Pandaw | Fred. Holidays

Pandaw

Sailing on a Pandaw ship is an outdoor, fresh air experience. However comfortable and roomy the staterooms, passengers prefer to spend their time sitting outside, on the promenade decks or on the vast observation deck above. Unlike most other cruise ships, every window on board (except for the portholes on the lower deck) can be opened and closed to suit your comfort.

As we sail, we find that our passengers like to sit on deck, absorbed by the awe-inspiring riverside panoramas that unfold before them. From the comfortable vantage point of a teak-floored Pandaw deck, it's hard not to become hypnotised by the unceasing human and wildlife activity that characterises the great rivers of Asia.

Your Stateroom

The Pandaw stateroom is the most celebrated feature of our ships, combining splendid colonial-era character with exquisite 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 mini-bars, 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.

New for 2021 are the exclusive Pandaw suites, available on Mekong Pandaw, Tonle Pandaw, Orient Pandaw and Pandaw II. These suites, the size of two regular Pandaw Staterooms, offer guests even more space and comfort with private balcony and lounge area in every suite from which to enjoy the serene surroundings. In addition to the original 'Owners Suite' aboard the RV Kalay Pandaw, guests now have more opportunities to experience true colonial luxury with Pandaw.

Many passengers have described life on board a Pandaw as more like being a guest on a private motor yacht, than a passenger on a conventional cruise ship. For a start, our itineraries and our quest for the most spectacular sights and experiences is far more intrepid than conventional cruises. And when passengers return to the ship after experiencing the wonders of life onshore, they are coming back to a floating oasis of low-key luxury, caring service and all the good things of life.

Fruit and flowers on arrival
Kimonos and slippers
Spa-branded amenities
Unlimited mineral water
Free use of mini DVD player on request and selection of DVDs from our library (subject to availability)

Dining

The Pandaw dining rooms are designed to open up along the sides to allow cool breezes to waft through. Only at night we do close them up and turn on the air-conditioning. We know our passengers prefer fresh air to chilled air. The new Katha Pandaw, designed in response to feedback from our passengers, has no formal dining room but rather an open air dining space on deck.

At Pandaw we pride ourselves on offering a great choice of local cuisine and exotic foods. We source supplies and ingredients as locally as possible, always in accordance with strictly-monitored environmental health standards.

Breakfast is a buffet, while lunch features a buffet, plus soup, salad and a desert table, with the main course served at the table. Dinner is by waiter-service at the table.

We are happy to cater for individual dietary preferences. Passengers who prefer not to be served hot or spicy foods are offered delicious European-style alternatives and vegetarians are especially well catered for. Other special diets may be accommodated, by prior arrangement. Our chefs know that most passengers want to sample versions of the best, most characteristic dishes of each country they pass through.

Spa & Gym

Currently only available on our Mekong Pandaw ship, the Pandaw Spa offers head massage, foot massage and body massages in dedicated spa areas.

Our onboard spa is compact in size and staffed by a single highly-trained individual. As demand can be high, please be sure to book in advance.

Lecture & Cultures

From its earliest days, the Pandaw concept has been deeply rooted in cultural and historical expertise, worn lightly. On any Pandaw river expedition, daily briefings are hosted by your purser and guide, which provide a forum to discuss the day's events and plans.

Most sailings will feature at least one cultural performance: in Burma it is the marionette theatre; in Cambodia the Royal Khmer Ballet; in Laos villagers perform a dance on deck.

We also offer a range of onboard activities including: cooking demonstrations, fruit carving, napkin tying and a tour of the working ship.

Themed movie nights are also popular - the film Indochine in Vietnam, The Killing Fields in Cambodia and The Lady in Burma are some of the favourites.

Activities

Whilst the peace and tranquillity of our passengers is our priority and many passengers prefer to read, write or engage in painting or photography, we do offer a number of social activities that have become a traditional part of any Pandaw river expedition.

There are a number of social events during an expedition which will include a welcome dinner, cocktail parties on deck, a farewell gala dinner and dinners themed with local menus and costume. In the Burma dry season we often tie up on a sandbank and have a barbeque beach party on the sands, usually around a bonfire in winter.

Excursions

Excursions ashore are a key part of any Pandaw river expedition. These may take the form of a good walk through the countryside and villages; further explorations by speedboat going deeper into jungle or up river; horse cart rides in Burma or cyclos in Cambodia.

We try not to use cars or coaches wherever possible and in some places only the most basic local transportation is available, like at Katha in Burma where you may find yourself in the back of a truck looking for a working elephant camp.

We stop at least once a day, and usually twice. On the Mekong we will spend a day and a night in exciting Phnom Penh; in Burma we need at least a day and a half in both Pagan and Mandalay. Our expert guides will accompany you on these explorations ashore or you are welcome to make individual excursions as there are no issues of safety or security in any of the ports we visit.

