Home > BORNEO (Malaysia) > Short stays:

Pandaw - Into the Heart of Borneo 9D/8N

9 Days / 8 Nights from $3,154 per person

Pandaw River Cruises

The Pandaw ships originate from the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company which had a fleet of over 650 steamers, all of which were destroyed in 1942 during World War II. The first Pandaw was a restored steamer that was revived in 1995, from here the concept and style of cruising was created. With over 12 years experience in cruising, Pandaw River Cruises is the largest river cruise company in Asia with six luxury ships, all designed as replicas of the colonial river steamers. They explore four countries offering an adventurous experience with daily shore excursions, whilst enjoying the immense comfort of the ship including fine dining and outstanding service.

The RV Mekong Pandaw (Mekong Exploration), RV Tonle Pandaw (Mekong Exploration), and the RV Orient Pandaw (Into the Heart of Borneo) provide all passengers with extraordinary service and care and can take approximately 56 passengers each, with a ratio of one staff member to every two guests.

RAJANG RIVER

The Rajang River is the longest river in Malaysia, extending 563km. It flows across Borneo from Sarawak into Kalimantan in Indonesia. Due to the rivers remoteness, it is relatively undiscovered by tourism. The scenery along the river is pectacular; you will see traditional longhouses, the Pelagus Rapids and an abundance of wildlife including the national bird of Sarawak, the Hornbill.

PANDAW STATE ROOM

One of the prime features of the Pandaw ships are the state rooms, which are the same onboard each ship. The main and upper decks feature very spacious 15.6sq m cabins, all with private facilities. All cabins have air conditioning, mini-safe, storage space for your luggage, wardrobe, writing desk and amenities such as a hairdryer and slippers. The cabins do not have mini-bars, TVs, internet or phones. All main and upper deck cabins have their own deck space outside the cabin.

BAR AND DINING

The Pandaw ships offer a great choice of local cuisine with breakfast served as a buffet and lunch and dinner served at the tables; your choice from a set menu. Water is provided with all meals as well as complimentary local soft drinks, beers and some spirits depending on suitability and availability by country. Tea and coffee is also complimentary and available from 6am throughout the day on the Sun Deck. Local mineral water is provided in your cabin daily.

EXCURSIONS AND DAILY SCHEDULES

All Pandaw cruises offer daily group excursions ashore to visit the main sites and cultural attractions of the area, as well as remote villages and communities along the way. The itinerary lists the main stops of your river expedition; however, these depend on the river conditions and other local factors. A detailed daily schedule is posted on the notice board. When the ship is moored, passengers are welcome to come and go as they wish.

TOUR ITINERARYBookmark and Share

DAY 1: SIBU TO DURIN

Upon arrival at Sibu airport you will be met and transferred to Burung Apu Wharf to embark on the Pandaw cruise ship. Cast off this evening and commence cruising upstream towards the Durin Bridge. (D)

DAY 2: KANOWIT RIVER

Depending on the water levels, enter the Kanowit River and cruise into the jungle. Later, return to the Rajang River and continue upstream. (B,L,D)

DAY 3: KAPIT

Transfer to shore on a smaller boat and visit Fort Sylvia and the Kapit Museum, then walk through the Teresang Market. After lunch travel by minivan to visit a traditional wooden longhouse and experience a customary ‘miring’ (goodwill ceremony). (B,L,D)

DAY 4: BALEH RIVER

Take a smaller boat up to Baleh River, stopping at Mujong Village where you will visit a local school (providing it is a school day). After a bamboo-cooked picnic lunch you will return to the ship. (B,L,D)

DAY 5: PELAGUS RAPIDS

This morning enjoy a jungle trek on trails exclusively prepared for Pandaw passengers. Along the trail you will view waterfalls and jungle creeks. After lunch enjoy an excursion to the famous Pelagus Rapids. (B,L,D)

DAY 6: IGAN RIVER VILLAGE

Arrive in Sibu this morning and sail to Igan Bridge. Board a smaller boat to Igan River Village to see the process of making sago. Cruise to Sarikei this afternoon and watch a lion dance performance this evening. (B,L,D)

DAY 7: SARIKEI AND SUNSET MANGROVE

Trek to a pepper plantation and waterfall this morning. In the afternoon sail downstream into the Delta where you will meet local tribesmen and take a long boat ride deep into the mangrove creeks. Cruise down Semarik River and watch the sun set across the South China Sea. (B,L,D)

DAY 8: RAJANG VILLAGE TO SIBU

Take a morning stroll through Rajang village, which has a distinct culture compared to towns upriver. Sail back to Sibu this afternoon. (B,L,D)

DAY 9: SIBU

Disembark the Pandaw cruise ship from 8am today. Upon disembarkation transfer to the airport where your arrangements end. (B,L)

Note: Lunch is provided for those disembarking later this afternoon. Please provide your arrival and departure flight deatils to our reservations staff of your departure flight and advise if you require lunch on this day.