MV Mahabaahu Review

Cruising on the Brahmaputra

Review for Asia River Cruise on MV Mahabaahu
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Mike Nixon
2-5 Cruises • Age 70s

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Sail Date: Mar 2020

We wanted to explore Assam for family reasons and this was a great way to see and feel the amazing culture of India. From the moment we arrived we were made to feel very special, with personal and discreet attention - cabin service, spa, restaurant, bar, boat trips, nothing was too much trouble for this exceptional crew. Fascinating lectures by Mayuresh (a young man with a very bright future) before each shore excursion made the visits themselves come alive. Each time we were accompanied by knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, including a medic, and we always felt safe in the tenders to and from the shore. The food was invariably delicious and varied, a real triumph for the chefs in their tiny galley, and eaten in a comfortable restaurant run by the ever-present Suresh. The bar was managed, at all times of day and evening, with a constant smile and great cocktail-mixing skills by Rajish. The Purser, Sandip, could not be phased, and never dropped his winning smile, no matter how obscure or difficult the requests put his way. Unseen was the huge work put in by the engineers and deck crew who, along with the expertise of the ship's Master and the Pilot boat up ahead of us, ensured our safe passage through the shifting shallows of the river in its dry season.

The only very slight criticism we have concerns one of the excursions: the elephant ride at Kasiranga Park was much too short. It didn't help that it was raining, but we were not cold. It was an experience we had looked forward to greatly, but we were disappointed by its length.

Our overall enjoyment of the cruise was heightened by the fact that the passengers were only 22 strong, looked after by 38 crew, making it a very personal experience and allowing us to get to know each other pretty well. This definitely helped during an unforeseen extra week of COVID-19 quarantine. Everyone made the most of the frustrating situation, crew and passengers alike, with many fun events being staged by both sides. It was a relief that none of us showed symptoms, and we bid each other a tearful departure after final clearance by the health authorities.

Cabin Review

Compact but very comfortable, with a large double bed and an ensuite bathroom with its own reverse osmosis plant for fresh water, shower, basin and toilet. A small balcony gave fresh air when needed and had a couple of chairs. Plenty of hanging space and drawers for clothes. A kettle and good tea/coffee making facilities. Several electrical outlets for recharging cameras, phones etc. We did not use the TV or minibar. The cabin was serviced daily, with regular changes of sheets and towels.

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