Belmond Cruise: Highlights of Myanmar Mandalay to Bagan Cruise ( Price & Booking 2021)

Belmond Cruise: Mandalay to Bagan ( 4 days / 3 nights)

Day One

Mandalay

“Mingalaba” — welcome aboard Belmond Road to Mandalay! We are here to ensure that your cruise is unforgettable, with land excursions and authentic experiences that provide a fascinating glimpse into the culture of Myanmar.

Please arrive at our jetty in Shwe Kyet Yet village between 10.30 and 11.00.

Once on board you are escorted to your cabin and then invited to the Observation Lounge to meet the Captain and crew. A short safety briefing is given.

A buffet lunch is served as Belmond Road to Mandalay sets sail, cruising towards Mandalay.

After lunch you disembark for a guided tour of Mandalay, considered the home of Burmese traditional arts. Explore some of its great treasures, including Kuthodaw Pagoda, a UNESCO-listed site with 729 stone tablets inscribed with Buddhist scriptures, and the atmospheric Shwenandaw, an intricately-carved wooden monastery which used to be part of King Mindon’s living quarters.

Pass through the streets of the marble quarter where artisans sculpt Buddhas of all sizes and continue to the outdoor workshop of a family of bronze casters to observe, first hand, the creation of statuesque Buddha images and ceremonial gongs. End the day with a visit to the 200-year-old U Bein Bridge, one of Myanmar’s most photographed sites.

Re-board Belmond Road to Mandalay at Shwe Kyet Yet village where the ship will berth for the night. This evening you are invited to join a cocktail party on the Observation Deck, followed by dinner in the elegant Restaurant. Enjoy a selection of gourmet Asian and Western dishes prepared by our Chef. House wines are included with dinner, or you might prefer to choose a fine wine from our extensive international list.

……….

Late arrivals to Mandalay have the option to board the ship at the following times:

14.00 at the Htin Win Jetty in Mandalay (please note you will miss the afternoon tour as the ship will sail back to Shwe Kyet Yet), or after 17.00 in Shwe Kyet Yet village.

Belmond Cruise Room

Day Two 

Ava (Inwa)

Early risers may wish to visit the Healthy Juice Bar on the Observation Deck. An extensive breakfast buffet with à la carte menu is served in the Restaurant and guests also have the option to order tea or coffee to their room.

Those who wish may join our guides on an early-morning visit to the village of Shwe Kyet Yet. This small village holds a special place in our hearts, having been the location of the ship’s berth for 20 years. Visit the village pagoda, where you will have the opportunity to donate food to a procession of monks from the local monastery. On the return walk you can observe the bustling activity around the market and tea shops.

Belmond Road to Mandalay sets sail for Ava (or “Inwa”), an ancient imperial capital situated between the Ayeyarwady and Myitnge Rivers. Here you have a choice of two tour options:

Ava by Horse and Cart

Perfect for those who wish to explore the most fascinating highlights of the ancient city. Climb into one of the traditional buggies and enjoy a scenic drive. Ava was the capital of Burma four times between 1364 and 1841, although what remains today dates mostly from the early 19th century. See the ruins of King Bagyidaw palace walls and moat, visit a beautiful 19^th-century teak monastery, now a monastic school, and journey through picturesque villages, farmlands and rice paddies.

Ava Adventure (Limited space. Please register at Reception. English-language tour only)

Set off on an independent mountain bike tour (a map will be provided), or join one of our staff for a leisurely, guided bike ride. Head off the beaten track into Ava’s more rural pathways, pedalling past King Bagyidaw’s palace ruins, through farmlands and tranquil villages. The ride is suitable for advanced beginners and above.

There are no steep inclines, but be prepared for a mix of paved roads and dirt tracks with rocky or sandy surfaces.

Mid-morning, return to the ship and set sail towards Bagan.

You now have ample time to enjoy the ship’s leisure facilities, such as a treatment at the spa, relaxation by the pool or a scenic lunch on the Observation Deck.

Or you may wish to join one of our onboard activities: have your fortune told by an astrologer, or attend a demonstration by our housekeeping staff on how to tie a longyi (Myanmar sarong) or prepare thanaka, a paste that serves as both decorative make-up and protection from the sun.

Our onboard doctor will be giving a presentation on his charitable and community activities in Myanmar in the Observation Lounge. Indulge in afternoon tea, Myanmar-style, in our Burmese Tea Shop before visiting the Observation Lounge for a talk on Myanmar Ways of Life by one of the expert Belmond guides.

