Overview
With the graceful curved lines of an old-fashioned paddle steamer, finished in brass and teak, the Mekong Pandaw is a colonial-style riverboat offering a leisurely meander along the calm waters of the Mekong through the most iconic and fascinating parts of Vietnam and Cambodia. The Mekong Pandaw has been designed with an ultra-shallow draft, allowing her to travel through low water and areas that would be unreachable by deeper-drafted boats.
The ship has 24, identical, teak-lined, 70-sq-ft cabins, offering twin beds (some converting to doubles) all with premium mattresses, quality linens, duvets, and two kinds of pillows. Each cabin is fitted with air-conditioning, a spacious wardrobe, electronic safe box, writing desk, under-bed storage and an en-suite bathroom with a natural stone shower, bathrobes, hairdryers and branded amenities. All-encompassing French-balcony windows bring mesmerizing views of the Mekong River right into your bedroom.
Dine on board on tasty Vietnamese and Cambodian cuisine as well as traditional European fare and vegetarian dishes. Breakfast is a buffet, and lunch is a mix of soup and salad at the buffet with mains served at the tables. Dinner is table served. Cruises of seven nights or more offer two themed dinners in addition to the farewell gala dinner.
The dining room is a convertible open-air space, with retractable walls that only close at night. Enjoy cocktails or a tipple from the extensive premium wine list, with entertainment, in the air-conditioned bar.
Traveling on the Mekong Pandaw cruise is essentially an outdoor experience, with guests choosing to spend time sitting in the open air on the promenade decks or on the vast Observation Deck above, purported giving the vessel the largest public space to passenger ratio of any cruise ship in the world! Unlike other cruise ships, every window (except the portholes on the Lower Deck) can open. 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.
With a crew-to-passenger ratio of one-to-two, you can expect to receive highly attentive service. Most of the activity on board is geared toward quiet pursuits; on the Sun Deck, you will find a billiard table and sun loungers for your pleasure. You can also curl up with a good book in the stylish library, admire local artists’ work in the art gallery, work up a sweat and an appetite in the well-equipped gym, or surrender to an aromatherapy massage or a traditional Southeast Asian spa treatment.
Enrichment activities consist of talks from on-board guides, documentaries complementing the boat’s itinerary, mainstream movies, cooking classes, and cultural dance performances.
Shore excursions on the Mekong Pandaw river cruise include explorations of local markets with the on-board chef, guided walks with the resident regional expert, river and jungle trips by speedboat, or city sightseeing trips via ‘cyclos’ (three-wheeled rickshaws) in Cambodia.
The Mekong Pandaw cruise is a delightful way for you and your partner, your family or friends to explore two countries, and discover the diverse contrasts of two cultures and two ways of life linked by one great river.
Itineraries & Prices
All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.
Embarkation
AM: Morning transfer by coach from the FCC Angkor by Avani hotel to your Pandaw moored at Kampong Cham. The transfer will depart at 10:00. and takes approx. 4 hours.
PM: Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Mekong and meet your crew for the next 3 nights.
Angkor Ban Village Walks - Silk Island
AM: In the morning we visit Angkor Ban and a local Cambodian school where the local library was built with the support of Pandaw and our guests. Guests are encouraged to bring books to donate to the library for children to read.
PM: After lunch, we study the entire silk-making process from worms to weavers as we visit 'Silk Island'. After learning about the silk process there will be a demonstration of the ancient Khmer martial art of Bokator.
Oudong - Kampong Tralach
AM: In the morning, travel by coach to the ancient capital of Cambodia, Oudong. On the way, we stop to visit the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre before taking a drive around the city. Rejoin your ship in Kampong Tralach for lunch aboard.
PM: In the afternoon we travel by ox-cart around the river-side villages, markets, and temples. In the evening cocktails are around a village fire pit where we will be joined by village folk keen to show us their traditional dancing and more of the delightful Khmer culture.
Disembarkation
AM: After breakfast, disembark your Pandaw Expedition in Cambodia's capital Phnom Penh.
Embarkation
AM: Transfer from Saigon to the river port for embarkation.
