Angkor Pandaw

Deals

PM: Transfer from Hanoi to Tuan Chau, Halong Bay (approximately 130km and 2.5-hour journey) by bus with a guide. Upon arrival, embark your Pandaw ship and enjoy lunch on board. Cast off in the afternoon with a welcome cocktail for an evening sail, dropping anchor in Coconut Beach a sheltered bay amidst the beautiful island scenery.

Note:

TRANSFER FROM HANOI AIRPORT

We will pick you up at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport. Last departure is no later than 10:30am (Unless there are any delays with your flight).

Your guide will be waiting for you with a Pandaw Sign at column No 12 outside of the international arrival exit. Arrival in Halong Bay at 12.00pm.

For passengers arriving earlier, you have the option to wait at the airport to join with other passengers arrival on the same day (latest by 10.30AM), or you can take a taxi to our meeting point (Pan Pacific Hanoi Hotel, 1 Thanh Nien Road, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi 10000, Vietnam) at your own expense then joint group transfer to our ship.

Please note: Guides and drivers are not allowed inside the terminal building. We will be waiting for you outside with a Pandaw sign. Hanoi Airport has two exits; if you don’t see us, please try the other exit on the same level (30 meters).

TRANSFER FROM HANOI CITY

Meeting point for embarkation in Hanoi will be the Pan Pacific Hotel (1 Thanh Nien Road, Ba Dinh Dist., Hanoi 10000, Vietnam) and registration will be at 09:30am in Song Hong Bar. Please ensure you are checked out and ready in reception on time, departure 10:00am.

For those not staying at the Pan Pacific Hotel, please ask your hotel reception support by arrange a taxi to the meeting point at 09.30am for registration.

PRIVATE ARRIVAL AT HA LONG BAY

For passengers already in Ha Long Bay on the night before, please come to Tuan Chau International Jetty. Embarkation time will be between 12:00 and 13:00.

AM & PM: Morning sail around Halong Bay and beyond with its 1,500 dramatic limestone islands and extraordinary rock formations, dating back 1 approximately 20 million years. We make a stop at Viet Hai Village and continue our journey by mountain bike or electric buggy to visit the village's vegetable farm and typical village houses. 2 Enjoy a breathtaking ride along a small road winding its way through the limestone rocks. In the afternoon, we will continue cruising towards Lan Ha Bay for a visit to a floating fishing house. Weather 3 permitting, we will end the day with cocktails at 3-Peach Island's beautiful beach in Halong Bay.

AM: Our exploration of Halong Bay continues, and we stop at the so-called "Dark and Bright Cave." Take a kayak or a local basket boat rowed by fishermen and enter this 1 remarkable cave into an enclosed area similar to a crater. Bats can be heard in the cave, and massive stalagmites hang from the ceiling.

PM: In the afternoon, we leave Halong Bay and enter the river, where we drop anchor near Hai Phong.

AM: Observe the lively and interesting life of the Kinh Thay river, a key commercial waterway.

PM: In the afternoon we visit Thanh Ha Commune, considered the origin of water puppetry in Vietnam. After a stroll or bicycle through the quaint village, we enjoy a private water puppet show set under shade by a beautiful pond of lotus and lilies, as it has been enjoyed for centuries. We continue cruising until late evening and drop anchor midstream.

AM: This morning, we sail along the Lower Red River and Day River while getting more acquainted with your expedition vessel during a ship tour.

PM: After lunch onboard, we head ashore to Co Chat village in Nam Dinh. Here, we visit local craftspeople who are making silk by hand and explore the local markets filled with exotic produce.

AM: We continue our exploration of the Red River Delta, cruising towards Ninh Binh before mooring at Khanh Thien Village. In the morning, we disembark and embark on a journey to Phat Diem, home to the magnificent Phat Diem Cathedral, a 19th-century Roman Catholic church showcasing a unique blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles.

PM: After lunch, explore Khanh Thien Village by local transportation or bicycle, discovering a host of local handicrafts including water hyacinth weaving and a variety of rice paper and cakes. Conclude the day with an enchanting performance by local artists showcasing ‘Chau Van’ singing, an ancient art form unique to this region.

AM & PM: Discover ‘Halong on Land’ today as we visit Ninh Binh, and take small bamboo rowing boats through the magnificent limestone caves. Visitors traveling in September and October, or April and May will witness the valleys shine golden as the rice fields prepare for harvest. We then return to our ship and sail upstream on the Red River towards Hanoi.

AM & PM: Dropping anchor in the bustling city of Hanoi, passengers will embark on a captivating journey through Hanoi, venturing beyond the typical tourist trail. Explore the historic Temple of Literature, a testament to Vietnam's Confucian roots, and gain a poignant understanding of the city's past at the Hoa Lo Prison. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Old Quarter, a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and aromas. Witness the unique spectacle of Train Street, sipping Vietnamese coffee as a train passes just inches away. Explore the local markets of Hang Da and Hang Gai Street and meet for transfer back to the RV Angkor at Thang Long Theatre.

