LIFE ONBOARD

With the highest passenger-to-deck-space ratio of any cruise ships afloat, Pandaw offers an open-air experience that invites you to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and reconnect with nature.

Life on board is yours to enjoy, however you choose—whether that’s curling up with a book, chatting with fellow travellers, or simply watching the ever-changing landscapes drift by. Our wraparound promenade decks provide uninterrupted views and plenty of quiet corners to retreat to, offering a calm, open-air atmosphere that encourages you to slow down and take it all in. For those who want to stay connected while they unwind, complimentary WiFi on the sundeck makes it easy to share your experiences or check in with loved ones back home.

Whether enjoying the experience indoors or out, a Pandaw ship offers a relaxed and comfortable front-row seat to some of Asia’s most remarkable river journeys.

YOUR STATEROOM

The Pandaw stateroom is one of the most celebrated features of our ships, designed to offer a quiet, comfortable retreat after each day of discovery.

Blending colonial-era character with modern-day comfort, every cabin reflects our commitment to quality and luxury. Finished in teak and brass, our main and upper deck staterooms provide 168 square feet (15.6 sqm) of thoughtfully arranged space. Wide French windows open to fresh air and natural light, while premium mattresses and high-quality linens help guests feel well rested each night. The layout has remained consistent across our fleet because our guests have come to love its timeless simplicity.

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.

Nespresso machine and kettle
Mini bar with soft drinks
Spa-branded toiletries
Electric mini safe
Multi-configuration plugs

DINING

Dining aboard a Pandaw cruise is a highlight of the journey, offering a taste of the region's culinary traditions alongside international favourites. Our onboard chefs prepare fresh dishes each day using locally sourced ingredients, often selected from riverside markets along the route.

Most meals are made to order, allowing us to minimize food waste while offering flexibility to accommodate a wide range of dietary preferences. Whether you're enjoying a fragrant bowl of Vietnamese pho, a vibrant Indian curry, or a comforting Western-style breakfast, every dish is crafted with care. Our attentive crew ensures that dietary needs are met with ease, providing a personalized dining experience that’s as thoughtful as it is delicious.

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.

ACTIVITIES

Life aboard a Pandaw cruise offers the perfect mix of quiet relaxation and cultural immersion, with a range of enriching activities designed to complement your journey along Southeast Asia’s most iconic rivers.

While many guests enjoy the tranquility of reading, writing, or photography, others take part in the informal, yet engaging experiences offered on board. Daily briefings hosted by your purser and travel guides provide insights into each day’s itinerary and local context, while themed evenings and hands-on demonstrations bring the spirit of the region to life. These activities are always optional, allowing you to participate as much—or as little—as you like.

Some of the activities you can look forward to include:

Cultural performances by local groups
Food and beverage presentations by the head chef
History sessions by expert tour guides
Behind-the-scenes tour of the working ship
Daily happy hour with beverage specials
Themed movie nights featuring regional classics
Spa treatments (Classic Mekong route only)

EXCURSIONS

Excursions are at the heart of every Pandaw journey, offering a deeper connection to the cultures, histories, and landscapes that line Asia’s great rivers.

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

FAMILY FRIENDLY CRUISES

With immersive cultural excursions, hands-on onboard activities, and a safe, welcoming environment, Pandaw offers an engaging experience for multiple generations to travel together.

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).

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