PM: After lunch, we journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards of Ben Tre. This is an area rich in birdlife which we will explore via local transport before transferring to a local rowboat. We will journey slowly through the bamboo covered canals before arriving at a village specialising in making local products. In the evening you will be entertained by a Vietnamese dance troupe on deck.
Con Phuoc
AM: Sailing through the delta offers a real insight into life along this vast waterway.
PM: After lunch, we pass through a small canal and head ashore to Con Phuoc Island where we visit local craftspeople weaving bamboo baskets the traditional way. After a demonstration, we try our hand at making our own. We then take a local tuk tuk for a drive through this peaceful village, stopping at a 100-year-old church and meeting more of the friendly local community. After onboard lunch, the ship sails to Tan Chau for overnight.
Chau Doc - Vietnam/Cambodia Border
AM: In the morning, taking minivans for a short drive to Sam Mountain, location of Phuoc Dien Tu or the Hang Pagoda. We climb the 400 steps to the top to visit the pagoda. Then we go alongside at the picturesque border town of Chau Doc where we visit the floating fish farms by sampan. We make a stop at a Chham Village and observe the lives of Vietnamese Muslims. Lion dance is presented at the Cham Village.
PM: Upon return to ship, we navigate a web of canals before dropping anchor on the Vietnam/Cambodia border to undergo Immigration formalities.
Disembarkation
AM: After breakfast, disembark your Pandaw Expedition in Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh.
Embarkation
PM: Check-in to your cruise at 11:00am and enjoy lunch onboard. In the afternoon we visit the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum to learn more about the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. Overnight in Phnom Penh city port with its lively bars, restaurants and night life.
Please note: Your cabin may not be available until early afternoon.
Vietnam Border - Chau Doc
AM & PM: We up anchor early in the morning and cruise downstream along the Mekong River to the Vietnam border for immigration formalities. The ship sails to Chau Doc then. Evening lion dance takes place onboard.
Chau Doc - Con Phuoc Island
AM: In the morning, taking minivans for a short drive to Sam Mountain, location of Phuoc Dien Tu or the Hang Pagoda. We climb the 400 steps to the top to visit the pagoda. Then we go alongside at the picturesque border town of Chau Doc where we visit the floating fish farms by sampan. We make a stop at a Chham Village and observe the lives of Vietnamese Muslims.
PM: After onboard lunch, the ship sails to Con Phuoc for the shore excursion. We pass through a small canal and head ashore to Con Phuoc Island where we visit local craftspeople weaving bamboo baskets the traditional way. After a demonstration, we try our hand at making our own. We then take a local tuk tuk for a drive through this peaceful village, stopping at a 100 year old church and meeting more of the friendly local community. Ship sails to Sa Dec for an overnight.
Ben Tre - My Tho
AM: Ship sails to Ben Tre for a shore excursion. After lunch, we journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards of Ben Tre. This is an area rich in birdlife which we will explore via local transport before transferring to a local rowboat. We will journey slowly through the bamboo covered canals before arriving at a village specializing in making local products.
PM: Ship sails and docks in My Tho pier. In the evening you will be entertained by a Vietnamese dance troupe on deck.
Disembarkation
AM: Morning disembarkation and travel by coach from My Tho to Saigon.
Embarkation
PM: Passengers can embark on the ship between 12.30 and 13.30. Rest of day at leisure. Overnight in Phnom Penh city port with its lively bars, restaurants, and night life.
Kampong Tralach
AM: Morning at leisure in Phnom Penh with its café life and many smart boutiques.
PM: After lunch, we sail up the winding channels of the Tonle Sap river to Kampong Tralach. We travel by ox-cart around the river-side villages, markets, and temples to get a sense of life along the river. In the evening cocktails are around a village fire pit where we will be joined by village folk keen to show us their traditional dancing and show us more of the delightful Khmer culture.
Oudong - Silk Island
AM: In the morning, travel by coach to the ancient capital of Cambodia, Oudong. On the way, we stop to visit the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre before taking a drive around the old capital. We re-join our ship at Prek Kdam before returning to the Mekong.
PM: After lunch, we sail to Koh Nghe Tei (Silk Island) to study the entire silk-making process from worms to weavers. We visit silk makers and can buy from them their lovely silk scarves and other fabrics. This village is a center of the ancient martial art of L’bokator which roughly translates as 'pounding a lion. It includes weapons techniques and is one of the oldest combat techniques in Cambodia and is believed to date back to the Angkor empire.
