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Luxury small ship river cruises in Asia

For over 25 years Pandaw has been the leader in Asian River Cruising. We currently operate 17 beautiful ships in 6 amazing countries and are looking forward to sharing one of our experiences with you.

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Pandaw operate their own luxury small ship river cruise expeditions on the Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia ; the Red River and Halong Bay in Vietnam; Laos & Thailand on the Upper Mekong; the Irrawaddy & Chindwin rivers in Burma , India on the Ganges River and the Brahmaputra River .

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RV Laos Pandaw

Cruise line Pandaw River Cruises

Specifications of RV Laos Pandaw

•   Review

RV Laos Pandaw Review

Review of rv laos pandaw.

RV Laos Pandaw ship was built in Thailand (launched in 2015) and has as sisterships the fleetmates Champa Pandaw (2016), Yunnan Pandaw (2016) and Sabaidee Pandaw (2018).

Laos was Pandaw's first riverboat operating on Upper Mekong voyages. These itineraries visit the 3 countries of the Golden Triangle (Thailand, Burma/Myanmar, Laos) and also China.

The ship has 10 identical cabins (sized 17 m2 / 180 ft2). All staterooms offer as standard amenities twin beds (some converting to double, all with premium mattresses, quality linens, duvet, two kinds of pillows), French windows, air-conditioning, spacious wardrobe, electronic safe box (in the closet), writing desk (vanity with chair and make-up mirror), under-bed storage (for suitcases), en-suite bathroom (WC, shower, washbasin, hairdryer, towels, slippers, bathrobes/kimonos, Spa-branded amenities), unlimited bottled water, Yoga mats (for in-cabin use), nightly turndown service. Onboard 24-hour laundry is also available. On all shore excursions are provided shoe cleaning and cold towel services (after), bottled water (Pandaw-branded aluminum bottles as giveaways), first aid-trained assistant guide.

Next video show some of the vessel's construction stages.

Like on similar Pandaw ships, Laos Pandaw passengers are able to spend leisure time on the aft part of the covered upper deck. Meals are served bistro-style indoor and outdoor on the upper deck. Breakfast is buffet-style but preceded by light bites, tea and coffee for early risers. Lunch is either buffet-style or sit-down (waiter-served, with a la carte menu choices), while dinners are 4-course and waiter-served. Pandaw's food ingredients are locally sourced and always fresh.

Domestic beers, spirits, soft drinks, coffee and tea are complimentary and served on the upper deck at the bar/library lounge. An open-bridge policy is in place. Wi-Fi is slow because of the remote regions traveled. However, some riverside ports in the cruise itinerary feature Internet shops. The ship provides quality mountain bikes available complimentary for passenger use on independent shore trips.

Pandaw Laos-Thailand-China river cruise itineraries

Laos Pandaw ship cruises on the following Mekong itineraries:

• 15-day "Laos to China Upstream" and the reverse "Laos to China Downstream" - prices start from USD 505 pp per day.
• 11-day "The Laos Mekong Upstream" and the reverse "The Laos Mekong Downstream" - prices start from USD 475 pp per day.

Both cruise tour itineraries start and end in Bangkok (homeport) and visit as call ports Luang Prabang (overnight, bus tour to a butterfly park, stop at Kuang Si Falls), Pak Ou (overnight), Pak Beng (market town), Chiang Kong (Laos-Thailand border crossing), Chiang Saen (Thai tribe village visit, Wat Phangao Pagoda), Golden Triangle (bus transfer to Burma's Tachilek City, a visit to a Chinese temple and Shwedagon Pagoda), Ban Dom Moon (afternoon tour of Pok Lok), Sob Luoy Province (Ban Pak Keo, Ban Na Kor, overnight), Guan Lei China, Jinghong China (overnight, Manting Park visit, ship debarkation after breakfast, bus transfer to Kunming for overnight hotel stay, transfer to the airport and afternoon return flight to Bangkok).

Note: You can see the CruiseMapper's list of all river cruise ships and riverboats in the "itinerary" section of our River Cruises hub. All companies and their fleets are listed there.

RV Laos Pandaw - user reviews and comments

Photos of rv laos pandaw.

