Best cruise I haver had in southeast asia
Élise - France
RV Sabaidee Pandaw Cruise 10 Nights (Upstream)
Destination: Vientiane, Pak Lai, Xayaburi Dam, Kuang Si Falls, Luang Prabang, Pak Ou Caves, Ban Ton, Pakbeng, Pak Sith, Chiang Khong
Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details
Highlights of Itinerary
- Explore iconic locations of Vientiane
- Enjoy the magical forest and the small village hidden on the riverbank
- Visit Pak Lai town with many French colonial imprints
- Explore the UNESCO Heritage Town - Luang Prabang
- Enjoy cocktails and a traditional dance show in Chiang Saen
RV Sabaidee Pandaw Cruise 10 Nights (Upstream)
Dive into the heart of Laos with an unforgettable Pandaw cruise! Your adventure begins at 8:00 am with a pickup from your Vientiane hotel, whisking you away to embark on a traditional long-tail boat expedition. Imagine the Mekong River breeze in your hair as you cruise along verdant landscapes and charming riverside villages.
But the journey doesn't end there! Your RV Sabaidee Pandaw awaits upstream, ready to welcome you aboard with a delicious lunch prepared by the Pandaw chef and refreshing drinks mixed by the bar staff.
Settle into your comfortable cabin and soak in the stunning Mekong scenery as you sail towards Pak Lay, your stay for the night.
Spend the day sail against the current of the Mekong. En route, the magical scenery of exotic jungle and little village tucked away by the riverside will slowly appear. In the morning, you can spend time learning the basic of Lao language after a short walk at Pha Laeb Village. If time permits, we will also enjoy an afternoon walk at Ban Khok Fark.
Our morning starts with a gentle stroll through Ban Pak Bor Khummu village, a glimpse into local life before we embark on a unique adventure. Next, we navigate the mighty Xayabouri Hydroelectric Dam, a colossal marvel of engineering (though some have mixed feelings about its impact).
Prepare to be awestruck as we journey through the dam's impressive locks, witnessing firsthand the power of a river harnessed. In the afternoon, we trade steel giants for vibrant cultural immersion, visiting Ban Na San, a charming Hmong minority village.
Here, we step into a world of colorful traditions and warm hospitality, experiencing the rich tapestry of Laotian life
Spend your morning with a splash at the majestic Kaung Si waterfall, accessible by boat from Ban Mouang Khai village.
On your way back, learn about Laos' buffalo culture at the Laos Buffalo Farm, a project empowering local communities. By mid-afternoon, you'll arrive in Luang Prabang, a UNESCO city bursting with history.
Explore the vibrant night market, discover cozy cafes, and savor local delights in charming restaurants. As the sun sets, join a traditional Laos Bacci ceremony and let loose with lively dancing on the upper deck during happy hour.
RV Sabaidee Pandaw docks peacefully in the heart of Luang Prabang for the night, ready for more adventures tomorrow.
Our first stop today is Ock Pop Tok, where skilled local women weave magic into silk, creating stunning textiles while earning a sustainable income. Next, we'll hop over to TAEC, a treasure trove of traditional music, and discover the melodious heartbeat of Laos through its fascinating instruments.
After a delicious lunch onboard, we'll cast off towards Ban Chan, a village where clay gets transformed into exquisite pottery. Get ready to unleash your inner artist at a local workshop, and who knows, you might just create your own masterpiece! As the sun sets, we'll enjoy the sunset on RV Sabaidee Pandaw along the Mekong, with the shimmering Luang Prabang as our backdrop.
Finally, we'll return to the heart of the town, where our cozy vessel awaits for a peaceful night's sleep.
After breakfast, take on a tuk tuk ride to the town of Luang Prabang with its many monuments that still retains the original states. Explore historic gems like the National Museum and serene Buddhist temples. Get lost in bustling markets and riverside charm in the afternoon. Back on board for dinner and a mesmerizing traditional dance performance—a perfect Luang Prabang day!
Start your day in Luang Prabang with a relaxed morning at your own pace. Then, around midday, hop aboard a traditional boat and set sail upstream on the mighty Mekong.
The afternoon promises two wonders: first, the mystical Pak Ou Caves, carved into dramatic limestone cliffs and brimming with ancient Buddha statues. Next, step ashore at the charming Whisky village. This riverside journey promises glimpses into Laos's rich culture and natural beauty – all before sunset!
Rise and shine for a Mekong morning! After breakfast, weave through the charming village of Ban Ton, feeling the pulse of local life. As the sun sets, we'll anchor by a golden sandbank, transforming it into a sizzling barbecue heaven. Cocktails in hand, dance under the stars with the crew, and light paper lanterns to illuminate the remote Laotian night - an unforgettable evening under the Mekong sky!
Today, we visit a special sanctuary where rescued elephants roam free - Pakbeng Elephant Sanctuary. These former mahouts traded riding crops for tools to build a better future for both elephants and themselves.
And after witnessing these gentle giants, we'll explore the charming village of Ban Pak Sith Khummu, experiencing firsthand the warm Laotian spirit. It's a day filled with stories of resilience and nature's beauty!
Glide upstream on the Mekong, savoring the final stretch of this amazing journey. As we reach the border, prepare to step into Thailand via the Friendship Bridge, marking a new chapter in your adventure.
Back on board in Chiang Khong, your trusty Pandaw awaits with a special welcome: a tour of its charming nooks and crannies, followed by a mesmerizing fruit carving demonstration by our talented chef.
As the sun is down, bid farewell to your fellow travelers with sparkling cocktails and a captivating Thai dance performance - a vibrant end to an unforgettable cruise!
Disembark by 8.30 in Chiang Khong and say goodbye to your Pandaw home. En route, we'll take you on a fascinating detour through the Golden Triangle, where the Mekong River marks the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar.
Dive into the region's history at the Opium Museum, learning about the area's past and its journey towards a brighter future. Then, depending on your final destination, you'll have a scenic journey (around 2 hours to Chiang Rai and 6 hours to Chiang Mai) to your city hotel or airport.
What's included
Entrance fees
Guide services (English language)
Gratuities to crew
Main meals as mentioned
Locally-made soft drinks, mineral water
Local beer and local spirits
Jugged coffee and selection of teas and tisanes
Transfers between the meeting point and the ship at the start and end of a voyage
International flights
Visa costs
Phnom Penh Port tax
Port dues (if levied)
Laundry
Fuel surcharges (Policies)
Imported beverages such as wines, premium spirits, and liqueurs
Fancy soft drinks like Perrier, espressos, and cappuccinos
Tips for tour guides, local guides, bus drivers, boat operators, and cyclo drivers
