Enchanting Indochina
Flights from London→Hanoi → Halong Bay → Cat Ba Island → Lan Ha Bay → Luang Prabang → Pak Ou Caves → Ban Khok Phou → Khok Luang → Khok Aek → Pakbeng → Huay Xai → Chiang Rai→Return to London
Organised by Noble Caledonia.
From
from £7995
per person
Overview
A journey through Hanoi, Halong Bay, Laos & the Upper Mekong aboard the Ylang & the Anouvong
Each day of this new and exclusive tour offers incredible experiences as guests take in the glorious natural beauty and poignant history of Indochina and discover the stunning, unspoiled countryside, fascinating culture, bustling cities and timeless villages. Noble Caledonia’s unique tour has been designed to enable a leisurely exploration of the region, combining their two cruises with time exploring by land from comfortable and centrally located hotels.
During the two-night journey aboard the Ylang, guests will explore Vietnam's beautiful Halong Bay. Known for its emerald green waters and thousands of towering limestone islands, this charming and tranquil region is a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Continuing to Laos, guests will discover the lesser-travelled stretch of the Mekong River aboard the Anouvong as they journey from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai, sailing past remote villages, quiet riverbanks with grazing buffalo and through lush forests and gently rolling verdant hills. In addition, guests will enjoy hotel stays in the vibrant cities of Hanoi, Luang Prabang and Chiang Rai, allowing for the opportunity to visit the magnificent sites and explore these rapidly developing metropolises.
Highlights
- Explore the historic city of Hanoi with visits to Ho Chi Minh’s house, the 6th-century Tran Quoc Pagoda, and the 11th-century Temple of Literature.
- Experience a two-night cruise through Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, featuring excursions to Viet Hai Village, Trung Trang Cave, and kayaking at Frog Lake.
- Witness the spiritual morning alms round, "Tak Bat," where hundreds of saffron-robed monks process through the streets of Luang Prabang.
- Tour the UNESCO-protected city center of Luang Prabang, home to iconic sites including Wat Xieng Thong and the city's oldest temple, Wat Sene.
- Swim in the turquoise pools of the stunning 90-meter Tat Kuang Si waterfall and visit the Free the Bears rescue project.
- Enjoy a three-night cruise on the Mekong River aboard the Anouvong, featuring cultural lectures and an authentic Baci ceremony.
- Discover thousands of sacred Buddhist statues housed within the limestone grottoes of the riverside Pak Ou Caves.
- Immerse yourself in local traditions with village visits to meet the ethnic Khmu, Hmong, and Lao communities and learn about sustainable farming and silk weaving.
- Interact with rescued elephants at a professionally managed sanctuary in Pakbeng, followed by panoramic views of the Mekong River from a hilltop temple.
- Explore the architectural heritage of Chiang Rai, including the ancient Wat Phra Kaew and the unique, modern design of the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun).
Explore further
More river cruises
The ship
Itinerary
- 1
Day 1 London to Hanoi, Vietnam.
Fly this evening by scheduled flight.
- 2
Day 2 Hanoi.
Arrive later this afternoon and transfer to our hotel for a two night stay. the rest of the evening is at leisure.
- 3
Day 3 Hanoi.
After breakfast enjoy a city tour of Hanoi, often referred to as the ‘Paris of the East' with its yellow ochre colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes. We will start with a visit to former President Ho Chi Minh's house before continuing to the 6th century Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest in Hanoi located on a small island in West Lake. After lunch visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university built in the late 11th century and an example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture. We will end our tour with a walk through the old quarter known for its 36 streets of 36 wares' named after the original 36 artisan guilds that date as far back as the 13th century. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for dinner at the hotel. (B, L, D)
- 4
Day 4 Hanoi to Halong Bay & Cat Ba Island.
After breakfast in the hotel we will drive to Halong Bay. Embark the Ylang in the late morning and toward Cat Ba Island over lunch.. This afternoon we will step ashore and explore Viet Hai Village, nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by jungle cladded mountains. A ride on electric buggies through the valley will offer insights into the isolated and self-sufficient life of the local inhabitants, who cultivate fruits and vegetables and fish in the bay. Returning to the ship there will be an opportunity for a Vietnamese tea tasting as we sail to our overnight anchorage in La Ha Bay. After dinner on board maybe relax on the terrace deck and enjoy the peace under the stars. (B, L, D)
- 5
Day 5 Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Island.
Early risers may wish to join a Tai Chi session on the terrace deck as we sail to the northern part of Cat Ba Island and its national park. A short scenic bus ride through the lush park will bring us to the Trung Trang Cave, part of the UNESCO Reserve of Halong Bay. Explore the cave or enjoy a leisurely hike to further explore this designated biosphere reserve, which includes approximately 1500 plant species, 78 species of bird and many reptiles and mammals including deer, macaques and civets. Return to the ship for lunch as we sail through the many islands and inlets towards a secluded spot in La Ha Bay where this afternoon there will be an opportunity to have a swim from the sandy beach, or just relax on board and perhaps enjoy the sauna and spa facilities. Later we will cruise to our overnight mooring spot and witness the captivating “blue hour” at sunset before dinner. (B, L, D)
- 6
Day 6 Halong Bay to Luang Prabang, Laos.
