Pandaw Cruises' Floating Hospital

Exactly two years ago, with emergency funds raised by Pandaw Cruises passengers, Pandaw Cruises bought a brand new ship and fitted it as a floating hospital, all for under US$250,000.

The motorised 128 ft barge contains a modern clinic, dispensary, accommodation for doctors and paramedics with messing area. There are ample holds below decks for storing supplies and Pandaw Cruises installed a water treatment plant, generators and even a parking space for a light truck.

The hospital ship was loaned to the UK medical charity Merlin in September 2008 who ran the medical side whilst the Pandaw team operate the marine side.

Between September 2008 and March 2009 4,487 patients were treated by the Merlin team on board.

During the hot season 2009 the vessel was also used to deliver fresh water to villages. The holds were relined and painted to carry water that could be pumped out into communal tanks.

Pandaw Cruises are currently working with the Myanmar Foundation of Germany who will supply medical services as the cruise line continues to provide the marine operation.

The Myanmar Foundation have just spent a further US$50,000 on fitting out a proper operating theatre, with X ray, ECG and USGt. Pandaw Cruises have used further charity funds to invest an additional US$30,000 towards updating other equipment on board.

New operations begin in the Delta at Phapone with a circuit around villages in that area from July 2010 with three doctors, three nurses and auxiliaries on board.

The Pandaw Hospital Ship is a long term solution to the medical crisis in the Delta.

For details on helping this project with your donation - please visit Pandaw Cruises at https://www.pandaw.com/cyclone_appeal_burma.php/cPath/104_103