2
Upper Deck Suite
US
Overview
Built in Rangoon in 2002 she was sailed round to Saigon under her own power and many a drama described in Paul Strachan’s Pandaw Story. This ship was designed specially for the Mekong and unlike our other P class ships does not have a flying bridge. The reason was so she could get under a road bridge. She did actually scrape under on her maiden but it was so scary that Paul Strachan, then standing on the bridge, never dared attempt it again. As a result, we ended up with this incredible 750 square meter teak deck that even has a full size billiard table.
The MP as she is affectionately known is our most spacious ship with wider promenades, a larger dining hall and more public space per passenger than any known ship afloat. Seriously!
In 2012 she was refitted and lower deck cabins removed in favour of a professional spa, gym, library lounge and office. She is quite justifiably the most splendid ship on the Mekong and the envy of anything that floats by.
The ship has quality mountain bikes for your independent exploration.
For 2021, the RV Mekong was refurbished to add 2 brand new suites, offering private balcony and lounge area for even more space and comfort on your expedition.
Suites
2
5
Upper Deck
U
4
Main Deck
M
Dining
15
Restaurant
Regional
Restaurant
Regional
Life on board
Sun Deck
Sun Deck
Sun Deck bar with complimentary ice cream from sunrise to sunse and an incredible 750 square meter teak deck that even has a full size billiard table.
Library
Library
Library with contemporary and classic literature.
Observation Saloon
Lounge
There is an observation saloon at the front of the ship.
Activities
Local Entertainment
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. …
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.
Shop
Shop
Shop, supporting fair trade.
Cycling
Bikes
There is no better way to explore a country than by bike. All our ships in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Burma carry trek mountain bikes for guest use. Guests have the chance to opt out of our scheduled excursions and explore villages, temples and the countryside on two wheels (no extra charge and no prebooking necessary).
Excursions
Excursions
With small group sizes and expert local guides, guests are invited to go beyond the typical tourist trail and explore daily life in rural communities. Each experience is thoughtfully curated to showcase the diversity of each region while allowing plenty of time to absorb it all at a relaxed pace. Excursions are included in your sailing and are designed to be flexible, with options available for different levels of mobility and interest. Highlight …
Excursions
With small group sizes and expert local guides, guests are invited to go beyond the typical tourist trail and explore daily life in rural communities. Each experience is thoughtfully curated to showcase the diversity of each region while allowing plenty of time to absorb it all at a relaxed pace. Excursions are included in your sailing and are designed to be flexible, with options available for different levels of mobility and interest.
Highlights of Pandaw excursions often include:
- Guided walks through riverside towns and local markets
- Visits to historical sites and temples
- Artisan demonstrations in traditional crafts
- Bicycle rides through scenic countryside (by request where available)
- Speedboat or sampan excursions into jungle backwaters
- Opportunities to meet with local community members and visit Pandaw Clinics projects
Spa
Spa
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.
Gym
Gym
There is also a small, well-equipped gym on board.
Family Friendly Cruises
Children's Activity
On board, there’s plenty to keep young explorers engaged—from cookery demonstrations to classic board games. We also carry badminton nets, often setting them up when moored for the night, creating opportunities for fun and connection between crew, kids, and locals alike. Certain school holiday departures are specially designated as 'family friendly', making it easier than ever to enjoy a relaxed yet enriching journey across some of Asia’s m …
Family Friendly Cruises
On board, there’s plenty to keep young explorers engaged—from cookery demonstrations to classic board games. We also carry badminton nets, often setting them up when moored for the night, creating opportunities for fun and connection between crew, kids, and locals alike. Certain school holiday departures are specially designated as 'family friendly', making it easier than ever to enjoy a relaxed yet enriching journey across some of Asia’s most fascinating waterways. And to make your family adventure even more accessible, one or two children aged 5 to 18 can travel for free on most departures (excluding the RV Kalay Pandaw).
Deck plans
Upper Deck
- Observation Saloon
- Upper Deck Staterooms
Main Deck
- Gallery
- Store
- Dining Room
- Main Deck Staterooms
Lower Deck
- Gym
- Cinema
- Office
- Library
- Gift Shop
- Spa
