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Laos, from Huay Xai to Vientiane in 8 days

Looking for a holiday with a change of scenery, relaxation, exclusivity and a wealth of cultural visits?

By Théo LAMAURY expert of your cruises
Main features
Boat type: traditional ship
Number of cabins: 10
Maximum capacity: 20 travelers

Cabins

Deluxe
Capacity: 2 Berths maximum
Deluxe cabins feature bay windows opening onto a French balcony.
Deluxe Executive
Capacity: 2 Berths maximum
Deluxe executive cabins are designed and equipped in the same way as staterooms, while offering a view from a higher floor, on the terrace.
show more cabins
NB : The pictures, information, and visuals presented are not contractually binding. The itinerary and program indicated may be modified without notice for technical reasons (captain's decision).

Itinerary

Huay Xai Huay Ting
Our local partner will meet you at the Thai immigration office in the morning (please see our... more+ boarding guide for details). Our team will assist you with all immigration procedures on both the Thai and Laotian sides, and we will take care of your luggage, which you can collect later in your cabin on board. After all formalities are complete, we will transfer you to the boat, which is moored at the Huay Xai pier on the Laos side of the river. During check-in, familiarize yourself with the ship and settle into your cabin as we begin our journey. Enjoy your first few hours on board as we sail south from the Thailand-Laos border. The river in this area is generally wide, but our captain must always watch out for rocks and stones or sandbars in order to navigate safely—which makes sailing interesting to watch from the open deck. After a few hours, the landscape and river begin to change, becoming more mountainous and the river increasingly narrow. Our first stop in the afternoon is Khon Teun, a relatively modern Laotian village featuring various wooden sculptures and home to about 800 inhabitants belonging to the Tai Lu ethnic minority. For a traditional Laotian greeting and to wish us a safe journey, the village elders welcome us with a centuries-old "Baci ceremony." The villagers here practice long-standing traditions and techniques of weaving handmade clothing with distinctive patterns. Living off the land, families have passed down their weaving skills from generation to generation. The village also has a beautiful temple nearby where we can organize an optional meditation session (limited availability). The resident monks and novices (boys who generally commit to adopting the monk's lifestyle for at least a few months, but often much longer) are always eager to interact and socialize with visitors. After enjoying a little "Zen," the ship continues its cruise to the mooring place for the night. Our expert local guide gives a lecture on Laotian elephants and their cultural significance in the past and the current situation that has brought them to the brink of extinction. This is a wonderful and interesting preparation, as tomorrow we will meet these fascinating creatures up close at an elephant sanctuary. Dinner is served in the Anouvong's elegant De-Lagrée dining room. Afterwards, you may wish to spend some time at the bar or join our cinema under the stars on the open terrace. The film, called "Chang" (Lao and Thai for "elephant"), was shot in this region in 1927 by the same producer as the first King Kong movie. Enjoy your first night's sleep in the middle of the river on a secluded sandbank in the middle of nowhere. 
Included activities: Conference on the history of Lao royalty, Tour of the village of Ban Pak Sith, more+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner
Huay Ting Khok Aek
For early risers, a daily yoga session is offered in the morning on the deck, in a peaceful setting... more+ with breathtaking views of the Mekong River.
The cruise continues to the charming town of Pakbeng, where we arrive in the morning. On the opposite bank from the town, deep in the jungle, lies one of the most sustainably managed elephant sanctuaries in Laos.
In this nearly pristine natural environment, you’ll encounter these majestic animals. Born in Laos and once used for transporting timber, they have now found refuge in a peaceful, natural setting. Having been raised in captivity, they are unfortunately no longer able to survive in the wild.
This sanctuary, a true symbol of ecotourism and sustainable development, reflects a deep commitment to protecting these animals. Observing these gentle giants in the heart of the rainforest and discovering their unique history is an unforgettable experience.
After lunch, attend a presentation on traditional bamboo weaving in Laos. Discover this ancient craft that transforms simple materials into essential everyday objects, showcasing the ingenuity of the Lao people and their deep connection to nature.
In the afternoon, the cruise continues to Ban Khok Aek, where a new cultural discovery awaits you. Three distinct ethnic groups—the Hmong, Lao Loum, and Khmu—live there almost literally under the same roof.
Each has its own history, traditions, way of life, family structures, and housing styles. Explore the village and visit a family’s home, where representatives from each ethnic group will explain their differences and unique aspects of daily life. The concepts discussed during the previous day’s lecture will then come to life before your eyes.
As evening approaches, head to the bar to enjoy some snacks while reviewing the next day’s itinerary.
Before dinner, the villagers will put on a performance on the terrace deck, featuring the traditional “Kene” instrument and/or a traditional dance.
After dinner, head to the lounge for a screening of “The Rocket,” a 90-minute Laotian film telling the story of a young boy seeking redemption in a war-torn country. 
Included activities: Visit to the Elephant Conservation Sanctuary, Yoga session, more+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner
Khok Aek Luang Prabang
Start the day by enjoying the first rays of sunlight reflecting off the river and, if you’d like,... more+ join the daily yoga session.
As we cruise along the edges of the Golden Triangle toward Luang Prabang, spend your morning relaxing on deck or treating yourself to some pampering at the spa.
The morning continues with a visit to the picturesque village of Khok Luang, home to the Khmu people. Simplicity defines this village, with its bamboo houses on stilts surrounded by vast rice paddies.
In this peaceful setting, meet villagers of all ages—from the youngest to the oldest—who are deeply attached to their land and live primarily off traditional agriculture. Discover their daily lives, observe their way of life, and chat with the locals to better understand their experiences and traditions.
The journey continues along the river’s meandering course to the Pak Ou Caves, nestled along the rocky cliffs of the Mekong. They consist of two caves housing approximately 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images.
Explore the lower cave, which is the most impressive and easily accessible.
After visiting the caves, two optional activities are offered: a kayaking trip on the peaceful waters of the Nam Ou River or a visit to the nearby village of Ban Muang Keo, renowned for its traditional silk weaving. Depending on the time available and conditions, there is also the option to visit a local liquor-making workshop in the village.
The cruise then continues toward Luang Prabang, one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating cities.
Arrival in the early evening. After dinner, enjoy some free time to stroll through downtown Luang Prabang and soak up the peaceful and enchanting atmosphere of this city, taking the time to slow down and fully savor the moment. 
