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River operator Pandaw is back in business

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Pandaw expects to be back sailing on Asia's rivers in September 2022
Pandaw announced it has secured funding to see it through to September 2022 when the company anticipates resuming cruises on Asia's waterways.

In late October, Pandaw had said it would cease operations due to lack of funds during the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing closure of key destinations.

Now owners the Strachan family have managed to secure financing to cover the lay-up and vessel refurbishment costs for a restart next autumn. They plan to keep the business in the family and relaunch marketing activity as soon as all remaining travel restrictions have been lifted.

'Nearly two years of hell'

'If it were not for the incredible support from the members of the Pandaw community, with so many kind words evoking memories of incredible experiences with us, I think we would have thrown in the towel. A big thank you to all our supporters for raising morale after nearly two years of hell,' Pandaw founder Paul Strachan said.

Following the announcement of Pandaw's closure, the company said it was 'inundated with hundreds of goodwill messages from regular passengers. In addition, several would-be investors emerged keen to acquire this iconic brand.'

Strong bookings for 2022/23

Pandaw reports strong bookings for the 2022/23 season with many departures sold out and many customers using their credits for canceled voyages to rebook.

Destinations reopening

Meanwhile, destinations are reopening with India, Thailand and Cambodia now open to vaccinated travelers. Parts of Laos and Vietnam will be accessible in January as a first step toward fully reopening later in the year.

The company said customers who received credits for monies paid toward canceled voyages may redeem their credit at the checkout when booking online at pandaw.com.