This morning we will reach a secluded area of Lan Ha Bay called Frog Lake where there will be the opportunity for a kayak excursion to explore this captivating marine landscape of jade-green water, rocks and vivid tree-topped islets. After brunch, disembark the Ylang and return to Hanoi where we will have an early dinner at Viet Phu Thanh Chuong Palace before transferring to the airport for an evening flight to Luang Prabang. On arrival, transfer to our hotel and check in for our three night stay. (B, L, D)
- 7
Day 7 Luang Prabang.
The morning alms round, referred to as “Tak Bat” in Lao, is a living Buddhist tradition for the people of Luang Prabang and dates back generations. Today, those wishing to rise early can wake up before dawn to witness a procession of hundreds of saffron-robed monks in the early morning light, a truly spiritual experience. After the almsgiving, walk along the morning market and watch as the town comes to life before returning to the hotel in time for breakfast. Later we explore the UNESCO protected city centre to appreciate its unspoiled Laotian-colonial fusion architecture including Wat Xieng Thong, with its traditional roofs sweeping low to the ground, the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and Wat Sene, the city's oldest temple, and Wat Mai. The rest of the day is free for independent exploration or to relax at the hotel before meeting this evening for dinner. (B, D)
- 8
Day 8 Luang Prabang.
Drive south of the city this morning to the beautiful waterfalls of Tat Kuang Si. Below the 90 metre drop of the main cascade are a series of pools, connected by smaller falls and cascades. At low water levels the water is an unbelievable turquoise, and swimming in the lower pools is a great way to cool off. On the walk through the forest to the falls, you will also pass the Free the Bears project – home to a group of rescued Asiatic Black (Moon) Bears and one Malayan Sun Bear. Return to the hotel for some free time before we have an evening of Laotian culture. After a game of pétanque we will continue to the riverbanks where we will enjoy a traditional Laotian dinner. (B, D)
- 9
Day 9 Luang Prabang, Pak Ou Caves, & Ban Khok Phou.
After breakfast in the hotel we transfer to the Anouvong moored in the city. Settle into your cabin and enjoy a relaxing morning as we sail through lush vegetation and gently rolling verdant hills. Maybe join our onboard hosts for their lecture about Laotian culture and the diverse tribes that live along the Mekong. After lunch we reach the famous Pak Ou Caves, located directly on the Mekong's rocky shore and opposite the mouth of the Ou River. We will have the opportunity to explore the two spacious limestone grottoes which house approximately 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images ranging from mere centimetres up to two metres in height. There will also be the chance to kayak along the Nam Ou River or visit a nearby village to learn about traditional silk weaving and Lao whisky distillation. Later this afternoon, reach the village of Ban Khok Phou where a traditional Laotian Baci ceremony will be performed by local elders. Return to the ship for welcome drinks and a barbecue dinner served on the sandbank as we moor overnight. (B, L, D)
- 10
Day 10 Khok Luang & Khok Aek.
Enjoy the stunning Mekong scenery as we set sail this morning. Arrive at the enchanting village of Khok Luang where residents will welcome us with traditional costumes and music and we can witness the unique farming methods of the ethnic Khmu community. Sail over lunch and in the early afternoon we arrive at the village of Khok Aek. Here the ethnic Lao, Khmu and Hmong tribes live a sustainable life growing organic fruit and vegetables. We will learn about their day-to-day lives, traditions and growing techniques and hopefully try some local produce. Back on board, a traditional music and dance performance will take place before dinner. (B, L, D)
- 11
Day 11 Pakbeng.
Relax on board as the Anouvong continues to navigate upstream. After lunch we arrive at the small town of Pakbeng. This riverside settlement is halfway between Huay Xai and Luang Prabang and many locals stop here when they travel or transport goods between these two “hubs” on the river. Opposite the town, we visit a professionally managed elephant sanctuary; the elephants here used to work as logging elephants but can now live in peace and safety. From here we will take a drive to a hilltop temple with wonderful panoramic views of the meandering Mekong River below. (B, L, D)
- 12
Day 12 Huay Xai to Chiang Rai, Thailand.
Spend the morning cruising as we pass the confluence with the Nam Tha River. Maybe join our onboard hosts for their presentation on the intricate history of the Golden Triangle or engage in a culinary Lao cooking class. As we continue to the Thai border the scenery becomes more mountainous and the river narrower. After lunch on board we arrive at Huay Xai in the early afternoon and disembark. After crossing the border into Thailand we continue by road to Chiang Rai. Check in to our hotel and enjoy some free time before meeting for dinner tonight. (B, L, D)
- 13
Day 13 Chiang Rai.
