Your Ultimate Guide to Pandaw River Expeditions
Rediscover the golden age of travel with Pandaw: intimate teak-and-brass ships, serene river cruising, and deep connections to Asia’s remote landscapes and river communities.
A Journey Back in Time: Your Pandaw Adventure Awaits
If you’ve ever dreamt of stepping into the pages of a classic travel novel, a Pandaw river expedition is your chance to live that story. This isn’t just a cruise; it’s a return to a more gracious era of exploration, inspired by the legendary Irrawaddy Flotilla Company that plied the rivers of Burma in the 19th century.1 Imagine gliding along the great waterways of Asia aboard a beautiful, handcrafted vessel of polished brass and teak, a cool drink in hand, as a mesmerising panorama of river life unfolds before you. This is a world away from the bustling crowds and floating cities of modern ocean cruising, offering a tranquil and deeply personal way to connect with the heart of a destination.3
Pandaw’s philosophy is simple: to take curious travellers to remote and often hard-to-reach places that are inaccessible to larger ships or overland tours.2 It’s for the traveller, not the tourist—for those who have perhaps seen the grand capitals of the world and now seek a more profound connection to its people and landscapes. This is slow travel at its finest, where the journey itself is as enriching as the destinations you visit. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know, from the practicalities of booking to the realities of life on the river, all tailored for the savvy Australian senior traveller.
The Pandaw Difference: Why Seniors Love These Expeditions
Pandaw has cultivated a fiercely loyal following, especially among seasoned travellers. The appeal goes far beyond just a holiday; it’s a distinct style of travel that resonates deeply with those seeking something more meaningful.
- Unpack Once, Explore Deeply: This is the classic joy of any cruise. You settle into your comfortable cabin, and your floating hotel takes you to a new, fascinating location each day without the hassle of constantly packing and unpacking.
- Authentic Cultural Immersion: Pandaw’s shallow-draft ships can navigate where others can’t, taking you to remote villages where you may be the only Western visitors.2 The focus is on genuine interactions—visiting local schools, watching artisans at work, and experiencing daily life as it truly is.34
- Intimate & Friendly Atmosphere: With so few guests on board, a wonderful sense of camaraderie develops. The atmosphere is more like a private yacht party than a formal cruise, making it incredibly easy to make new mates and share stories over a drink on the deck.3
- Relaxed & Informal Pace: Leave your dinner jacket at home. There’s no “dressing up for the captain’s table” or stuffy formalities.14 The dress code is casual, and the pace is leisurely, with plenty of time to simply sit on the promenade deck and watch the incredible tapestry of river life glide by.36
- All-Inclusive Simplicity: The generous inclusions mean you can relax without constantly worrying about the final bill. Knowing that your excursions, drinks, and crew tips are already taken care of makes for a genuinely stress-free holiday.17
Did You Know?
Pandaw was founded in 1995 by a Scottish historian, Paul Strachan, who set out to revive the legacy of the original 19th-century Irrawaddy Flotilla Company. The very first vessel was a lovingly restored, original Clyde-built steamer from 1947, which set the standard for the classic colonial style and spirit of adventure that defines the fleet today.1
Your Voyage Blueprint: Booking & Planning Essentials
Getting the planning right is the first step to a brilliant holiday. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Getting to Your River Cruise
- Flight Packages vs. Independent Arrangements: Pandaw is a cruise operator, not an airline, so international flights from Australia are not typically included in their packages. You will need to book your flights independently or through a specialist travel agent. Pandaw’s official representative in Australia and New Zealand is Wild Earth Travel, who can assist with packages.37 Other Australian agencies like BlueSun Cruises also specialise in Pandaw.3
- Common Pre-Cruise Cities for Aussies: Given the excellent flight connections from Australia, the most popular and practical cities to fly into for a pre-cruise stay are Singapore, Bangkok, and Hanoi.28 Arriving a few days early is highly recommended to acclimatise and explore these vibrant gateways to Asia.
