Pandaw announces new Indian cruise itinerary amidst rising demand.
- The cruise will explore Kerala Backwaters from October 2025.
- Kochi Pandaw, a ten-cabin vessel, marks the fourth ship in India for Pandaw.
- The weekly seven-night round trips will originate from Kochi.
- Fred Holidays will manage package itineraries, starting at £4,999.
Pandaw, a specialist in Asian river cruises, is addressing increased interest in Indian river voyages by launching a new ship and itinerary. The Pandaw voyage will navigate the scenic Kerala Backwaters, a network of lagoons and canals parallel to the Arabian Sea, starting in October 2025. This development signifies Pandaw’s expanding footprint in the Indian market, already having three other ships sailing in the region.
The latest addition, the ten-cabin Kochi Pandaw, is specifically crafted for traversing the intricate waterways of Kerala. This vessel is part of a strategic move to accommodate the growing demand for exploration of this picturesque region. Guests will spend seven nights on a round trip from Kochi, immersing themselves in both the main towns and the secluded areas along the extensive 900km waterway.
The cruises will operate weekly departures throughout several months, specifically September, October, November 2025, and January, February, and March 2026. Fred Holidays, acting as Pandaw’s General Sales Agent (GSA) in the UK, will oversee the packaged itineraries. These packages, which start at £4,999 per traveller, offer comprehensive inclusions such as return flights from London, regional flights on request, overseas transfers, a night in a luxurious hotel in Kochi, as well as all meals, excursions, and a complimentary drinks package during the cruise.
Kerala’s backwaters are among Asia’s most sought-after river cruise locales, offering enchanting views of serene canals like those in Alappuzha, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the East’. The region also boasts the historic charm of Nattakam, renowned for its 19th-century lighthouse and sweeping vistas of the Arabian Sea. Travellers will have the unique opportunity to explore the Pampa River and visit the ancestral residence of Kuriakose Elias Chavara, a respected saint and social reformer, providing an insightful glimpse into Kerala’s rich Christian heritage.
Pandaw’s expansion into the Kerala Backwaters represents a strategic response to the burgeoning interest in Indian river tours.
