Yangon’s Strand Hotel to launch river cruises

The Strand, Yangon‘s luxury colonial era hotel, is moving into the river cruise sector.

Commencing in January 2016, Strand Cruise offer luxury voyages along Myanmar’s Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy) River, initially between Mandalay and Bagan.

“Having operated The Strand Hotel in Yangon for the past decade, we know that there has been a steady growth in demand from luxury travellers to explore the ancient monuments of Myanmar by using the Ayeyarwady’s waterways,” commented Jerome Seban, general manager of The Strand Cruise.

The Strand Cruise's pool deck
The Strand Cruise’s pool deck
“This demand presented us with an opportunity to reinvent the legendary style and unique personality of The Strand Hotel within a contemporary river cruise experience.”

The company’s vessel will offer 27 cabin suites, all featuring butler service and floor-to-ceiling windows with Juliette balconies. There will also be two Strand Suites located at the front of the ship, which feature outdoor terraces. Passengers in these suites will also be offered a night at The Strand Hotel before or after their cruise, along with onboard spa treatments.

Other onboard facilities include a pool on the top deck, a spa, restaurant, lounge and a temperature-controlled wine “cellar”.

“We are working with Myanmar craftsman as much as possible and are using traditional materials such as locally carved teak, some of which will be detailed with gold leaf, connecting the golden age of the Strand to Myanmar’s golden land,” Seban added.

The Strand Cruise will commence a regular schedule of three- and four-night sailings between Bagan and Mandalay in January 2016. Guests will also be offered shore excursions, including the chance to visit the ancient temples of Bagan.

The Strand Hotel, which is located on the banks of the Yangon River, opened in 1901. It was one of three famous Asian hotels established by the Sarkies Brothers, along with The Raffles Hotel in Singapore and the Eastern & Oriental Hotel in Penang.

sourced:traveldailymedia.com