Late afternoon, on the port side, the ship will pass the village of Yandabo, where in 1826 the treaty of the same name was signed between the Kingdom of Ava and the invading colonial British. Today this village is known for its production of terracotta clay water pots, which can often be seen drying on the riverbanks.

After dinner this evening, visit the Observation Deck for an unforgettable surprise on the river (weather permitting).

The ship anchors mid-river for the night.

Day Three 

Bagan

Sunrise yoga is available on the Observation Deck and later a meditation class will be held in the Lounge.

You may wish to be on the Observation Deck by 08.30 to enjoy the views as we sail into Bagan. Spot fishermen casting their nets, local boats carrying passengers from one bank to the other, and the gilded hti, or crowns, of pagodas as the ship circles and drops anchor near the Taung Be village jetty.

Disembark to explore Old Bagan. There are three optional morning tours to choose from:

Introduction to Bagan

Bagan has been one of the main visitor attractions in Myanmar for many years, ranking alongside Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Borobudur on Java as the greatest historic sites in Southeast Asia. Over 3,000 temples dot the plain beside the Ayeyarwady River, most of which were built between the 11^th and 13^th centuries.

On this tour you will visit a complex of pagodas, both ruined and restored, offering a fascinating insight into Bagan’s history and architectural styles. You will also visit a small temple surrounded by fields where farmers can often be seen nurturing crops such as peanut, sesame and beans, and later you will discover a village rarely seen by visitors and glimpse a lifestyle unchanged for centuries.

A Day in the Life (English-language tour only)

Visit a family compound and observe the process of making ponyegyi (fermented soybean paste), one of Central Myanmar’s specialities. Nearby, watch as another family produces colourful bamboo and paper fans, which are given as gifts at weddings and other special occasions.

Explore the narrow lanes of the bustling morning market at Nyaung-U, admiring stalls piled high with exotic fruits and vegetables and typical Myanmar products such as betel leaf, cheroot cigars and tea leaves. Stroll through the village, meeting local people and learning about their ways of life; sample a homemade kyaw sone, a tasty, fried chickpea snack, in a villager’s home.

Bagan by Bicycle
(Limited space. Advance reservations essential. English-language tour only)

Set off on an independent mountain bike adventure (a map will be provided), or opt to join our staff on a guided ride through Old Bagan. Pedal along small paths and roads that wind their way around ancient temples and pagodas. The ride is suitable for advanced beginners and above. There are no steep inclines but cyclists should be prepared for a mixture of dirt tracks with patches of sand and short stretches on paved roads with motor vehicles.

With advance notice Belmond can also arrange private guides and drivers for a tour tailored to your specific interests, or other activities in Bagan such as golf (supplement applies).

All tours conclude at our jetty in Taung Be village. Next to the jetty is a free health clinic established by our ship’s doctor, Dr Hla Tun, with the support of volunteers from the local community, the monastery and Belmond Myanmar Foundation. Dr Hla Tun treats hundreds of patients a week when the ship is moored in Bagan.

After lunch on board, disembark for an afternoon excursion to one of the most significant pagodas of Bagan, Ananda Temple. This architectural masterpiece was built in AD 1090 and contains four gilded Buddha statues, each standing 30ft tall. You will also be led to a small temple, opened exclusively for Belmond guests, to discover magnificent murals by torchlight.

A short walk brings you to a stunning view of 12^th-century Thatbyinnyu, one of Bagan’s tallest pagodas. A visit to a lacquerware workshop follows. Marvel at the exquisite patience and skill required to produce these finely detailed pieces, many of which take several months to complete. As daylight starts to fade, gather to watch the sunset over plains peppered with hundreds of pagodas.

Grilled specialities are a highlight of dinner, which is served from live cooking stations under the stars on the Observation Deck. Afterwards you are treated to a classical marionette performance in the Observation Lounge. Historically these shows were royal entertainment, depicting stories from the early life of Buddha, but they were also considered a safe way to deliver messages to the King.

Tonight the ship anchors mid-river in Bagan.

Belmond Luxury Cruise Myanmar

Day Four 

Bagan

Dawn risers can experience one of the most magical highlights of Bagan—a sunrise hot-air balloon flight over the pagodas (operates October-April, advance reservations essential, supplement applies). Guests participating in this activity will return to the ship at around 08.30.