RV Laos Pandaw ship related cruise news

Pandaw River Cruises announces new 2023 dates for its 10-night Laos Mekong expedition

Pandaw River Cruises announced that from January 2023 the company would activate a 3rd boat - RV Sabaidee Pandaw, on their 10-night Laos expedition...

•   show more news

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• Laos Pandaw

Laos Pandaw Deals

The charming 20-passenger RV Laos Pandaw cruises Laos’ Mekong River all the way from Vientiane to the fabled Golden Triangle or vice versa, discovering the charming villages, stunning scenery, pristine jungles, natural wonders, and emerald green waters of this spectacular waterway.

A former rice barge custom built to withstand the fast-flowing upper extremes of the Mekong River—and amazingly still skippered by her previous owner and captain—the RV Laos Pandaw, having once transported its wares all the way from Laos to China, has now swapped transport for tourism, exchanging grain freight for great Laotian river expeditions.

Now traditionally styled to reflect the river’s rich colonial history, with teak and brass found throughout the vessel’s interior, her boutique design and attentive crew provide an informal and intimate experience with personalized service to match, creating a truly authentic atmosphere on board.

She features just ten en suite staterooms, each located on the Main Deck and offering 14 square meters (150 square feet) of living space, plenty of closet and under-bed storage, and panoramic sliding doors which perfectly portray the peaceful views of the passing riverine landscapes. Essentially an outdoor experience, guests can also meditate on the unfolding bucolic bounty and panorama of people and wildlife thriving along this great river from the spacious promenade and observation areas of the Upper Deck.

The saloon and al fresco lounge can also be found here, the location for indoor or outdoor dining—including ample semi-buffet breakfasts and lunches, and delicious served themed dinners—and a series of cultural performances, educational talks, and cooking classes which are held throughout your voyage.

Remote Exploration

Learning about the region’s culture and past first hand, both on board and ashore, is a key part of your journey. During excursions—both active walks and cycling opportunities thanks to the vessel’s quality mountain bikes—your expert guides will convey a Laos steeped in history, natural beauty and filled with wonderful sites seldom seen by tourists.

Pandaw Laos cruises explore one of the most scenic stretches of the mighty Mekong where its banks are lined with lush jungles, cliffs and caves, and hidden tribal villages only accessible by boat. Technically a three country expedition, your voyage will traverse Laos as far as Thailand and Burma at the once notorious Golden Triangle.

Navigate through dramatic mountainous scenery, rapids and stunning gorges. Witness the spiritual Pak Ou Caves’ myriad miniature Buddhas, and marvel at the traditional ways of life along the river as they are brought to life, a fascinating contrast to the up and coming city of Vientiane, the old French capital.

A highlight for many will undoubtedly be the mountainous sprawl of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to dazzling wood carved monasteries and saffron-robed monks, the sunrise recipients of alms of rice whose chants can be heard echoing from temple to temple.

As with all Pandaw vessels, solo travelers will be pleased to hear that single supplements are waived on several select sailings throughout the year. For intrepid travelers looking for remote adventure, intimate small ship cruising, and rich cultural discovery, look no further than the RV Laos Pandaw.

Itineraries & Prices

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.

11 Day - The Laos Mekong: Chiang Khong - Vientiane

Embarkation

Transfers from airports or any city hotel in Chiang Rai (2 hours) and Chiang Mai (6 hours) including a visit to the Golden Triangle and the now infamous opium museum. Embark your ship by 16.00 and cruise up the river towards the Burma border for sunset.

Hotel pick-ups from city hotels in Chiang Mai can be as early as 06.00 or as late as 08.00. From Chiang Rai hotels can be as early as 08.30 or as late as 10.00. Timing varies according to the docking place of the Pandaw vessel. Our representative will call you on the evening before or leave a message with the hotel to reconfirm the exact pick-up time.

If your arrival is after the above mentioned time we will pick you up from the airport Chiang Rai (arrival must be before 13.00) or airport Chiang Mai (arrival must be before 13.00) and transfer you to the ship. This transfer will not include any visits to Golden Triangle, Opium House and Lunch due to time limit.

