Pandaw announces new ship on the Upper Mekong

The ship will join Laos Pandaw sailing on the Upper Mekong from Vientiane (Laos) to Jinghong (China) or visa versa on a 14-night journey.

The Yunnan Pandaw will have 12 air-conditioned main deck and two upper deck staterooms, each with private bathrooms, kimonos, slippers, safe and luxury linens and toiletries. Public areas include a observation deck and dining room.

Like sister ship Laos Pandaw, Yunnan Pandaw will be built in traditional teak and brass and have an ultra-low draft and high powered engines to enable her to navigate the Upper Mekong. She will bring the number of ships in Pandaw’s fleet to 16.

Commenting on the new ship, Pandaw’s founder Paul Strachan said: 'We are very excited about the addition of the Yunnan Pandaw to our fleet, which we are building in response to demand. The journey from Vientiane to Jinghong is only possible with Pandaw and is one of the most memorable.'

He continued 'The Upper Mekong is one of the most scenic rivers in Asia. Travelling through lush jungle and friendly village communities where elephants can often be seen from the ship. In China, we visit the impressive Menglun Botanical Garden, discover Chinese tea plantations and meet some of China’s minority communities that live in Yunnan Province.'

Pandaw’s departures on the Laos Mekong, from Vientiane to Jinghong, abroad the Laos Pandaw have been sold out for some time. The new ship will provide extra cruise availability.  

Travellers can combine the Upper Mekong cruise with Pandaw’s seven-night Classic Mekong cruise from Saigon to Siem Reap and sail the Mekong from China to Saigon and vice versa. For those taking this extended journey, Pandaw offers a complimentary three-night stay in Siem Reap, including guided visits to Angkor Wat.

Cruise only prices start from £3,995 per person based on two people sharing a main deck twin cabin.