Burma’s rivers have always played a major part in shaping the country. As early as the 6th century, the Ayeyarwady was a vital trade route. Today, it transports the region's teak, rice and other commodities in huge quantities. It’s the Ayeyarwady's vitality and importance that make it such a joy to travel on.
Boat trips along its waterways connect many of the country’s most fascinating sites, from short cruises that visit Bagan and Mandalay to longer expeditions to the gorges of the far north. There are set departure dates for trips of different durations, making a cruise a good starting point for planning any tour of Burma.
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Our suggested Burma (Myanmar) cruising itineraries
Each of these itineraries features an element, big or small, of experiencing Burma (Myanmar) by boat. As we’ve discovered, cruising lets you slow the pace and gain a different — sometimes exclusive — perspective on a destination. As with all our itineraries, treat these as just inspiration for your uniquely created trip.
Boats and ships selected by our specialists
Ranging from luxurious floating hotels to far simpler options, the selection of Burma (Myanmar) cruise vessels you can choose from all have one thing in common: they offer unparalleled access to sights well off the beaten track.
Anawrahta
A colonial-style vessel, the Anawrahta plies the Ayeyarwady River between Mandalay, the temples of Bagan and Yangon. En route it cruises through rural Burma, past stilted villages where fishing and farming communities live on the water’s edge.
Belmond Orcaella
An elegant four-deck river cruiser, the Belmond Orcaella travels to the remote areas of the Ayeyarwady and Chindwin rivers. Passing beautiful scenery and remote villages, this luxury cruise boat will introduce you to a side of Burma rarely seen by visitors.
Belmond Road to Mandalay
Modelled on a Rhine cruiser, the Belmond Road to Mandalay is designed to give a panoramic vantage of the Ayeyarwady and the rural landscapes it slices through as it follows the river’s course from Mandalay to Bagan.
Meta IV
Discover the deserted islands of the Mergui archipelago in southern Burma on the SY Meta IV, a fully restored teak yacht. Explore mangrove forests, snorkel the clear waters and relax on remote white beaches.
MY Drenec
Sail around Burma’s beguiling Mergui Archipelago on board the MY Drenec, a deluxe expedition vessel with a fascinating heritage. With just five cabins, this boat offers its guest an intimate cruising experience and a range of water sports facilities.
Raja Laut
Cruise the Mergui Archipelago in a vessel which conjures up images of a bygone era. The Raja Laut is a wooden schooner but with all modern amenities, allowing you to enjoy the hundreds of islands that dot this part of the Andaman Sea.
RV Kalaw Pandaw
Cruise the classic route between Bagan and Mandalay on the RV Kalaw Pandaw. You'll experience colonial luxury on this medium sized boat, meeting local communities and visiting historic sites along the way.
RV Kalay Pandaw
The RV Kalay plies the waters of the little known Salween River. With space for just ten passengers, a cruise aboard the RV Kalay promises unrivalled personal service. Admire Burma’s beguiling natural riverbanks from the deck of this charming vessel.
RV Katha Pandaw
Built in a traditional colonial style, the RV Katha cruises the Ayeyarwady River in Burma, between Mandalay and either Bagan or Yangon – giving you the opportunity to see and visit local communities, temples and archaeological sites.
RV Kindat Pandaw
Built in a colonial style, the RV Kindat pays homage to a bygone era of cruising. It’s the ideal vessel to experience the highlights of the Ayeyarwady River in Burma because of its superb on-board facilities and service.
RV Orient Pandaw
Plying the Ayeyarwady River between the bustling cities of Bagan and Mandalay (sometimes Yangon too), the colonial style features and high levels of service on board the RV Orient sets the tone for your cruise on one of Burma's most iconic rivers.
RV Pandaw II
Take a classic cruise on a colonial style river boat along the Ayeyarwady River. Passing picturesque landscapes, travelling on the RV Pandaw II enables you to reach local communities and charity projects in remote areas.
RV Paukan 1947
Built in Scotland in the wake of the Second World War, RV Paukan 1947 is steeped in history. Originally used as a cargo and passenger ship, she is now a renovated, characterful vessel that carries guests along Burma’s fascinating river network.
RV Paukan 2007
Reminiscent of the Paukan’s original 1947 steamer, the RV Paukan 2007 retains the colonial style interior but with all the modern amenities you need. Serving Burmese and international cuisine, this charming vessel is a home from home as you cruise the Ayeyarwady River.
RV Paukan 2012
The Paukan 2012 calls the Ayeyarwady River home, plying the waters between Bagan and Mandalay. One of the Paukan fleet's newer vessels, it's a luxurious option that affords a range of modern amenities as well as promising spectacular views of the riverside scenery.
RV Zawgyi Pandaw
Burma’s RV Zawgyi carries its passengers to the more remote reaches of the Chindwin and upper Ayeyarwady. With just 12 staterooms, the boat brims with colonial charm and its small dimensions allow it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings.