Practical Info

The day cruise from Mandalay to Bagan normally takes from 8 to 10 hours depends on the water level. This down river sails is faster during the summer time than winter time. 
From Bagan to Mandalay; it takes longer since it is an upriver trip. 
The departure time is often early in the morning starting from 7.00am for the way Mandalay - Bagan and 5.30am for the way Bagan - Mandalay
Passengers should show up at least 30  minutes before cast-off. 

Cruising Points

In Mandalay : Myo Patt Road, Mandalay Region. 
The day cruises dock at Gaw Wein Jetty or nearby area. Each cruising company has its own sailing area but very closed to each other. Taxi and motorbike taxi are available. It takes about 10 -15 minutes to reach hotels in the city, about 50 minutes to the airport. 

In Bagan : Nyang Oo jetty. 
This jetty locates out of the town. It takes about 20 minutes to reach New Bagan town and 30 minutes to arrive in some hotels in the Archeaological zone - Old Bagan. 
Taxi or truck are availble after disembarkation. 

Cruising Companies

There are wide choices for cruising between the two cities :

RV Panorma 

The reason why we recommend Panorama cruise for a day trip because their vessels are new and very convenient. It provides a feeling like traveling on a comfortable car. Besides that, the advantage of their services does not only comes from on board food but also the introduction of Burmese culture. 
The fare starts from $37/ person / 1 way

RV Nmai Hka

This day river cruise differs from all other by a fascinating sightseeing in Yandaboo for 45 minutes, a perfect opportunities to learn about local life along Irrawaddy River. The onboard facilities are good. You will love their sundeck too !
For more ideas for your Bagan visit, check our Bagan Travel Itinerary
The fare starts from $32

MGRG Express

Ranking as the top choice for day cruise between Mandalay and Bagan, MGRG express offers comfortable seats with good services on board. For $42, the service includes breakfast with croissant, banana, tea or coffee then lunch and snack around 3.00pm before you arrive. Certainly, drinking water is provided on board as well. 

---

If you expect more details about Irrawaddy River Journeys, especially for Overnight Cruises from Mandalay to Bagan or some suggestion for your Myanmar Tour, please feel free to contact our travel expert.