Wat Hanchey - Angkor Ban Village Visit
AM: Sunrise cruise to Angkor Ban village to see how local villagers live and visit the library which was donated by Pandaw to Angkor Ban secondary school.
PM: In the afternoon we sail north to Wat Hanchey, an important center of worship during the Chenla period located on top of a hill above the mighty Mekong River with some of the best Mekong views in Cambodia. Visit 8th-century structures some destroyed by American bombings during the Vietnam War.
Disembarkation
AM: Disembark and travel by coach from Kampong Cham through stunningly lovely countryside to reach Siem Reap, adjacent to Angkor Wat. Arriving mid-afternoon (approx. 13.30). Transfer by coach from Kampong Cham to Siem Reap takes approx 4 hours.
Embarkation
AM: Morning pick up from your hotel in Siem Reap to travel through the local countryside, skirting the Tonle Sap Lake, before arriving in Kampong Cham to embark on your Pandaw vessel and the commencement of your adventure.
Note :
Morning transfer by coach from the FCC Angkor by Avani hotel to your Pandaw moored at Kampong Cham. The transfer will depart at 10:00. and takes approx. 4 hours.
Angkor Ban Village Walks - Silk Island
AM: In the morning we visit Angkor Ban and a local Cambodian school where the local library was built with the support of Pandaw and our guests. Guests are encouraged to bring books to donate to the library for children to read.
PM: After lunch, we study the entire silk-making process from worms to weavers as we visit 'Silk Island'. After learning about the silk process there will be a demonstration of the ancient Khmer martial art of Bokator.
Oudong - Kampong Tralach
AM: In the morning, travel by coach to the ancient capital of Cambodia, Oudong. On the way, we stop to visit the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre before taking a drive around the city. Rejoin your ship in Kampong Tralach for lunch aboard.
PM: In the afternoon we travel by ox-cart around the river-side villages, markets, and temples. In the evening cocktails are around a village fire pit where we will be joined by village folk keen to show us their traditional dancing and more of the delightful Khmer culture.
Phnom Penh
AM: Morning orientation of Phnom Penh by cyclo visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda followed by the National Museum with its marvelous collection of Angkorian statuary.
PM: In the afternoon we visit the Killing Fields and Genocide museum to learn more about the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. Overnight in Phnom Penh city port with its lively bars, restaurants, and nightlife.
Cambodia/Vietnam Border-Chau Doc
AM: We up anchor early morning and cruise downstream along the Mekong River to the Vietnam border with Vietnam for immigration formalities. We go alongside the picturesque border town of Chau Doc where we visit the floating markets & fish farms by sampan.
PM: We make a stop at a Chham Village and observe the lives of Vietnamese Muslims before taking minivans for a short drive to Sam Mountain, the location of Phuoc Dien Tu or the Hang Pagoda. We climb the 400 steps to the top to visit the pagoda.
Gao Giong
AM: Sailing through the delta offers a real insight into life along this vast waterway.
PM: After lunch, a short coach journey through the lush countryside to Gao Giong ‘green oasis’, a 1,000-acre eucalyptus forest and listed wildlife sanctuary. Here a diverse selection of water birds and egrets gather in their tens of thousands across the Duong Tharp Muoi or ‘Plain of Reeds’. Rowboats traverse the canals to take us to view the principal nesting areas where photo opportunities abound.
Ben Tre
PM: After lunch, we journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards of Ben Tre. This is an area rich in birdlife which we will explore via local transport before transferring to a local rowboat. We will journey slowly through the bamboo-covered canals before arriving at a village specializing in making local products. In the evening you will be entertained by a Vietnamese dance troupe on deck.
Disembarkation
AM: We disembark our Pandaw Boat and travel by coach from My Tho City through the countryside to your hotel in Saigon.
Embarkation
AM: Pick up from your city hotel or airport for the road trip from Saigon to My Tho City on the mighty Mekong River to embark on your Pandaw Vessel and the commencement of your adventure.