All scheduled excursions are accompanied by members of the crew with first aid kits, water and cold towels
Entrance fees for sights included in the itinerary
Comprehensive fact sheets or 'trip books' provided
Passengers can visit Pandaw Charity projects along the way and interact with the local communities who welcome us
There is an opportunity to travel to local markets with the Pandaw Head Chef at least once during the cruise programme
We provide crew assists for those who require them in areas where river banks are steep and slippery
While individual excursions are encouraged, passengers are asked to rejoin the ship at the appointed time to avoid delays in our schedule

Cycling

Imagine making your own discoveries by bike though the pagodas and temples of Pagan or exploring the scenic Burmese countryside and friendly villages at your own pace.

Pandaw offers high quality Giant brand mountain bikes on all Pandaw ships, for departures from December 2015. At each river stop, the Pandaw crew will advise travellers on the best routes to follow for independent exploration and if required, a member of the crew will accompany travellers on their cycle adventures.

Family-Friendly Cruises

Contrary to some perceptions, Pandaw river expeditions are not just for the more mature. They offer brilliant educational experiences for younger people. Given that all our sailing areas are very safe and secure and the local people are friendly, these sailings provide a great way for your kids to interact with locals and learn about different cultures.

We carry fishing rods and badminton nets, and often when we tether for the night on a sand bank, the crew will set up the badminton net or arrange a game of football with the locals all joining in. We carry also board games like chess, Monopoly and Scrabble to while away those long afternoons cruising. Kids also enjoy the cookery demonstrations and other onboard activities. Certain school holiday departures are designated as especially 'family friendly'.

The fact that Pandaw refers to its itineraries as river expeditions, and not simply ‘cruises’, tells you a little bit about what you can expect from your time with them. The operator specialises in trips within Asia, focussing on taking guests to countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia Laos, India and Myanmar (Burma).

Life on board is a thoroughly relaxed affair with no need for conventions such as dressing up or dining at the captain’s table. This helps to create a friendly atmosphere and an environment in which the crew offer some of the best service on the world’s rivers. In fact, the excellent ratio of one crew member to every two guests is something that brings people back time and time again.

The vast majority of itineraries are all-inclusive. There will be no need to find extra money for shore excursions and meals; even your gratuities to the dedicated crew members are covered by the price you pay before you sail. You are also free to do as you wish during your time with Pandaw, joining in with the shore excursions if you like, or choosing to stay on board and relax with a cocktail if you prefer.

The fleet of beautifully handcrafted vessels have the shallowest drafts of any ships operating in this part of the world, so you won’t be restricted by water levels at any time of year. And with profits being passed onto local community projects, you can rest assured you are travelling with an operator that cares about the destinations they visit as well as their paying guests.

Pandaw started life as the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company, in 1865. It operated along Burma’s most famous river and, by 1920, had a fleet of 650 ships; some of which were licenced to carry up to 4,000 passengers. After the Japanese invasion brought the operation to a standstill in 1942, it wasn’t until 1995 that things started up again. Paul and Roser Strachan began to charter local boats until Pandaw, as it exists today, was created three years later.

The company is named after a ship that Paul Strachan discovered in 1998. He arranged for it to be restored and this was the beginning of great things. Since then, Pandaw has expanded to many other countries within Asia, whilst also sailing the first vessels across Cambodia’s inland sea – the Tonle Sap.

Life on Board

From check-in to our Gala Farewell Dinner, we make every effort to provide you with an unparalleled cruise experience. As we invite you to “discover the art of travel your way,” we look forward to welcoming you onboard one of our awardwinning vessels and to our many inclusions on board.

Enjoy our included AMADEUS Services (applies to all cruises featured in our brochure):

Free-flowing hand-selected wines from the best wine regions, draft beer, soda as well as coffee and tea with every lunch and dinner
Bottled water in cabin
WiFi is available throughout the vessel including staterooms
Coffee and tea available 24 hours a day in the Amadeus Club

Wines

Each dinner and lunch on board is enhanced by the thoughtful pairing of red and white wines. Should you prefer to make your own selection, we maintain an onboard à la carte collection of wines to cater to individual tastes.

Onboard Fitness Centre

Every AMADEUS vessel features a state-of-the-art fitness center open 24-hours a day - and complete with the latest cardio and training equipment - for those not looking to give their abs, biceps or triceps a vacation.

Entertainment on Board

Depending on the cruise you choose, you will enjoy a variety of enriching onboard programs, including fascinating lectures, cooking demonstrations, local cultural performances, and music by our onboard musicians.

Amadeus Audio System

Included for all guided excursions: our wireless AMADEUS audio system, which supports you in a relaxed and uncomplicated way during your discovery tours. This gives you more freedom of movement - without missing anything moving.

Bicycles On Board

You can enjoy complete independence on your excursions with our free on-board bicycle hire. Of course, we will also equip you with the appropriate accessories, such as bicycle helmets and more.

