Irrawaddy River Cruises, Myanmar
RV Paukan 1947
Cruise the Irrawaddy aboard an original colonial era steamer
Built in Scotland in 1947, the Pandaw, as the vessel was then known, reached Burma in 1950, and ran on the Irrawaddy River from Mandalay to Bhamo, one of the most popular routes on the great river.
Completely restored and fitted for luxury cruises in the 21st century, the renamed Paukan 1947’s 16 cabins retain their historic charm with teak panelling and brass fittings, featuring large balconies and en suite bathrooms.
The communal areas are equally attractive, with plenty of wicker furniture and sun loungers dotted around for you to relax and watch the riverbank slide by. You can even enjoy a traditional massage on board. The open-air restaurant (which can be closed up on cooler evenings) serves high quality Asian and European cuisine, locally sourced wherever possible, and the staff are friendly, courteous, and very professional.
Highlights
16 en suite cabins with balconies
Open-air restaurant
Saloon bar
Traditional massage
Trip Inspiration
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Places to combine RV Paukan 1947 with
Phuket
Tucked away on the fringes of Khao Sok National Park, one of Thailand’s most ancient and biodiverse rainforests, Thanyamundra Organic Resort offers an intimate sanctuary with nine guestrooms. The setting is mesmerising: a patchwork of cultivated organic farmland gently gives way to dense jungle, while mist drifts across rolling emerald hills in the early morning.
Two teakwood residences, built in traditional Thai style, house the guest rooms. Within, antique furnishings add a sense of heritage and handwoven textiles bring warmth and colour.
Begin with yoga at dawn or a leisurely walk among rice paddies and vegetable gardens, before setting out to discover the wonders of the rainforest. Back at the resort, the infinity pool seemingly spills into the surrounding hills. From here, the horizon becomes a living panorama of forest, farmland and sky, shifting in colour as the day passes from morning to the glow of sunset. The spa provides another form of retreat, where traditional Thai treatments restore balance after a day outdoors.
Food is at the heart of the Thanyamundra experience. The resort’s organic farm supplies the kitchen with fragrant herbs, just-picked vegetables, tropical fruit and locally produced cheese. Meals, whether enjoyed in the open-sided pavilion or al fresco under the stars, are thoughtfully prepared to highlight the freshest seasonal ingredients.