PM: After lunch, we travel by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards of Ben Tre. This is an area rich in birdlife which we will explore via local transport before transferring to a local rowboat. We will journey slowly through the bamboo-covered canals before arriving at a village specializing in coconut candy & rice wine. Here you can view the process of manufacturing these specialties and try them for yourself including the local "Moonshine." In the evening you will be entertained by a Vietnamese Cultural Group highlighting “Life on the Mekong Delta”.
Note :
Transfer from your hotel in Saigon to the port of My Tho by small group transfer to embark cruise.
Pick-up will be between 09:30 am and 11:00 am. Our representative will call you on the evening before or leave a message with the hotel to reconfirm the exact pick-up time.
Gao Giong
AM: A morning of sailing through the delta provides an insight into life along this mighty waterway.
PM: After lunch, a short coach journey through the lush countryside to Gao Giong ‘green oasis’, a 1,000-acre eucalyptus forest and listed wildlife sanctuary. Here a diverse selection of water birds and egrets gather in their tens of thousands across the Duong Tharp Muoi or ‘Plain of Reeds’. Rowboats traverse the canals to take us to view the principal nesting areas where photo opportunities abound.
Chau Doc, Sam Mountain & Vietnam/Cambodia Border
AM: Our boat docks alongside the picturesque border town of Chau Doc where we visit the famous floating markets & fish farms by Sampan. We make a stop at a local Chham Village and observe the lives of these local Vietnamese Muslims before boarding minivans for a short drive to Sam Mountain, location of Phuoc Dien Tu or the Hang Pagoda. We climb the 400 steps to the top to visit the pagoda, proclaimed an 'official historic monument' on 10th July 1980 by the Ministry of Culture and Information of Vietnam.
PM: Upon return to our boat, we cruise the local canals before dropping anchor on the Vietnam/Cambodia Border to undergo Immigration Formalities.
Phnom Penh
AM: We dock in the Cambodian Capital of Phnom Penh where we will partake in a morning orientation of the city by cyclo, visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda followed by the National Museum with its marvelous collection of Angkorian statuary.
PM: In the afternoon, we visit the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum to learn about the tragic history of the area and the local people. Optional half-day and full-day tours are available during our stay in Phnom Penh at extra cost. Please contact us in advance or see your in-cabin information manual for further details. Overnight in Phnom Penh city port with its lively bars, restaurants, and nightlife.
Kampong Tralach
AM: Morning at leisure in Phnom Penh with its café life and many smart boutiques.
PM: After lunch, we sail up the winding channels of the Tonle Sap river to Kampong Tralach. We travel by ox-cart around the river-side villages, markets, and temples to get a sense of life along the river. In the evening cocktails are around a village fire pit where we will be joined by village folk keen to show us their traditional dancing and show us more of the delightful Khmer culture.
Oudong - Silk Island
AM: In the morning, travel by coach to the ancient capital of Cambodia, Oudong. On the way, we stop to visit the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre before taking a drive around the old capital. We re-join our ship at Prek Kdam before returning to the Mekong.
PM: After lunch, we sail to Koh Nghe Tei (Silk Island) to study the entire silk-making process from worms to weavers. We visit silk makers and can buy from them their lovely silk scarves and other fabrics. This village is a center of the ancient martial art of L’bokator which roughly translates as 'pounding a lion. It includes weapons techniques and is one of the oldest combat techniques in Cambodia and is believed to date back to the Angkor empire.
Wat Hanchey - Angkor Ban Village Visit
AM: Sunrise cruise to Angkor Ban village to see how local villagers live and visit the library which was donated by Pandaw to Angkor Ban secondary school.
PM: In the afternoon we sail north to Wat Hanchey, an important center of worship during the Chenla period located on top of a hill above the mighty Mekong River with some of the best Mekong views in Cambodia. Visit 8th-century structures some destroyed by American bombings during the Vietnam War.
Disembarkation
AM: We disembark our Pandaw Boat and travel by coach from Kampong Cham through the countryside before arriving in the historical town of Siem Reap, home to the famous Angkor Wat.
Note :
Early morning coach transfer to the FCC Angkor by Avani hotel in Siem Reap, arriving mid-afternoon (approx. 13.30). Transfer by coach from Kampong Cham to Siem Reap takes approx 4 hours.
