Each day of this new and exclusive tour offers incredible experiences, having been designed to enable a leisurely journey through the region, combining a cruise along the Mekong aboard the 20-passenger Anouvong with time exploring Thailand, Laos and southwest China from centrally located hotels. Our itinerary offers a perfect balance of discovery and comfort, allowing ample time to appreciate each of the destinations in the company of a small group of like-minded travellers. We will take in the natural beauty and poignant history of Indochina and discover unspoilt countryside, fascinating cultures, bustling cities and timeless villages, before enjoying a weeklong exploration of southwest China’s Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, with their dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, charming old towns and diverse ethnic cultures.
Our journey begins with a two night stay in Chiang Rai, allowing time to visit its fascinating sites, after which we journey to Laos where we embark our river vessel to discover the lesser-travelled stretch of the Mekong River between Huay Xai and Luang Prabang as it flows past remote villages, quiet riverbanks with grazing buffalo, and through lush forests and gently rolling verdant hills. Laos remains one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting countries, and one of the most memorable experiences of the journey will be encountering the charm and natural warmth of the local people, for whom the Mekong plays such an important role. After our cruise we enjoy a three night hotel stay in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang. This mystical city is sure to captivate even the most jaded of travellers with its crumbling French colonial architecture, splendid golden wats with their hundreds of resident monks, and bustling markets.
Our journey continues by high speed rail into southern China, where the landscapes shift to dramatic stone forests, terraced fields and elegant lakeside cities. We arrive in Kunming, capital of Yunnan Province, where highlights include the UNESCO-listed Stone Forest, an otherworldly karst landscape, and beautiful Lijiang, nestled beneath the snowy peaks of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and home to the Naxi people. We then fly to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province, and spend our final days wandering its lively streets with their traditional tea houses, hutongs and spicy cuisine. It is here that we encounter Sichuan’s most famous residents, the giant panda, as well as the charming red panda.
Anouvong
Launched in 2023, this boutique river vessel accommodates just 20 passengers across eight spacious staterooms and two luxurious suites. The atmosphere on board is intimate and the public areas include a spa, restaurant, and a lounge with an expansive sun deck from where there is ample opportunity to watch the world gently pass by as you relax on board your floating hotel.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Chiang Rai, Thailand.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 2 Chiang Rai.
Arrive today and transfer to Le Meridien Hotel for our two night stay. Enjoy the remainder of the day and evening at leisure.
Day 3 Chiang Rai.
Founded in 1262, Thailand’s northernmost city boasts a fascinating architectural history in a mix of Thai and Burmese styles. After breakfast we begin our morning tour with a visit to the ancient temple of Wat Phra Kaew, original home of the Emerald Buddha which is now housed in Bangkok. A replica was made and placed in the same spot where it was found. We continue to Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong with its large gold stupa. Our final stop brings us to Wat Rong Khun, better known as the White Temple, which is different from any other temple in Thailand. In contrast to the ancient temples, this temple was built in 1997 and was designed using white glass. While travelling through the city, observe the influence of the city’s Chinese communities. Return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure and this evening join your fellow travellers for dinner. (B, D)
Day 4 Chiang Rai to Huay Xai, Laos.
This morning we transfer to the border and after passing Lao immigration we head to Huay Xai Pier to embark the Anouvong for our three night river journey along the Mekong. After settling into our cabins, we begin our journey downstream surrounded by uninterrupted views of natural beauty. Later, we call at Ban Pak Sith, a small riverside village mainly inhabited by the Khmu ethnic minority. Life here is simple and closely tied to nature, with families primarily sustained by rice and vegetable farming. Some households continue the traditional craft of blacksmithing, producing essential tools such as knives, hoes, and spades. Here, if available, the village blacksmith will demonstrate his time-honoured methods and skills. Join the expert onboard guide for a lecture delving into the rich history of the country and its former royal dynasties before dinner on board. (B, L, D)
Day 5 Pakbeng & Khok Aek.
