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Tonle Pandaw

A classic colonial-style Mekong riverboat offering intimate cultural immersion and scenic serenity.

Overview

Inspired by the heritage steamers of the British Raj, the Tonle Pandaw, with her teak and brass finishes, is a charming, colonial-style river cruiser that brings old-world elegance to the Mekong, evoking a bygone era of river exploration. With a length of 132 feet and a width of 28 feet, she is one of the larger ships in her fleet yet carries a maximum of 48 guests to ensure an intimate and uncrowded experience, while her ultra-shallow draft—just over a meter—means she can navigate upriver into much lower water areas versus many other vessels.

Life On Board

Life aboard the Tonle Pandaw is all about slowing down and savoring the journey, waking up to soft morning light spilling over the water, and enjoying the gentle hum of the river as you drift from one enchanting village to the next.

Split equally over her two decks, the ship’s 20 staterooms are cozy and inviting, each with rich teakwood finishes, panoramic windows, and en suite bathrooms, while her 4 new, luxury suites situated at the front of the Upper Deck are a whopping 430 square feet (40 square meters) in size, and include an extra lounge, private balcony, and all-natural stone en suite bathrooms.

On the sundeck, you’ll find comfortable loungers perfect for watching the ever-changing scenery—the patchwork of rice paddies, local fishermen at work, and children waving from the shore. The dining room offers a relaxed setting where you can enjoy freshly prepared meals featuring a fusion of Southeast Asian flavors and familiar international dishes. A professional spa and library on the lower deck complete the amenities.

The friendly, English-speaking crew ensures your every need is met with warmth and care, while expert guides lead daily excursions that bring the culture and history of the region to life. Whether you’re exploring an ancient temple, visiting a local market, or simply sharing stories with fellow travelers over a drink, the experience is both enriching and deeply personal.

Itinerary Options & Highlight Excursions

The Tonle Pandaw offers a variety of itineraries from 4 to 5 days in length cruising through Cambodia and Vietnam, each route thoughtfully designed to give you an authentic glimpse into local life and revealing a different side of the Mekong’s captivating charm.

On a typical journey, you might drift past stilted villages where daily life unfolds on the water, with fishermen casting nets and children paddling by in wooden canoes, explore hidden temples and ancient pagodas, where saffron-robed monks offer blessings and centuries-old carvings tell stories of the past, visit local workshops, watching artisans craft traditional silk textiles or handwoven baskets, savor regional cuisine on shore excursions, tasting local specialties like fish amok in Cambodia or fragrant pho in Vietnam, or experience Phnom Penh’s cultural landmarks, including the Royal Palace and the moving Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, offering deeper insights into Cambodia’s history.

Each day brings a new adventure, whether you’re walking through lively markets, learning about local customs, or simply soaking in the serene river scenery.

Experience the Soul of Southeast Asia

To cruise aboard the Tonle Pandaw is less a journey from A to B, moreso a window into the soul of Southeast Asia. Gliding along the Mekong, you’ll feel an irresistible connection to the river and the people who call it home. Whether you’re sipping tea on the sundeck as the sun dips below the horizon or sharing a laugh with villagers during a market visit, every moment is filled with authenticity and warmth. Perfect for curious travelers, history buffs, and nature lovers alike, this is a voyage that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the Mekong’s timeless beauty.

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.

1 / 5
4-Day UP
5-Day DOWN
5-Day UP
8-Day DOWN
8-Day UP

4 Day - Saigon - Phnom Penh Short Cruise

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: Embark your Pandaw vessel in central Saigon and relax on the spacious sundeck as we set sail past the towering skyscrapers of Vietnam’s bustling metropolis.

PM: After lunch onboard, you will meet the crew and enjoy local entertainment on the deck as we sail toward the Mekong Delta. We moor overnight on the Vam Co River.

Tonle Pandaw - Saigon - Phnom Penh Short Cruise - Day 1
Location
Saigon
Day
1 / 4

Ben Tre & Fertile Waterways

AM: Early morning we set sail through the Cho Gao Canal, a vital waterway link for the transportation of goods to and from the city which was constructed in 1876 by the French and offers a fascinating insight to life along the water. We reach Ben Tre and journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards abundant in the area. This is a fertile farming region with half of Vietnam's rice production coming from the Mekong Delta. It also hosts a rich artisanal culture which we will witness at a local village specializing in handicrafts.

PM: Back aboard we sail deeper into the delta toward Chau Doc.