Embarkation
AM: After a short 45-minute drive to Siem Reap inland port, we embark and set sail into the Tonle Sap Lake. Bird life along the lake’s edges is profuse and look out for the grey headed fish eagle. Crocodiles and snakes abound in these shallow waters which are home to the giant Mekong catfish, the largest ever caught being 648 punds in May 2004. There are 148 other species of fish in the lake which provide the main source of protein for the entire Cambodian population.
PM: In the afternoon we visit a floating village and learn more about life on the lake.
Tonle Sap - Kampong Chhnang
AM & PM: Continue crossing this tranquil lake before reaching Kampong Chhnang, an important trading town that focusses on fishing and creating local pottery. We explore the back waters by local boat before returning to the boat and sailing downstream to moor alongside a remote fishing village where we enjoy evening cocktails around the campfire with the village people.
Kampong Tralach
AM: Arriving in the morning to Kampong Trallach, we travel by oxcart around the river-side villages, markets and temples to get a sense of life along the river.
PM: After lunch we visit the ancient capital of Oudong and discover the Vipassana Dhura meditation center before mooring alongside Koh Chen, a silversmith village know for furnishing the royal families for centuries.
Phnom Penh
AM: Morning orientation of Phnom Penh by cycle visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda followed by the National Museum with its marvelous collection of Angkorian statuary.
PM: In the afternoon we visit the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum to learn more about the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. Overnight in Phnom Penh city port with its lively bars, restaurants and night life.
Angkor Ban
AM & PM: Sunrise cruise to Angkor Ban village to see how local villagers live and visit the library which was donated by Pandaw to Angkor Ban secondary school.
NOTE: if you want to donate books, please bring along some Children’s books in English language (suitable for age 8 to 15 yrs) which you can personally gift to the library.
Koh Trong Island
AM: Visit Koh trong Island, a community-based tourism site since 2008. We explore the fruit orchards and sample the local delicacies before we head to a community tree project and plant trees together with the local people.
PM: Moor overnight alongside the island.
Kratie & The Dolphins
AM & PM: Morning excursion by coach and smapan to hopefully spot the Irrawaddy dolphins abundant in the waters below Stuc Treng. This is a real highlight of the expedition.
Con Phuoc
AM & PM: Today the ship sails to Con Phuoc for the shore excursion. We pass through a small canal and head ashore to Con Phuoc Island where we visit local craftspeople weaving bamboo baskets the traditional way. After a demonstration, we try our hand at making our own. We then take a local tuk tuk for a drive through this peaceful village, stopping at a 100 year old church and meeting more of the friendly local community.
Border Crossing - Chau Doc
AM & PM: We cross into Vietnam by the river border in the morning before going alongside the picturesque border town of Chau Doc in the afternoon. Taking minivans for a short drive to Sam Mountain, location of Phuoc Dien Tu or the Hang Pagoda. We climb the steps to the top to visit the pagoda with breath-taking viewpoints available along the way for those who do not want to climb the full distance. We then return to the river and visit the floating fish farms by sampan, making a stop at a Chham Village on the way to observe the lives of Vietnamese Muslims. A traditional Lion dance is presented at the Cham Village.
Ben Tre
AM: Today we journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards of Ben Tre. This is an area rich in birdlife which we will explore via local transport before transferring to a local rowboat. We will journey slowly through the bamboo covered canals before arriving at a village specializing in making local products.
PM: We sail the afternoon through the Chao Gao canal on the way to central Saigon, entering the city and enjoying a sunset dinner cruise along the Saigon River before we dock centrally. Please note we will be unable to leave the ship during this evening due to immigration formalities.
Disembarkation
AM: After breakfast, disembark in the heart of Saigon for your onward journey.
Embarkation
PM: Embark 1200 at Saigon city port and sail according to the tide for My Tho passing through a complex network of shipping canals linking the Saigon River with the Mekong itself.
Ben Tre
AM: Today we journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards of Ben Tre. This is an area rich in birdlife which we will explore via local transport before transferring to a local rowboat. We will journey slowly through the bamboo covered canals before arriving at a village specializing in making local products.
PM: In the evening you will be entertained by a Vietnamese dance troupe on deck.
