Kha Byoo Pandaw

Deals

Showcasing the graceful curved lines of a colonial-styled paddle steamer, the Kha Byoo Pandaw is one of the smallest river ships in Myanmar. With just 10 cabins, she has a very intimate atmosphere, while her shallow-draft design allows access from Mandalay to Bhamo, the most northern navigable point of the Irrawaddy, close to the border of China—but given the political situation in Myanmar, she is currently sailing the lesser explored Irrawaddy Delta, with round trip itineraries from Rangoon to Bassein.

Life On Board

The ship has two walk-around passenger decks, with five cabins situated on the Upper Deck and five on the Main Deck, all measuring 170 square feet and finished in teak and brass. All have en-suite bathrooms and all are equipped with air-conditioning, French windows and twin beds, with some that convert to doubles. Also provided are desks and safes, as well as bathrobes, hair dryers and slippers.

Leisure time is spent on the aft section of the covered Upper Deck, where you’ll find teak loungers and wicker furniture. As you immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the river, you will be captivated by the great panoramas and the unceasing human and wildlife activity unfolding around you.

Enrichment activities consist of talks from on-board guides, documentaries complementing the boat’s itinerary, mainstream movies, cooking classes, and cultural dance performances. Mini-DVD players are available and a selection of DVDs can be found in the library. Be sure to take advantage of the open-bridge policy; this is the Captain’s Deck where the weather and charts are studied, where plans for the journey are decided and where the magic happens.

Meals are served bistro-style outdoors or indoors on the Upper Deck, affording backdrops of floodlit golden stupas and passing vessels, as well as sounds from the nearby villages. Breakfast is buffet style but preceded by coffee, tea and light bites for early risers. Lunch is served either buffet style or standard sit-down, while dinners are four-course affairs featuring fresh, regional and seasonal produce. Coffee, tea, soft drinks, beer and domestic spirits are complimentary and served at the bar/library on the Upper Deck.

Shore Activities

There are mountain bikes on board for independent exploration of the scenic Burmese countryside and friendly villages at your own pace. At each river stop, the crew will advise you on the best routes to follow and, if required, a member of the crew will accompany you on your cycling adventures.

The Kha Byoo Pandaw cruise offers a brilliant educational experience for youngsters, providing a great way for your kids to interact with locals and learn about Burmese culture. Fishing rods and badminton nets are carried on board, as well as board games. Certain school holiday departures are designated as especially ‘family friendly’ too, but very voyage is an adventure for couples, solo travelers, friends and families alike.