Paukan Royal Myanma.
The lovely Paukan is a boutique hotel on the river, beautifully furnished with a unique combination of modern and traditional motifs. The timber-walled cabins are furnished with colonial style cupboards, dresser and doors while the ceiling is traditional Myanmar. The single or double beds are proper and comfortable ones and not mere bunks, enough room for 55 passengers who will be looked after by a 30-member crew.
Presently it operates two ships: RV Paukan 2007 (a newly built Charming Cruising Boutique Hotel) and RV Paukan1947 (an original Scottish made Colonial Steamer formerly known as RV Pandaw), a third ship RV Paukan2012 is completed in the 2012 and is operating now.
The lovely Paukan is a boutique hotel on the river, beautifully furnished with a unique combination of modern and traditional motifs. The timber-walled cabins are furnished with colonial style cupboards, dresser and doors while the ceiling is traditional Myanmar. The single or double beds are proper and comfortable ones and not mere bunks, enough room for 55 passengers who will be looked after by a 30-member crew.
Presently it operates two ships: RV Paukan 2007 (a newly built Charming Cruising Boutique Hotel) and RV Paukan1947 (an original Scottish made Colonial Steamer formerly known as RV Pandaw), a third ship RV Paukan2012 is completed in the 2012 and is operating now.
Visiting Cities: Bagan - Yandabo - Monywa - Ava - Amarapura - Mandalay
Phone: +84 982 661 133
Number of Cabins: 20 rooms
Checkin time: 14:00
Checkout time: 12:00
Room rates: $ 3,800 - $ 0
- BRIEF
- ITINERARY
- PRICE
- CABIN INFO
- DECKPLANS
- MAP
BRIEF
For luxury-living, Paukan has suites, deluxe or superior cabins as well as singles for guest or guides. There are two massage rooms on the lower deck offering traditional Myanmar massage designed to give soothing relaxation.
The sun deck has a stage for cultural performances, and a bar and lounge for relaxation and fun. The upper deck has a lecture/ movie room with lcd projector and lcd TV screen.
Meals in the dining room on the main deck will include both East and West cuisine, and dinner menus of delicious dishes. Vegetarian meals can be prepared when informed in advance. The price is inclusive of transfer between the ship and airport, all meals, sightseeing tours and entrance fees at monuments.
The sun deck has a stage for cultural performances, and a bar and lounge for relaxation and fun. The upper deck has a lecture/ movie room with lcd projector and lcd TV screen.
Meals in the dining room on the main deck will include both East and West cuisine, and dinner menus of delicious dishes. Vegetarian meals can be prepared when informed in advance. The price is inclusive of transfer between the ship and airport, all meals, sightseeing tours and entrance fees at monuments.
ITINERARY
HIGH WATER DOWNRIVER ITINERARY (From August to November)
All itineraries are subject to change, due to weather and other conditions.
Day 1Friday: Siem Reap - Tonle Sap Lake
Gather at our Siem Reap meeting point then board our air-conditioned bus for the scenic 45-minute countryside ride to the dock on the Tonle Sap Lake for check-in to your 3-story, five star Mekong abode. Settle into your floating retreat, with its window wall conferring an endlessly captivating panorama. Enjoy these private Mekong moments on your California king bed, terrace or daybed.
Day 2
Saturday: Tonle Sap Lake - Prek Toal - Moat Khla
Set off by skiff into the 22,000-hectare Prek Toal Core Bird Reserve, one of the largest freshwater bodies in Asia and the last refuge in Southeast Asia for large waterbirds like the spot-billed pelicans, milky stork, black-headed ibis and the elusive masked finfoot. After lunch, we visit the floating village of Moat Khla, accessible only by water, and attend a Buddhist blessing ceremony in this isolated community.
Day 3
Sunday: Tonle Sap Lake - Chhnok Tru - Kamphong Chhnang
Explore remote villages around the Tonle Sap Lake, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1997. In Chhnok Tru, we “slide” into an ice factory and learn from locals what it’s like to live in a town where schools, churches, pagodas, and even the karaoke bar and police station all float. We continue learning about Khmer riverside life in Kampong Chhnang, the 'Port of Pottery' so called because archaeological findings here date to the 6th century.