AM & PM: This morning, we visit Bat Trang ceramic village, a hub of ceramic production for generations. The ceramics made here are famous throughout Vietnam and adorn many homes both north and south. Before returning to the ship, a local dance troupe will treat us to a lion dance on the pier. This colourful and energetic dance is customary during festivals throughout Vietnam, most notably during Tet. We then set sail into the lesser visited upper Red River beyond Hanoi. We make a stop at a small village dedicated to the handmade production of Vietnam’s most famous headwear, the Non La conical hat before continuing to Thay Pagoda. Hardly known, yet with exquisite temples dating from the 11th century, we visit this beautiful temple beside a lake and explore the village that surrounds the pagoda.

AM: In the morning we go ashore to visit the UNESCO-praised village of Duang Lam. In the afternoon, visit the carpenter and smith village of Ly Nhan.

PM: We sail upstream on the Upper Red River to Viet Tri. Enjoy traditional dances on board.

AM: Disembark after breakfast and visit the conical hat-making village of Gia Thanh.

PM: By bus, we continue to Hung Lo Temple, Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, followed by a transfer to Hanoi airport or drop off point Pan Pacific Hotel Hanoi.

Note:

After lunch at local restaurant departure for Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport. Estimated arrival at Hanoi Airport between 14:30 to 14.45, Pan Pacific hotel arriving between 15:30 to 16.00. Your flight out of Hanoi airport must be after 16.00pm (domestic) or 17.00pm (international).

After lunch at local restaurant departure for Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport and the Pan Pacific hotel. Estimated arrival at Hanoi Airport between 14:30 to 14.45, Pan Pacific hotel arriving between 15:30 to 16.00. Your flight out of Hanoi airport must be after 16.00pm (domestic) or 17.00pm (international).

Please arrange your own taxi from the Pan Pacific hotel to your hotel in Hanoi if different.

AM: Transfer from Hanoi to your ship moored along the Red River in Viet Tri.

PM: After lunch we visit Lac Long Quan or the Hung Kings Temple and learn about the history of the Hung Kings and the founding of the first nation in Vietnamese history. We return to the ship for your welcome dinner and introduction to your crew.

Please note:

TRANSFER FROM HANOI AIRPORT

We pick you up at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport – Seat in coach. Last departure is no later than 12.00 noon. Pandaw guide will be waiting for you with a Pandaw Sign at column No12, on the right hand sided of the international arrival exit.

Please note: Guides and drivers are not allowed inside the terminal building. We will be waiting for you outside with a sign. Hanoi Airport has two exits; if you don’t see us, please try the other exit on the same level (30 meters).

TRANSFER FROM HANOI CITY

Meeting point for embarkation in Hanoi will be the Pan Pacific Hotel (1 Thanh Nien Road, Ba Dinh Dist., Hanoi 10000, Vietnam) and registration will be at 09:30am in Song Hong Bar. Please ensure you are checked out and ready on time, departure 10:00am.

For those not staying at the Pan Pacific Hotel, please ask your hotel reception support by arrange a taxi to the meeting point at 09.30am for registration.

AM & PM: A day of exploring the various crafts produced throughout the delta. We start with a visit to Hung Lo temple where we will be serenaded with traditional folk music as well as enjoy an exploration this quaint traditional town. In the afternoon we visit the smith village of Ly Nhan to witness first-hand the traditional production methods still being used to this day.

AM: We visit the UNESCO praised village of Duong Lam an ancient village that is a well preserved example of a traditional Vietnamese village from centuries ago with intricate architecture and fascinating culture.

PM: After lunch we continue downstream on the Red River and visit a timeless Arcadian Vietnam with emerald green rice paddies punctuated by lime stone rock formations. We make a stop at a small village dedicated to the handmade production of Vietnam’s most famous headwear, the Non La conical hat before continuing to Thay Pagoda. Hardly known, yet with exquisite temples dating from the 11th century, we visit this beautiful temple beside a lake and explore the village that surrounds the pagoda.

AM & PM: Dropping anchor in the bustling city of Hanoi, passengers will embark on a captivating journey through Hanoi, venturing beyond the typical tourist trail. Explore the historic Temple of Literature, a testament to Vietnam's Confucian roots, and gain a poignant understanding of the city's past at the Hoa Lo Prison. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Old Quarter, a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and aromas. Witness the unique spectacle of Train Street, sipping Vietnamese coffee as a train passes just inches away. Explore the local markets of Hang Da and Hang Gai Street and meet for transfer back to the RV Angkor at Thang Long Theatre.

