The Luang Say cruise boats – purpose-built 34 metre Mekong river barges – travel on the Mekong river from Huay Say to Luang Prabang and, obviously, also in the other direction. This is a rich, colourful and historic region, largely untouched by the modern world. It is a very comfortable Mekong cruise, a cultural journey and an opportunity to understand a bit more about life on this legendary river.

Starting from the Thai/Laos border, the first day of the cruise takes about 7-8 hours, stopping to visit villages along the river from several ethnic groups, ancient Buddhist temples, and all the activities that contribute to the economy of the people in Laos, such as farming, fishing, weaving, gold mining, whiskey distilling, and teak logging. Enjoy lunch on board both days.

The overnight stay is at the Luang Say Lodge – one of the more comfortable Lodges in the region – near the town of Pakbeng. From your teak and rosewood bungalow, you have views across dramatic river scenery, enjoying the invariably fiery sunset and a poetic sunrise.

The second leg of the journey, from Pakbeng to the ancient royal capital Luang Prabang, winds its sometimes turbulent way through jungle, mountains, teak plantations and farmland. En-route stop to visit a Hmong village before lunch is served on board. Later visit the Pak Ou Caves. These sacred Buddha caves, called Tham Ting & Tham Phoume, are home to numerous Buddha statues of varying shapes and sizes. Pilgrims regularly visit the site. Afterwards continue downstream to Luang Prabang.

All the boats to and from Luang Prabang are well appointed with everything for your comfort, safety and enjoyment, with ample open air seating, a bar, toilet facilities and a galley.