Irrawaddy River Cruises made for you

Sister to the historic Strand Hotel in Yangon, the newly launched Strand Cruise embodies similarly refined values, combining a colonial charm with modern luxury for an unforgettable journey along the Irrawaddy River between Bagan and Mandalay. 28 sumptuous cabins and suites are tastefully decorated with Burmese craftsmanship and Teakwood floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, en suite bathrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi and round the clock butler service. The Strand Suites feature a private outdoor balcony and a personal butler for your every desire. The ship’s heart is the upper deck, where Myanmar’s passing landscapes can be viewed from the comfort of sun loungers, the cocktail bar or the swimming pool. It’s also the venue for entertainment in the evening. Relax in the spa, get invigorated in the fitness room, or delve into the region’s fascinating history in the ship’s library. Cuisine on board is another highlight of the journey – whether you chose to dine in the restaurant or alfresco at the BBQs on the upper deck – the Strand’s internationally renowned chefs work with the freshest and finest ingredients to offer up a delightful take on international and Asian cuisines. Get in touch with our expert travel designers to learn more about the Strand Cruise’s Irrawaddy cruise itineraries.

See the treasures of Bagan in complete style during your Belmond Orcaella cruise. Opulent fabrics and locally commissioned artwork dress the interiors here to create a feel of authentic, local luxury. The cabins and suites look out to life on the river shore and provide an array of mod cons, while the observation deck is the perfect place to soak up sweeping scenic vistas with a cocktail in hand. When you’re not out exploring ancient temples, hilltop villages and bustling markets, relax on-board with a dip in the pool, a soothing spa treatment and delicious regional and western cuisine.

Cruise along the iconic Irrawaddy River, taking in the rural landscapes from the deck of this luxurious river cruiser. Stop off to explore idyllic villages reminiscent of Kipling’s poem from which the boat takes her name, see saffron-robed monks go about their daily rituals, and marvel at the golden spires of pagodas which soar out of the jungle. The Road to Mandalay’s cabins have been designed to combine comfort and elegance, whilst reflecting local styles and materials. All cabins enjoy outward-facing windows, luxurious furnishings made by local artisans and a selection of modern conveniences. Each day is filled with events, excursions, and entertainment. Aside from shore excursions, hear topical talks from a range local and international experts or join a cooking class to learn some Burmese specialities. Or simply relax, cocktail in hand, on the teak observation deck and watch the marvellous sights as you cruise gently along the river, perhaps taking a dip in the pool.

Sailing between Bagan, Yangon and Mandalay, the Sanctuary Ananda is a luxury boat styled in traditional Burmese fashion, but with all the modern amenities you’d expect of five-star accommodation, from iPads to butler service. The 21 suites are all air-conditioned and have private balconies; the Aloungpayah Owner’s Suite, the top accommodation option on board the Sanctuary Ananda, has private dining facilities, a private guide for its occupants, a full-size bathtub in its bathroom, a large living area, and sun loungers on the veranda. Communal areas on the boat include the sundeck and plunge pool, from which passengers can take in the Irrawaddy River views while relaxing in between stops. The onboard dining options include an a la carte lunch and dinner, with celebrity chef Michelle Bernstei having created a menu of Burmese fusion cuisine. Guests can take their meals outside in the Mindoon al fresco restaurant or inside, and the Kansi lounge has floor-to-ceiling windows, so you can take in the scenery even when you’re chilling out on one of the comfy sofas with an evening cocktail or your morning coffee. As you cruise down the sacred Irrawaddy River, you’ll be able to visit temples, monasteries and palaces on the way, and tour the ancient cities of Bagan and Mandalay. Onboard activities include local performances, yoga and meditation sessions, lectures by professional guides, Burmese cooking classes, and spa treatments, so you can be as active or as inactive as you like.

Named after the old name for Bagan, the RV Paukan 2007 ferries its guests in luxurious comfort between Bagan and Mandalay down the Irrawaddy River. A floating boutique hotel, RV Paukan is furnished in a mixture of traditional and colonial styles with polished wooden walls, wicker furniture and lime and crimson satin-covered cushions and runners on white linen-clad beds.There’s room for 55 passengers in the superior or deluxe rooms and the suites, and the boat is staffed by a team of thirty or so. Western and local cuisine is served to passengers onboard the RV Paukan, with vegetarian meals possible too. There’s also a lecture room on the upper deck. Aside from the guestrooms, passengers can also take advantage of the massage suites where Myanmar massages are delivered to travel-weary guests, and the sun deck, where there’s a bar and lounge for a chilled G&T.