Included activities: Visit the Pak Ou Caves, Exploring UNESCO World Heritage: Luang Prabang, more+
Optional services: Kayaking on the Nam Ou River more+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner
Luang Prabang
Start your day by watching the sunrise while enjoying a freshly brewed coffee and a selection of... more+ teas in the lounge bar. Then, take part in a daily yoga session on the terrace deck, at the foot of one of Laos’ most iconic temples, to fully recharge.
After breakfast, set out on a walking tour of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the old town and its picturesque peninsula, where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet.
Admire Luang Prabang’s distinctive architecture while learning the fascinating stories behind its iconic houses and monuments. Stroll leisurely through the narrow streets lined with historic buildings and majestic mango trees.
Return to the ship for lunch and some rest.
The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Luang Prabang’s cultural heritage with a visit to the former Royal Palace, now converted into the National Museum. Discover local works of art and historical treasures that once belonged to the Lao royal family.
Continue your exploration with a gentle hike up Mount Phousi, offering magnificent panoramic views of the city.
After this excursion, enjoy some free time to explore downtown at your own pace or relax at one of the street cafés. A talk on daily life in Laos is then offered on board.
The evening continues with a cultural experience on board: village elders are invited to participate in a traditional Baci ceremony, a sacred ritual intended to bring good luck and blessings.
The ceremony is followed by a captivating traditional performance in the lounge.
Dinner is served on the terrace deck, with a pleasant view of Luang Prabang’s picturesque riverbanks. 
Included activities: Visit to ancient Luang Prabang, Exploring UNESCO World Heritage: Luang Prabang, more+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner
Luang Prabang Xayaboury
Before the sun has fully risen, witness a spiritual Buddhist tradition deeply rooted in Lao... more+ culture: the morning alms procession, known as “Tak Bat” in Lao. Wake up before dawn to watch hundreds of monks dressed in saffron-colored robes file by in a peaceful atmosphere.
After bidding farewell to Luang Prabang, continue your journey downstream on the Mekong River.
The first stop of the day is a visit to an innovative dairy farm committed to social and environmental responsibility: the Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm. While dairy products were rare in Laos just a few decades ago, the country now produces cheese, ice cream, and yogurt locally, which are sold in markets.
The excursion continues to the Kuang Si Falls, a remarkable natural site offering a pleasant hike where you can admire the turquoise waters and fully enjoy the beauty of nature. You’ll have the opportunity to cool off by swimming in the shallow pools at the base of the falls.
Return to the boat, then set sail toward the country’s first major dam and iconic hydroelectric power plant.
Before reaching the Xayaburi hydroelectric dam, attend a lecture on the role of energy production in Laos’s economy and its potential to become the “battery of Southeast Asia.”
We’ll moor near the dam in preparation for our passage through it early the next day.
After dinner, head to the lounge for another movie night featuring a classic film. 
Included activities: Visit to the Kuang Si waterfall, Tour of the Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm, more+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner
Xayaboury Don Saynhan
After the morning exercise (Tai Chi or yoga on the terrace) and breakfast, we offer this morning... more+ two different excursion or activities to choose from: Set out in a long-tail boat and go on an exploratory and adventurous joyride upstream through the lush jungle along the remote, beautiful Nam Fuang River. We stop over at the shore to explain some facts about the interesting jungle life of the local tribes residing in this area. Alternatively, you may stroll through the small village of Khok Akha sitting right on the riverside plateau. The village’s population is mainly comprised of “Lao Loum” (which translates to “lowland Laotian”) whose main income is from planting rice, fishing and selling wood. The elevated location of the village allows for some great views on the meandering Mekong to take home some great photos. Setting sail, the shorelines have now become a bit rockier with some very narrow channels to navigate through. In the afternoon we stop at Don Saynhan village, from where we take a short local “Tuk Tuk” ride to visit the so-called Khao Cave. The cave has been home to a large bat population for many generations and supplies the village with very potent fertilizer. You can venture inside and discover the stalagmites and stalactites. Back on board, we keep cruising until we reach Pak Lay village, where we stop for the night. This evening after dinner our daily cinema is held open-air under the stars on the terrace deck with another classic movie on display. 
Included activities: Tour of the island by TUK TUK, Khao Cave Tour, more+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner
Don Saynhan Sandbank
On this final full day of the cruise, the excursion takes us to the charming village of Pha Liep,... more+ surrounded by majestic limestone mountains offering a spectacular panorama.
In this region, the Lao Loum community lives primarily off agriculture. The day is devoted to exploring two very distinct local craft activities.
First, discover the craftsmanship involved in building traditional long-tail boats. Although it is sometimes considered a “factory,” the construction of these iconic vessels—which remain essential for transportation in Laos—relies on meticulous and demanding manual labor.
The second activity is more of a treat: a visit to a local Lao whiskey distillery. Owning this business not only allows the distiller to regularly monitor the quality of their production but also to manage a particularly thriving enterprise in Laos. Lao whiskey is an integral part of the local culture, and every Laotian household typically has a bottle on hand.
Why not sample this specialty by preparing the traditional “Laotian Whiskey Cola,” a tasty local variation on the famous Cuba Libre?
After this immersion in local culture, we’ll resume our cruise along the peaceful waters of the Mekong to our mooring spot for the night.
In the afternoon, you’ll have the option to attend a presentation titled “Laos Today,” offering a glimpse into contemporary life along the river, or simply relax on board while admiring the passing scenery.
The day ends with a farewell dinner served on the sun deck, marking the conclusion of this magnificent adventure on the Mekong. 
Included activities: Visit to the traditional boat production workshop, Visit to a local whisky distillery, more+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner
Sandbank Vientiane
Start your last day on board with a morning yoga session on deck.
Today, breakfast will be served... more+ on the terrace deck, weather permitting, so you can fully enjoy the last few hours of cruising and the panoramic views.
Disembark at 9:00 a.m., followed by a transfer to Vientiane. Estimated arrival in the city around 12:30 p.m.
The trip ends at your hotel in the city center. We wish you a pleasant rest of your stay. 
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner

