Heritage Line warmly welcomes guests with hotel pickups for a comfortable minivan transfer to the Anouvong, moored at Pay Lay. After a seamless check-in, the captain sets sail along the scenic Upper Mekong.

Enjoy lunch onboard before exploring the ship and admiring the stunning river views. In the afternoon, our guide shares insights into Lao royalty, focusing on King Anouvong.

As the sun sets, sip cocktails on the terrace deck before a delightful dinner. End the evening with a classic film in our cosy lounge, a perfect prelude to your first night onboard.

On the first morning of your Upper Mekong adventure, we visit the charming village of Pha Liep, set against stunning limestone mountains. Here, meet the Lao Loum community and explore their unique way of life.

Discover two key local trades: the handcrafting of traditional longtail boats and a whiskey distillery, where you can sample the beloved Laotian spirit—perfect for mixing into a "Laotian whiskey cola."

In the afternoon, we arrive at Don Saynhan and take a Tuk Tuk ride to the fascinating Khao Cave, home to impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and a thriving bat population.

As night falls, enjoy snacks at the bar while our guide previews the next day's journey. Unwind on deck or indulge in post-dinner reflexology for a restful night.

Start your day with a refreshing yoga session and a leisurely morning onboard.

As we sail north, our guide shares insights into Laos' growing energy sector and its role as the "battery" of Southeast Asia. The following morning, witness this firsthand as we pass through the massive water gate of the country's first hydroelectric dam.

In the afternoon, we visit Pak Yan, a village where Hmong, Lao, and Khmu cultures intertwine. Enjoy panoramic views of the Mekong before returning to the ship for an evening cruise toward the Xayaburi power plant, where we anchor for the night.

As the morning unfolds, we sail past the dam and approach the water gate. Guests can visit the wheelhouse, where the captain shares insights into navigating the Mekong and passing through the lock.

The day is dedicated to relaxation and culinary exploration. On deck or in the lounge, discover exotic Laotian and Asian ingredients, sample unique fruits, and enjoy refreshing local smoothies.

After lunch and a restful siesta, indulge in a sweet cooking session, learning to prepare local desserts like the famous roti. Later, we visit Ban Hatsok village, where our guide introduces seasonal crops before we ascend to a serene pagoda for a spiritual exchange with a local monk.

For ultimate relaxation, unwind with a spa treatment before we moor near Kuang Si, ready for tomorrow’s adventure.

Begin your morning with yoga and freshly brewed coffee or tea on the open deck, followed by a hearty breakfast to fuel the day’s adventures.

Our first stop is the breathtaking Kuang Si waterfalls, where you can hike, admire the unique cascades, or take a refreshing dip in the turquoise pools. Next, we visit the Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm, an inspiring project producing local cheeses, ice cream, and yogurt.

Back onboard, enjoy a late lunch as we sail towards Luang Prabang. Upon arrival, explore the charming town at sunset, climb Mount Phousi for panoramic views, and savor dinner onboard. If you wish, continue your evening stroll, embracing the serene atmosphere of this enchanting town.

Begin your day with a peaceful sunrise, freshly brewed coffee or tea, and a revitalizing yoga session on the terrace deck, set near one of Laos' most iconic temples.

After breakfast, embark on a guided walking tour through Luang Prabang’s UNESCO-listed old town. Wander scenic streets lined with colonial-era houses, ancient temples, and lush mango trees, while learning about the city's rich history.

Return to the ship for lunch before visiting the former Royal Palace, now the National Museum, showcasing treasures of the Lao royal family. Enjoy free time to explore or relax at a charming café.

In the evening, savor a special dining experience at one of Luang Prabang’s renowned restaurants, then stroll through the vibrant Night Market before returning to the ship to unwind.

Before dawn, experience the serene Buddhist tradition of Tak Bat, where hundreds of saffron-robed monks silently collect alms—a deeply spiritual ritual in Lao culture.

After bidding farewell to Luang Prabang, we sail upstream towards the famous Pak Ou Caves. Along the way, our expert guide introduces the diverse ethnic groups of the Mekong, offering insights into their traditions.

At Pak Ou, explore the lower cave, home to around 4,000 sacred Buddha statues. Enhance your visit with an optional kayak tour on the Nam Ou River or a trip to Ban Muang Keo, known for silk weaving and local whiskey production.

In the afternoon, we visit Ban Khok Phou, a 200-year-old village where locals practice mountain farming. Here, experience a traditional Baci ceremony, a heartfelt blessing for your journey.

As night falls, enjoy a welcome cocktail on the sandbank, followed by a barbecue dinner under the stars - a perfect end to a culturally rich day on the Mekong.

For early risers, start your day with a refreshing yoga session on the terrace deck, set against the stunning Mekong backdrop.

As the ship sails early, enjoy breakfast while taking in the peaceful morning scenery. Our first stop is a Khmu village, where bamboo stilt houses stand amid vast rice fields. Engage with villagers across generations, gaining insight into their agricultural traditions and way of life.

By mid-afternoon, we visit another unique village where Hmong, Lao Loum, and Khmu communities live side by side. Step into a family home to witness firsthand the distinct traditions and lifestyles of each ethnic group, bringing our earlier cultural lecture to life.

Back onboard, unwind with snacks at the bar and a preview of the next day's program. As evening sets in, enjoy a traditional dance performance on the terrace deck or sandbank. After dinner, relax in our lounge for a special screening of Chiang (1927), an evocative film that sets the tone for tomorrow’s adventure.

Rise with the sun for an optional invigorating yoga session as the Anouvong sails upstream. Embrace Laotian craftsmanship in a bamboo weaving workshop, where you'll create your own handmade basket—a perfect keepsake of this traditional art.

After lunch, we arrive in Pakbeng, home to Laos' most sustainable elephant sanctuary. Once used in logging, these gentle giants now roam freely in a protected jungle environment. Learn about their stories and the sanctuary’s commitment to ecotourism and conservation.

As evening approaches, we anchor at a scenic sandbank for a sunset aperitif before enjoying a farewell dinner on the terrace deck—a perfect conclusion to this unforgettable journey.

After an enriching 3-night cruise, today offers a more relaxed pace as we journey toward our final destination, Huay Xai.

Sleep in or enjoy a light breakfast as we sail into the heart of the Golden Triangle. A fascinating presentation unravels the region’s complex history—colonialism, opium trade, and the intertwined roles of Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and beyond. Watch as we navigate the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Tha River, known as the Green River, offering stunning views from the terrace deck.

Before brunch, join a hands-on Lao cooking class, then savor a delicious buffet of local specialties while enjoying the final stretch of our voyage.

In the afternoon, we dock at Huay Xai, where we assist with a smooth transfer to the Lao-Thai border. If water levels are low, we may disembark at Pak Tha instead, with a scenic 2.5-hour land transfer.

(Transfers to Chiang Rai, Chiang Saen, or nearby resorts can be arranged for those extending their stay.)