Chau Doc - Vietnam/Cambodia Border
AM: In the morning, we go alongside at the picturesque border town of Chau Doc. Taking minivans for a short drive to Sam Mountain, location of Phuoc Dien Tu or the Hang Pagoda. We climb the steps to the top to visit the pagoda with breath-taking viewpoints available along the way for those who do not want to climb the full distance. We then return to the river and visit the floating fish farms by sampan, making a stop at a Chham Village on the way to observe the lives of Vietnamese Muslims. A traditional Lion dance is presented at the Cham Village.
PM: Upon return to ship, we navigate a web of canals before dropping anchor on the Vietnam/Cambodia border to undergo Immigration formalities.
Angkor Ban Village
AM & PM: Sunrise cruise to Angkor Ban village to see how local villagers live and visit the library which was donated by Pandaw to Angkor Ban secondary school.
NOTE: if you want to donate books, please bring along some Children’s books in English language (suitable for age 8 to 15 yrs) which you can personally gift to the library.
Koh Trong Island
AM: Visit Koh trong Island, a community-based tourism site since 2008. We explore the fruit orchards and sample the local delicacies before we head to a community tree project and plant trees together with the local people.
PM: Moor overnight alongside the island.
Kratie & The Dolphins
AM & PM: Morning excursion by coach and sampan to spot the Irrawaddy dolphins abundant in the waters below Stuc Treng. Whilst numbers have increased in recent years, they remain endangered and we learn more about the work of locals to support dolphin numbers and how Pandaw is supporting. This is a real highlight of the expedition.
Phnom Penh
AM: Morning orientation of Phnom Penh by cycle visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda followed by the National Museum with its marvelous collection of Angkorian statuary.
PM: In the afternoon we visit the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum to learn more about the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. Overnight in Phnom Penh city port with its lively bars, restaurants and night life.
Kampong Tralach – Tonle Lake
AM: We leave the dock at Phnom Penh early morning and sail up the winding channels of the Tonle River to Kampong Tralach. We travel by ox-cart around the river-side villages, markets and temples to get a sense of life along the river.
PM: In the evening cocktails are round a village fire pit where we will be joined by village folk keen to show us their traditional dancing show us more of the delightful Khmer culture.
Kampong Chhnang - Tonle Sap
AM & PM: By local boat we explore the backwaters with fish farms around this important trading town. In the wetlands around the mouth of the lake are elaborate bamboo fish traps. Returning to ship, enter the Tonle Sap to moor overnight in open waters savoring the peace and tranquility of this lake that in high water covers 6,200 miles and in low water shrinks to 1,000 square miles.
Tonle Sap
AM & PM: Continue the traverse of the great lake stopping to visit a floating village and reaching Siem Reap inland port in the evening. Bird life along the lake’s edges is profuse and look out for the grey headed fish eagle. Crocodiles and snakes abound in these shallow waters which are home to the giant Mekong catfish, the largest ever caught being 648 pounds in May 2004. There are 148 other species of fish in the lake which provide the main source of protein for the entire Cambodian population.
Disembarkation
AM: Disembark Siem Reap Port and transfer the short distance to Siem Reap city by car.
Embarkation
Please note: the Upper Mekong cruise is aboard the Mekong's sister-ship the Champa Pandaw
AM: Transfer from hotels in Siem Reap to Kampong Cham with a refreshment stop at Kampong Thom along the way.
PM: Board ship in the afternoon and cruise upstream on the Mekong. Late afternoons go ashore to see Wat Hanchey an important centre of worship on top of a hill above the Mekong with good river panoramas. Of great interest are the Chenla Period temples dating from the 8th century, some destroyed by American bombing during the Vietnam War. Overnight Wat Hancheay.
Chhalong - Koh Trong
AM: Morning walk to explore this former French provincial center with its many splendid belle epoch mansions and lively market.
PM: Overnight on the delightful Koh Trong Island where passengers can plant their own trees. Sandbank dinner.
Kratie & The Dolphins
AM & PM: From Kratie travel further upstream by a rustic bus to view the dolphin grounds from local boats in a national park protected area.
