Facts on Paukan

Specs at a Glance

Paukan is the ancient name of Bagan, the old city of two thousand temples on the bank of the Ayeyarwaddy River. This ancient capital, seat of the First Myanmar Empire, is a treasure to the people of Myanmar. Throughout the century of their existence, the temples remain a place of living worship, maintained by donations from royalty and the public.

RV Paukan was built in 2007 at the Myanmar Shipyards in Yangon for Ayravata Cruises. The Yangon River and its dockyards were commented upon over two hundred years ago as "the most favourable river in the world for naval architecture" by the first British envoy to Myanmar Captain Michael Symes of His Britannic Majesty's 7th Regiment who arrived in Yangon in February of 1795.

Paukan might be the younger sister ship to the Pandaw which was built in 1947, but she is a bigger vessel at 183ft 955.78m) in length. Her beam is 38ft (11.58m) and draft is 3.09ft (1.14m). She runs on diesel engines, with a speed of 10 knots. Safety and emergency equipment are in place, as well as reliable communication systems.

The lovely Paukan is a boutique hotel on the river, beautifully furnished with a unique combination of modern and traditional motifs. The timber-walled cabins are furnished with colonial style cupboards, dresser and doors while the ceiling is traditional Myanmar. The single or double beds are proper and comfortable ones and not mere bunks, enough room for 55 passengers who will be looked after by a 30-member crew.

For luxury-living, Paukan has suites, deluxe or superior cabins as well as singles for guest or guides. There are two massage rooms on the lower deck offering traditional Myanmar massage designed to give soothing relaxation.

The sun deck has a stage for cultural performances, and a bar and lounge for relaxation and fun. The upper deck has a lecture / movie room with lcd projector and lcd TV screen.

Meals in the dining room on the main deck will include both East and West cuisine, and dinner menus of delicious dishes. Vegetarian meals can be prepared when informed in advance. The price is inclusive of transfer between the ship and airport, all meals, sightseeing tours and entrance fees at monuments.


The Ayravata Cruises is proud to have Paukan as another member to their family and is confident that she will please her guests in the same manner as her sister ship, the Pandaw.