Originally built as a Rhine cruiser in Germany in 1964, the ship was later purchased and refurbished by Orient-Express and transported to Myanmar in 1995, where it's been plying the Irrawaddy River ever since.

The Road to Mandalay puts a high priority on comfort and the boat's 56 cabins are no exception.  Air-conditioned, with en-suite shower facilities, the rooms offer the ultimate in privacy whilst aboard the boat.  Each cabin is decorated in fine linens and beautiful fabrics bringing an unexpected touch of class to the cabins. 

However, passengers are more like to spend time on-deck as the boat meanders along the Irrawaddy river.  From the ship's canopied Observation Deck, lounge in a comfortable chair and gaze at the surrounding beauty or, enjoy a swim in the on-deck pool.  As the sun sets, retire to the Piano Bar to enjoy a range of cocktails whilst listening to the musical talents of a local pianist.  Throughout The Road to Mandalay, cane and teak furniture as well as Burmese textiles and antiques highlight the beauty of the boat. 

Should the scenery and peaceful sounds of the river not be enough entertainment, the ship also offers evening marionette and dance shows by local performers.  During the day time, demonstrations and lectures are scheduled should you wish to enhance your understanding of local culture. 

The Road to Mandalay has a crew of on-board chefs who provide the best in local and international cuisine.  The buffet lunch features seven different themes and in the evening, guests have a plethora of both European and Asian dishes, served at the guests' chosen time. 

Trips vary from 3-11 nights, cruising between the cities of Mandalay and Bagan.  Whilst every night is spent onboard, day excursions to small villages along the Irrawaddy are often included.

The Road to Mandalay's courteous and dedicated Burmese staff, along with the ship's grand design mean that no detail has been left to chance.  Guests aboard the ship experience Myanmar in the best possible way: cruising up the country's mighty Irrawaddy river in style. 

Facilities:

• Beauty Salon
• Satellite phone for external calls
• In room tea service
• Doctor on board

Dining:

• Restaurant- Offers a variety of Asian and International Dishes
• Observation Deck- Serves Buffet-style lunch in seven culinary themes
• Piano Bar & Lounge- Cocktails and other drinks

Room type:
43 Cabins spread across 4 decks: 18 State Cabins, 1 Governor's Cabin, 16 Deluxe Cabins, 4 Superior Cabins and 4 Single Cabins

Irrawaddy River
Myanmar

The Road to Mandalay cruises the waters of the Irrawaddy River from Bagan to Mandalay and also offers programs up to Bhamo.

Who should go?
The Road to Mandalay is a deluxe river cruiser operated by the renowned Orient-Express group. Different from ocean cruises, The Road to Mandalay offers a relaxing, more cultural environment where travelers can truly experience the beauty of Myanmar and its people. The boat features all the amenities of a modern hotel although, as is typical with boat cabins, space is limited so it is recommended to leave excess baggage behind. The Road to Mandalay is ideal for those who wish to have an elegant, cultural journey along the Irrawaddy River.

When to go?
Burma has three seasons. From September to February the daytime temperature is about 28 degrees C (80 F) with cool evenings. March to May is hot but dry. From June to September it is the rainy season. The area visited by Road To Mandalay is protected from most of the monsoon and is described as the dry zone.

Where is it?
The Road to Mandalay embarks and disembarks at the towns of Bagan and Mandalay on Myanmar's Irrawaddy River. Ports of call may include Bhamo, Katha, Mingun, Mogok, Tigyaung and New Nyein depending on the length of the cruise.

What's not to be missed?
Awake early to watch the sun rise over the Irrawaddy. Walking tours at small villages along the river. Sharing traveler stories with an evening cocktail at the Piano Bar. Visiting the historic towns immortalized by George Orwell in ‘Burmese Days'. Kachin jungle trek in the town of Naba. Tribal dances in the evenings near Mandalay. Sunset over the temples of Bagan.

What's cooking?
Travelers aboard the Road to Mandalay are treated to a variety of gourmet Eastern and Western dishes enjoyed as the boat travels along the picturesque Irrawaddy River. Lunch is served on the Observation Deck and features a themed buffet-style spread of cuisines whereas dinners are served in the Restaurant. The evening menu includes regional cuisines such as Shan, Thai and Indonesian as well as Western dishes and unlike many cruises, travelers aboard the Road to Mandalay choose their own time for dinner. For evening cocktails, guests are invited to gather at the Piano Bar where delicious drinks and pleasant company can be enjoyed while accompanied by the music of a local pianist.