Heritage Line Anouvong Cruise Downstream 4 days: Huay Xai - Luang Prabang

Morning

09:00 - 09:30: Once all passengers have gathered, we provide transportation by minivan to the ship, which is docked at Huay Xai Pier. Our dedicated team assists with the check-in process and takes care of your luggage.

During the ship's initial voyage, an expert guide delivers an engaging lecture on the rich tapestry of Laos' diverse ethnic groups residing along the Mekong River.

As we approach the confluence of the Mekong River and a significant tributary, allow the gentle currents of the river to carry you downstream, offering uninterrupted views of the breathtaking natural beauty. 

Our next destination is a relatively modern village, contrasting with the traditional villages we will encounter later. 

• A home to 800 residents of the Tai Lu ethnic group, who are spread across China, Laos, Thailand, Burma, and Vietnam. 
• We stroll through the village and come together for a Baci ceremony, a heartfelt Laotian ritual conducted by local elders (and possibly monks), bestowing blessings upon your journey.

Continuing our voyage downstream, we arrive at our overnight location in Huay Ting. For the first time, we anchor at a stunning sandbank, creating the ideal setting for a welcome cocktail and a delightful dinner amidst the awe-inspiring natural surroundings.

Morning

Invite you to join our daily yoga class on the terrace deck, where the breathtaking Mekong scenery serves as a picturesque backdrop.

Our journey takes us to the charming town of Pakbeng in the morning

• Along the starboard side lies Laos' well-preserved elephant sanctuary, a symbol of ecotourism and sustainability, embodying a deep commitment to these creatures. 
• Witnessing these gentle creatures emerge from the rainforest is an extraordinary experience, allowing us to learn fascinating details about them. 
• If time permits, we will also take you to a hilltop viewpoint in Pakbeng town (via vehicle), offering breathtaking panoramic vistas that are perfect for capturing lasting memories with your camera.

Afternoon

Following lunch, we invite you to unleash your creativity through a Bamboo weaving workshop. You can learn this traditional craft, and create your own small bamboo basket to take home.

Our next stop is a village characterized by its fascinating diversity. Within this community, three distinct ethnic groups—the Hmong, Lao Loum, and Khamo—coexist harmoniously.

We venture into the village, where representatives from each ethnic group warmly welcome us into their homes, showcasing and explaining the differences and characteristics of their day-to-day lives. 

If time permits and the season permits, we may even get a glimpse of the organic gardens where villagers cultivate their crops, allowing us to sample some of the local produce.

Evening

Gather at the bar to enjoy snacks while receiving a sneak peek of the program for the upcoming day. 

Before dinner, local villagers join us on the terrace deck for a captivating performance featuring the Kene traditional instrument, delighting us with its hypnotic melodies and unique movements.

After dinner, we invite you to join us in the lounge for a cozy cinema experience featuring the film Chiang (Laotian for "elephant"), filmed in this region in 1927.

Morning

Embrace the tranquil early morning as the river basks in the gentle rays of the sun, extending a warm invitation to join our invigorating daily yoga class.

After a satisfying breakfast, our morning expedition takes us to a picturesque village inhabited by the Khum people, nestled amidst expansive rice fields.

• Here, we have the privilege of encountering an elderly couple or a multigenerational family deeply connected to the land, their lives sustained through manual agriculture. 
• Delve into the intricacies of their daily existence, observing their way of life and engaging in insightful conversations that provide a profound understanding of their unique experiences.

Afternoon

We explore the captivating 200-year-old village of Ban Khok Phou, situated above a magnificent white sandbank and inhabited by the ethnic Lao community.

Return to the ship for a refreshing break before the night's festivities commence. Savor a delightful cocktail on the sandbank, immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere. 

A meticulously arranged farewell dinner is set against the backdrop of this idyllic location, allowing you to revel in the ambiance of your last evening on the Laotian Mekong River, as the vibrant hues of the blue hour gracefully transition into the tranquility of the night.

To start the day, a thoughtfully curated à la carte breakfast sets the stage, followed by a delightful culinary brunch before our esteemed guests disembark.

As we reach the Pak Ou Caves, a captivating prelude to our arrival in Luang Prabang. We encounter two grottoes housing approximately 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images and venture into the lower cave.

After exploring the caves, Heritage Line offers two optional choices to enrich your excursion

• Option 1: An adventurous kayak tour along the serene Nam Ou River 
• Option 2: A visit to the nearby village of Ban Muang Keo, renowned for its traditional silk weaving and Lao whisky distillation. 

If time and availability permit, we may even meet a local "medicine man" in the village, who will enlighten us about the traditional methods of using natural resources for healing and treatments.

Back on board the ship, just before appetites awaken, we delve into the lifestyle aspect of our final day on the cruise. 

Engage in a captivating Lao cooking class, where you can discover the secrets of Lao cuisine. This sets the stage for a delectable brunch featuring a buffet spread of tantalizing main dishes and desserts that will surely delight your taste buds. 

Relax and savor the tranquil hours of our voyage's conclusion, as brunch is served until approximately an hour before arrival, allowing you to enjoy it in the restaurant, lounge, or on the terrace deck.

During this final stretch of our sailing, we offer a captivating presentation that unravels the intricate history of the Golden Triangle, where Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos converge, extending deeply into each country.