Kampong Cham - Angkor Ban
AM: Downstream to Kampong Cham and travel by bus to Chiro Village with an extensive education centre offering vocational training. Other activities here include plastic recycling, bee keeping, farming and handicraft making projects. On to the Wat Nokor Bachey dating back to the Jayarvaman VII period. Built completely from a black sandstone unlike other temples of this period.
PM: Evening walk at Angkor Ban a typical Khmer village with a library donated by Pandaw passengers.
Phnom Penh
AM: All passengers will be provided with their own private cyclo. The Cyclo Centre Phnom Penh, which provides the cyclos is a charity that provides basic welfare and medical services to cyclo drivers. You will visit the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and National Museum.
PM: In the afternoon we visit the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum to learn more about the brutal Khmer Rouge regime.
Oudong - Kampong Chhanang
AM: After a short morning cruise along the Tonle River disembark at Prek Kdam and travel by coach to a former capital, Oudong. On the way visit the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre for a morning of relaxation & meditation before taking a drive around the old capital.
PM: Continue up the Tonle river to Kampong Chhanang where the river is at its most beautiful and heaving with life. Then explore the wetlands around the lake’s mouth rich in birdlife.
Cambodia/Vietnam Border - Chau Doc
AM & PM: After crossing the border into Vietnam in the morning. Visit a Moslem Cham tribal village and a catfish farm in Chau Doc with a guide or do your own thing and take one of our mountain bikes and explore the local market or visit the splendid Catholic Church.
Tan Chau
AM & PM: Explore the labyrinthine canal system around Tan Chau to visit a Taoist temple where the monks will read fortunes. Continue through local villages by Xi Loi stopping off to help locals tend their fields before stopping off to visit a fish farm and earn merit by releasing fish back into the Mekong.
Gao Giong
AM: After a short sail downstream, travel a short distance by coach to the Gao Giong ‘green oasis’ with its bird sanctuary. Here a diverse selection of water birds and egrets that gather in the tens of thousands across the Duong Tharp Muoi or ‘Plain of Reeds’. Rowing boats traverse the canals to visit the principal nesting areas.
PM: In the afternoon visit Con Phuoc Island and go ashore to explore by tuk-tuk to see basket production and visit a 100-year-old Catholic Church and local carpentry shops.
Sa Dec - BenTre
AM: Sail early to Sa Dec which has an interesting market and the traditional Vietnamese house of Mr. Huyn Thuy Le, the 'lover' of Marguerite Duras, a famous French novelist whose book was immortalized in the film L’Indochine. There is a fine catholic church here too.
PM: Afternoon sampan exploration of the Delta’s backwaters and labyrinthine canal system.
My Tho - Saigon
AM: Early morning sail to My Tho Port and disembark after breakfast for your transfer to Saigon. Head to the airport for your flight to Vientiane.
PM: Upon arrival our guide will be waiting to take you to your hotel for the evening.
Vientiane
AM: Pick up from your hotel in Vientiane at 08.00am, followed by a local long-tail boat expedition to your Pandaw vessel upstream.
PM: Lunch and drinks will be provided on the local boat by your Pandaw chef and bar staff. Embark your Pandaw in the afternoon for a welcome briefing and welcome drinks. We moor overnight at Pak Lay.
Cruise The Mekong
AM: Cruise upstream on the Mekong, passing lush jungle scenery and tiny riverside villages. Morning presentation on the Lao language after a short walk at Pha Laeb village.
PM: If time permits, we will also enjoy an afternoon walk at Ban Khok Fark.
Xayabouri Dam
AM: Morning walk at Ban Pak Bor Khummu village before passing through Xayabouri Hydroelectric Dam, taking an inside look of the workings of this somewhat controversial attraction as we navigate the locks.
PM: Afternoon visit to Ban Na San village, a Hmong minority village.
Kuang Si Waterfalls
AM: In the morning we moor at the village of Ban Mouang Khai and visit the dramatic Kaung Si waterfall. On the way back to the ship, we stop at the Laos Buffalo Farm, a social enterprise utilizing the abundant buffalo in Laos.
PM: Arrive in the heart of the temple city of Luang Prabang mid-afternoon where there is a buzzing night market and many great cafes and local restaurants. Traditional Laos Bacci ceremony and dancing on the upper deck during happy hour. Moor overnight in central Luang Prabang.
