The first ship we built in Vietnam in 2008, the OP has seen service in five countries now – Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysian Borneo and now Burma. Where next? And in each of these countries she was re-commissioned according to local religious rites – Confucian, Budddhist, Animist and now she is a Buddhist again in the Golden Land. Despite a huge mileage the Orient chugs along as if fresh from the yard. Her design was based on the Tonle Pandaw, which was copied in every detail by the Vietnamese and indeed this design has been repeated three times on her three – all larger thirty cabin vessels.

The ship has quality mountain bikes for your independent exploration.

For 2021, the RV Orient was refurbished to add 2 brand new suites, offering private balcony and lounge area for even more space and comfort on your expedition.

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.

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

Gratuities to the Pandaw Cruises crew are included in the price of your ticket. Kindly note that gratuities to local guides are not included and are completely at your discretion.

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.

A Pandaw river cruise is a real adventure that takes you off the beaten track. Expect to explore remote villages, meet people in vibrant local communities (some of which seldom have contact with Western travellers) and see some unforgettable landscapes. These expeditions are all about immersing yourself in the unique and diverse cultures of South-East Asia and India. All scheduled shore excursions are included in the cruise fare and encompass tours under the guidance of local experts, market visits accompanied by the ship’s chef and the chance to visit some of the Pandaw Charity projects in the area. We provide authentic local transport in the form of horse and carts or cyclos. Our fleet of mountain bikes is also available for independent exploration.

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.

There are no dedicated health and fitness facilities on board.