We predict our arrival in Luang Prabang around 15:00. Upon check-out, we are ready to assist you with your luggage and any additional requirements, bidding you farewell at the pier in the town center. 

Morning and Afternoon

9:00 - 9:30: After all passengers have gathered, we embark on a short minivan ride to the pier, where a longtail boat awaits to transport us to the magnificent Heritage Line 'Anouvong' ship (approximately 8 hours transfer time).

We serve you with a delicious lunch and snacks onboard. Our dedicated crew accompanies you throughout the journey, ensuring your comfort and enjoyment. 

If you desire a neck & shoulder or foot massage, please feel free to approach our team. 

Our knowledgeable tour guide will share interesting information and insights about the destinations we cruise along, as well as the rich Lao culture. Sit back, relax, and take in the captivating scenery and the activities unfolding on the riverbanks.

Evening

Around 17:00, we arrive at the esteemed Heritage Line Anouvong ship, where you will check in to your comfortable cabin. Take a moment to refresh yourself and settle into the inviting ambiance of your stateroom. 

Later, we invite you to a comprehensive ship and safety briefing. Indulge in a delightful multi-course dinner served in the restaurant, savoring the flavors of a carefully crafted menu. 

Additionally, you have the option to join our nightly cinema in the lounge, featuring a different captivating movie each evening, should you wish to unwind and enjoy a cinematic experience.

Morning

Join our invigorating daily yoga class while we sail downstream toward our first destination

After a satisfying breakfast, our morning journey takes us to the picturesque village of Khok Luang, home to the Khum people. This serene location boasts bamboo huts raised on stilts amidst expansive rice fields. 

• Immerse yourself in the simplicity of their lifestyle as we encounter an elderly couple or a multigenerational family deeply connected to the land
• Engage in insightful conversations and gain a profound understanding of their unique experiences.

Returning to the ship, we continue our sailing while a delicious lunch is served.

Afternoon

Our next stop is the enchanting village of Khok Phou, a small and charming hamlet perched above an impressive sandbank. This 200-year-old village is predominantly inhabited by the ethnic Lao community and boasts a delightful square. 

One of the highlights is the traditional Baci ceremony, a heartfelt Laotian ritual led by local elders, showering blessings upon your journey.

If time permits, you can ascend to a serene temple where you can meet the local monk and novices, providing an opportunity for moments of meditation and tranquility.

Evening

We remain moored at this idyllic spot. Join us at the lounge for a sunset cocktail and mingle with fellow passengers before heading to dinner. 

After dinner, you are welcome to gather in the lounge once again for a cozy screening of "Chiang" (Laotian for "elephant"), produced by the visionary behind the first King Kong movie, which sets the mood for the adventures.

Morning

Begin your day with an early morning yoga session, invigorating your mind and body before indulging in a delicious breakfast. 

Today, we embark on a journey to one of the most breathtaking caves in all of Asia.

Nestled along the rocky shores of the Mekong River, these two grottoes house approximately 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images.

We board a tender boat and glide towards the cave's entrance, where a short climb up a staircase leads us to the lower cave, the most impressive and easily accessible part of the complex. 

After exploring the cave, Heritage Line presents you with two optional choices: 

• Option 1: Embark on an exciting kayak tour along the serene Nam Ou River 
• Option 2: Visit the nearby village of Ban Muang Keo, renowned for its traditional silk weaving and Lao whisky distillation. 

If time and availability permit, we may even have the opportunity to meet a local "medicine man" in the village, who will enlighten us about traditional healing practices using the bountiful resources of nature.

Returning to the ship, we enjoy a delectable lunch as we continue sailing downstream, passing by the enchanting city of Luang Prabang. 

Afternoon

We offer a captivating presentation that delves into the intricate history of the Golden Triangle. Unraveling the complexities of colonialism, opium trade, conflicts, and the significant roles played by Burma, Thailand, Laos, Britain, and China.

As night falls, we moor the ship along a tranquil sandbank where we invite you to a memorable farewell dinner onshore. 

Enjoy this special evening with your fellow passengers and our dedicated crew, who are eager to entertain you with a captivating local dance performance. Cherish the final night of your journey in the company of newfound friends, creating lasting memories of your time on the river.

On the final day of your remarkable journey, we have two more extraordinary highlights in store for you. 

After a delightful breakfast, we embark on a minivan excursion to visit a local elephant sanctuary. Here, you will have the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with one of Laos' most majestic creatures. 

• The Laotian mahouts, caretakers of these former logging elephants who have found a new home filled with tender loving care, will guide us on a morning walk along the riverbank.
• Watch as the elephants joyfully bathe in the river, while the mahouts share fascinating insights about these remarkable Laotian creatures.

Travel by minivan to our next highlight in Laos, the magnificent Kuang Si waterfalls located nearby, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and the rushing turquoise waters, this natural park offers a leisurely walk through nature's awe-inspiring creations. 

Afterward, we return to the ship, where a delicious lunch is served onboard as the Anouvong makes its way toward our final destination, Luang Prabang. 

We arrive in Luang Prabang around 15:00. Upon check-out, our attentive staff will assist you with your luggage and bid you a fond farewell at the pier in the town center.