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 the Apricot 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. During our tour we visit the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and 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. We end at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university built in the late 11th century and an example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture. After lunch we tour 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 Cat Ba Island where we take a short transfer to Viet Hai village. Situated in a valley surrounded by forest and mountains this isolated village is little changed from when it was first populated centuries ago. Accessed only by sea, we will learn about life in this self-sufficient community. Returning to the ship we sail for Lan Ha Bay where we moor overnight. 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 breakfast on board as we sail to the southern tip of Cat Ba Island. This morning we tender to one of the last authentic floating fishing villages, home to around 300 families making their living from fishing and aquaculture. Later we will land at Ben Beo to access the Cat Ba National Park, a designated biosphere reserve which hosts 1,500 plant species as well as many birds, reptiles and mammals. We will have the chance to explore on a series of walks before returning to the ship for lunch. This afternoon we anchor in a remote bay and can offer the chance to kayak, take the tender to the beach for a swim or simply relax on the ship and enjoy the surroundings.
(B, L, D)
Day 6 Halong Bay to Luang Prabang, Laos.
This morning we will reach a secluded area of Halong Bay called Frog Lake, where there will be an opportunity to join a kayak excursion, or just relax on board. After lunch, disembark 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 we will transfer to Satri House to check-in for our three-night stay. (B, L, D)
Day 7 Luang Prabang.
The morning ‘Tak Bat’ ceremony, where hundreds of monks line up to collect morning alms, 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 Xiengthong, 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. After free time for lunch and to relax in the hotel this afternoon we will head out this evening for a Laotian Baci ceremony followed by dinner. (B, D)
Day 8 Luang Prabang.
Drive south of the city this morning to the beautiful Tat 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 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 time at leisure before we have an evening of Laotian culture. After a game of pétanque, we will continue to the riverbank where we will enjoy a traditional barbeque. (B, D)
Day 9 Luang Prabang & Pak Ou Caves.
After breakfast in the hotel we transfer to the Anouvong moored in the city and embark. Later this morning we will 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. The rest of the morning is at leisure as we sail through lush vegetation and gently rolling verdant hills. After lunch there is an opportunity to kayak along the peacefully flowing river before we continue to Pak Ou where you have the option to take a jungle trek (approximately 45 minutes) to the famous Pak Ou Caves, located directly on the Mekong’s rocky shore and opposite the mouth of the Ou River. Alternatively, you may prefer to stay on the ship to reach the Pak Ou Caves. There are two spacious limestone grottoes which house approximately 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images ranging from mere centimetres up to two metres in height. Dinner tonight will be accompanied by local musicians and dancers. (B, L, D)
Day 10 Ban Kok Aek.
Enjoy the stunning Mekong scenery as we spend a morning sailing. Maybe join our onboard hosts for their lecture about Laotian culture and the diverse tribes that live along the Mekong. Later we arrive at a charming village populated by Khmu people where we can explore and see the primary school. Sail over lunch and in the early afternoon we arrive at the village of Kok Aek. Here the ethnic Lao, Khmu and Hmong tribes live a sustainable life growing organic fruit and vegetables. We will learn about their growing techniques and can try a local speciality, Kai Paen, made of dried seaweed topped with sesame and vegetables. (B, L, D)
Day 11 Pakbeng.
After breakfast, our onboard hosts will provide a lecture on the Laotian elephants and their cultural importance as we continue our journey along the river. Later this morning 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. Later in the afternoon we will have a chance to explore the town before driving to the hilltop temple with wonderful 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. 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 for disembarkation. After crossing the border into Thailand we continue by road to Chiang Rai. After checking in to Le Meridien Hotel we have 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 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 14 Chiang Rai to London.
After breakfast in the hotel we check out and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London via Bangkok. (B)
Day 15 London.
Arrive this morning.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy25 October to 8 November 2024 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Price | |
Ylang Signature Suite/Anouvong Deluxe Stateroom | £6995 | |
Ylang Signature Suite/Deluxe Executive Stateroom | £7295 | |
Ylang Regency Suite/Deluxe Executive Stateroom | £7595 | |
Ylang Regency Suite/Anouvong Signature Suite | £7995 | |
Ylang Signature Suite/Deluxe Stateroom for sole use | £8995 |
Tour Reference Code: RCYL080323/RCYL251024
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Two nights accommodation at the Apricot Hotel, Hanoi • Two nights aboard the Ylang • Three nights accommodation at Satri House Resort, 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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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000