Sailing to Laos

Pass through immigration formalities at the Thai/Laos border and rejoin the ship. Set sail downstream on the beautiful Upper Mekong River. After lunch, if time allows, sightseeing on foot in a Laos jungle village.

Khamo Village

Morning walk in a Khamo village. Sail downstream on the beautiful Mekong then relax with evening cocktails on a sandbank.

Pak Ou Caves & Luang Prabang

Continue cruising downstream to Pak Ou, transfer to a local boat and enter the Nam Ou River to visit the extraordinary Pak Ou Buddha Caves. Admire spectacular limestone cliff faces in the Buddhist sanctuary.

Luang Prabang

In the morning explore by tuk-tuk this well-preserved and unique world heritage site with its many Buddhist temples, libraries, and royal palace. Visit the National Museum and have the afternoon free to explore the beauty and unique atmosphere of Luang Prabang. Traditional Laos dancing on the upper deck late afternoon. Moor overnight in Luang Prabang.

Khaung Si Waterfall

Early morning walking tour to observe the morning alms offered by local people to the hundreds of monks who walk around the city every morning. Drive to see the deep jungle pools at the Khaung Si Waterfall, the teak forest trails, and the butterfly farm.

Xayaburi Dam

Pass through the Mekong water control lock at Xayaburi Hydro Electric Power Plant (itself an interesting and perhaps controversial tourist attraction). Late afternoon walking tour of a local village.

Morning visit to Ban Pha Leab with its beautiful limestone mountain. Continue to Pak Houng-Thai Lao Border for an excursion to a plantation village and meet the local people.

Pass through a dramatic landscape of jungle and mountain where the river flows fast and wild. Amazing rock formations straddle the river banks. Here we enter the cultivated plains of Vientiane province. Arrive mid-afternoon in Vientiane to moor overnight. Opportunity for independent exploration of this delightful, French-influenced city.

Morning exploration of the delightful French city including visits to the golden Pha That Luang Stupa, Sisaket Temple, the President’s Hall, Watt Prakeo Temple, and the Phatouxay monument. Opportunity for independent exploration and experience the many cafes and bistros in this charming little corner of L’Indochine. Farewell cocktails and dinner.

Disembarkation

Disembark in Vientiane after breakfast and transfer to airports or hotels in Vientiane or Udon Thani in Thailand (1.5hrs, just across the river).

11 Day - The Laos Mekong: Vientiane - Chiang Khong

Embarkation 12.30, followed by lunch and afternoon exploration of the delightful French city including visits to the golden Pha That Luang Stupa, Sisaket Temple, the President’s Hall, Wat Prakeo Temple, and the Phatouxay monument. Set sail late afternoon, enjoy a welcome dinner on board, and overnight near Vientiane.

Transfers are included from the airport or hotel in Vientiane. We suggest an early morning arrival. Any late arrivals will also be transferred to the ship but you might miss lunch and/or the afternoon excursion. If staying at a city hotel in Vientiane you will be picked up between 11.00 and 12.00. Our representative will call you on the evening before or leave a message with the hotel to reconfirm the exact pick up time.

Cruising the Mekong

Cruise upstream on the Mekong, passing lush jungle scenery and tiny riverside villages. Morning presentation on the Lao language. Afternoon cooking demonstration on the upper deck. Arrive in Ban Xanakham to moor overnight.

Afternoon visit to the French administrative town of Pak Lai with many colonial buildings and a bustling local market. This town boasts the largest elephant festival in South East Asia, usually in February.

Ban Park Bor Village

Morning visit and walking tour to Khamo tribal village, a typical village, set on the banks of the Mekong amidst lush jungle. In the afternoon pass through the Xanyaburi Hydro Electric Power Plant.

Ban Mouang Khai Village & Luang Prabang

In the morning visit a Hmong village and continue upstream to the village of Ban Mouang Khai. Afternoon sightseeing by minibus visiting the jungle pools and dramatic Khaung Si waterfall then on to a butterfly garden. Arrive in the heart of the temple city of Luang Prabang where there is a buzzing night market and many great cafes and some good local restaurants.