included

The price includes
Tours and admission to the sites listed in the itinerary
All transfers from the boat to tourist sites
Transfer from meeting point to ship and vice versa
English-speaking tour guide
Welcome drink
Unlimited tea and coffee on board
Mineral water available
Passenger liability insurance
Internet on board (subject to cellular network signal)
Port tax
River pilots
Fuel
Taxes
A French-speaking guide
Activities included in the program
Meals included in the program
The price does not include
Tips for crew and guides
Visa fees
Private transfers
Personal expenses
Beverages other than those listed
Medical service
Spa
Activities not included in the program
Meals not included in the program
Filovent cancellation cover more+
Filovent comprehensive cover more+
Optional services
Flights not included in the programme are available on request
Activities and excursions upon request more+

Activities

Conference on the history of Lao royalty
included
Tour of the village of Ban Pak Sith
included
Visit to the Elephant Conservation Sanctuary
included
Yoga session
included
Traditional show
included
Visit the Pak Ou Caves
included
Exploring UNESCO World Heritage: Luang Prabang
included
Visit to ancient Luang Prabang
included
An Easy Hike Up Mount Phousi
included
Traditional Baci Ceremony
included
Visit to the Kuang Si waterfall
included
Tour of the Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm
included
Tour of the island by TUK TUK
included
Khao Cave Tour
included
Barbecue dinner on a secluded sandbank
included
Discovering Don Saynhan
included
Exploring Stalagmites and Stalactites
included
Visit to the traditional boat production workshop
included
Visit to a local whisky distillery
included
Pha Liep village
included
Kayaking on the Nam Ou River
Not included

Customer reviews

The boat

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The service

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Information about the partner

  • Filovent partner since 2024
  • Last booking with this partner in May 2025
  • 3 bookings with this partner
  • Partner's overall rating: 4.2 / 10 (1 avis)
  • Average rating of the partner's boats: 3.3 / 10
  • Average rating of the partner's service: 5.0 / 10
    • Théo
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