Tonle Pandaw - Saigon - Phnom Penh Short Cruise - Day 2
Location
Con Phuoc
Day
2 / 4

Chau Doc and Into Cambodia

AM: In the morning, we take minivans for a short drive to Sam Mountain, the location of Phuoc Dien Tu or the Hang Pagoda. After climbing the steps, we are greeted with stunning views across the Mekong. For those not keen on the stairs, explore the local market instead.

PM: Afterwards, we visit the nearby floating fish farms by Sampan before being treated to a private Lion dance performance at a local Village. Upon return to the ship, we navigate a web of canals before dropping anchor on the Vietnam/Cambodia border to undergo Immigration formalities.

Note: During high water periods in October and November, navigation into Chau Doc may be hampered by low bridges meaning today's excursion will be replaced with a local village visit at Long Thuan.

Tonle Pandaw - Saigon - Phnom Penh Short Cruise - Day 3
Location
Chau Doc
Day
3 / 4

Disembarkation

AM: After breakfast, disembark your Pandaw Expedition in Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh.

Tonle Pandaw - Saigon - Phnom Penh Short Cruise - Day 4
Location
Phnom Penh
Day
4 / 4
1 / 4

5 Day - Phnom Penh - Saigon Short Cruise

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: Check-in to your Pandaw expedition at 11:00am and meet your crew before enjoying lunch onboard.

PM: In the afternoon we visit the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum to learn more about the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. We dock overnight in Phnom Penh city port with its lively bars, restaurants and nightlife. Feel free to explore the city before returning to your hotel on the water.

Tonle Pandaw - Phnom Penh - Saigon Short Cruise - Day 1
Location
Phnom Penh
Day
1 / 5

Into Vietnam

AM: We up anchor early in the morning and cruise downstream along the Mekong River to the Vietnam border for immigration formalities.

PM: The ship sails toward Chau Doc where we talk an evening stroll along the river before dinner aboard.

Tonle Pandaw - Phnom Penh - Saigon Short Cruise - Day 2
Location
Chau Doc
Day
2 / 5

Chau Doc & The Fertile Waterways

AM: In the morning, we take minivans for a short drive to Sam Mountain, the location of Phuoc Dien Tu or the Hang Pagoda. After climbing the steps we are greeted with stunning views across the Mekong. For those not keen on the stairs, explore the local market instead. Afterwards, we visit the nearby floating fish farms by Sampan before being treated to a private Lion dance performance at a local Village. PM: After lunch aboard, we continue sailing into the heart of the Mekong delta and enjoy on-deck entertainment from your crew.

Note: During high water periods in October and November, navigation into Chau Doc may be hampered by low bridges meaning today's excursion will be replaced with a local village visit at Long Thuan.

Tonle Pandaw - Phnom Penh - Saigon Short Cruise - Day 3
Location
Chau Doc
Day
3 / 5

Ben Tre & Sailing Into Saigon

AM: In the morning, we journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards of Ben Tre. This is a fertile farming region with half of Vietnam's rice production coming from the Mekong Delta. It also hosts a rich artisanal culture which we will witness at a local village specializing in handicrafts.

PM: After returning to the ship enjoy lunch onboard as we sail through the Cho Gao Canal toward Saigon. The Cho Gao Canal is a vital waterway link for the transportation of goods to and from the city which was constructed in 1876 by the French and offers a fascinating insight to life along the water. In the evening, we sail into central Saigon and enjoy the stunning skyline over dinner.

Tonle Pandaw - Phnom Penh - Saigon Short Cruise - Day 4
Location
Ben Tre
Day
4 / 5

Disembarkation

AM: Disembark in central Saigon after breakfast for your onward travels.

Tonle Pandaw - Phnom Penh - Saigon Short Cruise - Day 5
Location
Saigon
Day
5 / 5
1 / 5

5 Day - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: Check-in to your Pandaw expedition at 11:00am and meet your crew before enjoying lunch onboard.

PM: In the afternoon we visit the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum to learn more about the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. We dock overnight in Phnom Penh city port with its lively bars, restaurants and nightlife. Feel free to explore the city before returning to your hotel on the water.

Tonle Pandaw - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap - Day 1
Location
Phnom Penh
Day
1 / 5

Life on The Tonle Sap River

AM & PM: We leave the dock at Phnom Penh early morning and sail up the winding channels of the Tonle Sap River to Kampong Tralach. We travel by oxcart around the river-side villages, markets and temples to get a sense of life in rural Cambodia. In the evening cocktails are served around a fire pit at a small fishing village where we will be joined by village folk keen to share tales and show us their traditional dancing.