In the morning explore by tuktuk this well-preserved and unique world heritage site with its many Buddhist temples, libraries, and royal palace. Visit the National Museum and have the afternoon free to explore the beauty and unique atmosphere of Luang Prabang on your own. Enjoy traditional Laos dancing on the upper deck late afternoon. Moor overnight in Luang Prabang.

Pak Ou Caves

Early morning walking tour to see the alms offered by the local people to hundreds of monks who walk around the city every morning. Passengers are invited to join in with offerings we provide for the almsgiving. Morning sightseeing by local boat exploring the unique Pak Ou Caves, a Buddhist sanctuary with spectacular limestone cliff faces. Evening cocktails on a sandbank. Sail upstream on the beautiful Mekong towards Ban Bo.

Morning visit to a local Khamo village. Sail upstream on the Mekong passing Pak Beng towards Pak Sit.

Ban Huayxay

Early morning walking tour in a Khamo village then cruise through stunning scenery to the border of Laos and Thailand. The night is spent on the Lao side in the Huayxay area where we take a late afternoon village walk.

Chiang Khong

Cross over into Thailand via the Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge before rejoining your ship in Chiang Khong. Farewell cocktails and Thai traditional dance on board for your last evening.

Disembark by 8.30 in Chiang Khong and group transfer to the hotel/airport. En route, explore the Golden Triangle including a visit to the opium museum. Continue to airports or city hotels in Chiang Rai (2 hours) and Chiang Mai (6 hours).

Accommodations

Social areas.

Suites & Cabins

Main deck cabin.

All of RV Laos Pandaw's Main Deck cabins are identical, finished in teak and brass, accessible via panoramic sliding doors, and featuring convertible double or twin beds fitted with premium mattresses and imported quality linens. The private ensuite bathrooms include kimonos, slippers, a hairdryer, and spa-branded amenities. Guests also benefit from complimentary evening canapés and unlimited mineral water.

Technical Information

• Air conditioning
• Lecture room
• WIFI available
• Kosher Meals
• Medical staff
• Souvenir shop
• Hot showers
• All inclusive
• Charging areas for electronic equipment
• Flash lights
• Water canteen/bottle
• Insect repellent

Related Cruises

Champa Pandaw

Sabaidee Pandaw

No Single Supplement

Choose from selected dates to enjoy our luxurious river cruise with absolutely no surcharge for single passengers! Grab it while it lasts.

• I'd like to be contacted via WhatsApp.
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• All prices displayed are per person
• When 1 adult and 1 child (from 5 to 18 years old) share 1 cabin, the child receives 50% reduction from the adult price
• When 2 adults and 1 child (from 5 to 18 years old) share 2 cabins, 1 cabin with no single supplement and 50% reduction for the child
• When 2 adults and 2 children (from 5 to 18 years old) share 2 cabins, both children receive a 50% reduction
• There is a surcharge for private transfers if you are not able to meet us at the pick-up times.
• There is a surcharge for private transfers, and pick-up and drop for Udon Thani if you are not able to meet us at the scheduled pick-up times. Vientiane Jetty – Land River Transport Enterprise, Thadeua Road km4, Sisattanark District.
• We suggest booking a hotel in Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai after your cruise.

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Laos Pandaw Deck Plans & Reviews

Laos Pandaw

Activities & entertainment.

• Enrichment Lectures
• Evening Breifings
• Local Entertainers
• Local Guides
• Cultural Performances
• Outdoor Lounge
• Cocktail Receptions
• Saloon Dining - Locally Inspired
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Pandaw’s Pursuit Of Laos

Experiential river cruising provides an opportunity to discover new lands, cultures, and people, deviating from the path well-traveled. Intrepid travelers recognize that going off the radar has its perks, and cruising the Mekong River, as it dissects intriguing Laos, is as rewarding as it gets. Fascinating visions of the country’s inherent beauty are perfectly captured by river cruise operator Pandaw on their ship  Sabaidee Pandaw . If you can forsake white-sand beaches, cathedrals and guidebook narrative, this landlocked country nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia is a consummate cruise selection.

