Heritage Line officially sets sail on maiden Upper Mekong voyage

Edited by Travel Weekly

A group of guests became the very first cohort to experience luxury Heritage Line’s first-ever Upper Mekong voyage on board its ship Heritage Line ANOUVONG, during a voyage along one of the world’s most remote yet captivating waterways.

Departing from the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Luang Prabang in Laos, this four-day, three-night inaugural sailing “Golden Triangle Traverse” included all daily guided shore excursions, demonstrations and lectures, an onboard expert guide, and full-board dining featuring classic Laotian dishes alongside international favourites. On the final evening, the ship moored in an atmospheric secluded location on the Mekong River and guests were treated to a memorable farewell alfresco dining event on the sun deck.

Heritage Line Upper Mekong Ship ANOUVONG bar lounge

During the voyage, each day heralded a new and different adventure as travellers explored traditional villages only accessible by river, including several tiny river hamlets exclusively visited by Heritage Line ANOUVONG, which was named after the last Laotian king.

English couple Sarah and Jonathon made a last-minute decision to join the maiden voyage whilst travelling in Southeast Asia after seeing the cruise advertised on Heritage Line’s website, and they praised the experience: “The Baci Ceremony we actively witnessed in the small local village at the first stop was just thrilling. We travel the world a lot and this was one of the most exceptional, natural, and authentic encounters we have ever experienced”.

Heritage Line ANOUVONG has just eight staterooms and two Signature Suites spread over two public decks. All cabins and public facilities feature a bespoke Laotian ambience along with local artwork, artefacts, and a French-Colonial finesse. The ship’s cabins – ranging in size from 20sqm up to 30sqm – are the largest of any river-going vessel on the Upper Mekong, and guests can choose whether to enjoy their privacy in the comfort of their accommodation or socialise with like-minded guests in the lounge or on the open-air sun deck.

Heritage Line Upper Mekong Ship ANOUVONG

A solo traveller from New Zealand who joined the maiden voyage en route to Europe said: “I really liked the size of the cabin, which allowed me to take in the absolutely amazing river scenery and watching the shores float by. At other times, I sat in the lounge reading or sending emails and photos to my family at home.”

Heritage Line ANOUVONG Is the seventh addition to the cruise line’s designer fleet, setting a new bar for luxury river cruising on the Upper Mekong river in Laos. “We were delighted to finally welcome guests on board our first official Upper Mekong sailing, and over the moon to receive their excellent feedback on their luxurious floating home and the extraordinary mix of cultural, educational, and adventurous shore experiences on offer,” said Heritage Line’s director of sales & marketing, Andreas Schroetter.

“We are looking forward to introducing many more travellers to this beguiling destination, and beautiful new ship.”

Heritage Line Upper Mekong Ship ANOUVONG Room

Highlights of the 3-night itinerary aboard Heritage Line ANOUVONG between Luang Prabang – Huay Xai (or vice versa) include:

Visiting the famed Pak Ou Saves, home to 4000 sacred Buddhist statues
Exploring unique local riverside villages, including unforgettable shore experiences such as a traditional Baci blessing ceremony, or the fascinating daily life and work of local farmers
Discovery of the best Laos’ sustainably managed elephant sanctuary near Pakbeng
Daily sunrise yoga classes on the open deck
Learning about the Golden Triangle’s distinctive tribes such as the Khmu, Hmong, and Lao, and partaking in an onboard handicraft workshop
Chef-led cooking classes to learn how to cook easy and tasty Laotian dishes at home.

Heritage Line ANOUVONG offers a series of exotic and educational three, seven and nine-night itineraries exploring the sights, sounds, cultures, people and cuisines of the Upper Mekong, one of the least discovered cruise destinations in Southeast Asia.

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Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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