Pandaw to Launch Red River Cruises with RV Hanoi Pandaw Ship in 2026

Pandaw Cruises has announced the addition of a new vessel, the RV Hanoi Pandaw, to its fleet, scheduled to commence operations on November 1, 2026. This 16-cabin ship will serve as a sistership to RV Angkor Pandaw, enhancing the company’s capacity to meet the growing demand for river expeditions in northern Vietnam.

The RV Hanoi Pandaw is currently under construction at a shipyard in Haiphong. Designed in the company’s signature colonial style, the vessel will feature brass and teak finishes, reflecting Pandaw’s commitment to traditional aesthetics. The ship will operate a 10-day itinerary traversing the Red River and Halong Bay regions, offering passengers an immersive experience into the rural landscapes and cultural heritage of northern Vietnam.

Paul Strachan, founder of Pandaw Cruises, emphasized that northern Vietnam remains one of the last frontiers for river exploration in Asia. He noted that much of the region is untouched by mainstream tourism, providing travelers with an intimate journey through its rivers and rural communities.

The introduction of the RV Hanoi Pandaw aims to deepen this experience, bringing guests closer to the cultural and natural richness of the area.

Hanoi Pandaw’s itinerary includes visits to rural villages and farms, allowing passengers to experience daily life in northern Vietnam. The voyage also navigates through canals and rivers across the Red River delta, reaching the limestone karsts of Halong Bay. Additional stops include Hanoi and the hill country around Viet Tri, providing a comprehensive exploration of the region.

This expansion marks a significant development in Pandaw’s operations, reinforcing its position as a specialist in Asian river expeditions and responding to the increasing interest in northern Vietnam’s inland waterways.