The travel industry is set to witness a game-changing addition to river cruising in South India with the announcement of the Kochi Pandaw, a state-of-the-art vessel explicitly designed for the famous Kerala backwaters. Scheduled to launch in October 2025, this new ship marks a bold expansion for Pandaw, a pioneer in luxury river expeditions. Offering a blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, this vessel promises to provide travellers with an unparalleled cruising experience in one of India’s most scenic and storied regions.

Crafted to Perfection

The Kochi Pandaw is no ordinary vessel. With ten spacious cabins and Pandaw’s signature wraparound promenade decks, it blends luxury with a traditional riverboat charm. Built in a renowned shipyard in Kochi, the project results from a collaboration between Pandaw’s seasoned management team and top-tier naval architects based in Kerala. This is Pandaw’s fourth vessel in India, further solidifying the company’s commitment to meeting the country’s growing demand for river cruises.

“The decision to launch the Kochi Pandaw reflects not only the surging interest in river expeditions but also our dedication to offering unique, immersive experiences,” said a spokesperson for Pandaw. “Kerala’s backwaters are a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty, and we’ve crafted this journey to ensure guests don’t just visit but deeply experience this iconic region.”

A One-of-a-Kind Itinerary

Setting sail from Kochi port, the Kochi Pandaw will operate a carefully curated eight-day circular itinerary that traverses over 900 kilometres of Kerala’s interconnected waterways. This route is unlike any other in India, taking travellers through a diverse landscape of rivers, lakes, and lagoons flanked by lush greenery and picturesque villages.

Kochi Pandaw.

Passengers will explore the region’s rich cultural tapestry, visiting ancient churches, sacred Hindu temples, and local artisan villages where centuries-old craftsmanship is still practised. The voyage also includes stops at Kerala’s renowned Malabar Coast, home to some of India’s most breathtaking beaches. These cultural encounters and the area’s stunning natural beauty create an extraordinary travel experience.

A Gateway to Broader Indian Adventures

The launch of the Kochi Pandaw also allows travellers to combine this cruise with Pandaw’s existing river expeditions on the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers. As Pandaw continues to establish itself as the premier operator for river cruises in India, this new addition is expected to appeal to loyal customers who want to extend their adventures across multiple regions of India.

Kerala is increasingly accessible to international travellers. Cochin International Airport offers flights to major cities in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, making it a convenient starting point for global visitors eager to embark on this journey.

Pandaw’s Growing Influence in India

Pandaw’s decision to expand into the Kerala backwaters is a strategic move capitalising on India’s burgeoning river cruise market. The company has long been recognized for its innovative expeditions in Myanmar, Cambodia, and Vietnam, but its foray into the Indian subcontinent has drawn widespread attention. By 2025, with the addition of the Kochi Pandaw, the company is poised to become the go-to choice for discerning travellers seeking adventure and cultural depth in India’s river systems.

This new vessel will cater to the rising demand for river cruises, contribute to the region’s economy, provide employment opportunities, and support local artisans and communities.

Experience the Best of Kerala

From its awe-inspiring landscapes to its vibrant cultural heritage, Kerala has long been one of India’s most coveted travel destinations. The launch of the Kochi Pandaw now offers an even more intimate way to explore the region. Whether marvelling at the beauty of Kerala’s waterways or delving into its rich cultural history, this cruise promises to be a transformative journey for all who board.

For those looking to embark on this unforgettable adventure, more information and bookings can be found at www.pandaw.com. Brochures for the Kochi Pandaw are now available for download, detailing the ship’s offerings and the immersive itinerary awaiting future travellers.

Written by: My Thanh Pham

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