Tonle Pandaw - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap - Day 2
Location
Tonle River
Day
2 / 5

Oudong Meditations & Pak Russei Silk

AM: In the morning, travel by coach to the ancient capital of Cambodia, Oudong where we visit the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre. Walk around the vast complex with its impressive Khmer architecture and experience a short meditation class to quieten your mind. We re-join our ship at Prek Kdam before sailing back onto the Mekong proper during lunch.

PM: This afternoon we step ashore at Pak Russei, a small and remote village on the banks of the Mekong. We will explore on foot and visit local craftspeople weaving silk and producing handmade noodles. Before returning to the ship, we learn about the ancient art of Bokator, a traditional form of martial art with a private performance in the village.

Tonle Pandaw - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap - Day 3
Location
Tonle River
Day
3 / 5

Peam Chi Korng Pottery

AM: Enjoy morning Tai Chi or just a coffee on deck as we take a sunrise cruise to Peam Chi Korng, an untouched gem that is a hub of pottery in Cambodia. After a short tuk tuk ride from the banks of the Mekong, we witness the local potters in action before continuing to explore the village and local fresh market where you can test your language skills.

PM: In the afternoon we continue sailing along the mighty Mekong to Steung Trang, our final destination before your crew provides some final evening entertainment and a sumptuous farewell dinner is prepared by your kitchen team.

Tonle Pandaw - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap - Day 4
Location
Tonle Sap River
Day
4 / 5

Disembarkation

AM: Disembark after breakfast and travel by coach from Steung Trang through stunningly lovely countryside to reach Siem Reap. Arrival into Siem Reap betweeen 12 - 1pm at the FCC Angkor Hotel, located next to the Royal Palace.

Tonle Pandaw - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap - Day 5
Location
Siem Reap
Day
5 / 5
1 / 5

8 Day - Classic Mekong: Siem Reap - Saigon

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: Travel by coach from Siem Reap to the riverside town of Steung Trang for embarkation.

PM: Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Mekong and meet your crew for the next 7 nights before your welcome dinner is served.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Siem Reap - Saigon - Day 1
Location
Siem Reap
Day
1 / 8

Peam Chi Korng & Pak Russei Crafts

AM & PM: Enjoy morning Tai Chi or just a coffee on deck as we take a sunrise cruise to Peam Chi Korng, an untouched gem that is a hub of pottery in Cambodia. After a short tuk tuk ride from the banks of the Mekong, we witness the local potters in action before continuing to explore the village and local fresh market where you can test your language skills. This afternoon we step ashore at Pak Russei, a small and remote village on the banks of the Mekong. We will explore on foot and visit local craftspeople weaving silk and producing handmade noodles. Before returning to the ship, we learn about the ancient art of Bokator, a traditional form of martial art with a private performance in the village.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Siem Reap - Saigon - Day 2
Location
Tonle Sap River
Day
2 / 8

Life on The Tonle Sap River

AM: In the morning, travel by coach to the ancient capital of Cambodia, Oudong where we visit the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre. Walk around the vast complex with it's impressive Khmer architecture and experience a short meditation class to quieten your mind. Rejoin your ship in Kampong Tralach for lunch abaord.

PM: In the afternoon we travel by ox-cart around the river-side villages, markets and temples to get a sense of life in rural Cambodia. In the evening cocktails are served around a fire pit at a small fishing village where we will be joined by village folk keen to share tales and show us their traditional dancing.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Siem Reap - Saigon - Day 3
Location
Tonle River
Day
3 / 8

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. We dock overnight in Phnom Penh city port with its lively bars, restaurants and nightlife. Feel free to explore the city before returning to your hotel on the water.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Siem Reap - Saigon - Day 4
Location
Tonle Sap River
Day
4 / 8

Into Vietnam

AM: We up anchor early in the morning and cruise downstream along the Mekong River to the Vietnam border for immigration formalities.

PM: The ship sails toward Chau Doc where we talk an evening stroll along the river before dinner aboard.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Siem Reap - Saigon - Day 5
Location
Mekong River
Day
5 / 8

Chau Doc and Into Cambodia

AM: In the morning, we take minivans for a short drive to Sam Mountain, the location of Phuoc Dien Tu or the Hang Pagoda. After climbing the steps we are greeted with stunning views across the Mekong. For those not keen on the stairs, explore the local market instead. Afterwards, we visit the nearby floating fish farms by Sampan before being treated to a private Lion dance performance at a local Village.

