Absolute Asia/Myanmar/Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
Sanctuary Ananda is a luxury river boat with 48 passengers, crafted by local artisans in 2014. It offers stylish journeys on Myanmar’s beautiful rivers. Cruise along the Irrawaddy River, visiting temples, palaces, and villages, or explore the Chindwin River’s serene spots like secluded jungles and ancient towns.
Cabins: The boat features 21 cabins across three decks. The Owner’s Suite is the largest at 807 square feet, offering luxury amenities and butler service. Cabins are adorned with Myanmar-inspired decor, providing comfort and a glimpse into the country’s heritage.
Dining: Indulge in Myanmar cuisine and international dishes onboard. The menus include delicacies like soft-shell crab and red curries, served in the Talifoo Restaurant or al fresco at the Mindoon Restaurant.
Facilities: Relax on the Sun Deck or plunge pool. Enjoy spa treatments at the Thambayadine Spa by L’Occitane.
Activities: Experience Burmese dance performances, cultural lectures, and cooking demonstrations by professional chefs. Engage in local traditions like longyi tying and making natural sun cream.
Excursions: Explore must-see attractions and meet locals during shore excursions to villages and craft workshops.
Ideal for families, couples, solo travelers, and friends, Sanctuary Ananda offers an immersive Myanmar experience on cruises from Mandalay to Bagan, Bhamo, or Yangon.
Mandalay - Sin Kyun - Bagan
Sanctuary Ananda
| Service Model | Strictly private chauffeured air-conditioned vehicle with dedicated English-speaking certified guide throughout. |
| Pacing & Flexibility | Adaptive itinerary pacing with unhurried daily departures, tailored specifically to your party. |
| Commercial Purity | Strictly zero compulsory tourist shopping stops or commission traps. 100% focused on authentic cultural discovery. |
| 24/7 Concierge | Dedicated local country specialist reachable around the clock from arrival through departure. |
“This is Burma and it will be quite unlike any land you know about. Its golden pagodas pierce the dawn sky with a silence that belongs to eternity.”
Itinerary ideas
Trip Highlights
4 Days I 3 Nights Itinerary
Why Choose Absolute Asia
English-speaking guides who live in the country you're visiting
A private travel designer reachable throughout your trip
Hand-selected hotels chosen for character, not chain
Private transfers and drivers for a seamless day-to-day
Day by Day
Itinerary
Day 1: Embarkation: PM: Welcome aboard Sanctuary Ananda. Check-in is at 12:30 pm for settling into your suite. For early arrivals, enjoy a tour of Mandalay. Explore Mahamuni Pagoda, Shwenandaw Monastery, and Kuthodaw Pagoda, known for its 729 marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist texts. Lunch will be served onboard as we sail towards Sagaing. In the afternoon, visit Sagaing Hill, a religious hub with numerous monasteries and monks. Experience breathtaking views from Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda’s terraces. Explore Amarapura, known as ‘The City of Immortals,’ and visit the iconic U Bein Bridge for a mesmerizing sunset view. Return to Sanctuary Ananda for dinner. Day 2: Sin Kyun AM: Sanctuary Ananda sails to Sin Kyun village, supported by Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy. Witness the local farming and hat-making in this tranquil village. Learn about the philanthropic efforts to support the village’s needs, following a library and English teacher’s accommodation request. Sail towards Bagan, passing Mingun Pagoda en route. Relax onboard, enjoying the scenic beauty along the river. Participate in a variety of activities after lunch, including a cultural demonstration, back-of-house tour, and an insightful talk on Myanmar’s rich history. Conclude the day with a delicious dinner onboard. Day 3: Bagan AM: Engage in a cooking demonstration with the Executive Chef to learn about local cuisine. Spend the morning cruising towards Bagan, relaxing and enjoying the ship’s amenities. PM: Explore the Kayminga pagoda complex and Ananda Temple in Bagan post-lunch. Witness the stunning sunset over Bagan’s pagodas, offering a magical experience. Day 4: Disembarkation AM: Opt for an early morning balloon tour to capture an aerial view of Bagan, followed by breakfast onboard. If time permits, venture to a local village in the Bagan plains to observe local life. Note: Balloon tours are available at an extra cost and must be booked in advance. Operating from 1 October to 30 March, subject to weather conditions.