Sabaidee Pandaw : An Introduction 

Pandaw’s Sabaidee Pandaw embraces the essence of far-flung river travel in comfort, competently curated for authentic engagement. A transfer from Chiang Mai, Thailand (or Chiang Rai) to the awaiting vessel initiates an inspiring first impression of the region’s diversity. The Golden Triangle confluence of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos is a virtual collision of raw jungle landscaping and remote serenity, mercifully escaping the intrusion of urban sprawl.

This 28-passenger vessel has been locally crafted with lightly colored but deeply grained teakwood accents that contribute to a crisp, contemporary look. All staterooms, regardless of location, feature double-glass entry doors that open directly onto the promenade deck. With beds that can be configured to either a queen or two twins, the smartly furnished rooms follow through with the richly grained wood theme.

RELATED:   The Heart of Vietnam

Creeping along the lifeblood Mekong River, the hypnotic imagery of the jungle conjures up a mix of instinctive curiosity and seductive cinema. Laos is deeply rooted in tribal traditions, and local authenticity is on full display with escorted visits to Ban Dan Village and Ban Huy Lam Pan, home to the ethnic Hmong people. Giddy school children rush to the vessel, anxious to exchange smiles and giggles with the arrival of visiting cruise guests.

Afternoons are an exhilarating blend of mountain….

This is only an excerpt. To read the full article, subscribe to Porthole Cruise Magazine .

By Steve Leland

Photo: Pandaw

Steve Leland

As a former Cruise Director, Steve has been cruising the world for the past forty years. Bringing a new dimension to cruise journalism, he continues to spin the globe searching for off the grid cruise adventures and unplugged destinations to share with Porthole Cruise Magazine readers.

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• Ban Mano, Manomai Road, Luang Prabang, Laos
• [email protected]
• Mon to Sat: 8.30 am - 5.30 pm

Call Anytime

• (+84) 98 797 55 14

RV Laos Pandaw 10 Nights (Upstream)

Trip length, rv laos pandaw.

Main Deck Cabin Inquire this cruise

 10 Cabin(s)

 |    14m²

 |    Double/twin

There are 10 cabins on the main deck with 14 square meter and each is equipped with twin beds, air-conditioner, long window looking out to the. All the rooms and facilities are sourced locally of the highest class.

Cabin Amenities

  |       Max Rom:  

 Air Conditioning

 Mini Bar

 Toiletries

 Shower

 Bathrobes

 Bottled Water

 In Room Safe

 Hair Dryer

 Slippers

• Full Itinerary

Embark on an unparalleled Mekong adventure with a top favorite vessel on Laos River Cruises - RV Laos Pandaw. Born from a 40-meter barge and reborn as a luxurious haven, she boasts 10 elegant staterooms, a warm teak interior, and spacious public areas perfect for socializing and relishing breathtaking views. 

This 11-day odyssey from Vientiane to Chiang Saen delves into the heart of the Golden Triangle, spanning three countries – Laos, Thailand, and Burma – in one unforgettable journey. Prepare for captivating local activities, from vibrant markets to serene temples, woven seamlessly into your Laos River Cruises itinerary. 

Unwind under starry Mekong skies, and let the magic of Southeast Asia captivate you. Tailor Laos your trip now to dive into the fascinating facts of RV Laos Padaw night cruise on Laos river  with us!

Reborn luxury on the Mekong

Witness the extraordinary transformation of a rugged barge into a haven of luxury. Step aboard RV Laos Pandaw and marvel at its teak-clad elegance, spacious public areas, and 10 beautifully appointed staterooms – each an oasis of comfort amidst the Mekong's wild beauty.

Tailor-made experiences for every adventurer

From Village Encounters to Temple Explorations, your 11-day Lao slow boat isn't bound by a rigid itinerary. Choose from a range of curated excursions, whether it's kayaking through hidden coves, exploring ancient ruins, or connecting with local communities in charming villages. Each day unfolds with exciting possibilities, tailored to your interests and pace.

Authentic flavors from Laotian land and river

Embark on a culinary journey aboard RV Laos Pandaw, where every meal is a celebration of Mekong flavors. Our chefs, masters of local specialties, create exquisite dishes using the freshest ingredients, sourced directly from villages and markets along the way. Savor vibrant breakfast buffets, indulge in delicious buffets with soups, salads, and desserts at lunch, and end your day with candlelit dinners, where each course is a symphony of local spices and textures. Experience the Mekong not just with your eyes, but with your taste buds, and discover the region's culinary magic.