PM: After lunch aboard we continue sailing into the heart of the Mekong delta and enjoy on-deck entertainment from your crew.

Note: During high water periods in October and November, navigation into Chau Doc may be hampered by low bridges meaning today's excursion will be replaced with a local village visit at Long Thuan.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Siem Reap - Saigon - Day 6
Location
Mekong River
Day
6 / 8

Ben Tre & Sailing Into Saigon

AM: In the morning, we journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards of Ben Tre. This is a fertile farming region with half of Vietnam's rice production coming from the Mekong Delta. It also hosts a rich artisanal culture which we will witness at a local village specializing in handicrafts.

PM: After returning to the ship enjoy lunch onboard as we sail through the Cho Gao Canal toward Saigon. The Cho Gao Canal is a vital waterway link for the transportation of goods to and from the city which was constructed in 1876 by the French and offers a fascinating insight to life along the water. In the evening, we sail into central Saigon and enjoy the stunning skyline over dinner.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Siem Reap - Saigon - Day 7
Location
Mekong River
Day
7 / 8

Disembarkation

AM: Disembark in central Saigon after breakfast for your onward travels.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Siem Reap - Saigon - Day 8
Location
Saigon
Day
8 / 8
1 / 8

8 Day - Classic Mekong: Saigon - Siem Reap

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: Embark your Tonle Pandaw vessel in central Saigon and relax on the spacious sundeck as we set sail past the towering skyscrapers of Vietnam’s bustling metropolis.

PM: After lunch onboard, you will meet the crew and enjoy local entertainment on the deck as we sail toward the Mekong Delta. We moor overnight on the Vam Co River.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Saigon - Siem Reap - Day 1
Location
Saigon
Day
1 / 8

Ben Tre & Fertile Waterways

AM: Early morning we set sail through the Cho Gao Canal, a vital waterway link for the transportation of goods to and from the city which was constructed in 1876 by the French and offers a fascinating insight to life along the water. We reach Ben Tre and journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards abundant in the area. This is a fertile farming region with half of Vietnam's rice production coming from the Mekong Delta. It also hosts a rich artisanal culture which we will witness at a local village specializing in handicrafts.

PM: Back aboard we sail deeper into the delta toward Chau Doc.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Saigon - Siem Reap - Day 2
Location
Mekong River
Day
2 / 8

Chau Doc and Into Cambodia

AM: In the morning, we take minivans for a short drive to Sam Mountain, the location of Phuoc Dien Tu or the Hang Pagoda. After climbing the steps we are greeted with stunning views across the Mekong. For those not keen on the stairs, explore the local market instead. Afterward, we visit the nearby floating fish farms by Sampan before being treated to a private Lion dance performance at a local Village.

PM: Upon return to the ship, we navigate a web of canals before dropping anchor on the Vietnam/Cambodia border to undergo Immigration formalities.

Note: During high water periods in October and November, navigation into Chau Doc may be hampered by low bridges meaning today's excursion will be replaced with a local village visit at Long Thuan.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Saigon - Siem Reap - Day 3
Location
Mekong River
Day
3 / 8

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. We dock overnight in Phnom Penh city port with its lively bars, restaurants and nightlife. Feel free to explore the city before returning to your hotel on the water.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Saigon - Siem Reap - Day 4
Location
Mekong River
Day
4 / 8

Life on The Tonle Sap River

AM: We leave the dock at Phnom Penh early morning and 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 in rural Cambodia.

PM: In the evening cocktails are served around a fire pit at a small fishing village where we will be joined by village folk keen to share tales and show us their traditional dancing.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Saigon - Siem Reap - Day 5
Location
Mekong River
Day
5 / 8

Oudong Meditations & Pak Russei Silk

AM: In the morning, travel by coach to the ancient capital of Cambodia, Oudong where we visit the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre. Walk around the vast complex with it's impressive Khmer architecture and experience a short meditation class to quieten your mind. We re-join our ship at Prek Kdam before sailing back onto the Mekong proper during lunch.

PM: This afternoon we step ashore at Pak Russei, a small and remote village on the banks of the Mekong. We will explore on foot and visit local craftspeople weaving silk and producing handmade noodles. Before returning to the ship, we learn about the ancient art of Bokator, a traditional form of martial art with a private performance in the village.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Saigon - Siem Reap - Day 6
Location
Tonle River
Day
6 / 8

Peam Chi Korng Pottery

AM: Enjoy morning Tai Chi or just a coffee on deck as we take a sunrise cruise to Peam Chi Korng, an untouched gem that is a hub of pottery in Cambodia. After a short tuk tuk ride from the banks of the Mekong, we witness the local potters in action before continuing to explore the village and local fresh market where you can test your language skills.

