Amatista

RV River Kwai

What we truly appreciate about the RV River Kwai is how it redefines modern river expedition cruising in Thailand. As the country's very first inland boutique cruise vessel, this beautiful two-deck ship is modeled after the iconic historic designs of the original Irrawaddy Flotilla Company. Designed specifically to navigate the narrow bends, low-lying bridges, and fluctuating currents of the Kwai Noi River, it allows travelers to discover Kanchanaburi province from a rare and incredibly peaceful perspective. From its stunning teakwood construction to its intimate passenger capacity, the RV River Kwai offers a refined yet deeply immersive experience. Days are shaped by exploring culturally rich shore excursions—such as visiting the historic Bridge over the River Kwai, ancient Khmer temples like Prasat Muang Sing, and lush national parks—while evenings are spent relaxing on board with sweeping river views and thoughtful hospitality. Compared to more traditional and larger river ships, this vessel stands out for its ultra-private atmosphere (hosting a maximum of just 20 guests), its access to remote, untouched reaches of Western Thailand, and its expert-led historical storytelling. For our travelers who are less physically active or prefer a scenic journey, the open-air upper deck serves as a perfect moving sanctuary. You can comfortably watch rural Thai life drift by—from floating rafts and lush bamboo forests to dramatic limestone cliffs—while enjoying a cool breeze and refreshing local drinks, with no strenuous activity required.

Merlijn

The MS Merlijn is a rare European river ship because it is still personal in the literal sense: Coen and Cristina own it, live with it, and shape the rhythm on board. This is not a floating hotel with a cycling add-on. It is a 24-guest bike-and-barge vessel built for people who want to use rivers, canals, locks, towpaths, small ports and local roads as a way into Europe. Merlijn began life as a 1930 freight barge and was converted into a passenger ship in 2002. Today she has 12 equal staterooms, a bright lounge and restaurant, a bar, a covered front sundeck and a smaller aft terrace. Cabins are compact at 11 m², but very well thought through: private bathroom, adjustable twin beds that can be set together or apart, individual climate control, safe, storage under the beds, Nespresso facilities and daily cabin service. The strongest Merlijn days happen off the ship. You ride guided routes through vineyards, old towns, canals, river villages and working landscapes, then return to a small vessel where everyone quickly knows each other. Non-cyclists can stay on board, but the daily rhythm is built around active riding. Choose Merlijn if you want a small, owner-run ship, excellent route access and a real bike-and-barge journey. It is not the right fit if you want large cabins, an elevator, passive sightseeing, formal evenings or a ship-first holiday.