Spending two to five days aboard a river cruise is a relaxing way to experience the startling cultural sites and rural villages along the Irrawaddy River between Bagan and Mandalay. An alternative short cruise experience would take you along the less explored Salween (Thanlwin River) between Hpa-An and Mawlamyine in Myanmar’s south.
Boat options on the Salween are limited but there are numerous boats that sail from Bagan up to Mandalay or vice versa. Each offers a unique journey, fantastic local and onboard experiences and a guaranteed comfortable bed to return to at the end of a day’s exploring. The boats vary in style and size and offer different local adventures, our Myanmar experts have first-hand experience of all the options and can help you choose the best one to fit in your Myanmar holiday itinerary. Call them on 020 7924 7133 for expert advice.
Unlike some of the longer and more epic cruises which operate infrequently, most short river cruises have two departures per week so can easily be incorporated into your Myanmar holiday whatever your preferred travel date.
Short Overnight River Journeys
Anawrahta, Irrawaddy River
Explore the Irrawaddy in style. Large cabins and 5 days travelling between Bagan and Mandalay (or vice versa).
Irrawaddy Princess II, The Irrawaddy River
Short 2 night cruise between Bagan and Mandalay. Add a flavour of cruising to your Myanmar holiday at a reasonable cost.
Pandaw (Short) Cruises, The Irrawaddy River
Well established river cruise company with great reputation, quality boats and interesting excursions.
Paukan (Short) Cruises, Various Rivers
Interesting 2, 3 and 5 day scenic voyages between Bagan and Mandalay aboard comfortable cruise boat.
Princess Royal Cruise, The Irrawaddy River
With just 7 cabins on board this is a quality, intimate 3 day river cruise between Mandalay and Bagan.
Road to Mandalay, The Irrawaddy River
Belmond, known for the iconic Orient Express train, know how to deliver as they do with this fantastic river expedition.
RV Yandabo, The Salween (Thanlwin) River
Something a little different! A three day cruise on the Salween River between Hpa-An and Mawlamyine.
Sanctuary Ananda, The Irrawaddy River
Luxurious sailing option, a great way to experience the Irrawaddy between Bagan and Mandalay in fine style.
Strand Cruise, The Irrawaddy River
Very luxurious cruise between Bagan and Mandalay offering an authentic and comfortable way to explore the major sights.
