Deckplan
Assam, the Indian state that lies south of Tibet and Bhutan and north of Bangladesh and the mighty Brahmaputra River which flows through it, offers a plethora of experiences and sights for the naturalist, birdwatcher and cultural traveller. Join us aboard the 46-passenger MV Mahabaahu for an eleven night journey as we traverse the river in comfort visiting national parks, temples, monasteries, tea plantations and tribal villages. Running for some 1800 miles from its source in the Tibetan Himalayas to its delta in the Bay of Bengal, the river scenery is quite unlike anything you will have witnessed before.
Within striking distance of the river are a number of significant national parks and amongst the many highlights of our river expedition will be the time spent exploring the World Heritage Sites of Manas National Park, one of the remotest parks in India and home to many mammals including one-horned rhino, wild buffalo, elephant, gaur, swamp deer, capped langur and clouded leopard, and Kaziranga where the world’s largest population of one-horned rhino resides. In addition to the large numbers of rhino, the region is home to elephants, wild buffaloes and the elusive Bengal tiger. Freshwater dolphins reside in the river and with over four hundred varieties of migratory and domestic birds, this is one of the greatest natural habitats of wildlife outside of Africa with National Geographic referring to the area as the ‘Serengeti of India’. In addition, we will spend a morning in Nameri National Park, a biodiversity haven in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas and a paradise for bird watchers with over 400 bird species calling it home.
The history, wildlife and tribal culture of this region of India are unique and will be brought to life by our expert local guides. The roads may be poor and the tourist infrastructure very much in its infancy, but that is precisely why we find this region so exciting and this unusual journey is one for those who wish to witness this extraordinary area, its diverse cultures and marvellous wildlife but who are weary of the more well-trodden paths around the world.
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Our View
“For our exploration of the Brahmaputra River we have chartered the MV Mahabaahu, whose operators have a long-established presence in Assam and a wealth of local expertise. We have designed the itinerary around an eleven night cruise in order to offer the intrepid traveller a comprehensive visit to this remarkable region with visits to a number of National Parks. The MV Mahabaahu offers considerable comfort across all five of her decks and her size, facilities and refinement set her apart from many of the cruise ships in this region. When not ashore sightseeing or spotting some of India’s finest wildlife you can take a dip in the pool, enjoy a massage treatment or simply relax on the top deck whilst watching life unfold on the riverbank.”
Mahabaahu
For our exploration of Assam and the great Brahmaputra River we have charted the MV Mahabaahu, a stylish and elegant vessel which accommodates 46 guests. The vessel has a total of five decks and facilities include a swimming pool, spa and restaurant and an open top deck from where you can watch the busy life of the waterside villages pass by as well as watch for wildlife.
Itinerary
Day 1 London or Manchester to Kolkata, India.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 2 Kolkata.
Arrive in the morning and transfer to our hotel for a two night stay. Following lunch at the hotel, we will take in what is the best view of Kolkata whilst sailing along the River Hooghly by local boat. Dinner will be at our hotel this evening.
Day 3 Kolkata.
After breakfast we will take an exclusive ride on India’s only operating tram network and the oldest electric tram in Asia that has been running since 1902. We will then visit the South Park Cemetery, the last resting place of many of Kolkata’s early British settlers. After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy an afternoon tour of India’s second largest city including the Victoria Memorial. Return to the hotel before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 4 Kolkata to Guwahati.
After breakfast in the hotel we transfer to the airport for our morning flight to Guwahati. On arrival, transfer to the MV Mahabaahu for embarkation. We sail over lunch and this afternoon our onboard lecturer will talk about the wildlife of India focusing on our upcoming visits to Manas and Kaziranga national parks. The remainder of the day is spent cruising along the river before we arrive in Dungar Ghat this evening where we moor overnight.
Day 5 Manas National Park & Tiger Reserve.
After an early breakfast we drive to the Manas National Park which has seven national and international designations, including World Heritage Site, National Park, Tiger Reserve (Core), Biosphere Reserve, Elephant Reserve, Tiger Sanctuary and Bird Sanctuary. Its northern boundary is next to the border of Bhutan and the imposing Bhutan Hills can be seen whilst the Manas-Beki River system flanks the region. After a jeep safari during which we hope to spot some of the great variety of wildlife including elephant, rhino, leopard and perhaps, if we are very fortunate, the rare golden langur or even the endangered tiger, we return to the ship for a late lunch and spend the afternoon sailing upstream.
