The Great Irrawaddy Delta - River Cruise

Transfer from airport to the Strand Road jetty and embark on your Pandaw. Evening visit to the Shwedagon Pagoda followed by dinner on board.

Morning tour of Rangoon’s colonial architectural heritage with the highlight of a private tour of the Secretariat, the heart of government for colonial Burma and post Independence the place where General Aung San and his cabinet were martyred. Visit the RC cathedral, the largest church in Asia.

Lunch in one of Rangoon’s smart new ‘tea houses’ followed by a visit to the National Museum.

Early morning departure from Rangoon via the Twante Canal stopping at Twante to view the potteries and on to Pyapon (64miles) a delightful delta town and seaport with lively docks and markets.

Bogale is at the heart of the delta and once a Mon capital and trading port connected to international trading routes between the 15th and 18th centuries. It features the only mangrove ecosystem reserve in the Delta. A visit to the monastery of the town will be organized.

This will be the most fascinating day’s sailing as we weave through creeks and channels cross-country across the heart of the delta. We will stop for a walk about in a suitable village.

Morning cruise across the final section of delta to join the great Bassein River that takes us up to Bassein, the capital of the delta and an important seaport too. Of interest here are the traditional umbrella manufacturies, where the typical monk’s waxed cloth umbrellas are made. On foot we will explore the town, its shrines and vibrant markets.

Pathein or Bassein is the second largest port in Burma, where the river meets the sea and is full of interest.

Morning departure with lunch to follow, taking the more usual upper delta route of the old IFC ‘launch service’ between Rangoon and Bassein. Evening exploration of this attractive river port.

On these busier channels there will be a variety of shipping whilst the riverbanks team with life and activity. Maubin is a very pleasant place to enjoy a sunset walk along its colourful strand.

Morning run crossing the Twante Canal and home to the Rangoon River in time for lunch. Afternoon at leisure for a downtown walkabout or drive to the Scott Market. Farewell dinner with classical musicians on your Pandaw.

Transfers to airport for outbound flights. Lunch on board for afternoon flyers.

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Vessel Type: Small Ship 

Passenger Capacity: 28

Built: 2019

RV Kanee Pandaw is a charming 28-guest river vessel purpose-built for exploring Myanmar’s waterways. Launched in 2019, this intimate K-class ship is designed with an ultra-shallow draft, allowing access to remote stretches of river that larger vessels cannot reach. Featuring classic Pandaw styling, wraparound promenade decks, open-air and indoor dining areas, and spacious public spaces, the ship creates a relaxed and sociable atmosphere while delivering an authentic river expedition experience.

Life onboard combines comfort, personalised service, and immersive exploration. The ship’s fourteen teak-and-brass staterooms are thoughtfully designed with panoramic French windows, premium bedding, and modern amenities, while guests can enjoy locally inspired cuisine prepared by an experienced culinary team. Included excursions, complimentary refreshments, quality mountain bikes for independent discovery, and attentive service throughout the voyage ensure a rewarding journey through some of Myanmar’s most fascinating and lesser-visited destinations.

Vessel Type: Small Ship

Length: 133ft / 40m

Passenger Capacity: 20

Built: 2016

RV Kha Byoo Pandaw is an intimate 20-guest river vessel that combines classic Pandaw style with authentic local character. Built in Yangon in 2016, the ship currently serves as the Pandaw Academy training vessel, helping develop hospitality skills within local communities along the river. Named after the historic Kha Byoo steamer, the vessel offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with just ten spacious staterooms, open-air social spaces, and personalised service. Guests can enjoy relaxed cruising, locally inspired excursions, and independent exploration using the ship’s quality mountain bikes.

Life onboard blends comfort with cultural immersion. Elegant teak and brass interiors, al fresco dining areas, and an open-air lounge create an inviting environment for taking in the passing landscapes. An experienced culinary team prepares a range of local and international dishes, complemented by personalised service and thoughtful touches throughout the voyage. With included excursions, attentive guides, and a focus on authentic river travel, RV Kha Byoo Pandaw offers a charming and enriching way to explore Myanmar’s historic waterways.