Day 4
Monday: Tonle Sap and Mekong River - Koh Chen - Koh Oknha Tey
This morning, we visit Koh Chen, a silversmith village known for its fine craftsmanship. Keep an eye out for their famous silver bowls, regularly chosen by Cambodia's king as gifts for visiting dignitaries. In the afternoon, we set off for the Mekong's 'silk islands' where renowned weavers allow us to wander freely, admiring their intricate craftsmanship. Biking is optional for those who wish to explore deeper into the island.
Day 5
Tuesday: Mekong River - Phnom Penh
We show off the Cambodian capital to our passengers by motorized tuk-tuk, the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. For those who wish, we visit the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide and the Killing Field or shopping at Russian Market. We bid farewell to 4-night guests who are disembarking in Phnom Penh.
Return to welcome our 3-night passengers over custom sundowners like the Salted Watermelon Crush with Thai basil. Together we celebrate the onward journey towards the heart of this mighty river with a Khmer Apsara performance, an indigenous tradition memorialized on the temple walls at Angkor Wat.
Day 6
Wednesday: Mekong River - Ka´Om Samnor - Vinh Xuong Border Crossing - Chau Doc - My An Hung
Say ‘Good Morning, Vietnam’ while we cross the border and sail towards Tan Chau, a vibrant border town where we take the local rickshaw called xe loi for a trip around town or pedal 18 kilometers on the peaceful island of Long Khanh. In the afternoon, we visit a typical Mekong Delta village called My An Hung where we will walk through verdant plantations. We will be invited to a local's home to taste local fruits while hearing traditional folk songs performed by villagers, followed by a unique Unicorn dance. Biking option is also available for those who wish to explore on wheels.
Day 7
Thursday: Binh Thanh/Sa Dec - Cai Be - Mekong River
Begin the day at Binh Thanh mat weaving village or opt to visit Sa Dec where we will peruse the vibrant market and see the famous house of Marguerite Duras' legendary lover, Mr. Huynh Thuy Le. We continue downstream for Cai Be, zigzagging in our sampan past lone fishermen on their long tail boats. Later, our skiffs moor at a wooden pier. Here in Cai Be, walk or bike ride among high-roofed open courtyard houses, some dating back more than 100 years, and currently inhabited by gracious locals who will invite us to glimpse their property.
Day 8
Friday: Mekong River - My Tho - Ho Chi Minh City
Disembarkation. En route to Saigon, we stop at Vinh Trang Pagoda, one of the largest Mahayana Buddhist temple in the region. You will notice the mixed architectural style and see three large Buddha statues plus an impressive collection of bonsai trees.
HIGH WATER UPRIVER ITINERARY (From August to November)
All itineraries are subject to change, due to weather and other conditions.
Day 1Friday: Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong River - My Tho
We will collect you at the Saigon meeting point and transfer you by air-conditioned coach to My Tho dock where we will welcome you aboard the Aqua Mekong. Settle into your floating retreat, with its window wall conferring an endlessly captivating panorama. Enjoy these private Mekong moments on your California king bed, terrace or daybed.
Day 2
Saturday: Mekong River – Binh Thanh/Sa Dec - My An Hung
Begin the day at Binh Thanh mat weaving village or opt to visit Sa Dec where we will peruse the vibrant market and see the famous house of Marguerite Duras' legendary lover, Mr. Huynh Thuy Le. In the afternoon, visit a typical Mekong Delta village called My An Hung where we will walk through verdant plantations. We will be invited to a local's home to taste local fruits while hearing traditional folk songs performed by villagers followed by a unique unicorn dance. A 17-kilometer Biking option is also available.
Day 3
Sunday: Mekong River - Chau Doc - Vinh Xuong - Ka’Om Samnor Border
Travel by skiff along Bassac Canal to Chau Doc floating market then head off by van to Long Son Pagoda atop Sam Mountain. Ask the monks about their age-old Buddhist practices. Return via the bustling morning market. Optional 18 kilometers bike ride on Long Khanh Island or take a rickshaw ride to visit Tan Chau Market with chef. After lunch, relax by the pool, try traditional Khmer massage or learn to cook Mekong inspired dishes while we cross the border.
Day 4
Monday: Mekong River - Koh Oknha Tey - Preah Prosop
On this river of time we admire dexterous Khmer artisans dyeing and weaving kroma, the ubiquitous item no Khmer lives without. Explore the riverbank on two wheels if you wish, past Buddhist temples and thatch houses perched on spindly wooden stilts while white oxen wade just offshore. After lunch, we board our marine-grade aluminum skiffs and head towards the tamarind trees of Preah Prosop, a remote village little changed over several lifetimes.