Days 6 to 8 Cruising the Brahmaputra.
Spend the next three days cruising upstream along the mighty Brahmaputra. You may wish to start your day with some invigorating yoga on the sun deck or simply relax in one of the many public areas and enjoy the passing scenery. There will be a series of talks by one of the vessel’s experts about life in the villages, the river’s role in the area and the wildlife we will see along the way. We will also make stops in local villages including Sualkuchi, a bustling small town that is the centre of Assamese silk production and offers a chance to visit weaving workshops. Witness the entire process of silk manufacture, from cocoon and spinning, then dyeing to hand-weaving into exquisite mekhela chadars (a two-piece sari, the traditional attire of an Assamese woman). Also sail by Peacock Island, famous for being one of the smallest river islands in the world and home to the endangered golden langur monkey, whilst Gangetic dolphins may be sighted in the river. Meanwhile, on board we will enjoy a cooking demonstration of local street food and a saree-tying demonstration.
Day 9 Nameri National Park & Silghat.
We awake early to drive to Nameri National Park which provides habitat to an array of wildlife including Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, clouded leopard, sambar, dhole, gaur and capped langur. Meanwhile the bird enthusiasts can keep a lookout for the rare white winged wood duck, great pied hornbill, wreathed hornbill, rufous necked hornbill, black stork, ibis bill, blue bearded bee-eaters, and plovers. After our safari we return to the ship for lunch as we cruise to Silghat. From our berth we will walk to a nearby jute mill, where ecologically friendly gunny bags are produced using a system of spinning and drawing, manufactured by the most wonderful machines. We will also take in a performance of Bihu, a traditional dance of Assam performed by the villagers.
Day 10 Kaziranga National Park.
Today is another early start as we head out to one of the finest examples of conservation and ecology in India, Kaziranga National Park. The sighting of one-horned rhino within the park is remarkably common and, during our two safaris, we will be given the very best chance of getting close to all of Kaziranga’s endemic wildlife. While the rhinos themselves are reason enough to visit, the park is home to multiple mammals, reptiles and birds including wild elephants, hog deer, crested serpent eagles and of course, the Bengal tiger. We will explore the Central and Western Ranges with lunch in the park before returning to the ship in Silghat.
Day 11 Bishwananth Ghat & Kaziranga National Park.
Spend the morning at the tiny village of Bishwanath Ghat to meet the weavers, fishermen, farmers and boat makers that reside here. Take the chance to learn about life in the remote community and maybe purchase some of their wares. This afternoon we arrive at the eastern side of Kaziranga National Park and taking the Mahabaahu’s two tenders, we will travel along the waterfront of Kaziranga where we will be able to explore its rich and varied wildlife. Having the vessel’s tenders will afford us a further perspective of the national park as lizards, otters, birds, and larger mammals, such as water buffalo and elephant congregate along its riverbanks.
Day 12 Mishing Village.
The Mishing people are the second largest tribal group in northeast India, with a population of over a million in Assam alone. Today, we will pause by the banks of the river to explore a Mishing village with its characteristic ‘Chang Ghar’ houses on raised platforms. The Mishing women are expert weavers and during our time here we will be provided with a demonstration of the skill used in making typical Assamese dresses and of precisely how to don their tribal clothing. On returning to our vessel, we will enjoy a traditional Assamese evening on board.
Day 13 Majuli Island.
Majuli is the world’s largest inhabited river island and possesses unique Hindu monasteries famed for their dance-drama performances – the whole island is now shortlisted for future UNESCO World Heritage status. On today’s excursion, we will witness a traditional cultural performance before travelling to Kamalabari monastery to witness Vaishnavite priests carrying out their ritualistic ceremonies. The island also has a number of bird species with open-billed storks nesting all over the island whilst adjutant storks, whistling ducks, bar-headed geese and weaver birds may also be spotted.
Day 14 Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, Kaziranga & Sibsagar.
The Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary is home to seven of India’s nine primates including the only ape, the Hoollock gibbon and Northeastern India’s only nocturnal primate, the Bengal slow loris. After an early breakfast we will drive to the sanctuary for a dawn safari. The upper canopy of the forest is dominated by the hoollong tree, while the nahar dominates the middle canopy and the lower canopy consists of evergreen shrubs and herbs. Together with our naturalist guides and an armed guard, we will walk through the thick evergreen forest for a couple of hours as we search for wildlife. On leaving the park those interested in history may want to visit Sibsagar, the stronghold of the Ahom Kings. We will visit the Rang Ghar used by the Royal family for enjoying buffalo fights and cultural performances and Shiva Dol, 104 feet tall and containing three Hindu temples. Afterwards, take a stroll in the market area to visit some silk shops and Assamese goldsmith shops. Alternatively, wildlife enthusiasts may wish to continue to the Eastern range of Kaziranga where an afternoon safari explores the Soholabeel, Maklung, Turturani and Dhuba areas of the park.
Day 15 Assam to Kolkata.
Disembark after breakfast for our flight to Kolkata. On arrival transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 16 Kolkata to London or Manchester.
Depart this morning and transfer to the airport for the scheduled indirect flight, arriving in London or Manchester this evening.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 25 January to 9 February 2026 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| C Superior cabin without balcony on Parshuram and Gadadhar Singha Deck | £6395 | £6095 |
| B Superior cabin with private balcony on Gadadhar Singha Deck | £6895 | £6595 |
| A Suite with private balcony on the Gadadhar Singha Deck | £7195 | £6895 |
| C Superior cabin without balcony on Parshuram and Gadadhar Singha Deck for sole use | £8395 | £8095 |
Tour Reference Code: RCMA250126
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Three nights hotel accommodation in Kolkata on full board basis • 11 nights aboard the MV Mahabaahu on full board basis • Indian wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Shore excursions • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes • UK airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, Indian visa, camera fees in national parks.
Mahabaahu
For our exploration of Assam and the great Brahmaputra River we have charted the MV Mahabaahu, a stylish and elegant vessel which accommodates 46 guests. The vessel has a total of five decks and facilities include a swimming pool, spa and restaurant and an open top deck from where you can watch the busy life of the waterside villages pass by as well as watch for wildlife.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Built: 2011 Kolkata, India
Length: 55 metres
Width: 10 metres
Draft: 1.75 metres
Speed: 12 knots
Guest Capacity: 46
Crew: 35
Registered: IndiaAIR-CONDITIONING All cabins have individually controlled heating and air cooling. We recommend ensuring your windows and doors are shut for optimal performance of the unit.
ALARM An alarm will be sounded in the event of emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do in the event of emergency.
BAR/BEVERAGES Your bill for drinks consumed throughout the journey should be settled at the end of your journey. Local wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner are complimentary. There is a 24 hour tea/coffee station available and water is available at mealtimes and replenished daily within your cabin.
CABIN DIMENSIONS The vessel’s two suites located on the ship’s Gadadhar Singha Deck measure a generous 283 square feet and include an outside balcony with chairs. The nine superior cabins are also located on this deck and measure 206 square feet, whereas the 12 superior cabins without balcony, are located on the Gadadhar Singha Deck and the Parshuram Deck and measure 150 square feet.
CABIN FACILITIES All cabins, which are furnished in traditional Assamese fineries, feature ample closet space, television, individual climate control, hairdryer, in-house telephone, in-room safe, small fridge, bathrobes and slippers, bathroom amenities and a choice of bed configuration (double or twin).
DAILY PROGRAMME Each day’s programme can be found within your cabin.
DRESS CODE Comfortable and practical attire is recommended during the day for excursions and something a little dressier for the evening. (Black tie is not necessary).
ELECTRICITY Electricity on board is 220v, 50 Hertz. The ship holds 3 pin plug sockets. For safety reasons, the use of electrical irons is not permitted on board. A shaver plug can be located in your cabin’s washroom.
EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures will be provided following your embarkation. There is a Paramedic on board the vessel who will accompany the group excursions and a number of the ship’s crew are trained in first aid. If required, there are a number of good hospitals close-by to the banks of the river. Should you require emergency assistance, please call the ship’s reception.
FIRE SAFETY A fire alarm is installed in each of the ship’s cabins and also in its public areas. Extensive fire equipment is located on board the vessel.
FITNESS ROOM There are yoga mats and a selection of weights and kettle bells in the fitness room which is located on the vessel’s Parshuram Deck.
GRATUITIES Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.
GIFT SHOP A small number of practical and souvenir items are available to purchase during the cruise.