Early risers can join a morning yoga class on the terrace deck, where the breathtaking Mekong scenery becomes a serene backdrop as we sail to the charming village of Pakbeng. Along the riverside opposite Pakbeng and nestled in the jungle lies Laos’ most sustainable elephant sanctuary. Here, in an almost pristine natural setting, we have the privilege of encountering these majestic creatures. Once employed in the logging industry, they now live in a peaceful and natural environment, their ability to survive in the wild having been curtailed in captivity. The sanctuary, a symbol of ecotourism and sustainability, reflects a deep commitment to these principles. After lunch you can find a spot to relax on board or maybe join a cooking class where you will learn to prepare Lao and Thai classics that you can easily recreate at home. Later this afternoon another breathtaking riverine spectacle awaits as we arrive at Khok Aek. Here the ethnic Lao, Khmu and Hmong tribes live a sustainable life growing organic fruit and vegetables, each with their own unique history, traditions, ways of life, family dynamics, and housing styles. Venture into the village to a family home where representatives from each ethnic group will showcase and explain their differences and characteristics in day-to-day life. Tonight we will enjoy a performance by local villagers on the Terrace Deck, featuring the traditional “Kene” instrument. (B, L, D)
Day 6 Ban Baw & Khok Luang.
After breakfast, our morning excursion leads us to two traditional adjacent villages, where Lao Loum and Khmu communities have lived side by side for generations, each preserving their own traditions in quiet harmony. Most villagers are farmers, cultivating seasonal crops and tending small gardens, while in Ban Baw, a handful of women keep alive the intricate art of cotton and silk weaving. During our visit, we can witness a demonstration of this enduring craft, observing weavers as they work on traditional handlooms using labour-intensive methods that have remained unchanged through the ages. The village also has a small temple tending to the community’s spiritual life, where those who wish can join the resident monks for a short private meditation session. Return to the ship for lunch as we resume our meandering journey down the river toward Khok Luang. This village is home to the Khmu ethnic group whose communities span China, Laos, Thailand, Burma and Vietnam. Strolling through the village, we gather for a Baci ceremony, a heartfelt Laotian ritual led by local elders (and possibly monks), bestowing blessings for your onward journey. Our evening unfolds with a cocktail on the sandbank, followed by a farewell dinner served in this memorable setting (B, L, D)
Day 7 Pak Ou Caves & Luang Prabang.
This morning we approach the illustrious Pak Ou Caves. Nestled along the rocky shore of the Mekong, there are two grottoes sheltering approximately 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images. We explore the lower cave, the most impressive and easily accessible. Return to the ship for lunch as we sail into Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Disembark in the early afternoon and transfer to the Avani+ Hotel for our three night stay. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure before we meet for dinner this evening. (B, L, D)
Day 8 Luang Prabang.
After breakfast in the hotel we start our day with a visit to the National Museum, formerly the Royal Palace. Displayed inside is a collection of personal artefacts of the former Laotian Royal Family. Later we follow the quiet back lanes to the beautiful Heuan Chan Heritage House. Explore the house and its historical items and architectural charms while learning about the connection it has with the Royal Palace. We continue our walk up the peninsula to the country’s most historic and enchanting temple, Wat Xieng Thong. With its roof that sweeps low towards the ground, this temple’s architecture best represents the classical Luang Prabang style. After lunch the remainder of the day and evening is free to explore at your own pace or relax in the hotel. (B, L)
Day 9 Kuang Si Falls & Luang Prabang.
This morning we drive south of Luang Prabang and take a leisurely hike through the natural park to the Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre, established by the Free the Bears Project and home to a group of rescued Asiatic Black (Moon) Bears. Afterwards we will continue to the beautiful Kuang Si Waterfalls. Below the 90 metre drop of the main cascade are a series of pools, connected by smaller falls and cascades. At low water levels the water is a remarkable turquoise, and swimming in the lower pools is a great way to cool off. Return to Luang Prabang for an afternoon at leisure before we meet for dinner this evening. (B, D)
Day 10 Luang Prabang to Kunming, China.
Today, those wishing to rise early can witness and partake in the daily morning ritual of ‘Tak Bat’ or giving alms to the monks. Return to the hotel for breakfast before we check out and transfer to the railway station for our scheduled train to Kunming (please note the journey will be approximately eight hours). Spend the day travelling through the Laos countryside before crossing the border into China. On arrival in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, known as the ‘Spring City’ thanks to its temperate climate, we will transfer to the Sofitel Hotel for a two night stay. (B, L*, D)
Day 11 Kunming.