- Land & River Tours: For a more seamless experience, Pandaw also offers combined land and river tours, which package pre- and post-cruise land excursions with your river adventure.6
Travel Tip: Beat the Jet Lag
Fly into your starting city two or three days early. This gives you precious time to adjust to the new time zone and climate before your cruise begins. Stay well-hydrated on the flight, adjust your watch to the destination time as soon as you board the plane, and get some gentle sunlight on your first morning to help reset your body clock.
Best Times to Book & Travel
- Understanding Asia’s River Seasons: Unlike Europe, Asia’s river cruising seasons are dictated by monsoons.
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- Dry Season (roughly October to April): This is peak season. You’ll enjoy pleasant, sunny weather with lower humidity. However, river levels can be low, which may occasionally require itinerary adjustments.29
- Wet Season (roughly May to September): Often called the ‘green season’, this is when the landscape is at its most lush and vibrant. Rivers are high, making navigation easy. You can expect afternoon showers, but they are often short and sharp, and you’ll encounter fewer tourists.40
- Early Booking Perks: Pandaw rewards those who plan ahead. Look for “Discovery Discounts,” often around 10%, for booking your cruise well in advance.10 With so few cabins on each ship, popular dates sell out quickly, so booking early is essential to secure your spot.41
- Last-Minute Deals: These are not a feature of Pandaw’s business model. Their focus is on rewarding early planners and loyal past passengers through the “Pandaw Member’s Club,” which offers exclusive discounts and valuable onboard benefits.42
What’s Actually Included
Pandaw’s pricing is refreshingly transparent, with a high level of inclusions.
- What’s in the fare:
-
- All onboard meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).16
- Daily shore excursions with expert local guides.17
- Gratuities for the onboard crew.17
- Local mineral water, coffee, tea, and tisanes available all day.16
- Local soft drinks, local beer, and local house spirits.15
- What still costs extra:
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- International flights to and from Asia.
- Visa fees for countries like Vietnam and Cambodia.
- Premium international wines and spirits (drinks packages can be pre-purchased).43
- Onboard laundry service.45
- Discretionary tips for your local guides and drivers ashore.18
- Travel insurance (this is mandatory).24
A Taste of Asia: The Dining Experience
Dining on a Pandaw ship is a relaxed, social, and delicious affair that is deeply connected to the regions you are exploring.
All-Inclusive Dining
- Open Seating: There are no assigned tables or fixed dining times. Seating is open at tables for four or six, which encourages you to mingle and dine with different fellow travellers each evening.56
- Local Cuisine Focus: The talented onboard chefs pride themselves on creating menus that feature a wonderful variety of local and regional dishes, using fresh ingredients often sourced from riverside markets.54 For those with less adventurous palates, there are always delicious Western options available as well.58
- Al Fresco Experience: Whenever the weather permits, meals are served in a beautiful open-air setting on the deck, allowing you to continue enjoying the scenery while you dine.47
- Included Drinks: Your fare includes locally produced soft drinks, beer, and house spirits. On some itineraries, particularly in India, local wine is also included with meals.9
Special Diets & Preferences
- Advance Notice is Key: The chefs are very accommodating of special dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or low-spice diets. It is essential that you advise the company of your needs at the time of booking so they can prepare accordingly.57
- Room Service: There is no formal room service menu. However, the crew are incredibly accommodating, and simple requests like an early morning coffee delivered to your cabin can usually be arranged.58
You Should Know:
The galleys on these small, characterful ships are compact. While the chefs work wonders, they don’t have the vast storerooms of an ocean liner. This means the variety is excellent for the ship’s size, but you won’t find a 24/7 buffet with endless choices.
Staying Connected: Technology & Communication
While a Pandaw cruise is a great chance to disconnect, you can still stay in touch with home.
- Wi-Fi Quality & Coverage: Complimentary Wi-Fi is typically available in the public areas of the ship, such as the sundeck or saloon.36 However, the connection relies on local mobile phone signals and can be slow and intermittent, especially in more remote stretches of the river. It’s suitable for sending emails and messages, but not for streaming movies.
- Power Outlets in Cabins: Cabins are equipped with multi-configuration power outlets, so you generally won’t need to bring a specific travel adaptor for your Australian plugs.51
- Mobile Coverage: Your mobile phone coverage will vary. You can expect good signal in and around larger towns, but there will likely be long periods with no service while cruising through rural areas.