Serene sundeck of RV Laos Pandaw Cruise

As the sun paints the sky in vibrant hues, retreat to the spacious sundeck. Breathe in the fresh Mekong air, lose yourself in the mesmerizing riverine landscapes, and share stories under the starlit night sky. Feel the gentle rhythm of the Mekong lull you into a state of pure relaxation.

 Laundry Service

 Closet

 Fire extinguisher

 Free welcome drink

 Mirror

 Complimentary Mineral Water

 Sunlounge

 Cooking classes

 Complementary tea

  RV Laos Pandaw 10 Nights (Upstream)

  Destination:  Vientiane, Chiang Saen, Pak Lai, Ban Park Bor Village, Pakbeng, Chiang Saen

  Departure date of itinerary:   Contact us for details

Highlights of Itinerary

• Discover the highlights of Vientiane, from Pha That Luang Stupa to Wat Prakeo Temple
• Hike to a secluded Khamo Tribe village and visit a Hmong community, experiencing unique cultures
• Explore UNESCO World Heritage Town, colonial architecture, and night markets
• Witness alms giving ceremony and participate in a cooking demonstration onboard
• Marvel at thousands of Buddha statues nestled inside the sacred Pak Ou Caves
• Enjoy cocktail evenings on sandbanks, traditional dance performances & other leisure activities

Day 1 VIENTIANE (L, D)

PLEASE NOTE: The following itinerary is just an indication of what you can expect on the cruise and subject to change. With the journey to remote land like this, there may be inevitable element that force the cruise to change the plan. Additionally, we provide a design tour service depending on 100% YOUR PLAN, try it here!

The time of check-in is 12:30 and enjoy a warm welcome with a hearty and full lunch.

The afternoon will be the discovery of Vientiane’s highlights such as Pha That Luang Stupa, Sisaket Temple, the President’s Hall, Wat Prakeo Temple and the Phatouxay monument.

Return back on board in the afternoon as we moor overnight near the city.

  Meals:  Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 CRUISING THE MEKONG (B, L, D)

Spend the day sail against the current of the Mekong. En route, the magical scenery of exotic jungle and little village tucked away by the river side will slowly appear. The morning you can spend learning the basic of Lao language. The afternoon can be reserved for a cooking demonstration. We reach Ban Xanakham in the evening for overnight.

  Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 PAK LAI (B, L, D)

The morning will be leisure on board followed by the afternoon visit to Pak Lai town. Used to be a French Administrative, now it is a lively town with many colonial imprints through the buildings. In February, this town also has one of the biggest elephant festival in South East Asia.

Day 4 BAN PARK BOR VILLAGE (B, L, D)

Spend the morning hiking to Khamo Tribe Village with Laos River Cruise , a secluded village amidst the jungle that rare gets any visitors. The afternoon trip will lead you to the Xanyaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant.

Day 5 BAN MOUANG KHAI VILLAGE AND LUANG PRABANG (B, L, D)

After breakfast, visit a village of Hmong people and then resume the journey northbound to Ban Mouang Khai. The afternoon will be spent on bus to the Khaung Si waterfalls with its sapphire water and lagoons as well as the butterfly garden. Later this afternoon, we reach the UNESCO Heritage Town – Luang Prabang, where you can explore the town with its colonial structures, night markets, and interesting restaurants.

Day 6 LUANG PRABANG (B, L, D)

After breakfast, take on a tuk tuk ride to the town of Luang Prabang with its many monuments that still retains the original states. First off is the National Museum followed some other Buddhist Temples. Afternoon, you will be free to explore the town on your own. Back on RV Laos Pandaw cruise  in the evening to enjoy dinner and a traditional dance performance by the local artists.

Day 7 PAK OU CAVES (B, L, D)

Wake up early today to take part in the alms giving ceremony by the locals that donate foods for monks that go around the town every morning. The trip this morning will be to Pak Ou Caves. It holds a special significance to the Buddhists as the spacious cave houses thousands of Buddha images. Enjoy a cocktail on the sandbank by the evening. Then we continue sailing upstream to Ban Bo.