After breakfast in the hotel we visit the famous Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 270-million-year-old limestone karst pinnacles, creating a maze-like “forest” of stone. Here we learn about the formation of karst landforms and Yi ethnic legends. Following lunch, there will be free time to explore independently before we meet for dinner this evening. (B, L, D)
Day 12 Kunming to Lijiang.
This morning we transfer to the railway station to join the high-speed train to Lijiang, which blends Naxi ethnic culture with breathtaking natural scenery. Lijiang features stone-paved alleys, traditional wooden houses, and clear streams in the old town. On arrival enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before we check in to the Intercontinental Lijiang Ancient Town Resort for our three night stay. Enjoy some time at leisure to explore Dayan Ancient Town before we meet for dinner this evening. (B, L, D)
Day 13 Lijiang.
After breakfast, we visit the Black Dragon Pool where we see the mirror-like reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain from Suocui Bridge, then visit Ming and Qing-era ancient buildings like Wufeng Tower and Deyue Tower. We continue on to visit Shuhe Ancient Town, one of the earliest settlements of the Naxi people. It is also an important and well-preserved post of the Ancient Tea Horse Route, an important trading route across south-west China where horses were the principal means of transport. After lunch, enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure. Meet for dinner this evening (B, L, D)
Day 14 Lijiang.
Today we visit Baisha Village, where we wander through this ancient Naxi settlement, exploring century-old courtyards and handcraft shops. Later, we continue to the Baisha Mural Paintings to admire the exquisite Ming-dynasty religious fresco art. After lunch, we visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Ride the cable car to Spruce Meadow to enjoy the snow-covered alpine scenery, then head to Blue Moon Valley to take in the views of its turquoise waters. Enjoy the live performance ‘Impression Lijiang’, immersing yourself in the stunning cultural charm of local folklore. Meet for dinner this evening. (B, L, D)
Day 15 Lijiang to Chengdu.
This morning we transfer to the airport for a flight to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province and a vibrant blend of ancient history and modernity. On arrival enjoy lunch and check in to the Kempinski Hotel for our two night stay. This afternoon we visit People’s Park and continue to Heming Teahouse to experience authentic gaiwan tea culture over a cup of jasmine tea accompanied by salted peanuts. (B, L, D)
Day 16 Chengdu.
This morning we visit the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Centre, which is beautifully landscaped with lush plants and lakes. A highlight will be observing the panda cubs play with each other, climbing up and down trees, rolling and tumbling with endless energy. Also, visit the Small Red Panda Centre with 40 red pandas in residence who roam freely. After lunch we visit the Sanxingdui Museum, a major archaeological museum showcasing an extensive collection of Bronze Age relics from the Shu Kingdom. This evening we enjoy a farewell Sichuan hot pot dinner accompanied by a traditional face-changing performance, a 300-year old highly skilled dramatic form of art from Sichuan opera. (B, L, D)
Day 17 Chengdu to London.
Check out this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London. Arrive this evening. (B)
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 4 to 20 March 2028 • 26 October to 11 November 2028 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Deluxe Stateroom | £8695 | £8495 |
| Deluxe Executive Stateroom | £8995 | £8795 |
| Signature Suite | £10295 | £10095 |
| Deluxe Stateroom for sole use | £10695 | £10495 |
Tour Reference Code: RCAN040328/RCAN261028
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Two nights hotel accommodation in Chiang Rai • Three nights accommodation aboard the Anouvong • Three nights hotel accommodation in Luang Prabang • Two nights hotel accommodation in Kunming • Three nights hotel accommodation in Lijiang • Two nights hotel accommodation in Chengdu • Meals as indicated (B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, L* - Light Lunch, D - Dinner) • House wine, beer and soft drinks with included lunches and dinners • Tours and shore excursions as described • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • English-speaking local guides • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, Laos visa, China visa.
