Join us aboard the newly-built Anouvong and discover the lesser-travelled stretch of the Mekong River in Laos, all the way from Huay Xai to Vientiane as it flows past remote villages, quiet riverbanks with grazing buffalo and through lush forests and gently rolling verdant hills. Each day of this fascinating tour offers incredible experiences as we take in the stunning unspoiled countryside and learn of the diverse local tribes living along the river.
One of the greatest experiences of our journey will be encountering the great charm and natural warmth of the local people for whom the Mekong plays such an important role and we will stop at many of the villages along the way as well as the famous Pak Ou Caves. Here we will witness two of the caves in the limestone cliff that have been filled with a myriad of Buddha images over the centuries before continuing to 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 gold wats with their hundreds of resident monks and its river activity and markets. We have combined our cruise with hotel stays in Chiang Rai in northern Thailand, allowing the opportunity to visit the magnificent temples, and Hanoi, Vietnam’s small and alluring capital renowned for its architecture, rich culture and wealth of sights.
There will also be ample time to relax on board our beautiful vessel admiring the passing scenery and, with no more than 20 fellow guests on board, we can offer an intimate experience and close-up perspective of the river including some ports of call which are virtually untouched by tourism. This truly is a journey of a lifetime full of contrasting sites and relaxing interludes spent on board a unique vessel in a very special corner of Asia.
Anouvong
For our scenic cruises along the Upper Mekong River we are delighted to have chartered the Anouvong from our associates at Heritage Line which was launched in September 2023. This luxurious vessel is named after the last ruler of the Kingdom of Vientiane and 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 terrace deck 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 to Chiang Rai.
Day 2 Chiang Rai.
Arrive this morning and transfer to our hotel for a three night stay. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 3 Chiang Rai.
Founded in 1262 AD, Thailand’s most northern 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 Kae, the 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, 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 ethnic minorities. Return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure and this evening join your fellow travellers for dinner at the hotel. (B, D)
Day 4 Chiang Rai & Doi Tung.
After breakfast we depart on a morning tour to Doi Tung (The Flag Mountain) where new villages have been constructed under the auspices of the Princess Mother’s Foundation. Our tour includes a visit to the Doi Tung Royal Villa and the beautiful Mae Fah Luang Park. The Mae Fah Luang Botanical Garden features hundreds of different tropical flowers and covers ten acres of hillside that was originally home to the Akha village, Pa Kluay. This community was once a major production and transportation hub of opium within the infamous Golden Triangle. Her Royal Highness Princess Srinagarindra, the late Princess Mother (the late King’s mother) was responsible for setting up this garden and to this day it provides ethical working opportunities for the local villagers who were trained to grow and tend to the organic plants and flowers instead of harvesting opium. After lunch in a local restaurant we return to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. (B, L)
Day 5 Chiang Rai & Huay Xai, Laos.
After breakfast transfer to the Anouvong in Huay Xai (approximately 2.5 hours drive) and embark. Settle into your cabin as we start our downstream journey. Our first stop during our voyage is Khon Teun, a relatively modern Laotian village showcasing various wooden sculptures and home to roughly 800 residents belonging to the Tai Lu ethnic minority. We will experience a Baci Ceremony, held by the village elders in our honour and a traditional Laotian welcome. The villagers here practice long-held traditions and techniques of weaving handmade garments with distinct patterns. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner this evening. (B, L, D)
Please note: There will be a brief stop (approximately 1 hour) at the Thai border for immigration purposes before crossing the border to Laos to embark the ship.
Day 6 Pak Beng & Khok Ek.
After breakfast we arrive in the small town of Pak Beng. This riverside settlement is halfway between Huay Xai and Luang Prabang. Many locals stop here when they travel or transport goods between these two “hubs” on the river. Opposite the town, we visit a professionally managed elephant sanctuary; the elephants here used to work as logging elephants but can now live in peace and safety. During lunch we continue our journey towards our next destination. At a sandbank further down the river, the local ethnic Lao, Khmu and Hmong live in the tiny village of Khok Ek where we get to know the villagers and sample some local produce. Back on board, villagers will perform a traditional dance on the terrace deck before dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 7 Kok Luang, Pak Ou Caves & Luang Prabang.
