Andaman Explorer

MS Andaman Explorer cruise ship was purchased by Pandaw River Cruises at the end of 2015. This 22-passenger luxury yacht began operations for Pandaw in June 2016. Since 2019, the vessel (still owned by Pandaw) has no longer been in cruise service. You can read what Pandaw's owner, Paul Strachan, shared in early 2017 about the ship's initial technical and logistical difficulties on Andaman Explorer's CruiseMinus page.

Between 2017 and 2019, Andaman Explorer operated Southeast Asia coastal cruises for Pandaw, visiting ports in Indonesia and Burma (Myanmar). The ship was launched in 1963 under the name "Atlantic Guard." Originally built as a Norwegian Coast Guard vessel, she was designed with an ice-strengthened hull and ice-class capabilities. Prior to her acquisition by Pandaw, she was most recently owned by a Dubai-based shipping company and operated under the name MS Marina. In 1998, she was acquired by the Italian oligarch Malaspina family, owners of marble quarries in Carrara. This is why the 11-suite yacht features Carrara marble flooring and other premium amenities.

After being purchased by Pandaw Expeditions' owner Paul Strachan, the vessel was repositioned from Dubai to Rangoon / Yangon, where she was redecorated and refurbished. The full refit was completed in 2017. In 2019, after she stopped operating cruises for Pandaw (with no current plans to resume), her flag-state/registry changed from the Cayman Islands (MMSI 319729000) to Panama (current MMSI 370620000).

Cabins

The yacht Andaman Explorer has a total of 11 staterooms, all classified as suites. Each suite features a sitting room, separate bedroom, and marble bathroom. Amenities include individual air conditioning, luxury slippers, premium kimonos, unlimited mineral water, hairdryer, multi-configuration power outlets, electronic safe (in the closet), spacious wardrobe, and ample storage space (including under-bed and chest of drawers). Upon embarkation, all guests receive a welcome gift and fresh flowers. The voyage concludes with an elegant farewell party. The ship also provides 24-hour laundry and nightly turndown service.

Itineraries

Andaman Explorer's cruise itineraries cover Southeast Asia and the Mergui Archipelago. Indonesian voyages depart from Bali and visit Lombok, Pulau Sumbawa Island, Pulau Komodo Island, and Pulau Flores Island. Another set of itineraries includes voyages between Ranong (Thailand) and Rangoon (Burma), with stops at the Mergui Archipelago and Moulmein (Mawlamyine). Highlight destinations include Lampi Marine National Park (mangrove forests, birdwatching), Naung Wee Island (visit to a Moken/gypsy village), Nga Man Islands (beaches, trekking, snorkeling), and Kyun Pila Island (South Bay for kayaking, swimming, beaches).

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

Onboard amenities include two teak observation decks, a bar, library, small shop, and Jacuzzi. Wi-Fi is complimentary. Meals are served in an air-conditioned dining room and in an outdoor open-air lounge. A local chef prepares gourmet cuisine with lighter menu options also available. Water, tea, coffee, juices, soft drinks, local beers, and spirits are complimentary. Guests may also order from Pandaw's premium wine selection. Additional onboard features include a fitness room (gym), aft Sun Deck, and a forward Observation Deck.

Shore excursions are included in the cruise fare. Pandaw's shore program features guided tours of local villages and museums led by private guides. All excursions provide bottled water and transportation. After each excursion, passengers are welcomed back on board with a cocktail, shoeshine, and cold towel service.

Pandaw's clientele primarily consists of travelers aged 50 and older from the UK, USA, Germany, and Australia.