NB. Changes to the itinerary may be necessary, depending on the weather, river conditions, or orders by local authorities. In such cases, transportation will be provided by slow boat and an overnight hotel provided if needed. Hotels are subject to change.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
Anouvong
Launched in 2023, this boutique river vessel accommodates just 20 passengers across eight spacious staterooms and two luxurious suites. The atmosphere on board is intimate and the public areas include a spa, restaurant, and a lounge with an expansive sun deck from where there is ample opportunity to watch the world gently pass by as you relax on board your floating hotel.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the ship or click on the adjacent Directory to download.
We are delighted you have chosen the Anouvong for your upcoming voyage and hope this information answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel.
SHIP TECHNICAL DETAILS
Registered: Laos
Passengers: 20
Crew: 25
Gross Tonnage: 380 tonnes
Cruising Speed: 8 knots
Length: 48 metres
Width: 9 metres
Height: 8.2 metres
Draft: 1.2 metresAIR-CONDITIONING
All cabins and suites have individually controlled air-conditioning. We recommend ensuring that your windows and doors are shut for optimal performance of the unit.ALARM
An alarm will be sounded in the event of an emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do should an emergency occur.CABIN FACILITIES & SIZES
Deluxe Stateroom
The Anouvong’s four Deluxe Staterooms are located on the Main Deck and measure 20 square metres. These cabins can be configured as either a twin or double bedded cabin. All of the cabins feature panoramic sliding doors with a French balcony allowing for unobstructed views of the river, and the en-suite bathroom is complete with a walk-in shower and an art-deco vanity unit. The immaculate furniture and décor is a combination of French Colonial and Laotian and includes two lovely wooden chairs with a small table where guests may enjoy a cup of tea whilst taking in the passing scenery. The gentle colour tones create the ideal backdrop for local artwork with hand-painted Laotian patterns adorning the backdrop of the bed.
Facilities: Individually controlled air-conditioning, wardrobe, coffee table and chairs, bathroom with walk-in shower, bathrobe, luxury toiletries, sandals, sun hat, luggage rack, umbrella, hairdryer, in-house phone, tea and coffee making facility, safe, mini-bar and bluetooth music station with a loudspeaker.Deluxe Executive Staterooms
There are four Deluxe Executive Staterooms located on the Terrace Deck, each measuring 21 square metres. These cabins can all feature a fixed double bed. The design and facilities are the same as the Deluxe Staterooms, with French balconies, handpicked Laotian artwork and furniture inspired by the French-colonial epoch. The Deluxe Executive Staterooms have the additional benefit of being located one floor higher on the Terrace Deck with superior river views.
Facilities: Individually controlled air-conditioning, wardrobe, coffee table and chairs, bathroom with walk-in shower, bathrobe, luxury toiletries, sandals, sun hat, luggage rack, umbrella, hairdryer, in-house phone, tea and coffee making facility, safe, mini-bar and bluetooth music station with a loudspeaker.Signature Suites
The two luxurious Signature Suites are the largest rooms aboard the Anouvong offering a generous 30 square metres of space including a three square metre private balcony. Situated at the front of the Main Deck, the suites each come with a unique design theme and are named after two main tributaries of the Mekong River.
Large floor-to-ceiling windows allow the sun to bathe the whole suite’s living area in natural daylight and the French colonial double bed faces the window allowing for spectacular views. The private balcony, with chairs and a coffee table, provides wonderful views whilst cruising.
The Nam Ming Signature Suite on the port side is decorated with hand-carved traditional Laotian patterns and a stunning brass artwork portraying Buddha’s fingerprints, creating an impressive backdrop to the bed.
The Nam Khan Signature Suite on the starboard side features a hand-crafted mosaic on the main wall depicting life in a Laotian village. Both suites have brightly lit, ceramic mosaic-tiled bathrooms which are outfitted with a double vanity unit, a large walk-in shower and a Jacuzzi overlooking the passing landscape.
Both Signature Suites are flooded with natural light and decorated with hand-carved traditional Laotian patterns and designs. Stunning brass artwork depicting Buddhist imagery creates an imposing backdrop to the double bed.