- Tech Support: The onboard crew can assist with basic queries, but there is no dedicated IT support staff.
Health, Medical & The Practical Side of Things
Being prepared is key to a safe and enjoyable trip, especially when travelling to more remote parts of the world.
- Medical Facilities: It is vital to understand that Pandaw ships do not have a doctor or nurse on board. The crew is trained in first aid, and the ship can always access land-based medical facilities in an emergency.24 This makes having comprehensive travel insurance an absolute necessity.
- Prescription Medication: Be sure to pack more than enough of any prescription medication you need for the entire duration of your trip, including a few extra days’ supply in case of delays. Keep medication in its original packaging and carry a copy of your prescription.
- Walking Requirements Reality: As mentioned, a good level of mobility is required. You should be comfortable walking on uneven surfaces like cobblestones, dirt paths, and up gentle hills or flights of stairs at temples.20
- Seasickness: This is extremely rare on a river cruise as the waters are calm. You may feel a very gentle motion when the ship is sailing, but it is not comparable to being at sea.
- Elevator Availability: The vast majority of Pandaw ships do not have elevators. You must be able to manage stairs to move between the decks.20
Laundry Services: A laundry service is available on board for an additional fee.45
Enrichment & Entertainment Onboard
Entertainment on a Pandaw ship is designed to enhance your understanding of the destination, not distract you from it.
- Cultural Presentations: The entertainment is authentic and local. In the evenings, local dancers, musicians, or even puppeteers are often brought on board to share their cultural traditions with you.53
- Daytime Activities: Formal activities are limited, allowing you to set your own pace. You might find a casual cooking demonstration from the chef, a fruit carving class, or a talk from your guide about local history or customs.52
- Evening Entertainment Style: Evenings are quiet, intimate, and social. After dinner, guests might gather in the saloon for a nightcap, watch a destination-themed film like The Quiet American or Indochine 53, or simply chat on the deck. On some itineraries, the crew will host a memorable bonfire and barbecue on a secluded sandbank.52
- Educational Focus: Your expert local guide is a key part of the experience. They will give daily briefings on the next day’s activities and often present informal lectures on topics like local language, history, or religion, adding a rich layer of context to your journey.52
- Library & Games: Each ship has a small library with books related to the destination, as well as a selection of classic board games for you to enjoy.47
Travel Tip:
Evenings on Pandaw are wonderfully quiet and social. It’s the perfect time to chat with new friends about the day’s adventures. For your own downtime, it’s a good idea to pack a good book, download a few of your favourite films or shows to a tablet, or bring a deck of cards.
The Social Scene: Making New Mates
The small size of a Pandaw ship creates a unique and wonderfully social environment.
- Intimate Atmosphere: With so few people on board, it’s impossible to be anonymous. You’ll quickly get to know your fellow travellers, sharing stories from your day’s adventures over a cocktail. This creates a warm, house-party-like atmosphere that many guests count as a highlight of their trip.54
- Single Seating & Mixer Events: The open-seating dining policy and the daily pre-dinner cocktail hour are natural, informal “mixers.” They make it incredibly easy for everyone, and especially solo travellers, to meet others and find dining companions.25 Pandaw will even arrange special singles tables on request.25
- Small Ship Dynamics: The great advantage of this intimacy is the easy camaraderie that forms. You’re travelling with a group of like-minded people who share a passion for authentic travel. The only potential downside is the lack of anonymity; you will see the same faces every day.
- Language Mix Onboard: All announcements, tours, and activities are conducted in English. Your fellow passengers will be a friendly mix of nationalities, typically from Australia, the UK, the USA, and Western Europe.22
You Should Know:
On a ship this small, you’ll see the same faces at every meal and on every tour. If you enjoy meeting new people and making new friends, it’s a fantastic and rewarding experience. If you prefer to keep to yourself, be aware that privacy is found in your cabin or a quiet corner of the deck, not in anonymity.
Pandaw's Signature Journeys: Popular Itineraries
While many river cruise lines focus on Europe, Pandaw is a true Asia specialist. You won’t find the Rhine or Danube here; instead, you’ll discover the rich tapestries of Asia’s greatest and most exotic waterways.
