Andaman Explorer

MS Andaman Explorer cruise ship was purchased by Pandaw Expeditions at the end of 2015. The 22-passenger luxury superyacht 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 Asian coastal cruises for Pandaw, visiting ports in Indonesia and Burma (Myanmar).

The vessel was launched in 1963 under the name "Atlantic Guard." Originally built for the Norwegian Coast Guard, it was designed with an ice-strengthened hull and ice-class capabilities. Before the acquisition by Pandaw, it was owned by a Dubai-based shipping company and operated under the name "MS Marina". In 1998, it was acquired by the Italian oligarch family Malaspina, owners of marble quarries in Carrara. This is why the 11-suite superyacht features Carrara marble flooring and other premium amenities.

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

Decks and 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, digital safe box (in the closet), spacious wardrobe, and ample storage space (including under-bed and chest of drawers), yoga mats (in each suite).

Upon embarkation, all guests receive a welcome gift and fresh flowers. The voyage concludes with an elegant farewell party.

24-hour laundry and nightly turndown service are provided.

The boat has 5 decks, of which 3 have cabins.

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.