Day 5
Tuesday: Phnom Penh
We show off the Cambodian capital to our passengers by motorized tuk-tuk, the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. For those who wish, we visit the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide and the Killing Field or shopping at Russian Market. We bid farewell to 4-night guests who are disembarking in Phnom Penh.
Return to welcome our 3-night passengers over custom sundowners like the Salted Watermelon Crush with Thai basil. Together we celebrate the onward journey towards the heart of this mighty river with a Khmer Apsara performance, an indigenous tradition memorialized on the temple walls at Angkor Wat.
Day 6
Wednesday: Tonle Sap River - Koh Chen - Kampng Chhnang
This morning, we visit Koh Chen, a silversmith village known for its fine craftsmanship. Keep an eye out for their famous silver bowls, regularly chosen by Cambodia's king as gifts for visiting dignitaries. In the afternoon, we continue learning about Khmer riverside life in Kampong Chhnang, the 'Port of Pottery' so called because archaeological findings here date to the 6th century. Bike option is available.
Day 7
Thursday: Mouth of the Tonle Sap Lake - Chhnok Tru - Moat Khla
Continue exploring the remote communities around the Tonle Sap Lake, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1997. In Chhnok Tru, we “slide” into an ice factory and learn from locals what it’s like to live in a town where schools, churches, pagodas, and even the karaoke bar and police station all float. After lunch, we visit the floating village of Moat Khla, accessible only by water, and attend a Buddhist blessing ceremony.
Day 8
Friday: Tonle Sap Lake - Prek Toal - Siem Reap
Set off by skiff into the 22,000-hectare Prek Toal Core Bird Reserve, one of the largest freshwater bodies in Asia and the last refuge in Southeast Asia for large waterbirds like the spot-billed pelicans, milky stork, black-headed ibis and the elusive masked finfoot. Disembarkation.
LOW WATER DOWNRIVER ITINERARY (From December to August)
All itineraries are subject to change, due to weather and other conditions.
Day 1Friday: Phnom Penh - Mekong River
We meet you at the Phnom Penh TS1 Port for check-in to your 3-story, five star Mekong abode. Welcome aboard. We’ll leave you to settle into your floating retreat, with its window wall conferring an endlessly captivating panorama. Enjoy these private Mekong moments on your California king bed, terrace or daybed. Together we celebrate the onward journey towards the heart of this mighty river with a Khmer apsara performance, an indigenous tradition memorialized on the temple walls at Angkor Wat.
Day 2
Saturday: Mekong River - Koh Oknha Tey - Preah Prosop
On this river of time we admire dexterous Khmer artisans dyeing and weaving kroma, the ubiquitous item no Khmer lives without. Explore the riverbank on two wheels if you wish, past Buddhist temples and thatch houses perched on spindly wooden stilts while white oxen wade just offshore. After lunch, we board our marine-grade aluminum skiffs and head towards the tamarind trees of Preah Prosop, a remote village little changed over several lifetimes.
Day 3
Sunday: Tonle Sap River - Koh Chen - Kampong Prasat
In the silversmith village of Koh Chen, we watch artisans producing the magnificent silverware favored by Khmer royalty. We continue to Udong, the royal capital from the 17-19th centuries, where we learn about a uniquely challenging Buddhist practice at the Vipassana Dhura Mandala, a meditation center. In the afternoon, a walking tour of Kampong Prasat offers a close up perspective on local lives and their riverside environment.
Day 4
Monday: Tonle Sap River - Kampong Chhnang - Kampong Tralach
In the cooler hours, we head into the lush countryside to visit traditional potters and palm-sugar producers, astride mountain bikes or chauffeured by shaded tuk-tuk. Into the rice paddies we pedal to watch wizened masters scale sky-piercing palms towering over us. Cruise across the glassy water and disembark among the lotuses for an ox-cart ride along the Tonle Sap riverbanks, past lacquered wooden houses where during these dry months residents take refuge in the relative cool of these outdoor impromptu living rooms.
Day 5
Tuesday: Mekong River - Phnom Penh
We show off the Cambodian capital to our passengers by motorized tuk-tuk, the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. For those who wish, we visit the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide and the Killing Field or shopping at Russian Market. We bid farewell to 4-night guests who are disembarking in Phnom Penh.
Welcome our 3-night passengers over custom sundowners like the Salted Watermelon Crush with Thai basil. Together we celebrate the onward journey towards the heart of this mighty river with a Khmer Apsara performance, an indigenous tradition memorialized on the temple walls at Angkor Wat.
