In response to increasing demand for luxury suite-only ships, Asian river cruise specialist Pandaw has announced details of a new ship on the Mekong which, when it enters service on 1st November 2025, will be the most exclusive all-suite ship on the river. The RV Tonle Pandaw will boast just 14 suites, each measuring 40 square metres (1,600 square feet) with its own private deck and panoramic views through French windows to both port and starboard sides. Each suite will be finished with rich Cambodian fabrics, re-purposed pure Burma teak panelling and the finest of amenities, and will have its own butler dedicated to ensuring the highest levels of service.
The RV Tonle Pandaw was originally known as Pandaw III and saw a year’s service in Burma in 2003 before moving to the Mekong. Following a complete refurbishment, The RV Tonle Pandaw will feature a brand new spa as well as a gym, library, cocktail saloon and extensive open deck areas which are a hallmark of all Pandaw ships. The RV Tonle Pandaw also has an ultra-shallow draft of just over a metre which allows it to travel up river into low water areas when other vessels are stuck well below.
The ship will sail two different Mekong itineraries: a three-night cruise between Saigon and Phnom Penh and a seven-night Classic Mekong cruise between Saigon and Siem Reap. Excursions with expert guides by sampan, cyclo or tuk tuk and cultural entertainments on board are a feature of any cruise.
Prices for The RV Tonle Pandaw include all meals and drinks, guided sightseeing tours and gratuities.
Fred. Holidays, UK GSA for Pandaw, has packaged up the seven-night Classic Mekong cruise with international flights, overseas transfers and a night in a five-star hotel in Siem Reap with breakfast. Departures between November 2025 and March 2026 with prices from £6,399 per person. Fred. Holidays can also tailor any length of pre- or post-cruise stay to suit customer’s requirements as well as offering flight upgrades.
For further information and reservations, call Fred. Holidays on 0800 988 3369 or visitwww.fredholidays.co.uk