Heritage Line Launches Luxury Vessel on the Mekong River in Laos. Leading river cruise lines in Southeast Asia announces the launch of a new vessel named Heritage Line Anouvong
This first ever luxury cruiser on the lesser-traveled upper Mekong River in Laos will have its maiden voyage next year.
Heritage Line offers two cruises: a 3-night journey between the Thai-Lao border town of Huay Xai in the northwest of Laos to the UNESCO World Heritage Site-designated Luang Prabang as well as a longer journey also starting from Huay Xai but ending further downstream in Vientiane, the capital of Laos (7-nights or 9-nights, subject to cruise direction). All cruises are available in both directions (up- or downstream).
The new ship, Heritage Line Anouvong, has only ten state-of-the-art cabins. Outfitted with luxurious amenities, these accommodations are the largest of any river vessel in Laos.
The ship – Heritage Line Anouvong
Heritage Line, known for painstakingly designing its ships has also paid meticulous attention to Anouvong. Interior designs across the vessel blend traditional Laotian hand-crafted artwork with elegant French-colonial accents to offer guests a unique living experience aboard. The two decks of the vessel accommodate eight staterooms and two sprawling suites. The staterooms measure 20 sqm (four rooms on main deck, four rooms on upper deck) while the two suites, situated at the front of the main deck, provide 30 sqm of floor space with private balconies.
“Our aim was to build a luxury vessel with cabin sizes as large as possible, plus a range of enjoyable onboard facilities,” says Director of Sales and Marketing, Andreas Schroetter. “This was a challenge, as the Laotian Mekong River imposes natural restrictions such as fluctuating water levels, wandering sandbanks and winding curves that all impact the size of a ship. We believe Anouvong will bring the cruising experience to another level in this cruise destination.”
All cabins have floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto either a French balcony (staterooms) or private balcony (suites). The two Signature Suites and the top living quarters on board showcase individually designed interiors inclusive of a large bathroom and Jacuzzi.
Heritage Line Anouvong’s main public attractions for passengers are the cozy al-fresco terrace deck equipped with comfortable sun loungers and seating options as well as the glass-surrounded and air-conditioned Café-Bar & Lounge. Both locations allow fantastic views of the river and passing shoreline.
The vessel’s spa, set at the stern of the ship, comprises one room with a comfortable Laotian flair where passengers can receive a reflexology treatment whilst gazing at the river. Two additional treatment rooms (combinable for couples) offer various private spa therapies and massages, completing the wellness area.
The De-Lagrée Dining Hall on the main deck features a wall backdrop with gold-leaf artwork and large glass facades flanking the sides, inviting passengers to dine in a unique setting. The cuisine offers the best of local fare paired with international favorites presented both a la carte and buffet style. Terrace deck dining, sandbank barbecues and cocktail events are special culinary highlights on the cruise. Cooking classes allow guests to learn about the preparation of local dishes.
Cruises on the Upper Mekong
Heritage Line offers two wonderful journeys with unmatched sightseeing and interesting onboard activities whilst meandering along the river. These slow journeys are perfect for travelers who seek blissful relaxation mixed with a dash of adventure, active experiences and destination insights. Captivating mountainous river landscapes throughout the cruise promise daily natural excitement. Visits to remote local villages with ethnic communities and centuries old culture allow guests to eyewitness some of the most secluded areas on the planet. Tailored lectures and presentations offer interesting insights about historical, cultural and recent occurrences in Laos. A few destination highlights include a traditional welcome ceremony with villagers, a soft jungle trek, kayaking on the Mekong and an exploration of the famous Pak Ou Cave. Longer cruises also include a complete guided tour of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Heritage Line operates two cruise programs between mid-July to mid-April (off season mid-April to mid-July):
3 NIGHTS (“Golden Triangle Traverse”)
Huay Xai – Luang Prabang or vice versa
This cruise sails between Huay Xai, on the Lao-Thai border and Luang Prabang (or vice versa) along the remote and scenic Mekong River with three overnight moorings mid-river.
7- or 9 NIGHTS (“Laotian Serendipity”)
Huay Xai – Vientiane (7-night downstream) or Vientiane – Huay Xai (9-night upstream)
A slow journey to discover the Laotian Mekong River to the fullest while experiencing its countless natural, cultural and spiritual facets. Passengers journey between Huay Xai and Vientiane, including an overnight anchorage and full day of sightseeing in central Luang Prabang. )
Included in the cruises are full board dining (including mineral water, tea, coffee and welcome drink), all excursion and admission fees, English speaking guide on- and offshore, kayaking, events, workshops and presentations as stated in detailed programs (full inclusion details available on the website).
Heritage Line is a singular cruise line, founded in 2009 with the ambition of creating unforgettable and refined river voyages along Southeast Asia’s most fascinating waterways. They are collectors who meticulously build and design their own vessels with inimitable décor and outfitting. Tailoring memorable experiences on and off-shore, they are artisans who bring untold stories to life with journeys that inspire guests to return. And Heritage Line is a veritable host who provides personal and heartfelt service above and beyond to create intimate bonds and life-long friendships with guests. Heritage Line’s collection of eight luxurious boutique vessels operates in Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar and Laos.
