Explore the mighty rivers of Southeast Asia
and India
Why Pandaw with Wild Earth Travel
Embark on an extraordinary river cruising experience with Pandaw in partnership with the expert team at Wild Earth Travel. Discover a realm where each ship is meticulously handcrafted in an Old World style in brass and teak, representing a true object of beauty. The Pandaw experience is all about exploring remote and often hard-tonavigate rivers in specially designed luxury small ships.
The Pandaw adventure offers an intimate and friendly atmosphere, where these small-scale ships provide amazing passenger-to-deck space. Indulge in the tranquillity of quiet corners, perfect for immersing yourself in a book, documenting your travel journal, or simply contemplating the breathtaking landscapes. Engage in conversations with like-minded travellers, as Pandaw’s 360-degree promenade decks foster a sense of community and freedom to interact as much or as little as you desire. This unique feature contributes to the renowned “Pandaw spirit” that entices guests to return time and time again.
Life on board a Pandaw cruise is akin to being an honoured guest on a private motor yacht with intrepid itineraries and a quest for the most spectacular sights and experiences, Pandaw ventures beyond the ordinary. After exploring the wonders of the shore, you’ll return to a floating oasis of understated luxury, attentive service, and the finest things in life.
Experience the allure of Pandaw in collaboration with Wild Earth Travel, where personalised journeys, exceptional service, and a world of wonders await. Get ready to be captivated by a floating sanctuary that exceeds your expectations at every turn. Welcome to a truly remarkable river cruise experience
Note: Rates are correct as of the time of printing. Please check with Wild Earth for the latest rates.
Life on Board
Service
Pandaw is extremely proud of the high level of service provided onboard, making sure you are looked after every step of the way. Local crew members always have a smile for you, whether you are returning from a shore excursion or ordering your favorite drink at the bar. Their friendly nature makes you feel at home and their local knowledge enhances any cruise.
What Makes Pandaw Different?
• Luxury staterooms handcrafted in brass and teak steeped in history
Food and Dining
Mealtimes offer the chance to sample some of the delicious local flavors found in the regions you are exploring. However, if you would rather stick to typical European offerings, these are available too. Wherever possible, sustainable ingredients are sourced from the ports visited to create delicious meals around the clock.
Buffet breakfasts, lunches with buffet and served elements, and a la carte dinners are all included in the cruise fare – as is afternoon tea and a cocktail hour every evening. So that you don’t miss a second of the passing scenery on some ships the main dining area has retractable walls to allow fresh air in and provide wonderful views. At night, these are closed off and the air-conditioning is used instead.
• Specially designed ships with ultra-shallow drafts enabling access to remote areas
• Highest passenger to deck ratio space on Asia rivers
•
No more than 30 en-suite staterooms per ship
• Travel guides available 24/7 to answer any questions you have
• Superb service from dedicated friendly local crews
• Friendly and informal atmosphere providing the feeling of being on board a private yacht
What’s Included
• Kimonos and slippers
• Spa-branded amenities
• Electric mini safe
• Mini bar
• Central AC with individual control
• Hair dryer
• Nightly turndown service
• Complimentary evening cocktail hour
• Complimentary evening canapés
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Daily lean & light menu options
• Admissions on all excursions
• In-cabin tea and coffee making facilities
• Complimentary local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes
• Series of cultural performances, educational talks, cooking classes
• Welcome drink on arrival and farewell reception
• Spacious, air-conditioned saloon bar with nightly entertainment
• Onboard bakery with daily freshly baked breads and rolls
• Trek mountain bikes on board, most ships
• Shoe cleaning after excursions
• Cold towel service after excursions
• First aid trained assistant guide to follow all tours and excursions
Discover the Spirit of Vietnam and Cambodia
Vietnam and Cambodia are majestic countries brimming with fascinating cultures and extreme landscapes. From the great towering limestone islands of Halong Bay to the majestic, aweinspiring Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, these two vastly different countries are interconnected by a complex history and astounding nature. Pandaw sails through Halong Bay and the lesser known Red River in Northern Vietnam as well as the lower Mekong River between Vietnam and Cambodia in our specially designed small river vessels.