Facilities: Individually controlled air-conditioning, wardrobe, coffee table and chairs, bathroom with walk-in shower, bathrobe, luxury toiletries, sandals, sun hat, luggage rack, umbrella, hairdryer, in-house phone, tea and coffee making facility, safe, mini-bar and Bluetooth music station with a loudspeaker. The signature suites also benefit from complimentary mini-bar (replenished daily), laundry service and in-suite dining upon request.DAILY PROGRAMME
The daily programme is printed on board and delivered to your cabin/suite each evening. It provides details of the following day’s programme, mealtimes, and other activities, as well as interesting and helpful information about your next port of call.DRESS CODE
The dress code on board is informal and relaxed. You may wish to wear comfortable casual attire in the daytime and smart casual attire in the evenings.DRINKING WATER
Complimentary (refillable) water bottles are available in your cabin/suite and drinking water is available at all outlets and during meals. Please do not drink the tap water which should only be used for washing purposes and brushing teeth.ELECTRICITY
Electricity on board is 220 volts, with European two round pin power outlets. Various adaptors for different types of plugs are available at Reception.EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES
The vessel is fully equipped with a radio communication system, radar, GPS, depth measurer, security camera and public address system, life jackets & life rafts, fire hydrants and extinguishers. There is also a smoke and fire alarm system, emergency lighting and communication system, first aid kits and a rescue boat.GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.GYM
The Anouvong features a small gym with treadmill and exercise bike.HOUSEKEEPING
Your cabin/suite will be serviced twice daily: a morning service and an evening turndown service.cruise. Your shipboard account will be automatically opened upon check in. All bills can be paid in Lao Kip or US Dollars in cash or by credit card (American Express, Master Card or Visa) for bills exceeding 25 US Dollars. Traveller’s cheques are not accepted. Your provisional account will be presented for your review the evening prior to your departure.LAUNDRY SERVICE
A laundry service is provided on board at an additional cost (guests in the Signature Suites benefit from a complimentary laundry service). Please indicate your items on the laundry list and put it in the small pocket of the laundry bag, placing the laundry bag with the items to be laundered outside your cabin/suite door. Your serviced laundry will be returned to you the following day.LIBRARY & GAMES
A small selection of books is available for use on board. Please return all books to the library before the end of the cruise. There is also a selection of board games.LOST PROPERTY
Lost property should be handed to the ship’s Reception. Please ensure you have all of your belongings with you before you return home. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection and to advise of any associated costs.MEALS
The Delaporte Dining Lounge offers a combination of Laos, Southeast Asian and international cuisine and the chefs prepare flavourful dishes using the freshest of ingredients. The restaurant serves à la carte dining and buffets, and guests can also enjoy open-air barbecues, al-fresco breakfasts and sandbank aperitifs during the voyage. If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free or low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department at Noble Caledonia. We regret that not all dietary requests can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Chef or the Maitre D’ at dinner on your first night to reconfirm your requirements.MEDICAL
The vessel is equipped with first aid and key medical supplies. All senior staff members and IMO certified personnel have attended first aid courses. In the event of serious illness or accidents, further medical assistance can be sought from the nearest hospitals.ONBOARD ACCOUNT
You will be given a personal shipboard account which allows you to sign for all purchases and services throughout yourQUESTIONNAIRES
We are always looking for ways to improve our holidays and the services provided and in order to do this we welcome feedback from our guests. Your comments are important to us therefore we request that you complete the questionnaire that will be provided to you by your Tour Manager.SAFE
Each cabin/suite is equipped with a safe deposit box. Please follow the instructions provided but please do ask a member of the crew for assistance if required.SMOKING
Smoking is allowed in the designated outdoor area only. All cabins and suites are non-smoking.SPA
The Bodhi Spa is located on the Terrace Deck and occupies the ship’s entire stern. Designed with a Laotian spiritual theme, the spa atmosphere evokes a sanctuary of wellbeing. There are three treatment rooms, comfortable lounges and two private single rooms.TERRACE DECK
The Anouvong’s spacious Terrace Deck features a Jacuzzi, comfortable sun loungers as well as shaded seating areas and is the ideal place to relax and marvel at the breathtaking views.TOILETRIES
A selection of toiletries is provided including shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, soap, toothbrush and shower cap.WI-FI
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available on board in the public areas only. Please note that the service level is subject to the mobile network connection which may be very limited in remote or certain sections of the river.Please note: The information contained in this booklet should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
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Deck Plan
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