Luang Prabang Craft & Culture
AM: Today we explore the various handicrafts of Laos in more detail. We start with Ock Pop Tok, a social enterprise providing sustainable employment and training for the women of local weaving villages. We then head to TAEC (Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre) to understand more about Laos musical instruments. After lunch aboard the ship, we sail toward Ban Chan and take part in a pottery demonstration at the local pottery workshop.
PM: We finish the day with a sunset cruise on the Mekong alongside Luang Prabang, returning to moor overnight in the centre of town.
Luang Prabang
AM: Early morning walking tour to observe the alms offerings to the hundreds of monks who walk around the city every morning. We continue after breakfast to the morning market before taking tuktuks for a city tour of this well preserved and unique world heritage site with its many Buddhist temples, libraries and royal palace.
PM: The afternoon is free to explore the beauty and unique atmosphere of Luang Prabang.
Pak Ou Caves
AM: Morning at leisure in Luang Prabang before setting sail at midday upstream.
PM: Afternoon sightseeing by local boat exploring the unique Pak Ou Caves, a Buddhist sanctuary with spectacular limestone cliff faces. See the production of local Laos whisky at the Whisky village and shop for locally produced handicrafts.
Ban Ton and Sandbank BBQ
AM: Day of sailing upstream along the Mekong with morning walk through Ban Ton village.
PM: In the evening, we moor alongside a sandbank for a special riverside barbecue and cocktail party. Light paper lanterns with the crew and enjoy a dance in remote Laos.
Pak Beng Elephant Sanctuary
AM: Laos is known as ‘The land of a million elephants’ and today we will visit a rescue sanctuary that is helping to preserve the elephants of Laos and provide sustainable alternative employment for Mahouts who once trained and rode these beautiful creatures.
PM: Afternoon walk at Ban Pak Sith Khummu village.
Pak Sith - Chiang Khong
AM: Today we sail the final leg of our journey upstream toward Huayxay. Cross over into Thailand via the Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge before rejoining your ship in Chiang Khong.
PM: Enjoy a ship tour of your Pandaw vessel and fruit carving demonstration from your Pandaw Chef. Farewell cocktails and Thai traditional dance on board for your last evening.
Disembarkation
AM: Disembark by 8.30 in Chiang Khong and group transfer to hotel/airport. En route, explore the Golden Triangle including a visit to the opium museum. Continue to airports or city hotels in Chiang Rai (2 hours) and Chiang Mai (6 hours).
Accommodations
Social Areas
Suites & Cabins
Main Deck
Enjoy a peaceful night's sleep in these air-conditioned rooms that come with imported quality linens. The rooms are designed to ensure maximum guest comfort with multi-configuration plugs for all your gadgets, a spacious closet, storage under the bed, and kimonos and slippers.
Upper Deck
These suites feature a panoramic French window that leads to a private deck space giving guests breathtaking scenery. The private bathrooms come with a natural stone shower, spa-branded amenities, and a hairdryer. The room also has a spacious closet and an electric safe.
Technical Information
Features
- Air conditioning
- Excercise room
- Massage room
- Lecture room
- WIFI available
- Kosher Meals
- Medical staff
- Souvenir shop
- Hot showers
- All inclusive
- Charging areas for electronic equipment
Equipment
- Bicycles
- Yoga mats
- Flash lights
- Water canteen/bottle
- Insect repellent
Related Cruises
- Mekong
- Vietnam
- Cambodia
Mekong Princess
- Mekong
- Cambodia
- Vietnam
Aqua Mekong
- Cambodia
- Mekong
- Vietnam
Bassac Pandaw
- Mekong
- Cambodia
- Vietnam
Mekong Navigator
- Vietnam
- Cambodia
- Mekong
Indochina Pandaw
- Mekong
- Vietnam
- Cambodia
Victoria Mekong
- Mekong
- Cambodia
- Vietnam
The Jahan
- Mekong
- Cambodia
- Vietnam
Jayavarman
- Mekong
- Vietnam
- Cambodia
Indochine II
- Mekong
- Vietnam
- Cambodia
Indochine I
- Mekong
- Vietnam
- Cambodia
Lan Diep
- Vietnam
- Halong Bay
Angkor Pandaw
- Vietnam
- Halong Bay