Founded in 1262 AD, Thailand's most northern city boasts a fascinating architectural history in a mix of Thai and Burmese styles. After breakfast we begin our morning tour with a visit to the ancient temple of Wat Phra Kaew, the original home of the Emerald Buddha which is now housed in Bangkok. A replica was made and placed in the same spot where it was found. We continue to Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong with its large gold stupa. Our final stop brings us to Wat Rong Khun, better known as the White Temple, which is different from any other temple in Thailand. In contrast to the ancient temples, this temple was built in 1997 and was designed using white glass. While travelling through the city, observe the influence of the city's Chinese ethnic minorities. Return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure and this evening join your fellow travellers for dinner at the hotel. (B, D)
- 14
Day 14 Chiang Rai to London.
After breakfast in the hotel, spend the day at leisure before we check out and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London via Bangkok. (B)
- 15
Day 15 London.
Arrive this morning.
The Ship
Ylang
This intimate, 20 passenger vessel was launched in 2019 and features just ten spacious suites on two decks, all with floor-to-ceiling windows which open onto a private balcony. The decor is a blend of Asian-Vietnamese with some French-colonial accents and local artisans have contributed with hard-crafted paintings and artworks.
Deck plan
Life aboard Ylang
The Ylang is an intimate, boutique vessel launched in 2019 that carries just 20 passengers. Blending Asian-Vietnamese aesthetics with French-colonial charm, this ship offers a sophisticated and peaceful atmosphere perfect for travellers seeking a quiet exploration experience.
Quick facts
Guest capacity
20
Year launched
2019
Total suites
10
Suites
All ten suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies, decorated in a style reflecting local artistry and French-colonial accents. Accommodation is split between the Main and Upper Decks with varying sizes and luxury features.
- •Six Signature Suites on the Main Deck measure 40 square metres with a separate lounge area.
- •Signature Suite bathrooms feature a walk-in shower and bathtub.
- •Regency Suites on the Upper Deck range from 51 to 54 square metres.
- •Grace Orchid and Pure Lotus suites include a walk-in shower and Jacuzzi.
- •Royal Bamboo and Glory Daisy suites feature a separate bedroom and a private balcony with a Jacuzzi.
Life on board
The ship offers elegant, spacious public areas designed for relaxation and taking in the surrounding views. Guests can enjoy both indoor lounges and outdoor spaces tailored for downtime.
- •Library Lounge offering comfortable seating in an Indochinese-themed setting.
- •Cosy bar area with full-sized windows for panoramic views.
- •Terrace Deck featuring a pool, sun loungers and shaded seating.
- •Onboard spa with a sauna, steam bath, wellness studio and treatment options.
Dining
The onboard restaurant provides a gourmet Vietnamese dining experience within an atmospheric, wood-panelled setting. The decor is inspired by the Indochina era, featuring dark wood and rattan furniture.
- •Authentic Vietnamese cuisine served in a formal dining environment.
- •Restaurant interior features ornate wall carvings and wood-panelled ceilings.
Ship information may be subject to operational change. Please contact us for the latest details before booking.
Departures & pricing
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 25 October to 8 November 2026 | |
|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price |
| Ylang Signature Suite/Anouvong Deluxe Stateroom | £7695 |
| Ylang Signature Suite/Deluxe Executive Stateroom | — |
| Ylang Regency Suite/Deluxe Executive Stateroom | — |
| Ylang Regency Suite/Anouvong Signature Suite | £8695 |
| Ylang Signature Suite/Deluxe Stateroom for sole use | — |
Tour Reference Code: RCYL251025
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 25 October to 8 November 2027 | |
|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price |
| Ylang Signature Suite/Anouvong Deluxe Stateroom | £7995 |
| Ylang Signature Suite/Deluxe Executive Stateroom | £8295 |
| Ylang Regency Suite/Deluxe Executive Stateroom | £8595 |
| Ylang Regency Suite/Anouvong Signature Suite | — |
| Ylang Signature Suite/Deluxe Stateroom for sole use | £9995 |
Tour Reference Code: RCYL251025
PRICE INCLUDES:
• Economy class scheduled air travel • Two nights accommodation at the Apricot Hotel, Hanoi • Two nights aboard the Ylang • Three nights accommodation in Luang Prabang • Three nights aboard the Anouvong • Two nights accommodation at Le Meridien Hotel, Chiang Rai • Meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner) • House wine, local beer and soft drinks with included lunches and dinners • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Shore excursions with English-speaking local guides • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes
Not Included:
- Travel insurance
- Visa for Laos
Please note that availability and prices shown on our website are not updated in real time and may change. For the latest availability and pricing, please call 0800 678 3787