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 MV Mahabaahu 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 Himalaya 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 Site at 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.
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 a seven night cruise in order to offer the intrepid traveller a true taste of this remarkable region without having to leave home shores for a prolonged period of time. 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 enjoy lazing 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 to Kolkata, India.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 2 Kolkata.
Arrive in the morning and transfer to the JW Marriott Kolkata hotel for a three night stay. Following lunch at the hotel, enjoy an afternoon tour of India’s second largest city including the Victoria Memorial.
Day 3 Kolkata.
After breakfast and a leisurely morning at our luxurious hotel, we take an enjoyable tram ride, a form of transport used in Kolkata since 1902. Following lunch, our afternoon will take in what is arguably one of the best ways to see Kolkata, sailing along the River Hooghly on a private boat. Afterwards we will have some time to explore the local markets before returning to our hotel for dinner.
Day 4 Kolkata.
Following breakfast we head out to discover Kolkata’s vibrant and colourful flower market and Dalhousie Square before visiting The Mother House, the former home and last resting place of Mother Teresa. After lunch choose to visit St Paul’s Cathedral, noted for its stunning Gothic architecture or enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure. We will meet for dinner at the hotel this evening.
Day 5 Kolkata to Guwahati.
After breakfast in the hotel we transfer to the airport for our morning flight to Guwahati. On arrival drive up Nilachal Hill to see the holy Kamakhya temple, devoted to the Goddess of desire, where we will take blessings. Continue to the MV Mahabaahu and following embarkation and lunch on board we will set sail. 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. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner on board.
Day 6 Cruising the Brahmaputra.
Set sail early in the morning for a day navigating the river. You may wish to start your day with some invigorating yoga, or simply sitting in one of the many public areas and enjoying the passing scenery. After breakfast, we will enjoy a talk by one of the vessel’s experts before dropping anchor and visiting one of the local villages, learning much about how the nomadic people in this region spend their lives. Maybe join another talk this afternoon as we continue sailing until the early evening when the vessel will moor at a deserted sandbank.
Day 7 Sail to Silghat.
After breakfast and a morning talk, we will spend our time enjoying the ship’s facilities and the breathtaking scenery before arriving into Silghat at lunchtime. 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. Return to the ship for some time to relax before dinner.
Day 8 Kaziranga National Park.
Wake early 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. Return for lunch on the ship as we spend the afternoon sailing the meandering river. As the sun sets, we will arrive at an uninhabited island where we will have a beach barbeque and bonfire under the stars.
Day 9 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 rhinos and elephants, congregate along its riverbanks. This evening join a cookery demonstration of some local cuisine by the Mahabaahu’s accomplished head chef before dinner on board.
Day 10 Mishing Village.
The Mishing people are the second largest tribal group in North East 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. All Mishing women are expert weavers and during our time we will be provided with a demonstration of the skill used in making typical Assamese dresses and precisely how to don their tribal clothing. On returning to our vessel we will enjoy a traditional Assamese evening on board.
Day 11 Majuli Island.
Majuli is the world’s largest 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. After lunch on board our vessel, we head by jeep to Sibsagar, the one-time capital of the kings of Assam. Shan by origin (Assam and Siam share the same derivation) but converted to Hinduism, they ruled Assam for some 700 years until the 1820s, and their culture and architecture is a strange and delightful amalgam of Indian and South East Asian. We will see temples with stupa-like profiles, and palaces of distinctive form. For the record book, the temple tank here is believed to be the world’s largest hand-excavated reservoir. We return to our vessel for a farewell dinner.
Day 12 Assam to Kolkata.
Disembark after breakfast for our flight to Kolkata. On arrival transfer to the JW Marriott Kolkata hHotel for an overnight stay.
Day 13 Kolkata to London.
