Published on
September 20, 2025
Pandaw Cruises, a family-owned river cruise company, has celebrated its 30-year milestone since the launch of its first river cruise vessel in Southeast Asia. Founded by Paul Strachan and his wife Roser in 1995, Pandaw Cruises began with the restoration of a 1940s Clyde-built steamer, marking the inception of a unique brand of culturally immersive, intimate river cruises. Today, the company boasts a fleet of 13 river vessels and operates across several Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and India.
As the company prepares for its next chapter, it is gearing up for new developments both on the water and in the realm of technological innovation. With the addition of new leadership, including Antoni Strachan as director of operations and Yves Van Kerrebroeck as commercial director, Pandaw is expanding its reach in India and considering opportunities for growth in Europe.
Pandaw’s Unique Offering: Intimate, Cultural River Cruises
Pandaw Cruises pioneered a style of travel in Southeast Asia that blends comfort with cultural immersion. The company’s approach is simple yet effective: offering small, culturally immersive expeditions on the rivers that allow guests to experience both the natural beauty and local culture of the destinations they visit.
Over the years, Pandaw has built a strong community around its cruises, with repeat guests making up 45% of its bookings. As of the 2024–2025 season, the company is expecting 3,500 passengers, with 5,500 already booked for the 2025–2026 season, a sign of growing interest in its unique cruising experiences. This community-centric model sets Pandaw apart from other operators in the market.
New Routes and Expansion into Europe
As the company celebrates its success in Southeast Asia, Pandaw is now expanding its offerings to new regions. Starting in October 2025, it will introduce a new Kerala Backwaters expedition, providing guests with the opportunity to explore the scenic waterways of Southern India, an area known for its unique culture and stunning landscapes.
In addition to expanding in India, Pandaw is also exploring possibilities for European expansion. The company is currently evaluating potential new routes in Europe, focusing on Italy’s Veneto and Po rivers, which are rich in history and culture and offer a serene environment for river cruises.
This expansion marks a significant step in Pandaw’s growth strategy as it seeks to diversify its destinations while maintaining the intimate, immersive experience that has made the company a favorite among river cruise enthusiasts.
Technological Innovations Enhancing the Cruise Experience
Pandaw Cruises is embracing technology to enhance the guest experience on board. The company is currently testing an AI-powered travel assistant that will provide real-time guidance and personalized recommendations to guests. This addition aims to streamline the guest experience, ensuring that travelers have easy access to information during their cruises.
The company has also revamped its loyalty program, offering returning guests early booking privileges, exclusive rewards, and special offers. This loyalty program is designed to strengthen the relationship between Pandaw and its guests, encouraging repeat bookings and making each journey even more special.
Pandaw has also launched a newly designed mobile app, which includes features such as booking management, onboard schedules, and daily menus. This mobile app is designed to enhance the convenience of guests, giving them the ability to manage their cruise experience directly from their smartphones.
Teak & Tales: Pandaw’s New Podcast Series
In addition to these technological innovations, Pandaw Cruises has introduced a new podcast series, “Teak & Tales.” This podcast aims to inspire future cruisers by sharing stories from the world of river cruising. It complements the immersive onboard experiences by providing insights into the destinations, cultures, and adventures that guests can look forward to during their cruises.
With a focus on engaging storytelling and showcasing the wonders of Southeast Asia and beyond, the “Teak & Tales” podcast is another way Pandaw connects with its guests, enhancing their journey before, during, and after the cruise.
Pandaw Cruises’ Growing Legacy
Pandaw Cruises’ commitment to offering culturally immersive, intimate river cruises has helped it carve a niche in the competitive river cruise market. With its strong community of repeat guests, expanding itineraries in India and potential routes in Europe, and technological advancements to enhance the cruise experience, Pandaw is well-positioned for continued growth.
As the company prepares for the next phase of its journey, it remains focused on its core values of connecting guests with the places they visit and the people they meet. With its new offerings and technological innovations, Pandaw Cruises is set to redefine the future of river cruising in the years to come.