Halong Bay & Red River
HALONG BAY - VIET TRI ( OR V . V)
10 nights from US$ 4,050pp
Explore the highlights of Northern Vietnam on this truly unique river adventure. From Halong Bay and its dramatic limestone islands, navigate the Red River delta through to the mountainous norther regions with a stop in Hanoi city center. This exploration is not offered by any other river cruise companies and few tourists ever get to venture into this part of rural Vietnam. Our custom-built ships will tackle the shallow waters to show life on these shores, visit remote villages, be welcomed by traditional dance and experience a unique water puppet show.
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS:
• Sail around Halong Bay and beyond with its 1,500 dramatic limestone islands and extraordinary rock formations, dating back 20 million years
• Stop at Viet Hai Village and explore villages on mountain bike or electric buggy
• Take a kayak or a local basket boat rowed by fishermen and enter the "Dark and Bright Cave”, where bats can be heard and massive stalagmites hang from the ceiling
• Visit Vietnam War prison known as the Hanoi Hilton, the Temple of Literature where Confucius did his thinking, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
deluxe staterooms | Fair trade shop
Classic Mekong
SAIGON - SIEM REAP ( OR V . V)
7 nights from US$ 3,359pp
Since opening the river border between Vietnam and Cambodia over 20 years ago, Pandaw has been pioneering river cruising on the Mekong. Today our curated expedition takes you to some of the few remaining authentic villages as well as the more remote parts of the Tonle Sap and upper Mekong Rivers, far away from the growing fleet of floating hotels plying the waterways.
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS:
• Explore the intricate canal system of Ben Tre by local boat and try the local delicacies
• Visit the Pandaw library built for a local school at Ankor Ban
• Stop at Phnom Penh where you will be provided with your own private cyclo and visit the Royal palace, Silver Pagoda and National Museum
• Sail up the Tonle River to visit Preak Sala and experience a local fishing village
• Enjoy cocktail hour on the shore of a local village accompanied by the light of a bonfire
28 deluxe staterooms | Saloon bar & Sundeck bar Library, gym, spa | Fair trade shop, cinema
RV TONLE PANDAW
RV Bassac Pandaw
28 deluxe staterooms | Fair trade shop Cultural performances | Sundeck bar
RV BASSAC PANDAW
24 deluxe staterooms | Saloon bar & Sundeck bar Library, gym, spa | Fair trade shop, cinema
RV MEKONG PANDAW
Phnom Penh and Siem Reap
PHNOM PENH - SIEM REAP
This is a 3- or 4-night river cruise starting in either the historical site of Siem Reap or the lively city of Phnom Penh. Experience some of the world's most breathtaking sunrises as we sail along some of the most picturesque parts of the Mekong River exploring some of Cambodia's top historical sites.
Ships: RV Bassac Pandaw, RV Indochina Pandaw, RV Mekong Pandaw from US$1,919.50 per person
Saigon and Phnom Penh Short Cruise
SAIGON - PHNOM PENH
This is a 3- or 4-night river cruise starting in either Saigon or the lively city of Phnom Penh. This cruise allows you to learn about Vietnamese life on the Mekong Delta and experience entertainment from an indigenous dance group. You will travel by Sampans through mangroves and bamboo to meet local artisans at work and explore the lush countryside between Cambodia and Vietnam.
Ships: RV Bassac Pandaw, RV Indochina Pandaw, RV Mekong Pandaw from US$1,919.50 per person
Explore the rich culture of India' s rivers
India is a vibrant and diverse country with rich culture and history. A river cruise offers a unique way to explore its landscapes, traditions, and local life from a fresh perspective.
Travel with Pandaw along three of the country's most iconic rivers: the sacred Ganges, the vast Brahmaputra in Assam and the Kerala Backwaters in Kochi. The Ganges offers a deep insight into India’s spiritual and cultural life, where religion and the river are closely connected. The Brahmaputra is home to several nature reserves and a significant portion of the country's endangered species, meanwhile the Kerala Backwaters is a network of lagoons and canals lying parallel to the Arabian Sea of the Malabar coast in south-west India.
The Kerala Backwaters
KOCHI - KOCHI
7 nights from US$ 4,455pp
Set to launch in October 2025, the Kochi Pandaw will be the fourth ship in Pandaw’s growing fleet in India, reflecting the increasing demand for river cruising in the region. This ten-cabin ship has been specially designed for this route, featuring Pandaw’s signature cabins and wraparound promenade decks.