Depart this morning by scheduled indirect flight, arriving into London this evening.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 5 to 17 February 2025 • 12 to 24 November 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| C Superior cabin without balcony on Parshuram and Gadadhar Singha Deck | £5395 | £5095 |
| B Superior cabin with private balcony on Gadadhar Singha Deck | £5895 | £5595 |
| A Suite with private balcony on the Gadadhar Singha Deck | £6195 | £5895 |
| C Superior cabin without balcony on Parshuram and Gadadhar Singha Deck for sole use | £7395 | £7095 |
| 13 to 25 November 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| C Superior cabin without balcony on Parshuram and Gadadhar Singha Deck | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| B Superior cabin with private balcony on Gadadhar Singha Deck | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| A Suite with private balcony on the Gadadhar Singha Deck | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| C Superior cabin without balcony on Parshuram and Gadadhar Singha Deck for sole use | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
Tour Reference Code: RCASSAM
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled return air travel • Four nights hotel accommodation in Kolkata on full board basis • Seven 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.
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
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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 a seven night cruise in order to offer the intrepid traveller a true taste of this remarkable region without having to leave home shores for a prolonged period of time. 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 enjoy lazing on the top deck whilst watching life unfold on the riverbank.”
Tour Extensions
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Join us after your cruise for an exploration of the picturesque town of Darjeeling, the “Queen of the Hills” lying amidst the slopes of the Lesser Himalayas.
Darjeeling
The Itinerary
Day 1 Kolkata to Darjeeling, India.
After breakfast transfer to Kolkata Airport for our flight to Bagdogra. On arrival we will transfer by road (approximately 3 hours) to Darjeeling. Check in this afternoon and enjoy free time before we meet for dinner tonight. (B, D)
Day 2 Darjeeling.
This morning we will take a ride on the Toy Train, a narrow-gauge course which began operation in 1881 and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. The train ride combines heritage, the marvel of engineering and is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Darjeeling. From the train we will see the local markets, towns and bridges as well as passing through some lush green hills, jungles and tea farms with the mesmerising view of snow-covered Himalayan peaks and the world’s third highest peak, Kanchenjunga as a backdrop. After free time for lunch we will take a walk around Darjeeling, discover how the town was established as the summer capital of the British and view some of the colonial buildings and the stories connected to them. (B, D)
Day 3 Darjeeling.
Early risers have the option to visit nearby Tiger Hill for a sunrise view before returning to the hotel for breakfast. Later we spend time at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute which preserves and teaches about past mountaineering expeditions, especially about the Mount Everest Expedition by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, since the early 20th century. Continue to the Zoological Park which is the only specialised zoo in India, internationally recognised for its conservation breeding programmes of Red Panda, Himalayan Newt, Snow Leopards, Tibetan Wolf and other highly endangered animal species of the Eastern Himalaya. The afternoon is free to explore at your own pace before we meet for dinner tonight. (B, D)
Day 4 Darjeeling.
Today we visit one of the tea estates where we can walk through a tea garden on the gentle hill slopes of Darjeeling and see the tea processing methods before enjoying a freshly brewed cup. Our final afternoon is free to explore at your own pace. (B, D)
Day 5 Darjeeling to Kolkata.
After breakfast we transfer to Bagdora Airport for our scheduled flight to Kolkata. On arrival transfer to our hotel for some free time before we meet for dinner. (B, D)
Day 6 Kolkata to London.
After an early breakfast transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London. Arrive this afternoon.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
25 to 30 November 2024 Category Price Twin £1895 Single £2395 17 to 22 February 2025 • 24 to 29 November 2025 Category Price Twin £1995 Single £2495 Price Includes: Return economy class scheduled air travel between Kolkata and Bagdora, four nights hotel accommodation at The Elgin Darjeeling, overnight hotel accommodation in Kolkata, meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner), Indian wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, excursions, gratuities, Tour Manager.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
NB. Minimum numbers are required for this extension to operate. Please note that the high altitude of this tour may affect some travellers and so you are advised to seek medical advice before booking.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000