Romantic and Luxury Myanmar Cruise – Road to Mandalay

Experience the exotic mysteries of the ancient land of Burma, now known as Myanmar, aboard the Road to Mandalay, a luxurious five-star yacht. Take a gentle cruise along the Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy) River past 2000-year-old temples and pagodas.

Cruise itineraries
Cruise from Mandalay to Bagan, and back again.

About the Road to Mandalay
The Road to Mandalay (operated by Venice Simplon-Orient-Express) offers personalised service, gourmet cuisine and the opportunity to explore the ancient Ayeryarwady (Irrawaddy) River in elegant style. The former Rhine cruiser (total refitted in 1995), combines Burmese decor with modern air-conditioned comfort.

Accommodation – The spacious air-conditioned en-suite cabins have large twin beds, a sofa, writing desk and panoramic windows, furnished with Burmese fabrics, fine linens and soft towels. Amenities include a personal safe, telephone, satellite TV with in-house video and hairdryer and friendly 24 hour room service.

Dining – Choose from an acclaimed menu of eastern and western delicacies, which are served with natural Burmese courtesy and charm. A selection of European and Australian wines is available to complement your meal. A highlight of the cruise includes two elegant five-course gourmet dinners.

Dress code – Casual smart wear is expected. The atmosphere is relaxed and an open neck shirt with trousers at dinner is acceptable. (Shorts, short skirts or revealing clothing are not appropriate for Myanmar.)

On-board entertainment – There are no cabaret shows as found on large ocean-going cruise ships, however, you can enjoy a relaxing pianist and cultural entertainment that may provide an enhanced experience of this fascinating country. Sit back and enjoy a variety of local entertainers ranging from the traditional Burmese marionettes to acrobats and traditional dancers.

Extend your knowledge of Burmese culture with a lecture given on sailing days by expert guides – learn how to tie a longyi and apply thanka. Relax in comfort in Oriental cane and teak loungers on the canopied observation deck, observing the river life unfolding as the Road to Mandalay meanders gently along the river. Cool off in the on-deck pool or enjoy a refreshing drink from the top-deck bar. Retire to the Piano Bar for an evening cocktail in the company of fellow travellers.

Spa – Choose from a range of rejuvenating facials, private massages and exotic skin treatments. The spa uses the exclusive aromatherapy face and body line by Decleor of Paris, with various massage options, foot reflexology, manicures and pedicures.

Price inclusions – Includes all meals, complimentary tea, coffee, soft drinks and bottled water (alcoholic drinks are not included) and service charges. Onboard gratuities for superior service are discretionary.

Best time to cruise Myanmar? Anytime between July and April, but probably best between November and January. Myanmar has three seasons: cold (November to January), average 22˚C; hot (February to April), average 33˚C; and wet (May to mid October), average 28˚ C.