Day 8 PAK BENG (B, L, D)

Today visit in the morning to a Khamo Village. Then continue sailing toward Pak Sit and passing through Pak Sit.

Day 9 BAN HOUAYXAY (B, L, D)

The morning will begin will a hike to a Khamo village. Afterward back on board to continue the journey toward the Laos and Thailand border. Spend the night on the Laos side in Huay Xay. 

In case you want to try another itinerary, reference 10-night tour downstream on RV Laos Pandaw !

Day 10 CHIANG SAEN (B, L, D)

Morning cruise to Chiang Saen Town in Thailand as we cross the border via Golden Triangle. Tonight will consist of a cocktail and a Thai traditional dance show on board followed by a farewell dinner.

Day 11 CHIANG SAEN (B)

Check-out from the cruise at 8:30 AM in Chian Saen and you will be transferred to your hotel or the airport. If time allows, we can make a visit to the Hall of Opium. It takes around 2 hours to reach Chiang Rai and 6 hours to reach Chiang Mai.

  Meals:  Breakfast

What's Included/Excluded

• Entrance fees
• Guide services (English language)
• Gratuities to crew
• Main meals as mentioned
• Locally-made soft drinks, mineral water
• Local beer and local spirits
• Jugged coffee and selection of teas and tisanes
• Transfers between the meeting point and the ship at the start and end of a voyage
• International flights
• Phnom Penh Port tax 65 USD/ pax
• Port dues (if levied)
• Fuel surcharges (Policies)
• Imported beverages such as wines, premium spirits, and liqueurs
• Fancy soft drinks like Perrier, espressos, and cappuccinos
• Tips to tour guides, local guides, bus drivers, boat operators, and cyclo drivers

RV LAOS PANDAW POLICY

» Payment terms

For booking with less than 3 cabins

• Upon confirmation: 30% of a non-refundable deposit is needed to confirm the booking. The balance must be made 130 prior to the date.
• If a booking is made less than 70 days before departure date, full payment must be accomplished within 48 hours.

For booking from 4 cabins and more

• Please contact us for more details.

Please note that the remitting party must cover their own bank charges and the processing fees for credit card.

» Cruise Cancellation and Refund

Cancellations are only effective when we receive it in writing via email. The following are the cancellation fee that will apply:

• From time of booking until 70 day prior to departure non-refundable deposit
• From 60 days and less till departure, no show, late arrival or early return 100% cancellation fee

Note: We strongly recommend for your protection that you purchase a trip cancellation insurance.

Note: Above cancellation terms do not apply for charter bookings. Please contact us for more advices.

» Terms and Conditions of Carriage

1. Though every effort will be made to ensure that the published itinerary is followed as closely as possible, given uncertain river and other local conditions, all schedules and itineraries may be subject to alterations and delays at short notice.

2. The ship’s purser and captain are jointly responsible for passengers’ comfort and safety. Passengers must accept their decisions and instructions.

3. Whilst our crew do everything in their power to facilitate landings, access to the ship at certain river stations can be difficult, with steep and sometimes slippery river banks. Elderly passengers should consult their doctor to ensure that they are fit for travel. Wheel chairs are not allowed.

4. In the case of water levels being too high or low or defects to the vessel beyond the control of our company an alternative itinerary will be offered to passengers after consultation between the ship’s captain and our management, subject to accommodation and meals being maintained on board the vessel unless by prior agreement with the passenger.

5. Should it prove difficult to embark or disembark passengers at the scheduled points we are not liable to bear any extra cost of transporting passengers to and from the revised point of embarkation or disembarkation unless passengers or their agents have purchased a complete package tour which includes land services from us. Any reason for changing the points of embarkation or disembarkation cannot count as a reason for cancelling this contract.

6. Passengers should seek advice from their doctor regarding relevant inoculations and prophylactics for travel to these countries.

