The Luang Say Cruises operate on the Mekong River from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai on the border of Northern Thailand and vice versa. All programs stop over for one night in Luang Say Lodge in Pakbeng. The 34-metre boat is a stunning converted antique rice barge that journeys along the river, taking in the sights and sounds of traditional Laotian life. The boat has a capacity for 40 people seated in comfortable chairs and benches with each seat providing an open-air vista.
The Luang Say Cruise takes two days passing through jungle, teak plantations, mountains and farmland, providing a first-hand experience of local life in these remote areas. At the end of the day, the boat stops at Pakbeng where guests stay overnight at their Luang Say Lodge. Situated above the Mekong River, it features 20 cottages, each elegantly furnished in dark toned wood and white fabrics and offering stunning panoramic views on three sides of the Mekong.
During the cruise, you will visit traditional Lao villages where you can watch the traditional process of making Lao whiskey. Another site of interest is the Caves of Thousand Buddhas, a place of pilgrimage and famous for housing over 2,500 Buddha statues. Onboard, there are French and English-speaking guides to answer any questions and will lead the tours on land. For relaxing there is a large communal deck, bar as well as games and reading facilities.
Amenities
Bar/PubConciergeCribs/Infant Beds AvailableMultilingual StaffRestaurantWi-Fi AvailableStay Luang Say Lodge features just 20 charming cottages. Built in traditional Laotian architecture with solid teak, rosewood and bamboo, these are elegantly furnished with polished wooden floors and comfortable beds draped in mosquito nets. Each is equipped with modern amenities including ceiling fans, and private bathrooms with hot shower and western style toilet. Rooms have sitting areas, louvered doors and windows for cooling breezes and unobstructed views of the Mekong.
ChildCare Families with children are welcome to stay at the Luang Say Lodge and come aboard the Luang Say Cruise but there no specific facilities available for children. However, children with a sense of adventure will absolutely love the boat journey and staying at the lodge and all the exciting things there are to see and do en route. Children's life jackets are available on board the boat.
Dine At meal times on the Luang Say Cruise freshly prepared Laotian buffet lunch is served, while complimentary water, tea and coffee is available throughout the cruise. The boat also has a bar complete with rattan bar stools serving wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks. The Luang Say Lodge has a large central restaurant and bar overlooking the Mekong where buffet dinners and continental breakfasts are served with strong Laotian coffee. All meals and soft drinks are included in price.
Relax The boat is very comfortable and can accommodate up to 40 passengers. There are two western style toilets on board. Onboard is a French and English-speaking guide who will answer any questions and will provide a short description of the places enroute. Visits can be made to local villages, caves and other points of interest as the boat makes its way down the river.
Experience The Luang Say Cruise allows passengers to have a fantastic experience of life on and around the Mekong River. Guests can travel from Huay Xai, a town near the Thai border and entry point into Laos to the capital of Laos, Luang Prabang or you can travel in the opposite direction. The two-day trip makes a break at the midpoint during which you will stay at the Luang Say Lodge. Guests can plan to stay at the five-star Luang Say Residence at the beginning or at end of their trip.
Location You can choose to travel down the Mekong river from Chiang Khong / Houei Say (the Thai/Lao border) to Luang Prabang or upriver from Luang Prabang to the Thai/Lao border at Huay Xai.
Getting there 11-hour international flight to Bangkok. From there you can catch a connect flight to Luang Prabang or Houei Say.
When to go November to April is the best time to visit Laos with dry and warm weather, with March and April being the hottest months. October and May are also good months to visit with only a bit of rain. July to September are the wettest months in Laos.
Destination
Northern, Laos
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