PM: In the afternoon we continue sailing along the mighty Mekong to Steung Trang, our final destination before your crew provides some final evening entertainment and a sumptuous farewell dinner is prepared by your kitchen team.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Saigon - Siem Reap - Day 7
Location
Tonle Sap River
Day
7 / 8

Disembarkation

AM: Disembark after breakfast and travel by coach from Steung Trang through stunningly lovely countryside to reach Siem Reap.

PM: Arrival into Siem Reap betweeen 12 - 1pm at the FCC Angkor Hotel, located next to the Royal Palace.

Tonle Pandaw - Classic Mekong: Saigon - Siem Reap - Day 8
Location
Siem Reap
Day
8 / 8
1 / 8

Accommodations

Social Areas

Buffet
Outdoor Lounge
BBQ
Sundeck
Spa
Top Deck

Suites & Cabins

Tonle Pandaw - Main Deck Twin Tonle Pandaw - Main Deck Twin Tonle Pandaw - Main Deck Twin
10 Cabins

Main Deck Stateroom

Guests
2
Size
16 m² / 170 ft²
Beds
Double/Twin

The Main Deck Stateroom offers a serene escape with panoramic French doors that fill the space with natural light and open up to breathtaking views. Unwind on a premium mattress dressed in imported linens and topped with your choice of two pillow types for a restful night. With a convertible bed setup, generous closet space, and individually controlled AC, you can settle in and make the space truly your own.

Treat yourself to little luxuries, from spa-branded amenities and cozy kimonos and slippers to a nightly turndown service with complimentary evening canapés. Stay refreshed with unlimited mineral water, a free minibar, and your own Nespresso machine paired with a tisane collection. Thoughtful details like a hair dryer, multi-configuration plugs, and 24-hour laundry service ensure every comfort is taken care of.

Tonle Pandaw - Upper Deck Suite Tonle Pandaw - Upper Deck Suite
4 Cabins

Upper Deck Suite

Guests
2
Size
40 m² / 430 ft²
Beds
Double/Twin

The Upper Deck Suite is a haven of comfort and elegance, designed to make you feel at home. Greeted by a fresh flower arrangement and a thoughtful welcome gift, you’ll step into a bright, airy space with panoramic French doors inviting stunning views. The suite features a sleek, newly renovated bathroom with a natural stone shower and stylish, high-quality fittings. Premium mattresses dressed in imported linens, with a choice of two pillow types, ensure you’ll sleep soundly, while the flexible bed configuration lets you tailor the space to your needs.

Every detail is crafted for your indulgence. Enjoy the convenience of butler service, complimentary evening canapés, and a free minibar stocked with refreshments. Sip on freshly brewed coffee from your Nespresso machine or unwind with a selection of herbal teas. With satellite TV, spa-branded amenities, and a 24-hour laundry service, every comfort is covered. Thoughtful touches like generous closet space, under-bed storage, and multi-configuration plugs make this suite as practical as it is luxurious—a perfect retreat after a day of exploration.

Tonle Pandaw - Upper Deck Twin Tonle Pandaw - Upper Deck Twin Tonle Pandaw - Upper Deck Twin
10 Cabins

Upper Deck Stateroom

Guests
2
Size
16 m² / 170 ft²
Beds
Double/Twin

Wake up to sweeping river views through elegant French doors in the Upper Deck Stateroom—a serene retreat designed for comfort and style. Sink into a premium mattress dressed in imported linens and your choice of pillows, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. Wrap yourself in a plush kimono, sip on a freshly brewed Nespresso, and let the day unfold at your own pace. As evening falls, enjoy complimentary canapés while the scenery drifts by.

Every detail is thoughtfully considered, from the spa-branded amenities and free minibar to the tisane collection for a soothing nightcap. Stay refreshed with unlimited mineral water and enjoy the convenience of a hair dryer, electric mini-safe, and plenty of storage space. With nightly turndown service and 24-hour laundry, you can simply relax and savor the journey.

Technical Information

Deck Plan

Features

  • Air conditioning
  • Lecture room
  • WIFI available
  • Spa
  • Onsite tour desk
  • Souvenir shop
  • Hot showers
  • All inclusive
  • Charging areas for electronic equipment
** Use of certain equipment at additional cost, ask for details
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