Exotic Rivers
- The Mekong (Vietnam & Cambodia): This is the quintessential Pandaw journey and an excellent choice for first-timers.
-
- Season: Best during the dry season (November to April).
- Duration: Typically 7 nights between Saigon (My Tho port) and Siem Reap (Kampong Cham port).66 Shorter 3 and 4-night segments are also available.67
- Highlights: Experience the bustling energy of the Mekong Delta in Vietnam, explore the vibrant city of Phnom Penh by cyclo, visit remote silk-weaving and silversmithing villages, and witness life in the floating communities on the Tonle Sap River.67
- Senior Suitability: Excellent. The itinerary is well-established, the logistics are smooth, and it offers a perfect blend of cultural sights and relaxing river cruising.
- The Upper Mekong (Laos): A more adventurous itinerary that explores the remote, jungle-clad upper reaches of the Mekong.
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- Season: Best from November to January when water levels are highest.32
- Duration: Typically 10 nights between Vientiane (Laos) and Chiang Khong (Thailand).55
- Highlights: Witness the stunning natural beauty of the Laotian countryside, visit the sacred Pak Ou Caves filled with thousands of Buddha statues, observe the morning alms-giving ceremony in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang, and visit an elephant sanctuary.55
- Senior Suitability: Good for active and adventurous seniors. The scenery is spectacular, but the infrastructure is less developed than on the lower Mekong.
- The Rivers of India (Ganges & Brahmaputra): These itineraries offer a deep dive into the spiritual, cultural, and natural wonders of India.
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- Season: Best during the cooler, dry months from October to March.31
- Duration: 7 to 14 nights, with longer combination cruises available.9
- Highlights: On the Ganges, explore ancient temples, colonial towns, and spiritual sites between Kolkata and Patna or Varanasi.50 On the Brahmaputra in Assam, the focus is on wildlife, with jeep safaris in Kaziranga National Park to spot the rare one-horned rhino, tigers, and elephants.70
- Senior Suitability: More demanding. These are true expeditions that can involve heat, dust, and complex travel logistics (including train journeys). Best suited for seasoned, resilient travellers looking for an incredibly rewarding experience.
- Northern Vietnam (Red River & Halong Bay): A unique cruise that combines the iconic limestone karsts of Halong Bay with the cultural heartland of the Red River Delta.
-
- Season: Good year-round, but spring (March-April) and autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather.29
- Duration: 10 nights.26
- Highlights: Sail amidst the breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay, visit Hanoi’s key historical sites, explore craft villages specializing in silk or ceramics, and witness a traditional water puppet show in its birthplace.71
Senior Suitability: A great option for those who have already experienced the Mekong and want to discover a different side of Vietnam.
Our Final Verdict for the Seniors Travel Club
After a thorough review, here is our final take on whether a Pandaw expedition is the right choice for you.
- Best Suited For:
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- Active, mobile, and culturally curious seniors who are travellers at heart.
- Solo travellers, for whom the “No Single Supplement” policy is unbeatable.
- Couples and friends who enjoy a social, small-group atmosphere.
- Seasoned visitors to Asia who are looking for a deeper, more authentic experience beyond the main tourist sites.
- Not Recommended For:
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- Travellers with significant mobility issues who rely on a wheelchair or walking frame.
- Anyone who cannot comfortably manage stairs and walk on uneven ground.
- Those seeking resort-style amenities, lavish production shows, or the anonymity of a large ship.
- Stand-out Features:
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- The stunningly beautiful, colonial-style ships handcrafted in teak and brass.
- The industry-leading “No Single Supplement” policy that genuinely welcomes solo travellers.
- The truly unique, off-the-beaten-path itineraries that offer unparalleled cultural immersion.
- Overall Value Rating & Recommendation:
For the right person, Pandaw represents excellent value. The high level of inclusions, intimate atmosphere, and quality of the cultural experiences are superb. We highly recommend a Pandaw expedition for the adventurous and mobile senior traveller who is ready to be enchanted by the timeless allure of Asia’s great rivers.
