Each day of this new and exclusive tour offers incredible experiences as we take in the glorious natural beauty and poignant history of Indochina and discover the stunning, unspoiled countryside, fascinating culture, bustling cities and timeless villages. Our unique tour has been designed to enable a leisurely exploration of the region, combining our two cruises with time exploring by land from comfortable and centrally located hotels.
During our two night journey aboard the Ylang we will explore Vietnam’s beautiful Halong Bay. Known for its emerald green waters and thousands of towering limestone islands, this charming and tranquil region is a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Continuing to Laos, we will discover the lesser-travelled stretch of the Mekong River aboard the Anouvong as we journey from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai sailing past remote villages, quiet riverbanks with grazing buffalo and through lush forests and gently rolling verdant hills. In addition, we will enjoy hotel stays in the vibrant cities of Hanoi, Luang Prabang and Chiang Rai allowing for the opportunity to visit the magnificent sites and explore these rapidly developing metropolises.
This unique journey provides an opportunity to soak up the diverse culture of the region and the everyday life of the local people and one of the greatest experiences of our journey will be encountering their great charm and natural warmth. There will be ample time to relax or to explore at leisure and in the company of just 20 fellow guests, we can offer an intimate experience and close-up perspective of the region including some places which are virtually untouched by tourism.
Ylang
This intimate, 20 passenger vessel was launched in 2019 and features just ten spacious suites on two decks, all with floor-to-ceiling windows which open onto a private balcony. The decor is a blend of Asian-Vietnamese with some French-colonial accents and local artisans have contributed with hard-crafted paintings and artworks.
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 Hanoi, Vietnam.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 2 Hanoi.
Arrive this morning and transfer to our hotel for a two night stay. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 3 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. We will start with a visit to former President Ho Chi Minh’s house before continuing to the 6th century Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest in Hanoi located on a small island in West Lake. After lunch visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university built in the late 11th century and an example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture. We will end our tour with a walk through the 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 dinner at the hotel. (B, L, D)
Day 4 Hanoi to Halong Bay.
After breakfast in the hotel we will drive to Halong Bay. Embark the Ylang in the late morning and cruise into Halong Bay over lunch. In the early afternoon we arrive at Cua Van, a former floating fishing village which some fishermen still use as their base. Board bamboo boats and glide through this serene area and enjoy a glimpse into the village and life on the water. Our next stop will be at Tien Ong cave, where we can learn about Halong Bay’s geological history and find evidence of human civilisation dating back to 10,000 BC. Return to the ship and sail to our overnight mooring area. There will be the opportunity to join a Vietnamese cooking class or a lecture on the bay’s unique features and history. After dinner on board maybe relax on the terrace deck and enjoy the peace under the stars. (B, L, D)
Day 5 Halong Bay.
Early risers may wish to join a Tai Chi session on the terrace deck before we embark on a day boat to reach the impressive Sung Sot Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. First discovered by the French in 1901 and spanning 10,000 square metres, Sung Sot features two enormous chambers replete with myriad mythical rock monoliths and adorned with stalactite chandeliers. Following our visit, return to the ship to relax on board, or take the opportunity to explore the marine landscape further by kayak. This afternoon our journey continues to a floating pearl farm where we will discover the intricate process of cultivating, harvesting and processing various pearls. The remainder of the afternoon is free to relax on board. Enjoy a drink on the open deck and witness the captivating “blue hour” at sunset before dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 6 Halong Bay to Luang Prabang, Laos.
This morning we will reach a secluded area of Halong Bay called Ti Top Island, where there will be an opportunity for a swim from the sandy beach, or to climb to the island’s peak to admire the panoramic views over the bay. After lunch, disembark the Ylang and return to Hanoi where we will have an early dinner before transferring to the airport for an evening flight to Luang Prabang. On arrival, transfer to our hotel and check in for our three night stay. (B, L, D)
Day 7 Luang Prabang.
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 hotel in time for breakfast. Later we explore the UNESCO protected city centre to appreciate its unspoiled Laotian-colonial fusion architecture including Wat Xieng Thong, with its traditional roofs sweeping low to the ground, the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and Wat Sene, the city’s oldest temple, and Wat Mai. The rest of the day is free for independent exploration or to relax at the hotel before meeting this evening for dinner. (B, D)
Day 8 Luang Prabang.
