till last year she still carried local cargo and passengers. Conserving many original features, we have restored her to recreate the atmosphere and character of the first class deck of a colonial river steamer. Finished in local hardwoods, and furnished with period pieces, the Pandaw is home to our collection of historic prints and antiques. Promenade decks enable passengers to sit outside their state rooms in rattan chairs. As open observation decks extends aft of the flying bridge.
The sixteen state rooms are air conditioned and are 14x12 feet in size containing a shower room with hot and cold water. Showers are imported units. Interior walls are finished with hard wood tongue and groove panelling and on the upper deck we have retained the original teak decking. Beds are traditional teak ships cots with brass marine fittings. There is plenty of locker and hanging space. Old prints, maps and oil paintings decorate the rooms. Local
hand woven fabrics are used for the curtains, bed covers and cushions. There are no mini-bars or TVs! Cabin windows have insect netting fixed so windows may be kept open at night in preference to air conditioning. Broad promenade decks run round the outside of the accommodation. Here rattan chairs and marble top tables sit outside each cabin. The promenade deck is designed as an extension of the cabin space: a place to sit at ease and reflect on the passing
rivers cape.
The old first class 'saloon' on the upper deck over the bow has been preserved as an Observation Lounge with cocktail bar. It is air conditioned and furnished with rattan sofas, armchairs and objects d'art. There are hifi and video facilities. The Dining Room is conceived as an extension of the open deck space with fold back doors to allow the breeze to pass through. These may be closed at night, with the air-con switched on, to prevent the entry of insects.
Meals are included in the price of a ticket. Breakfast and lunch are buffets. Dinner is a sit down affair with a set menu. Meals are a mixture of Asian and European with an emphasis on local fish, tropical fruits and exotic vegetables. The Pandaw is British managed and English afternoon tea is served daily with cakes. Coffee and a selection of teas are available all day with our compliments. We have a lively wine cellar and a famous collection of after dinner liquors. At night the observation deck may be transformed into a theatre and performances of traditional Burmese marionettes or classical dancing are held.
PRODUCT INFORMATION
A) BETWEEN BAGAN AND MANDALAY
Classic Cruise - Four Times a Week
SCHEDULE UPSTREAM FROM PAGAN
Depart Tuesday 1200 arrive Mandalay (Gawein) Thursday 1000
Depart Saturaday 1200 arrive Mandalay (Shwe-kye-yet) Monday 1000
SCHEDULE UPSTREAM FROM MANDALAY
Depart (Shwe-kye-yet) Monday 1200 arrive Pagan Tuesday 1100
Depart (Gawein) Tursday 1200 arrive Pagan Saturday 1000
TWO NIGHTS UPSTREAM ITINERARY
Day-01 depart Pagan and explore Pakokku in afternoon
Day-02 visit potterise at Yandabo village
Day-03 Arrive Mandalay mid-morning
TWO NIGHTS DOWNSTREAM ITINERARY
Day-01 depart Mandalay and cruise
Day-02 early morning village walk at Sameikkon; explore Pakokku in the evening
Day-03 arrive Pagan mid-morning.
ONE NIGHT DOWNSTREAM ITINERARY
Day-01 depart Mandalay and cruise all day
Day-02 early morning visit to Pakokku arrive Pagan mid-morning
Prices
Two night cruises are $ 250 per person, single supplement $ 200.
One night cruise $ 100 with no single supplement.
Includes: main meals; coffee, tea, mineral water, site seeing during the cruise
Excludes: transfers to / from the ship at start / end of cruise; site seeing at Pagan and Mandalay;