If you’re ready to trade the well-worn tourist trail for the historic highways of Asia, a Pandaw expedition isn’t just a holiday—it’s the story of a lifetime waiting to be written. Happy travels! 🌏
Check out upcoming Pandaw River Expeditions deals
Pandaw at a Glance: Snapshot & Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| River Cruise Line at a Glance |
Expedition-style cruising in Asia with a focus on authentic cultural immersion and colonial-era charm.1 |
| Fleet Size & Newest Ships |
17 intimate, handcrafted vessels. Look out for the new RV Kochi Pandaw (launching 2025) and RV Hanoi Pandaw (launching 2026).4 |
| Rivers & Regions Covered |
Exclusively Asia: Mekong (Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos), Ganges & Brahmaputra (India), and the Red River & Halong Bay (Vietnam).6 |
| Typical Cruise Lengths |
Varies from short 3-night sailings to epic 22-night combination journeys. Most popular itineraries are 7, 10, or 14 nights.8 |
| Price Range |
$$$–$$$$ (Premium). Expect to pay approximately $4,500 to $12,000 AUD per person for a 7 to 10-night cruise, depending on the itinerary and season. Prices are quoted in USD.10 |
| Ship Capacity |
Genuinely small-ship cruising, with guest numbers ranging from just 10 to a maximum of 60.11 |
| Crew-to-Passenger Ratio |
Approximately 1 crew member for every 2 guests, ensuring attentive and personal service.13 |
| What's Included |
Highly inclusive: All daily excursions, crew gratuities, all meals, local soft drinks, local beer, and local spirits.15 |
| Gratuities Policy |
Included for the onboard crew. Tipping for local guides and drivers during shore excursions is discretionary and appreciated.18 |
| Onboard Currency |
US Dollars (USD) for all onboard purchases.20 |
| Average Age of Passengers |
Typically well-travelled English-speaking couples and solos in their 60s and 70s.22 |
| Wheelchair Accessibility Rating |
1/5 (Not Accessible). Note: Pandaw is not suitable for travellers who rely on wheelchairs or have significant mobility limitations. The company’s policy explicitly states, “Wheel chairs are not allowed.” Access to and from the ship often involves navigating steep, unpaved, and sometimes slippery riverbanks.24 |
| Solo Traveller Friendliness |
5/5 (Excellent). A standout feature. Pandaw frequently offers “No Single Supplement” on a wide selection of dates, making it one of the best choices in the world for solo adventurers.25 |
| Australian-Friendly Departure Cities |
Major international hubs for pre-cruise stays include Singapore, Bangkok, and Hanoi. Cruises embark from cities like Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Siem Reap, Kolkata, and Hanoi.26 |
| Best Months for Each Region |
Mekong: November to April (dry season).29 India (Ganges & Brahmaputra): October to March (cooler, dry weather).30 Laos (Upper Mekong): November to January (high water levels, pleasant weather).32 |
Enrichment & Entertainment Onboard
Entertainment on a Pandaw ship is designed to enhance your understanding of the destination, not distract you from it.
Cultural Presentations
The entertainment is authentic and local. In the evenings, local dancers, musicians, or even puppeteers are often brought on board to share their cultural traditions with you.53
Daytime Activities
Formal activities are limited, allowing you to set your own pace. You might find a casual cooking demonstration from the chef, a fruit carving class, or a talk from your guide about local history or customs.52
Evening Entertainment Style
Evenings are quiet, intimate, and social. After dinner, guests might gather in the saloon for a nightcap, watch a destination-themed film like The Quiet American or Indochine 53, or simply chat on the deck. On some itineraries, the crew will host a memorable bonfire and barbecue on a secluded sandbank.52
Educational Focus
Your expert local guide is a key part of the experience. They will give daily briefings on the next day’s activities and often present informal lectures on topics like local language, history, or religion, adding a rich layer of context to your journey.522
Library & Games
Each ship has a small library with books related to the destination, as well as a selection of classic board games for you to enjoy.47
Exploring Ashore: Shore Excursions
The shore excursions are the heart of the Pandaw journey, designed to be immersive, authentic, and hassle-free.