Drive south of the city this morning to the beautiful waterfalls of Tat Kuang Si. 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 an unbelievable turquoise, and swimming in the lower pools is a great way to cool off. On the walk through the forest to the falls, you will also pass the Free the Bears project – home to a group of rescued Asiatic Black (Moon) Bears and one Malayan Sun Bear. Return to the hotel for some free time before we have an evening of Laotian culture. After a game of pétanque we will continue to the riverbanks where we will enjoy a traditional Laotian dinner. (B, D)
Day 9 Luang Prabang, Pak Ou Caves, & Ban Khok Phou.
After breakfast in the hotel we transfer to the Anouvong moored in the city. Settle into your cabin and enjoy a relaxing morning as we sail through lush vegetation and gently rolling verdant hills. Maybe join our onboard hosts for their lecture about Laotian culture and the diverse tribes that live along the Mekong. After lunch we reach the famous Pak Ou Caves, located directly on the Mekong’s rocky shore and opposite the mouth of the Ou River. We will have the opportunity to explore the two spacious limestone grottoes which house approximately 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images ranging from mere centimetres up to two metres in height. There will also be the chance to kayak along the Nam Ou River or visit a nearby village to learn about traditional silk weaving and Lao whisky distillation. Later this afternoon, reach the village of Ban Khok Phou where a traditional Laotian Baci ceremony will be performed by local elders. Return to the ship for welcome drinks and a barbecue dinner served on the sandbank as we moor overnight. (B, L, D)
Day 10 Had Sako & Khok Aek.
Enjoy the stunning Mekong scenery as we set sail this morning. Arrive at the enchanting village of Had Sako where residents will welcome us with traditional costumes and music and we can witness the unique farming methods of the ethnic Hmong community. Sail over lunch and in the early afternoon we arrive at the village of Khok Aek. Here the ethnic Lao, Khmu and Hmong tribes live a sustainable life growing organic fruit and vegetables. We will learn about their day-to-day lives, traditions and growing techniques and hopefully try some local produce. Back on board, a traditional music and dance performance will take place before dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 11 Pakbeng.
Relax on board as the Anouvong continues to navigate upstream. After lunch we arrive at the small town of Pakbeng. This riverside settlement is halfway between Huay Xai and Luang Prabang and 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. From here we will take a drive to a hilltop temple with wonderful panoramic views of the meandering Mekong River below. (B, L, D)
Day 12 Huay Xai to Chiang Rai, Thailand.
Spend the morning cruising as we pass the confluence with the Nam Tha River. Maybe join our onboard hosts for their presentation on the intricate history of the Golden Triangle or engage in a culinary Lao cooking class. As we continue to the Thai border the scenery becomes more mountainous and the river narrower. After lunch on board we arrive at Huay Xai in the early afternoon and disembark. After crossing the border into Thailand we continue by road to Chiang Rai. Check in to our hotel and enjoy some free time before meeting for dinner tonight. (B, L, D)
Day 13 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 Kaew, 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, 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 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 14 Chiang Rai to London.
After breakfast in the hotel, spend the day at leisure before we check out and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London via Bangkok. (B)
Day 15 London.
Arrive this morning.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 25 October to 8 November 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Ylang Signature Suite/Anouvong Deluxe Stateroom | £7395 | |
| Ylang Signature Suite/Deluxe Executive Stateroom | £7695 | |
| Ylang Regency Suite/Deluxe Executive Stateroom | £7995 | |
| Ylang Regency Suite/Anouvong Signature Suite | £8395 | |
| Ylang Signature Suite/Deluxe Stateroom for sole use | £9395 | |
| 4 to 18 March 2026 • 25 October to 8 November 2026 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Ylang Signature Suite/Anouvong Deluxe Stateroom | £7695 | |
| Ylang Signature Suite/Deluxe Executive Stateroom | £7995 | |
| Ylang Regency Suite/Deluxe Executive Stateroom | £8295 | |
| Ylang Regency Suite/Anouvong Signature Suite | £8695 | |
| Ylang Signature Suite/Deluxe Stateroom for sole use | £9695 | |
Tour Reference Code: RCYL251025
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Two nights accommodation at the Apricot Hotel, Hanoi • Two nights aboard the Ylang • Three nights accommodation in Luang Prabang • Three nights aboard the Anouvong • Two nights accommodation at Le Meridien Hotel, Chiang Rai • Meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner) • House wine, local beer and soft drinks with included lunches and dinners • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Shore excursions with English-speaking local guides • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, visa for Laos.
Ylang
This intimate, 20 passenger vessel was launched in 2019 and features just ten spacious suites on two decks, all with floor-to-ceiling windows which open onto a private balcony. The decor is a blend of Asian-Vietnamese with some French-colonial accents and local artisans have contributed with hard-crafted paintings and artworks.
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.
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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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