The all-new eight-day circular will depart from Kochi port, navigating Kerala’s famed backwaters - an intricate network of 900km of rivers, lakes, and canals. Along the way, guests will explore vibrant towns and remote villages, with enriching visits to ancient churches, Hindu temples, artisan communities, and the legendary beaches of the Malabar Coast.
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS:
• Orientation tour of Kochi, the exotic capital of Kerala state on the Malabar Coast
• Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary followed by the Craft Museum, showcasing Kerala’s rich artisanal heritage
• Explore Allapphuza (Alleppey) Harbor a bustling hub of Kerala’s backwater network with traditional houseboats and vibrant fishing activities
• Stroll along the glistening white beaches of Thottapalli
16 deluxe staterooms | Fair trade shop Panorama dining room | Lounge bar
RV KOCHI PANDAW
The Brahmaputra
GUWAHATI - DIBRUGARH
7 nights from US$ 3,635pp
The mighty Brahmaputra River in Northern India originates high in the Himalayas before flowing through the scenic Assam valley where UNESCO protected national parks and remote rural communities provide the traveller with the most adventorous expedition.
The highlight of this trip is the full day jeep safari in search of the Greater One-horned Indian Rhinoceros and other endangered mammals and birdlife. We also visit tea plantations, artisan villages, and local communities who teach us about life along such a changing and unpredictable river.
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS:
7-night cruise including full day wildlife jeep
• Visit the fascinating Mayang, a place steeped
• in mysticism
Enjoy the stunning natural scenery and wildlife
• of the Brahmaputra River. Observe river dolphins and birds of prey as we pass uninhabited islands
• and weaving to make the typical saree worn by Assami women
See silk production from the cocoon, to spinning
18 deluxe staterooms | Outside dining Cultural performances | 24hr hospitality bar
Silghat
Guwahati
Brahmaputra
Kaziranga National Park
Tezpur
Sualkuchi Silk Village
Mayong
Brahmaputr
Nameri National Park
Round Trip a
INDIA
INDIA
Sutargaon
Land Content
Pandaw Journey
RV KINDAT PANDAW
The Hooghly
KOLKATA - BARANAGAR - KOLKATA
9 nights from US$ 2,950pp
We are pleased to announce an exciting new expedition on the Hooghly River, that connects Kolkata with the Ganges, starting October 2025. The 18 stateroom Kalaw Pandaw will sail from Kolkata to Baranagar and back on this most enchanting of rivers. This adventure captures the essence of the real India: lovely countryside, magnificent palaces, mystical temples and artisanal villages not to mention very friendly folk.
The itinerary also includes two nights in Kolkata allowing passengers two full days sight-seeing in the former capital, with its huge museum, 18th century churches, temples, mosques and architectural splendors from the glory days of the Indian Raj.
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS:
• Step ashore in Matiari, a charming riverside village renowned for its brass-working traditions
• Embark on a walk to the Khushbagh, a peaceful Mughal-style Garden that encloses the tombs of Siraj-ud-Daulah, the last independent Nawab of Bengal, and his family
• Stroll along the glistening white beaches of Chandernagore, a French possession until 1950
16 deluxe staterooms | Fair trade shop Panorama dining room | Lounge bar
RV KATHA PANDAW
The All Ganges
KOLKATA - VARANASI ( OR V . V)
14 nights from US$ 8,400pp
Varanasi, said to be the oldest inhabited city on the planet, is Hinduism’s most sacred home and a place of overwhelming beauty. This amazing tour brings intrepid travellers along the upper reaches of the sacred Ganges river from Kolkata, India’s former capital, to Patna, with 1st class train transfer into Varanasi for a full Indian Ganges experience.
