The Laos Mekong – Upstream

World Travellers Exclusive Offer:

FREE Upgrade to an Upper Deck Stateroom!^*

–

PLUS Save 10%^~ and Pay No Single Supplement on Select Departures!^{^}

^~Applies to 7 Nov, 20 Dec 2024 & 23, 26 Jan 2025, departures only.

^Applies to 11 Oct, 7 Nov, 20 Dec 2024 & 23, 26 Jan 2025 departures only.

Embark on an unforgettable 10-night journey with Pandaw, exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Laos along the Upper Mekong. Setting sail from Vientiane, the historic French capital, your expedition leads you through the heart of Laos towards the Thai-Laos borer and onto Chiang Khong. Immerse yourself in stunning scenery, encounter the warmth of local communities, and delve into the rich cultural heritage of Laos, including insights into the country’s revered national symbol, the majestic elephant.

Your itinerary includes a three-night stay in the UNESCO World Heritage City of Luang Prabang, renowned for its exquisite wood-carved monasteries and enchanting atmosphere. As you venture deeper into the mountains, the high-powered Pandaw ships navigate through exhilarating rapids and dramatic gorges, offering an exhilarating experience amidst nature’s splendour. Join Pandaw on this extraordinary expedition, where every moment is filled with discovery and wonder.

Itinerary operates in reverse on 30 Sep, 2, 22, 24 & 27 Oct, 13, 15 & 18 Nov 2024; 9, 12, 15 & 31 Jan, 3, 6, 22, 23 & 28 Feb, 13 Mar, 22 & 27 Oct, 13 & 18 Nov 2025; 12 Jan, 3 & 25 Feb 2026 (some dates are already full).

Discover Vientiane – the capital and largest city of Laos, situated on the Mekong near the border with Thailand.

Visit Pak Ou Caves that are noted for their miniature Buddha sculptures. Hundreds of very small and mostly damaged wooden Buddhist figures are laid out over the wall shelves. They take many different positions, including meditation, teaching, peace, rain, and reclining (nirvana).

Explore Luang Prabang which is known for its many Buddhist temples, including the gilded Wat Xieng Thong, dating to the 16th century, and Wat Mai, once the residence of the head of Laotian Buddhism.

Voyage on board in selected cabin category

Welcome cocktail party

Signature hors d’oeuvres at cocktails each evening

Afternoon tea with cakes or cookies when cruising

Celebration cake and gift on birthdays and anniversaries

Cookery demonstrations and classes using local produce

All scheduled excursions

At least two cultural performances per cruise 

Tour of the engine rooms, galley and working parts of the ship

Film presentations on local culture and history

Local mineral water

Cold towels on deck all day

Jugged coffee, tea and tisanes on deck from sunrise till sunset

Crew gratuities are included in your cruise program price

International and domestic flights
Travel insurance
Passport and visa costs
Port taxes where applicable
Gratuities for land guides/drivers
Spa service including foot, head and body massages (Mekong only)
Personal laundry service
Local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes are all complimentary. All other drinks will be charged.

 Champa Pandaw

The Champa Pandaw belongs to the esteemed K-class lineage of Pandaw ships, with origins tracing back to the 1880s. These stern wheelers were ingeniously designed to reduce draft, featuring boilers positioned in the bow to enhance trim. Though smaller in size compared to the grand steamers of its time, K-class ships navigated the Chindwin and upper reaches of the Irrawaddy, boasting captivating histories woven through periods of both conflict and peace.

Accommodation aboard the Champa Pandaw comprises 12 main deck and 2 upper deck staterooms and are exquisitely adorned with teak and brass finishes. Panoramic French sliding doors invite breathtaking views, while convertible bed configurations ensure personalized comfort. Indulge in culinary delights prepared by a skilled international team led by a local master chef. From cultural performances to cooking classes, each day offers enriching experiences. On excursions, guests are provided with essentials like admissions and bottled water, ensuring every moment of exploration is met with comfort and convenience.

Laos Pandaw

The ship’s impressive quality belied its hurried construction, a feat necessitated by the lack of shipyards above the Khone Falls and the reluctance of Vietnamese and Rangoon builders to undertake the task. Despite bookings sold out for November, by January 2015, no ship was in sight. In a desperate move, Paul Strachan ventured to Vientiane, where he boarded a 40-meter cargo barge fitted with powerful truck engines, securing it for conversion. The vessel’s journey up the Upper Mekong to the Golden Triangle, where Burma, Laos, and Thailand converge, marked the beginning of its transformation.

Located at this junction, the ship underwent conversion under the expertise of a team from Mandalay, with logistical support from Thailand. Completed on schedule for its maiden voyage in November 2015, the ten-cabin ship offered luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining. With mountain bikes for exploration and a range of onboard amenities, including personalized meal services and cultural performances, it promises an unforgettable journey along the Mekong.

Sabaidee Pandaw

The RV Sabaidee, the seventeenth addition to the Pandaw Flotilla, was specifically crafted to meet the increasing demand for the Laos to China route, traversing through Yunnan. Built in the signature Pandaw style, this double-decked vessel is tailored to navigate Laos gorges’ rapids and shallow waters en route to China. With fourteen classic Pandaw staterooms – eight on the main deck and six on the upper deck – along with an open-plan saloon offering flexible indoor or outdoor dining, the Sabaidee boasts handcrafted excellence in teak and brass, ensuring the personalized service and comfort Pandaw guests expect. Additionally, quality mountain bikes are provided for independent exploration.

The accommodation features a blend of six upper deck staterooms and eight main deck staterooms, each spanning 170 square feet and furnished with teak and brass finishes. Amenities include panoramic French windows, spa-branded toiletries, AC with individual control, and nightly turndown service. Dining aboard the Sabaidee is a delight, with a bistro-style dining room offering both inside seating with air-conditioning and outside seating. Guests can indulge in a variety of culinary delights prepared by a local master chef leading an experienced international culinary team. A range of onboard activities, including cultural performances and cooking classes, complement the dining experience. Excursions are made seamless with amenities like a full-size motor coach, ensuring guests’ safety and comfort throughout their journey.