Day 6
Wednesday: Mekong River – Ka’Om Samnor - Vinh Xuong Border Crossing - Chau Doc - My Ah Hung
Say ‘Good Morning, Vietnam’ while we cross the border and sail towards Tan Chau, a vibrant border town where we take the local rickshaw called xe loi for a trip around town or pedal 18 kilometers on the peaceful island of Long Khanh. In the afternoon, we visit a typical Mekong Delta village called My An Hung where we will walk through verdant plantations. We will be invited to a local's home to taste local fruits while hearing traditional folk songs performed by villagers, followed by a unique Unicorn dance. Biking option is also available for those who wish to explore on wheels.
Day 7
Thursday: Mekong River - Binh Thanh/ Sa Dec - Cai Be
Begin the day at Binh Thanh mat weaving village or opt to visit Sa Dec where we will peruse the vibrant market and see the famous house of Marguerite Duras' legendary lover, Mr. Huynh Thuy Le. We continue downstream for Cai Be, zigzagging in our sampan past lone fishermen on their long tail boats. Later, our skiffs moor at a wooden pier. Here in Cai Be, walk or bike ride among high-roofed open courtyard houses, some dating back more than 100 years, and currently inhabited by gracious locals who will invite us to glimpse their property.
Day 8
Friday: Mekong River - My Tho – Ho Chi Minh City
Disembarkation. En route to Ho Chi Minh, we stop at Vinh Trang Pagoda, one of the largest Mahayana Buddhist temple in the region. You will notice the mixed architectural style and see three large buddha statues plus an impressive collection of bonsai trees.
LOW WATER UPRIVER ITINERARY (From December to August)
All itineraries are subject to change, due to weather and other conditions.
Day 1Friday: Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong River - My Tho
We will collect you at the Ho Chi Minh City meeting point and transfer you by air-conditioned coach to My Tho dock where we will welcome you aboard the Aqua Mekong. Settle into your floating retreat, with its window wall conferring an endlessly captivating panorama. Enjoy these private Mekong moments on your California king bed, terrace or daybed.
Day 2
Saturday: Mekong River - Binh Thanh/ Sa Dec - My An Hung
Begin the day at Binh Thanh mat weaving village or opt to visit Sa Dec where we will peruse the vibrant market and see the famous house of Marguerite Duras' legendary lover, Mr. Huynh Thuy Le. In the afternoon, visit a typical Mekong Delta village called My An Hung where we will walk through verdant plantations. We will be invited to a local's home to taste local fruits while hearing traditional folk songs performed by villagers followed by a unique unicorn dance. A 17-kilometer Biking option is also available.
Day 3
Sunday: Mekong River - Chau Doc - Vinh Xuong - Ka’Om Samnor Border
Travel by skiff along Bassac Canal to Chau Doc floating market then head off by van to Long Son Pagoda atop Sam Mountain. Ask the monks about their age-old Buddhist practices. Return via the bustling morning market. Optional 18 kilometers bike ride on Long Khanh Island or take a rickshaw ride to visit Tan Chau Market with chef. After lunch, relax by the pool, try traditional Khmer massage or learn to cook Mekong inspired dishes while we cross the border.
Day 4
Monday: Mekong River - Koh Oknha Tey - Preah Prosop
On this river of time we admire dexterous Khmer artisans dyeing and weaving kroma, the ubiquitous item no Khmer lives without. Explore the riverbank on two wheels if you wish, past Buddhist temples and thatch houses perched on spindly wooden stilts while white oxen wade just offshore. After lunch, we board our marine-grade aluminum skiffs and head towards the tamarind trees of Preah Prosop, a remote village little changed over several lifetimes.
Day 5
Tuesday: Phnom Penh
We show off the Cambodian capital to our passengers by motorized tuk-tuk, the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. For those who wish, we visit the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide and the Killing Field or shopping at Russian Market. We bid farewell to 4-night guests who are disembarking in Phnom Penh.
Return to welcome our 3-night passengers over custom sundowners like the Salted Watermelon Crush with Thai basil. Together we celebrate the onward journey towards the heart of this mighty river with a Khmer Apsara performance, an indigenous tradition memorialized on the temple walls at Angkor Wat.
