Manohra Song
Dubbed “The Orient Express of the River”, this
vessel is a 20-meter-long rice barge that has been carefully
restored and lavishly converted into an ultra-deluxe river cruiser.
Designed for up to four couples, Manohra Song explores Thailand s
famous Menam Chao Phraya, in unmatched luxury and comfort.
Built upon the original 100-year-old, solid teak
hull, Manohra Song features four air-conditioned staterooms with
queen-size beds, ensuite bathrooms, and an expansive saloon living
and dining area with bar, plus an ample forward sun-deck lounging
area, with private crew quarters and kitchen in the aft section
Designed and built by interior designer Kathleen
Heinecke, the Manohra Song features warm teak, padua and mahogany
woods throughout, custom-designed furniture covered with colorful
Thai silks and cottons, oriental rugs, Thai and Southeast Asian art,
sculpture and artifacts. Many of the accessories selected have been
made by the people living along the rivers and klongs (canals) of
Thailand, as well as in some of the more remote areas.
“Some of the crafts are quite sophisticated and
fine, while others are more folk items that have been used by the
Thai people for generations,” explained Heinecke, CEO of Polygon
Designs.
“We wanted to reflect and re-create in a small
way, some of the many early European influences that were embraced
and encouraged by King Rama V. These resulted in a good marriage of
the styles of the time, both Thai and foreign, mixing local carving
expertise with the sumptuous fabrics – many of them made from Thai
silks and cottons, patterns and colors,” she added.
Manohra Song is staffed by an experienced and
attentive crew of four including a Chef presenting the finest
traditional Thai cuisine for lunch and dinner.
A variety of custom-planned cruises are
available, including the regularly scheduled two night – three day
“Ayutthaya Adventure”. Stops along the way include Wat Bangna and
the unique Wat Nivat. There is also a tour of the fabulous Summer
Palace complex at beautiful Bang Pa-In. In Ayutthaya, there is time
to explore the 17th century historical ruins, now a UNESCO World
Heritage site, ride an elephant and do a little shopping.
The Chao Phraya River itself offers a
never-ending vista of vignettes: temples, log-rafts, barges,
long-tail boats, houses, palaces; and above all, the friendly, happy
people who are never too busy to wave at visitors cruising aboard
Manohra Song
Manohra Song is available for private charters
and custom cruises whilst Manohra Dream is available for private
charters only. Both vessels depart from the Manohra Cruises pier
located on the riverfront of the Bangkok Marriott Resort & Spa.
Special arrangements can be made for alternate pick-up and drop off
points.