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS:
• Step inside the Bihar School of Yoga in Munger, one of the leading schools in the country
• Visit Jahanigra Island, a place of pilgrimage with many rock carvings in high relief dating from the 8th century
• Cross the Lower Ganges or Hooghly River to the Ganges itself through the Farraka canal and lock
• Opportunity to spot the rare Gangeatic dolphins
• Explore Barh, famous for Hindu ritual cremation at Urmanath
RV KALAW PANDAW
Wonders of the Himalayas
GUWAHATI - SILGHAT
16 nights from US$ 15,246pp
Begin your journey with a warm Bhutanese welcome in Paro before heading to Thimphu to explore vibrant markets, the National Memorial Chorten, and the majestic Buddha Dordenma. Travel over the scenic Dochu-La Pass to Punakha, where you’ll visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong and the revered fertility temple, Chimi Lhakhang, nestled among rice fields. Return to Paro for a traditional farmhouse dinner, where you can experience rural life and try your hand at Bhutan’s national sport, archery. A highlight of the trip is the hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched on a cliffside overlooking the Paro Valley. Conclude your time in Bhutan with a peaceful butter lamp blessing ceremony, a spiritual tradition symbolising wisdom and compassion.
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS:
• Warm welcome in Paro, then explore Thimphu’s markets and Buddha Dordenma
• Visit Punakha Dzong and the fertility temple Chimi Lhakhang
• Enjoy a farmhouse dinner in Paro and try archery
• Hike to Tiger’s Nest and join a butter lamp blessing ceremony
Adventure along the Upper Mekong
Experience the undiscovered on our spectacular Laos river cruise along the Upper Mekong River.
Sailing between Chiang Khong in Northern Thailand and Vientiane, the French colonial capital city of Laos, this exciting expedition is one for the adventurous traveller.
Passing sheer cliffs, dramatic valleys and meandering through fast moving rapids, passengers need to bring with them a real sense of adventure and flexibility as the itinerary of such a monumental cruise can change at any time.
The Laos Mekong
CHIANG KHONG - VIENTIANE ( OR V . V)
10 nights from US$ 4,220pp
Travel from Laos to Thailand along the Mekong River, through dramatic mountainous scenery, rapids and stunning gorges. Visit remote tribal villages en-route, with a three-night stop at the world heritage site Luang Prabang, a major highlight for many. Here you can venture into the spiritual Pak Ou Caves and see the saffron-clad monks receive alms of rice from tourists and locals as the sun rises.
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS:
• Fascinating expedition connecting Vientiane in Laos with Northern Thailand
• Visit the Mekong Elephant Park and learn about their rehabilitation
• Stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang with its wood carved monasteries and exciting night market
• Pass through dramatic mountainous scenery, marvel at stunning gorges and sail through rapids
• Visit remote tribal villages in the jungle and see local life first hand
10 deluxe staterooms | Panoramic sliding door
Bistro style dining | Onboard bakery
BURMA
Luang Prabang
Pak Ou Caves
Pak Beng
CHIANG KHONG
VIENTIANE
Mekong River
River
Mekong River
NORTH VIETNAM
LAOS
Ban Bor Kuang Si Waterfall
Xayabouri Dam
Chiang Rai
Chiang Mai
Best of Laos & northern Thailand
VIENTIANE - CHIANG KHONG ( OR V . V)
16 nights from US
pp
Explore the beauty and culture of Laos and Northern Thailand with Pandaw on our new and exclusive river and land tour. Experience all that Laos has to offer along the scenic and serene upper Mekong where local life remains unchanged for centuries aboard your expertly crafted and luxuriously comfortable small Pandaw vessel. We also venture high into the mountains of Northern Thailand to discover the rich culture and diversity of the hilltribe peoples that have inhabited this area for centuries. This unforgettable 16 night adventure is sure to be the trip of a lifetime.
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS:
• Visit Buddha Park, home to over 200 unique Buddha statues, including a 40-metre reclining Buddha
• Cruise the Mekong River, pass lush jungles and remote villages, with guided village walks
• Visit Xayabouri Dam and explore a traditional Hmong minority village
• Swim at the scenic Kuang Si Waterfalls and stop by the Laos Buffalo Farm
• Cross into Thailand via the Golden Triangle and learn about the region's opium trade history
Baan Khum
Doi Angkhang
Chiang Mai
Chiang Dao Cave
CHIANG MAI
Baan Khob Dong
THAILAND
THAILAND
LAOS PANDAW
Luang Prabang
Pak Ou Caves Pak Beng
CHIANG KHONG
Mae Chan Pak Sith
Opium Hall
Golden Triangle Chaiang Khong
Talaat Sao market
Wat Sisaket
Haw Phra Kaew
Putousay Xieng Khuan Buddha Land content Long tail boat
Pandaw journey
Combo Expeditions
Our combination options combine multiple routes to offer uninterrupted, back-to-back cruising down these unforgettable rivers, on our exceptional Pandaw ships. Our prices are inclusive of flights, transfers and hotel stays where necessary.
