Heritage Line announces first sailing for new vessel, Anouvong

Heritage Line has announced its guest on the August ‘Upper Mekong’ sailing will board the company’s brand new boutique vessel, Anouvong.

The luxury Southeast Asian river cruise will take guests to three countries on board the new ship, sailing from 27-30 August this year and will feature a raft of complimentary benefits, additional value, and a rare insight into one of the world’s most remote yet enchanting waterways.

Deluxe inclusions only available during this exceptional four-day, three-night inaugural voyage include a welcome champagne reception, complimentary drinks package, bar and lounge snacks, daily sunset happy hour, one free mini-bar, unique alfresco culinary events and full board dining; transfers to and from the ship, an insightful lecture from expert host Francis Engelmann, discounted spa treatments, daily guided shore excursions – and an exclusive gift.

In addition, each day of the cruise will see travellers immersed into the culture, cuisine, and history of each of the countries making up the famed Golden Triangle – Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar.

Departing from UNESCO World Heritage-listed Luang Prabang on 27 August 2023, this distinctive, valued-packed itinerary meanders along this less-discovered, scenic river exploring the culture and intriguing daily rituals of ancient villages which can only be experienced via intimate vessels such as the custom-designed Heritage Line Anouvong.

“We are thrilled to welcome guests on board our first official Upper Mekong adventure, and we can’t wait to celebrate this enthralling new destination and the debut of our beautiful new ship with travellers keen to witness dramatic mountain landscapes and captivating cultural villages whilst enjoying a unique festive ambience and complimentary inclusions to mark this milestone moment for our brand,” director sales and marketing, Heritage Line, Andreas Schroetter, said.

Anouvong boasts the most spacious accommodation of any vessel sailing the Upper Mekong, with all 10 elegant staterooms and signature suites with jacuzzis showcasing a bespoke design, replete with traditional Laotian handicrafts and textiles, one-of-a-kind artworks, and French-inspired accents.

Magnificent Maiden Voyage from Luang Prabang to Xuay Hai itinerary

Magnificent Maiden Voyage from Luang Prabang to Xuay Hai. (Supplied)

Day 1: Laos

Start the day with a welcome ceremony, champagne and canapes before delving into Laotian culture and history in a fascinating presentation from Francis Engelmann. Explore the famed Pak Ou Caves, home to 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues, visit a local riverside village to enjoy a traditional Baci blessing ceremony in a tiny temple, then enjoy happy hour cocktails on board before mooring overnight at a remote sandbank for a lively Laotian BBQ dinner under the stars.

Day 2: Thailand

Join a sunrise yoga session on the deck before breakfast and the day’s first stop at a charming village inhabited by the ethnic Khmu people. Sample spicy Thai flavours in a themed lunch on board, relax as the ship meanders upstream on route to the village of Khok Aek, the ideal stop to interact with local farmers sharing their organic produce. Enjoy an insightful lecture on Thai heritage and culture before cocktail hour and a delicious Thai dinner in the ship’s beautiful restaurant.

Day 3: Myanmar

After morning meditation and breakfast, relax on the deck, indulge in a spa treatment, or learn how to make bamboo baskets as you wind your way to the busy trading hub of Pakbeng to visit Laos’ sustainably managed elephant sanctuary and see these majestic animals first-hand. Learn about the Golden Triangle’s history in the opium trade during the afternoon presentation before disembarking on a secluded sandbank for a final themed dinner and farewell party.

Day 4: The Golden Triangle

Start the day with an outdoor exercise class, enjoy a leisurely breakfast as the river’s scenery slowly begins to shift as you travel along the Thai-Laos border. Join a hands-on cooking class to pick up some tips to take home before enjoying a buffet lunch combining classic and creative dishes from Thailand, Laos and Myanmar prior to disembarking in Huay Xai.

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Andreas Schroetter Anouvong Heritage Line Magnificent Maiden Voyage river cruise Upper Mekong