An early-bird breakfast is served before you disembark from Belmond Road to Mandalay for your onward travel arrangements. Check-out time from your cabin is at 08.30 and guests may use the public spaces of the ship until the final disembarkation time of 11.00.

Please note, all timings are approximate and should be used as a guide only.  Please note, routes and associated itineraries may be subject to change. 

The rivers of Myanmar vary from season to season, with as much as a 30ft variance in water level. From January through June, the Ayeyarwady’s levels may drop for a few weeks to a few months, creating a narrower channel for navigation. To allow for these changes, Belmond Road to Mandalay may operate a revised itinerary and mooring locations may be amended.

Cabin Prices

Rates quoted in this agreement are valid from 1^st November 2019 to 30^th April 2021.

*Rates are based on double/twin cabin occupancy, single cabin suppl. apply.

Cruise Rates Include

• satellite wifi in the observation lounge and governor’s suite
• butler service in the governor’s suite
• individually controlled air-conditioning in each cabin
• all table d’hôte meals (eastern and western choices available)
• soft drinks (excluding fresh fruit juice), house beer  and house wine during lunch and dinner, one daily house cocktail
• daily guided excursions on land
•  fully qualified doctor resident on board
• permanent guides on board (languages include english, french, german and spanish)
• daily onboard programme, including guest lectures
•  no single supplement on superior or deluxe cabins

* Our rates do not Include:

• Local government fees. (310 USD per person)
• Alcoholic beverages,
• Domestic & International Flights
• Visa (if you are traveling in Myanmar before or after the cruise)
• Extra personal expenses

CABINS
There are five types of cabin: Single, Superior, Deluxe and State, plus the exclusive Governor’s Suite. All cabins have outward-facing windows, air-conditioning and en-suite showers and toilets. Each cabin has a personal safe, telephone, satellite TV and sockets suitable for 2-pin round plugs.

DINING
Our acclaimed onboard menu showcases the finest gourmet Eastern and Western delicacies, all served with Burmese courtesy and charm. Situated on the Observation Deck, the alfresco Bar & Grill Restaurant offers refined local cuisine in a truly inspiring setting. Watch the experts in action at the gourmet grill station, and savor fine wines from our vintage selection.

Observation Deck

With the plush loungers and inviting pool, the observation deck is the place to relax. As the largest and most spacious Observation Deck of any cruiser in Myanmar, it gives you ample room to stretch out and admire the stunning river views.

Entertainment

In addition to our resident pianist, a variety of local entertainers perform in the evening, ranging from traditional Burmese puppeteers to thrilling acrobats and graceful dancers. Those looking to discover more about Myanmar’s fascinating culture can attend talks and lectures from our expert guides in the Observation Lounge.

The Bar

The Piano Bar is decorated with a mixture of light wood and Burmese lacquerware. Tales can be shared over delicious local and international cocktails as the resident pianist plays into the night.

Wellbeing

Indulge in one of the sumptuous beauty and massage treatments available, from a revising facial to a pampering aromatherapy massage.

Boutique

A variety of delightful items are available for purchase on board as a unique memento of your trip.

Terms and Conditions

1. 1. Travel Terms & Conditions

   The purchase of any travel services offered by MyanMarvels Travel and Tours, constitutes a contractual arrangement between you (the Traveler) and MyanMarvels Travel and Tours, based in Yangon, Myanmar, and represents your acceptance of the Terms & Conditions. Please ensure that you read carefully and understand the Terms & Conditions prior to booking.

   Important Notes

   • Cruises departures, itineraries and prices are subject to change
   • A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required for MyanMarvels Travel and Tours to secure the cabin for you.

   The following charges are not included in the river cruise holiday  price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; domestic flights, unless specified in the itinerary; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; port fee, unless specified in the itinerary; guide tips, alcoholic drinks unless specified in the cruise itinerary, Myanmar Visa, Vaccinations, Travel Insurance, Laundry, Telephone.

    

   2. PRICE GUARANTEE Once you have paid in full for your trip, you are safe from any additional charges.

    

   Cruise Price

   The ‘Myanmar Cruises Price’ is the total amount listed on your itinerary. All Tour Prices are quoted in U.S. Dollars. MyanMarvels Travel and Tours reserves the right to vary Cruise Prices at any time to account for any increase in costs, including but not limited to airfares, fuel, government taxes and charges, exchange rate fluctuations or other tour related costs or tariffs. If payment if received received the full amount of the River Cruise from the customer , there will be no increases to your Cruise price, regardless of any increases in the tour costs inside or outside of our control.