After breakfast, a morning lecture provides us with interesting insights and facts about Laotian culture relating to the diverse tribes living along the upper Mekong. The vessel continues down the river to our next stop at Pak Ou. Here we can take a jungle trek (approximately 45 minutes with some uphill terrain) to the famous Pak Ou Caves, located directly on the Mekong’s rocky shore and opposite the mouth of the Ou River. Here there are two spacious limestone grottoes that house approximately 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images ranging from mere centimetres up to two metres in height. Following the visit to the caves, choose to join either a kayak tour along the Nam Ou River or visit a nearby village to learn about traditional silk weaving. Continue sailing towards Luang Prabang, arriving in the early evening. Dinner is served on board upon our arrival after which you may like to explore the charms of this old town with a stroll through the small streets. (B, L, D)
Day 8 Luang Prabang.
After breakfast join a walking tour to discover ancient Luang Prabang, one of Southeast Asia’s most unique cities and a World Heritage Site. We set out on foot for an “off the beaten track” guided walking tour to explore the old town with its peninsula where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet. See Luang Prabang’s distinct architecture and hear interesting stories about the houses and the places we pass. We stroll along the small roads and streets with antique structures and mango trees. Some of the 100-yearold Lao-style buildings brim with a bygone era atmosphere. One of the houses, the Lamache, was once home to noble families and later was the appointed ice cream supplier to the royal family. There is no better place to have a “Lao Tea Break” with Lao coffee or herbal tea, traditional snacks and artisan ice cream. We return to the ship for lunch before a visit to the former Royal Palace which is now the National Museum. The museum displays interesting local art and other exhibits which used to belong to the Lao royal family. After our visit to the museum, enjoy some free time to explore the city centre further before returning to the ship. Later we meet Francis Engelmann, who used to work for UNESCO on heritage preservation projects and has lived in Laos for over 20 years. During his presentation he will share some of his expertise on the country’s rich cultural heritage and fascinating history. We depart from the ship for dinner ashore to enjoy delicious food in a wonderful Lao-styled ambience. After dinner explore the night market of Luang Prabang or return to the ship and relax on board. (B, L, D)
Day 9 Luang Prabang, Kuang Si & Xayaburi.
The morning alms round, referred to as “Tak Bat” in Lao, is a living Buddhist tradition for the people of Luang Prabang and dates back generations. Today, those wishing to rise early can wake up before dawn to witness a procession of hundreds of saffron-robed monks in the early morning light, a truly spiritual experience. After the almsgiving, walk along the morning market and watch as the town comes to life before returning to the ship in time for breakfast. Depart Luang Prabang and sail further downstream to set out for today’s sightseeing. First, we visit the innovative Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm. Having almost no dairy products some decades ago, these milk-based products have become more and more popular in recent years in Asia and also in Laos. We will witness how various dairy products are made locally and distributed to local markets. Continue to Kuang Si where we will take a leisurely hike to see the beautiful Kuang Si waterfalls and an opportunity to take a swim in the beautiful turquoise waters. Back aboard, our cruise continues towards the nation’s famous hydroelectric power plant and there will be a lecture about the role of energy in Laos’ economy. Eventually, we arrive near the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Dam to moor overnight. (B, L, D)
Day 10 Xayaburi & Don Saynhan.
This morning we pass through the Dam, navigating the locks and lowering the vessel by approximately 30 metres. As we continue sailing south, relax on board and enjoy either a fascinating lecture on Lao royalty or join a cooking class featuring a Lao-Thai dish. We will reach Don Saynhan village this afternoon where we take a short local “Tractor Tuk Tuk” ride to visit the Khao Cave. The cave, located in a natural and pristine environment, has been home to a large bat population for many generations and supplies the village with very potent fertiliser. Venture inside and discover the remarkable stalagmites and stalactites. Return to the ship and sail. The ship will moor overnight in Don Saynhan. (B, L, D)
Day 11 Saynhan and Pha Leap.
After breakfast we will explore the enchanting village of Pha Leap where we will have the opportunity to see two distinct local industries. First, witness the incredible craftmanship involved in producing traditional long tail boats, still a vital part of transportation in Laos. Our second visit will be to a local Lao whiskey distillery, where the owner will give us a guided tour and a chance to taste this national staple. This afternoon set sail once more as we continue our journey along the Mekong. We will make our way to one of the deserted sandbanks where we moor and enjoy a farewell dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 12 Vientiane & Hanoi, Vietnam.
Enjoy breakfast as we cruise towards Vientiane. As we sail past beautiful landscapes and remote villages, our local expert presents a lecture on the history of Lao royalty with a focus on King Anouvong – our vessel’s namesake. Disembark at around midday and transfer to the airport for our flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival, transfer to our hotel and check in for a three night stay. Enjoy dinner this evening at a local restaurant. (B, D)
Day 13 Hanoi & Duong Lam.