HAIRDRESSER A hairdresser is available on board.
HOUSEKEEPING Your cabin will be cleaned once a day and you will be provided with a ‘turn down’ service at night.
LAUNDRY A laundry service is provided on board at additional cost. Ironing and tailoring of clothes can also be arranged at a supplement. No dry cleaning is available on board.
LIBRARY & GAMES A selection is available on board within the ship’s Soma Lounge.
LIFT There is a lift on board with access to all decks other than the Donyi Polo Deck.
LOST PROPERTY Lost property can be handed in to the ship’s reception. Please ensure you have all of your belongings with you before you return home. Should you leave items on board the ship we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection and to advise of any associated costs.
MASSAGE ROOM There is a massage room aboard the vessel along with SPA, steam, sauna, Jacuzzi-hot and cold and beauty therapy room.
MEALS Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served on board. Breakfast and lunch are both buffet-style with freshly baked breads, salads and a variety of cuisines including international, Indian and local Assamese. Dinner is usually served to the table, there are 3 to 4 dinner options to choose from and your menu choices are taken by the crew earlier in the day. If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free or low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the ship’s Hotel Manager on your first night on board to reconfirm your needs.
MOORING The majority of the ship’s moorings at arrival/departure will be at sandbanks along the river. Bamboo gangways will be utilised to get across to the vehicles for transportation. Other offshore visits will be in comfortable tenders.
MOSQUITOES Please ensure you take the appropriate precautions to guard against mosquito bites. The vessel has insect repellents plugged in the cabins and all public areas.
PAYMENTS ON BOARD The vessel operates a signed-chit system whereby no payment is immediately required (the vessel only requiring a signature for your purchase) and, only at the end of the cruise will you be presented with your final itemised bill to settle. The currency on board is the Rupee. The ship accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Debit Cards. Cash payments in Rupees are also accepted.
POST The vessel sells postcards and stamps for you to purchase (subject to availability) and, items can be posted on your behalf by the ship’s crew (although as they are unable to do so at every port of call, this could take longer than if you were to post yourself).
QUESTIONNAIRES We are always looking for ways to improve our holidays and the services provided and in order to do this we welcome feedback from our guests. Your comments are important to us therefore we request that you complete the questionnaire that will be provided to you by your Tour Manager.
RECEPTION The lobby is staffed 24 hours a day.
ROOM SERVICE Room service is not available, although should you feel unwell and unable to make it to the ship’s restaurant, special arrangements can be made.
SAFE All cabins are fitted with a safe and we recommend you place your valuables inside the safe whenever you are away from your room. Please remember to remove all items from your safe prior to you departing the vessel at the end of the cruise.
SMOKING Smoking within your cabin or any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are provided and can be advised by the ship’s reception upon embarkation.
SUN DECK The ship has a Sun Deck which is available for guests to enjoy with its own bar area and furnishings. There may be times, for example at periods of inclement weather or low bridges, whereby it is necessary to close the Sun Deck. Please listen carefully to the Captain and Crew for instruction. Please also note that the Sun Deck and its steps may become slippery if the weather is cool or dew forms.
SWIMMING POOL The ship’s swimming pool is located on the Brahmakund Deck.
TAILOR There is a tailor on board who can stitch the fabric to your designs and make alterations.
WATER Each cabin has a reverse osmosis unit installed in the bathroom and this water can be used for brushing and drinking purposes. Two stainless steel flasks are also provided in each cabin in order to minimise single use plastic.
WI-FI Wireless internet connection is included on board the vessel, although is only accessible within the ship’s lobby area. Please note that wireless connection can be variable during the journey.
PLEASE NOTE: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
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Deck Plan
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Deckplan
-
Our View
“For our exploration of the Brahmaputra River we have chartered the MV Mahabaahu, whose operators have a long-established presence in Assam and a wealth of local expertise. We have designed the itinerary around an eleven night cruise in order to offer the intrepid traveller a comprehensive visit to this remarkable region with visits to a number of National Parks. The MV Mahabaahu offers considerable comfort across all five of her decks and her size, facilities and refinement set her apart from many of the cruise ships in this region. When not ashore sightseeing or spotting some of India’s finest wildlife you can take a dip in the pool, enjoy a massage treatment or simply relax on the top deck whilst watching life unfold on the riverbank.”
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000