Pandaw II Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We joined the Pandaw 11 for a 10 night Mandalay to Prome cruise following an 8 day land tour of Burma ( Myanmar) all put together by Trailfinders. We visited Yangon, Inle Lake and Kalaw , all absolutely beautiful with the latter two being considerably cooler than the unbearable heat we later endured for the entire cruise. Figures of 45 and 46 degrees C were the norm in the afternoon, just as we were leaving for sightseeing visits.This was the last cruise of the season before the monsoon arrives and I strongly advise anyone contemplating this trip to make the journey between November and late February when the temperature is much cooler. The other downside of this season is the low water level which restricts the view, the parched landscape, at times desert-like and the heat haze which obscured what should have been gorgeous views. The cabins, dining room and bar/lounge are air-conditioned but the full length sundeck, which would have been wonderful for watching the world go by, was just too hot for everyone in the afternoon, even in the shade. We saw other Pandaw ships, some of which did not seem to have a sun deck at all. Despite the heat our sundeck was used for many enjoyable evening events and was a very good feature to have.
FOOD
Breakfasts were good.
Cabin Review
You might think that, given the prices charged, you will be in for a spot of luxury but that is not the case; the cabins are functional and not at all smart and they need, at the least, a deep clean and preferably a full refurbishment, particularly in the small bathroom area. This is the oldest ship in the fleet and it is certainly showing its age. The deluxe cabins are identical to the others and the extra cost is not justified by being on a slightly higher deck. That said there is enough room for 2 and storage space is adequate; the wardrobe is small but there are 2 drawers and a large cupboard ( big enough for a suitcase ) under each bunk and the odd table and surface for oddments. UK electrical sockets are provided.