   Incoming Taxes. Sales taxes assessed by Myanmar & Local authorities  as identified on your itinerary are included in the Cruise Price.

    

   3. Booking/Payment.

   Booking / Deposit. You must pay the deposit listed on the itinerary (the “Deposit”) within 5 days of booking your travel. Your Booking will be automatically canceled if your Deposit is not received by MyanMarvels Travel and Tours on or before the due date. Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable, except as otherwise expressly stated herein.

   Final Payment. The balance of the Tour Price must be paid no later than 90 days prior to the tour departure date. Failure to pay the balance within 90 days of the tour departure date will result in cancellation of your trip and loss of the Deposit.

   Bookings Within 90 Days. If you place a river cruise booking with MyaMarvels Travel and Tours within 90 days or less of your chosen departure date, full payment of the Tour Price is required before we can request and confirm your booking. If the tour is not able to be fully confirmed, then we will refund all funds paid to us, and MyanMarvels Travel and Tours will have no further obligations or liability to you in respect of your booking.

   INFORMATION REQUIRED

   • Full name as in your passport
   • Date of birth
   • Full passport details
   • Email address & Phone Number
   • Disabilities
   • Medical conditions
   • Dietary restrictions you make known to river cruise company
   • Emergency contact (non-participant)

   If any additional information is required, it will be requested from you with your reservation.

   4. CANCELLATIONS Terms for Belmond River Cruise Ships:

   No OF DAYS’ NOTICE PRIOR TO CRUISE COMMENCEMENT – CANCELLATION CHARGE (per person)

   • 90 days and greater Loss of ]the  Deposit
   • 89-60 days 35% of Cruise Price
   • 59-30 days 50% of Cruise Price
   • Less than 30 days 100% of Cruise Price

    

   5. Cruise Variation, Cancellation or Delay.

   Itinerary Variations. While MyanMarvels  Travel and Tours & its local cruise partners will make reasonable efforts to operate the tour in accordance with your itinerary, changes or substitutions may be necessary for reasons outside Cruise company control or other Force Majeure Events.

   On tours that include cruises, the ship may be changed due to operational reasons. For departures in early and late season operated in cool weather conditions, itinerary variations may occur and certain activities may not be available due to seasonality or weather conditions. Availability of certain activities may also be limited due to itinerary variations.

   Minimum Required Bookings. Your booking is conditional on Belmond River Cruise Myanmar receiving a minimum number of bookings to operate the tour and ensure an enjoyable group atmosphere. Where sufficient numbers, as determined by Belmond Cruise in its sole discretion, are not achieved, MyanMarvels may cancel or suspend a scheduled departure of the tour. Belmond River Cruise  will use commercially reasonable efforts to provide notice of canceled or suspended tours at least 60 days prior to the scheduled departure date. MyanMarvels Travel and Tours  will endeavor to notify you of any changes to your tour itinerary in the following  manner: (a) if prior to  your tour departure, we will notify you by telephone, email or mail; and (b) if during your tour, personally by your Cruise Director.

   6. Force Majeure. For the purposes of these terms and conditions, a ‘Force Majeure Event’ means any act of God; war; terrorism; fire; flood or any other extreme weather condition; loss of power; epidemics or pandemics; industrial disputes, slow-downs or other strike activities; riots or civil disturbances; acts of government, semi-government or other authorities; inability to obtain any necessary license or consent; delays caused by subcontractors, suppliers or other third parties (including telecommunications carriers); material shortages; or other any other disruption, delay, damage or loss resulting from any action, omission or event outside the reasonable control of Belmond River Cruise.

   You hereby acknowledge and agree that Belmond River Cruise is not liable for any delay or any failure by Belmond River Cruise to perform its obligations under these Terms and Conditions resulting from or as a consequence of a Force Majeure Event. lf a delay or failure occurs or is anticipated due to Force Majeure Event, Belmond River Cruise obligations are suspended for the duration of the Force Majeure Event. If the Force Majeure Event delays performance for a period of 7 days or more, calculated from the date MyanMarvels notifies you of the Force Majeure Event, then MyanMarvels may terminate this agreement and, in such event, you will be issued a future travel credit equal to the amount You paid to MyanMarvels hereunder, less any non-refundable third-party costs. Please note that you are limited to the future travel credit and will not be entitled to a cash refund