Suites & Staterooms

Luxury accommodation in an outside river-view stateroom of your choice. Featuring flat-screen V, safe, climate-control and a large bathroom with shower and high-quality Rituals® bathing products, hair dryer, mirror and towels.

Our 5-star Fleet

AMADEUS proudly operate one of the youngest, most modern and luxurious fleets on European waters, and our vessels follow our tradition of innovation and excellence with a focus on modern elegance and luxurious comfort.

From our glass-protected River Terrace to the in-cabin panorama drop down windows in our Silver class vessels, the indoor pool on the ”AMADEUS Queen”, the infinity pool on the ”AMADEUS Provence”, as well as the newly refurbished and freshly beautified ”AMADEUS Brilliant”, it is all about your onboard experience and ultimate comfort as we introduce you to our European heritage and hospitality.

As a traditional family-owned Austrian company, we care about the environment as we cruise in ”our own backyard” and utilize the latest state-of-the art systems and on-board technology to maintain and sustain our rivers and environments around us.

On board the multi-award-winning AMADEUS fleet, you will experience Europe from a whole new perspective!

Gourmet Dining

Gourmet dining on board Amadeus River Cruises offers a delightful culinary journey with an array of dining options to suit every palate. Guests can begin their day with a choice of breakfast styles, from the early riser breakfast to the full buffet breakfast, or enjoy a continental breakfast for those who prefer a leisurely start.

For lunch and dinner, indulge in multi-course meals with a variety of menu choices, including vegetarian options, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. The Panorama Dining Room provides an elegant setting with its large panoramic views, enhancing the dining experience.

In addition to main meals, guests can savour afternoon tea time, complete with freshly brewed tea and delectable pastries. Complementing the culinary offerings are free-flowing hand-selected wines sourced from the best wine regions, along with draft beer and soda, served alongside every lunch and dinner on board.

Freshly baked bread and pastries add to the culinary delights, while individually prepared late-night snacks cater to those craving a midnight treat. For those planning a day of exploration, picnic lunch boxes can be arranged upon request, ensuring guests are well-fed during their adventures.

Guests can stay refreshed with bottled water available in their cabins and enjoy coffee and tea around the clock in the Amadeus Club. The dining experience is further elevated with special events such as the Welcome Cocktail Reception, Welcome Dinner, and Captain’s Gala Dinner, creating memorable moments throughout the cruise journey.

Sample Menu

Appetizer

Soup

Entree

Dessert

Small Cruise Ships

American Cruise Lines cutting-edge vessels that exemplify top-tier maritime engineering, opulent relaxation, and the utmost in river cruising convenience. Our lineup of American riverboats, paddlewheelers, and compact cruise ships features the latest in amenities, advanced navigation systems, and top-notch safety equipment.

Embarking on a voyage aboard our world-class ships means indulging in plush lounges and expansive observation decks, offering the perfect setting for travelers to unwind and engage with like-minded enthusiasts of American heritage. Encased in glass, the dining salons afford sweeping, unobstructed vistas of the breathtaking scenery that graces every journey with American Cruise Lines.

Our roomy staterooms stand as the most spacious within the realm of small cruise ships. These hotel-style accommodations boast generous picture windows that bathe the rooms in natural light, capacious bathrooms, and many even include private, furnished balconies. Whether your travels lead to charming small towns or gracious southern ports, the American Cruise Lines fleet ensures you reach your desired destination in opulence and ease. For solo travelers, single occupancy options are available across all our vessels, and we also have rooms designed to accommodate three passengers comfortably.

Gracious Amenities

Our contemporary array of small cruise ships and riverboats are meticulously crafted to ensure guest comfort. These state-of-the-art vessels offer guests a private sanctuary while granting unobstructed views of the picturesque surroundings. Each stateroom category boasts some of the most generous space in the industry, serving as an ideal retreat following a fulfilling day of activities.

Daily Entertainment

Musicians, historians, and naturalists join every cruise, creating an entertaining onboard experience.

Spacious Amenities

The largest staterooms of any cruise ship. And with interior entrances, every view is entirely private.

Exquisite Cuisine

Locally sourced and regionally inspired cuisine, prepared by our master chefs.

All-American Experience

American built, flagged, and crewed ships. 35 cruise itineraries to 25 states in America.

Gracious Hospitality

Attentive and personalized service is the hallmark of American Cruise Lines.

Private Balconies

Sliding glass doors lead to spacious private balconies offering panoramic river views from every angle.

Cuisine

American Cruise Line adept culinary experts curate an authentic American menu infused with regional influences, highlighting the freshest local ingredients. Every day, they source fresh produce, directly from the farms and vineyards we explore during your journey. Through American Cruise Lines gastronomic initiative, they seamlessly intertwine your onboard adventure with the essence of the places you traverse.

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