Included Tours: All daily excursions are included in your cruise fare. There is no “hard sell” for optional tours on board, which creates a wonderfully relaxed environment. The included program is comprehensive and designed to give you a full experience of the region.17
Pacing & Physicality: Excursions are designed to be accessible for most active seniors and are generally rated as having a ‘moderate’ physical level with a flexible pace.60 They almost always involve walking, often on unpaved paths or uneven ground. For those who need to take it slower, crew members accompany every tour to provide assistance and a steadying arm.35
Audio Headsets: On most excursions, you’ll be provided with a personal audio headset (often called a QuietVox system), so you can hear the guide’s commentary clearly without having to crowd around them.53
Free Time & Staying Aboard: In larger towns like Luang Prabang, the itinerary often includes free time for you to explore at your own pace.55 You are, of course, always welcome to skip an excursion and relax on the ship instead.
Bikes on Board: Most ships carry a fleet of quality mountain bikes that are free for guests to use during village stops for some independent exploration.48 Please note, these are standard mountain bikes, not e-bikes.
Senior Saver:
With Pandaw, the included excursions are the main event. They are comprehensive, well-guided, and take you to the heart of the destination. There’s no pressure or need to spend hundreds of dollars on ‘premium’ tours—what’s included is excellent and provides a full, authentic experience.
Your Floating Sanctuary: Ships & Accommodation
The Pandaw ships are a huge part of the experience. They are characterful, comfortable, and designed to connect you with the river.
Ship Design & Layout
- Built for the River: Pandaw ships are long, narrow, and have an ultra-shallow draft, some as little as one metre.4 This clever design allows them to navigate remote tributaries and reach places inaccessible to other vessels.
- Public Spaces: The heart of every Pandaw ship is its outdoor space. You’ll find a magnificent, teak-floored sun deck on top and a unique 360-degree promenade deck that wraps around the main and upper accommodation decks.3 These areas are furnished with comfortable rattan chairs and loungers and serve as the main social hubs. Inside, there is typically a single air-conditioned saloon that functions as a lounge, bar, and sometimes an indoor dining space.47
Cabin Categories
The beauty of Pandaw’s design lies in its simplicity and egalitarian approach. Rather than a confusing hierarchy of cabin types, most ships feature one standard category of stateroom, ensuring a consistent experience for all guests.
- Windows and “Balconies”: All cabins are outside-facing with panoramic, floor-to-ceiling French windows that can be opened to let in the breeze.48 It’s important to note these are not private, step-out balconies. The public promenade deck runs directly outside your cabin, acting as a shared veranda where you can place a chair and watch the world go by.17
- Cabin Sizes: Staterooms across the fleet are a standard, comfortable size of approximately 16 square metres (170 square feet).48 They are beautifully finished in teak and brass, creating a warm, nautical, and colonial-era feel.
- Storage Realities: Storage is cleverly designed but compact. You’ll find a small closet and drawers, with additional space under the beds for storing suitcases.51 The key is to pack light and use soft-sided luggage that can be easily stowed away.
- Single Supplements & Solo Options: This is where Pandaw truly shines for solo travellers. All cabins can be configured as twin or double beds. On the many “No Single Supplement” departures, a solo traveller pays the standard per-person twin-share rate and gets a full cabin to themselves.25
Accessibility Reality Check
It is crucial to be honest about the physical requirements for a Pandaw expedition. This style of travel is an adventure, and it is not suitable for everyone.
- No Wheelchairs Allowed: Pandaw’s official booking conditions are very clear: “Wheel chairs are not allowed”.24
- Gangway Challenges: There are no modern cruise terminals or docks in the remote areas Pandaw visits. Getting on and off the ship means walking down a gangplank onto a riverbank, which can be steep, sandy, muddy, or uneven. The crew are exceptionally helpful and will always provide a steadying hand, but you must be able to walk unaided on unstable ground.24
- Onboard Mobility: The ships are multi-level and, with very few exceptions, do not have elevators.20 You must be able to comfortably and safely navigate stairs between decks.
- Who Shouldn’t Book: If you rely on a wheelchair or a walking frame, cannot manage a flight of stairs, or are not comfortable walking for at least 20-30 minutes over uneven terrain, a Pandaw cruise is unfortunately not a suitable or safe holiday for you.