After breakfast depart Hanoi for a visit to Duong Lam (approximately 1.5 hours drive), a typical agricultural village in the northern Red River Delta. Duong Lam has the honour of being the birthplace of two Vietnamese kings and is the first village in Vietnam to be recognised by UNESCO for its Cultural Heritage Conservation. Home to approximately 300 houses built nearly 400 years ago, Duong Lam’s narrow alleyways showcase rural life and ancient Vietnamese architecture. The cultural and historical vestiges of Duong Lam include the Mong Phu Communal House and the Old Catholic Church. Return to the hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure. (B)
Day 14 Hanoi.
After breakfast enjoy a city tour of Hanoi, often referred to as the ‘Paris of the East’ with its yellow ochre colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes. During our tour we visit the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an imposing monument of marble and granite built to house the preserved body of beloved revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh. Later we continue to the One Pillar Pagoda, a Buddhist temple built in 1049 of wood in the shape of a lotus blossom and set on a single stone pillar. Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university built in the late 11th century. The picturesque temple is an example of wellpreserved traditional Vietnamese architecture and is featured on the back of the 100,000 Vietnamese dong banknote. Enjoy lunch independently before we set out for our afternoon tour which starts with a visit to the Museum of Ethnology which houses an extensive collection of traditional costumes and artefacts from Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minority groups. We end our day with a walking tour of Hanoi, passing through the famed Old Quarter known for its ‘36 streets of 36 wares’ named after the original 36 artisan guilds that date as far back as the 13th century. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner at the hotel. (B, D)
Day 15 Hanoi to London.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Depending on flight schedules we will secure day rooms if necessary for a late check out before transferring to the airport for the return scheduled indirect flight to London. (B)
Day 16 London.
Arrive today.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 8 to 23 February 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Deluxe Stateroom | £8295 | |
| Deluxe Executive Stateroom | £8795 | |
| Signature Suite | £9695 | |
| Deluxe Stateroom for sole use | £10295 | |
Tour Reference Code: RCAN23
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Three nights accommodation in Chiang Rai • Seven nights aboard the Anouvong on a full board basis • House wine, local beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board • Three nights accommodation in Hanoi • Meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner) • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Shore excursions with local English speaking guides • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, visas for Thailand & Laos.
Anouvong
For our scenic cruises along the Upper Mekong River we are delighted to have chartered the Anouvong from our associates at Heritage Line which was launched in September 2023. This luxurious vessel is named after the last ruler of the Kingdom of Vientiane and 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 terrace deck where there is ample opportunity to watch the world gently pass by as you relax on board your floating hotel.
-
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.
-
Deck Plan
-
Also of Interest
Along the Mighty Brahmaputra
A river journey through Northern India’s Assam region aboard the RV Charaidew II
SPECIAL OFFER - SAVE £300 PER PERSON
Charaidew II
Itinerary at a glance
- Kolkata / Guwahati / Tezpur / Nameri National Park / Kaziranga / Vishnath / Majuli Island / Sibsagar / Assam / Kolkata
18 nights
Next Departure:
15 January 2025
Timeless Treasures of the Mekong
A river journey through Vietnam and Cambodia aboard the luxurious RV Mekong Princess
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON
Mekong Princess
Itinerary at a glance
- Ho Chi Minh / Ben Tre / Can Tho / Hoa An/ Gieng Island /Hong Ngu / Phnom Penh / Angkor Ban / Kampong Cham / Siem Reap
14 nights
from
£6795
Next Departure:
17 February 2025
Splendours of Southeast Asia
A voyage from Thailand to Vietnam including Malaysia aboard the MS Island Sky with Guest Speaker Reverend Richard Coles
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON
Island Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Phuket / Langkawi / Penang / Kuala Lumpur / Malacca / Singapore / Pulau Tioman / Con Dao / Ho Chi Minh
12 nights
from
£7495
Next Departure:
11 March 2026
Islands of the East China Sea
An island hopping voyage from Hong Kong to Kobe aboard the MS Island Sky
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON
Island Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Hong Kong / Taiwan / Penghu Islands / Taichung / Taipei / Hualien / Ishigaki / Amami Oshima / Yakushima / uUwajima / Uno-Ko / Kobe
15 nights
from
£9995
Next Departure:
2 April 2026
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000