Day 6
Wednesday: Tonle Sap River - Koh Chen - Kampong Prasat
In the silversmith village of Koh Chen, we watch artisans producing the magnificent silverware favored by Khmer royalty. We continue to Udong, the royal capital from the 17-19th centuries, where we learn about a uniquely challenging Buddhist practice at the Vipassana Dhura Mandala, a meditation center. In the afternoon, a walking tour of Kampong Prasat offers a close up perspective on local lives and their riverside environment.
Day 7
Thursday: Tonle Sap River - Kampong Chhnang - Kampong Tralach
In the cooler hours, we head into the lush countryside to visit traditional potters and palm-sugar producers, astride mountain bikes or chauffeured by shaded tuk-tuk. Into the rice paddies we pedal to watch wizened masters scale sky-piercing palms towering over us. Cruise across the glassy water and disembark among the lotuses for an ox-cart ride along the Tonle Sap riverbanks, past lacquered wooden houses where during these dry months residents take refuge in the relative cool of these outdoor impromptu living rooms.
Day 8
Friday: Phnom Penh
Customized exploration of Phnom Penh and disembarkation.
PRICE
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Above Price Included
- All meals while onboard
- Beverages (premium non-alcoholic, house wine and beer)
- All shore excursions
- Laundry
- Bike use
- Internet with intermittent connection
- Group transfers.
Above Price Excluded
- All air tickets
- Visas
- Private transfers
- Spa services
- Boutique purchases
- Guide and crew gratuities.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation / Prepayment policy
Additional Pricing Information:All rates are per person double occupancy; single supplement +25% regular rates.
Child Policy: 7 year age minimum on all departures, children under 12 years old will receive a 20% discount.
Third person sleeping on sofa bed will receive a 20% discount
Third person being a child under 12 years old sleeping on sofa bed pays US 0 per night.
• Departure date change policy:
Aqua Expeditions permits guests to change the departure date of their cruise within 181 days prior to their original date without penalty. Date changes made between 180 and 121 days prior departure, please note a fee of USD0.00 per person applies. No date changes are permitted within 120 days from departure. In the event of cancellations, wire fees and credit card commissions will be deducted when calculating refunds.
Medical and health:
Guests should be in good physical health in order to be able to make the most of their cruise. Exploring the area involves the use of small, motorized skiffs and at times may include some wet landings. Daily excursions may include walking on irregular terrain, and getting in and out of the skiffs occasionally requires some physical effort. Walking excursions may last up to one hour.
Insurance:
Travelers are strongly advised to purchase trip cancellation insurance, which will reimburse the cost of air tickets and other non-refundable trip payments. International medical, baggage loss, and delay insurance are also recommended. Aqua Expeditions assumes no liability for lost or stolen personal belongings.
Traveler's responsibilities:
Travelers have responsibilities toward both their fellow passengers and the Aqua Expeditions’ crew. Every passenger should review the conditions contained in the trip itinerary, follow normal social behavior patterns with fellow passengers, observe all safety requirements on board and on excursions, and act in an appropriate and respectful manner toward the crew members and their fellow travelers.
CABIN INFO
SUITES
Number of Cabins: 20 Suites
Bed Types: Double or Twin Beds
Area : 30 sq.m (320 square feet)
For Aqua Expeditions founder Francesco Galli Zugaro, the ultimate river safari includes the best creatures comforts on board as well as unparalleled experiences with local experts in small groups exploring a destination. True to that vision are the 20 air conditioned Design Suites of the Aqua Mekong, each one a generous 30 square meters (320 square feet), eight with balconies and all created entirely of local materials with the relaxed sophistication and contemporary comforts of a five star resort.
Floor to ceiling panoramic windows allow guests to gaze upon the Mekong from the pillow top California king size bed that can be converted upon request into two full twin beds. More captivating views await on the plush, roomy daybed placed by the window wall or for our eight balcony accommodations, outside along with a romantic table for two. Those who wish to keep up on the world beyond these enthralling riverbanks will appreciate complementary high speed wireless internet.
The sleek bathroom features the latest eco-sensitive technology and an additional Mekong River facing picture window, plus dual sinks, a large walk in shower with rainforest showerhead and bench, professional hairdryer and natural bath amenities.
Four sets of interconnecting suites, with two sets on each deck offer convenience for traveling families. Or for the ultimate luxury, passengers may book these interconnecting accommodations, with one suite configured as a private living room, the other as a bedroom, and separate baths. The result is a private, 60 square meter (640 square foot) floating apartment on the Mekong River.
DECK PLAN
MAP