7. Passengers must be fully insured to cover any risk of medical expenses and repatriation (which includes repatriation of remains) and we are in no way responsible for such liabilities. Passengers must settle before departure any medical bills incurred whilst on a company ship for doctor’s attendance, drugs supplied, and any other medical facilities provided by us for the passenger.

8. Once a booking has been received through a sales agent or directly from the passenger a contract exists between us and the passenger and these terms and conditions must be adhered to by both parties.

9. Unless otherwise agreed agents are responsible for the transfer of their passengers to and from the ship on time and in the event of a late arrival the ship is not obliged to delay departure thereby upsetting tight schedules.

10. We accept no liability or responsibility for loss or damage to passenger’s property whilst on board a company vessel.

11. During the river stops we provide an guide service in the English language. Foreign language guides must be pre booked and there may be extra charges for this. Personal guides must be booked at normal rates in passenger accommodation.

12. We reserve the right to refuse to allow anyone on board if a ticket can not be produced and we cannot guarantee the exact allocation of cabins and deck location which may in the event of extenuating circumstances differ from the cabin number indicated on the ticket.

13. Within the ticket price fuel costs have been calculated on average prices as of the publication of this document. Should fuel prices rise by more than 10% we will be entitled to impose a fuel supplement equivalent to the amount by which the fuel price exceeds the price allowed for in the contract.

14. It is not permitted to allow any breed of animal on board.

15. Children under 4 travel FREE if sleeping in a cot in the same cabin. Children from over 4 years up to 18 years old get:

• 1 adult and 1 child – 1 cabin – child receives 50% reduction from adult price.
• 2 adults and 1 child – 2 cabins – 1 cabin with no single supplement and 50% reduction for the child.
• 2 adults and 2 children – 2 cabins – 50% reduction for both children.
• Larger family groups – prices on request.
• 16. In the event of a dispute the law of the country in which the vessel is operating will apply.

17. We reserve the right to change the vessel without notice.

18. Payment terms and cancellation policy is printed on an invoice issued for each booking whether for an individual or for a group. Passengers and their agents must abide these terms and we reserve the right to either cancel an existing reservation or to refuse passage in the event that these terms have not been adhered to.

19. In the event that one passenger enters into a commercial or other form of relationship or arrangement with another passenger we is no way liable for the obligations of one passenger to another passenger or any claim arising thereof.

20. For cruise departures where occupancy is less than 5 cabins we reserve the right to cancel the departure giving all passengers with confirmed bookings 30 days prior notice of this intention. An alternative departure date will be offered subject to availability. If this alternative date is not acceptable to the passenger any down payments made for the cancelled cruise will be refunded. In the event that a passenger has cancelled and paid cancellation fees and we subsequently cancel that departure then any cancellation fees (and down payment) will be refunded in full on the request of the passenger.

21. We reserve the right to change a cabin allocated without notice and in the event that a passenger is downgraded to a cheaper cabin then the difference in cost between the cabins will be refunded to the passenger or the passenger’s agents.

22. Force Majeure: in the case of circumstances beyond normal control, such as war, civil or political unrest, strikes, catastrophes, epidemics or disruption to fuel supplies for the vessel, we may cancel the cruise and there will be a full refund of all monies paid by the passenger. In the event of a cruise being cancelled as a result of the above force majeure situations following the commencement of that cruise period then monies will not be refunded.

23. As we act as an agent of balloon flight operating companies, we are not liable for any optional balloon flights booked on behalf of passengers (either booked via us or by the passenger directly with the balloon flight operator). The contract and liability for any passengers booking optional balloon flights is directly between the passenger and the balloon operating company, whose terms and conditions apply.

24. All passengers must ensure they have the correct visa for travel to any country where travel is booked. Pandaw are in no way responsible for arranging visas for passengers who have not obtained them in advance. Visa guidance is indicated on the joining instructions attached to any ticket but may not be up to date as visa policy for any country can change frequently without warning. Passengers should check with respective consular websites in order to obtain latest information. We will refuse to carry any passenger without a valid visa, if so required for their particular nationality, on any vessel whose itinerary includes a border crossing.

25. We cannot be held liable for purchases made during a Pandaw voyage, or before or after the voyage if land packages have been added to the voyage, whilst on excursion ashore, prove to be counterfeit.

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