Heritage Line Debuts Upper Mekong Voyage on the New ‘Anouvong’
Source: Travel Daily News
A group of guests has become the very first cohort to experience luxury Southeast Asian river cruise specialist Heritage Line’s first-ever Upper Mekong voyage on board its brand-new designer ship Heritage Line Anouvong, during a sensational voyage along one of the world’s most remote yet captivating waterways.
Departing from the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Luang Prabang in Laos, this special four-day, three-night inaugural sailing “Golden Triangle Traverse” included all daily guided shore excursions, insightful demonstrations and lectures, an onboard expert guide, and full-board dining featuring classic Laotian dishes alongside international favorites. On the final evening, the ship moored in an atmospheric secluded location on the Mekong River and guests were treated to a memorable farewell alfresco dining event on the sun deck.
During the voyage, each day heralded a new and different adventure as travellers explored traditional villages only accessible by river, including several tiny river hamlets exclusively visited by Heritage Line Anouvong, which was named after the last Laotian king.
English couple Sarah and Jonathon made a last-minute decision to join the maiden voyage whilst travelling in Southeast Asia and they said, “The Baci Ceremony we actively witnessed in the small local village at the first stop was just thrilling. We travel the world a lot and this was one of the most exceptional, natural, and authentic encounters we have ever experienced”.
A solo traveller from New Zealand who joined the maiden voyage en route to Europe said, “I really liked the size of the cabin, which allowed me to take in the absolutely amazing river scenery and watching the shores float by. At other times, I sat in the lounge reading or sending emails and photos to my family at home.”
Heritage Line Anouvong is the seventh addition to the cruise line’s designer fleet, setting a new bar for luxury river cruising on the Upper Mekong river in Laos. “We were delighted to finally welcome guests on board our first official Upper Mekong sailing, and over the moon to receive their excellent feedback on their luxurious floating home and the extraordinary mix of cultural, educational, and adventurous shore experiences on offer,” said Heritage Line’s Director of Sales & Marketing, Andreas Schroetter. “We are looking forward to introducing many more travellers to this beguiling destination, and beautiful new ship.”
Heritage Line Anouvong has just eight staterooms and two Signature Suites spread over two public decks. All cabins and public facilities feature a bespoke Laotian ambience along with local artwork, artefacts, and French-Colonial finesse. The ship’s cabins – ranging in size from 20sqm up to 30sqm – are the largest of any river-going vessel on the Upper Mekong, and guests can choose whether to enjoy their privacy in the comfort of their accommodation or socialise with like-minded guests in the lounge or on the open-air sun deck.
