We wanted to cruise in Myanmar and upon reading about Scenic's new ship (Aura) we decided to use this operator. A good decision. The ship was only launched in September and our cruise started in late November - mainly December. The ship lived up to the computer generated images and, before I point out some issues, I unreservedly recommend this ship to anyone considering a cruise in Myanmar.

Cruising in Myanmar is not like cruising in most other Countries - there are no wharfs at which to dock - the ship (mostly) just nudges into the shore and the gangplank is lowered for passengers to get off. Occasionally it docks against another ship and the only way to exit is through the other ship - happened only once on our voyage.

There are 22 cabins - hence a maximum of 44 fellow travellers - 39 in our case as 5 cabins were occupied by singles. The rooms vary in size but all are big by river (and ocean) cruise standards. We had a grand deluxe suite which measured 40 square metres (just over 400 square feet). The cabin was well appointed with only a bath missing. The restaurant is open seating and can seat all passengers at the one sitting. There is a Teppanyaki bar in the restaurant that seats six and is by invitation only - that way all guest get to use this facility. The food was outstanding as was the service. The bar is a (long) horseshoe shape and consequently it is difficulty for large groups to be accommodated - we usually had about 10-12 in our group and that was just manageable. There is another bar next to the pool but this is mainly used when there are functions at the pool area. There is no problem getting a drink where ever you are on the ship. The pool area was a real treat. The top deck is an open area with seating (some undercover) with a walking track that measured about 60 metres (70 yards). The gym is small but adequate. There is one washer, one dryer and one iron in the laundry. Read more