The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River
KOLKATA - GUWAHATI
14 NIGHTS - from US$ 7,887 pp
October, January to March
The Mighty Brahmaputra & Kerala Backwaters
GUWAHATI - KOCHI
15 NIGHTS - from US$ 8,089 pp
November, January to March
The Ganges & Kerala Backwaters
KOLKATA - KOCHI
22 NIGHTS - from US$ 13,350 pp
September, November & March
The All Ganges & Brahmaputra River
GUWAHATI - VARANASI
21 NIGHTS - from US$ 11,195 pp
October
Pandaw Fleet
K CLASS VESSEL
Dating back to the 1880s, the K-class vessels were a fleet of sternwheelers specifically designed for shallow waters, with their boilers positioned in the bow to optimize balance. Smaller than the grand line steamers of their time, these ships were primarily used along the Chindwin River and the upper reaches of the Irrawaddy.
Where possible, we have preserved the original names from the historic Irrawaddy Flotilla Company (IFC), honoring the legacy of these vessels. Many of the original K-class ships have fascinating histories, having navigated both wartime and peacetime, playing a vital role in the region’s river transport heritage.
P CLASS VESSEL
The original P-class ships were built by Yarrows of Glasgow in the late 1940s to replace the ships of the old Irrawaddy Flotilla Company lost in the war. The design was based on earlier 1930s designs with side paddles and the addition of a flying bridge. All the ships had a name beginning with a P and one of these was the original Pandaw that we acquired in 1998 and lovingly restored.
Pandaw Stateroom
The Pandaw stateroom is the most celebrated feature of our ships, combining splendid colonial-era character with contemporary comfort.
Finished in brass and teak, the main and upper deck rooms are a spacious 168 square feet (15.6 sqm), with the exception of the Zawgyi Pandaw which is 150 square feet (14 sqm). As the space is much loved by all our passengers, we have ensured that with each ship we build, the stateroom remains essentially the same.
Be advised: our cabins do not have satellite TV's, internet access or telephones. Passengers tend to choose Pandaw in order to escape from the tiresome features found in international business hotels.
• Fruit and flowers on arrival
• Kimonos and slippers
• Spa-branded amenities
• Unlimited mineral water
Bedroom 12’ x 10’
Bathroom 6’ x 4’
Shower 2’ 8” x 3’ 4”
Bed 6’ 7” x 3’ 3”
DOUBLE CONFIGU R ATION
TWIN CONFIGU R ATION
Included in Room
Cabin Statistics
New from Pandaw: The Tonle Suites
We are pleased to announce the creation of four upper deck suites for our Classic Mekong routing on board the RV Tonle Pandaw. Over double the size of our standard cabin, each suite spans 40 square meters (430 square feet) with its own private deck and panoramic views through French windows to both port and starboard sides. Finished with rich Cambodia fabrics and the finest amenities, each cabin will include its own butler dedicated to providing the highest levels of service.
What’s Included
The price includes drinks, wine and main meals and snacks. Meals can be served at tables for two or more in the dining room, on deck, or in your suite. There has been an increasing demand for a top-end suites-only ship and no ship could be more perfect for this creation than the splendid Tonle Pandaw, originally built in Myanmar and fitted out with pure Burmah teak which has been repurposed for construction of the new suites. A newly fitted out spa will be a popular feature in addition to the gym, library, cocktail saloon and extensive open deck areas associated with much loved Pandaw ships.
s Impression
Impression
Kimono and slippers
Nespresso machine
Tisane collection
Satellite TV Free minibar Free laundry
Glass bottled water
Free WiFi
Expeditions flasks Air conditioning
Butler service
Fruit bowl
DON’T PAY
Single
SUPPLEMENT
Enjoy no single supplement on many dates
UNDER 18’S TRAVEL
On many departures when travelling with 2 paying adults
pand aw river _expedition s
Pandaw Expeditions
@pandaw_river_expeditions
Pandaw Expeditions