AM & PM: This morning we visit Bat Trang ceramic village, a hub of ceramic production for generations. The ceramics made here are famous throughout Vietnam and adorn many homes both north and south. Before returning to the ship, a local dance troupe will treat us to a lion dance on the pier. This colourful and energetic dance is customary during festivals throughout Vietnam, most notably during Tet. We sail through the maze of waterways this afternoon and are entertained onboard by your Pandaw Chef with a cooking class and fruit carving.

AM: After breakfast we head ashore to Co Chat village, Nam Dinh. Here we visit local craftspeople making silk by hand and the local markets filled with exotic produce.

PM: After lunch onboard we moor at Khanh Thien Village, a quaint town known for it’s skilled craftspeople. We explore this cultural hub by local transportation or bicycle and discover a host of handicrafts including water hyacinth weaving and a variety of rice paper and cakes. We end the evening with a performance by the locals of ‘Chau Van’ singing, an ancient art form local to this area.

AM: Discover ‘Halong on Land’ today as we visit Ninh Binh and take small bamboo rowing boats through the magnificent limestone caves. Visitors in September and October or April and May will witness the valleys shine golden as the rice fields prepare for harvest.

PM: After lunch we continue our exploration of the Red River Delta with a journey to Phat Diem, home to Phat Diem Cathedral, a 19th-century Roman Catholic church built in an eclectic blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles. We continue upstream on our journey to Halong.

AM: Observe the lively and interesting life on the river before we reach our next destination in the afternoon.

PM: Excursion to Thanh Ha Commune with a village walk and a private water puppet show set under shade by a beautiful pond of lotus and lilies. 

We drop anchor near Hai Phong Port, the gateway to Halong Bay. 

AM & PM: Cast off early morning along the river before entering Halong Bay’s amazing island scenery with its 2,000 dramatic limestone islands and extraordinary rock formations dating back 20 million years. Exploring Halong Bay, we stop at the so called “Dark and Bright Cave” where we take a kayak or a local basket boat rowed by fishermen and enter this remarkable cave into an enclosed area similar to a crater. Bats can be heard in the cave and massive stalagmites hang from the ceiling. We continue our cruise through Halong Bay until we drop anchor in a quieter part of the bay.

AM: Continuing our sailing we make a stop at Viet Hai Village. We continue our journey by mountain bike or electric buggy to visit the village’s vegetable farm and typical village houses. It is a breath-taking trip along a small road winding its way through the limestone rocks.

PM: In the afternoon we will continue cruising towards Lan Ha Bay for a visit to a floating fishing house. Weather dependent, we will end the day with cocktails at a beautiful secluded beach.

AM: Morning sail to Tuan Chau Jetty.

PM: Disembarkation at 09:00 Tuan Chau Port at Halong Bay. After lunch at local restaurant departure for Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport and central Hanoi hotels. Estimated arrival at Hanoi Airport at 15.30 PM, hotels in Hanoi arriving around 16.30 PM. Your flight out of Hanoi airport must be after 16:30 (domestic) or 17:30 (international).

Please note:

After lunch at local restaurant departure for Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport and the Pan Pacific hotel. Estimated arrival at Hanoi Airport between 14:30 to 14.45, Pan Pacific hotel arriving between 15:30 to 16.00. Your flight out of Hanoi airport must be after 16.00pm (domestic) or 17.00pm (international).

Please arrange your own taxi from the Pan Pacific hotel to your hotel in Hanoi if different.

PM: Transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay to embark your ship followed by lunch on board. Cast off in the afternoon with a welcome cocktail for an evening sail, dropping anchor in a sheltered bay amidst the beautiful island scenery.

Note:

TRANSFER FROM HANOI AIRPORT

We will pick you up at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport. Last departure is no later than 10:30am (Unless there are any delays with your flight).

Your guide will be waiting for you with a Pandaw Sign at column No 12 outside of the international arrival exit. Arrival in Halong Bay at 12.00pm.

For passengers arriving earlier, you have the option to wait at the airport to join with other passengers arrival on the same day (latest by 10.30AM), or you can take a taxi to our meeting point (Pan Pacific Hanoi Hotel, 1 Thanh Nien Road, Ba Dinh Ward, Hanoi 10000, Vietnam) at your own expense then joint group transfer to our ship.

If you encounter any difficulties, please contact our emergency number.

TRANSFER FROM HANOI CITY

Meeting point for embarkation in Hanoi will be the Pan Pacific Hotel (1 Thanh Nien Road, Ba Dinh Ward, Hanoi 10000, Vietnam) and registration will be at 09:30 am in Song Hong Bar. Please ensure you are checked out and ready in reception on time, departure 10:00am.

For those not staying at the Pan Pacific Hotel, please ask your hotel reception to arrange a taxi to the meeting point at 09.30 am for registration.

PRIVATE ARRIVAL AT HA LONG BAY

For passengers already in Ha Long Bay on the night before, please come to Tuan Chau International Jetty. Embarkation time will be between 12:00 and 13:00.

AM: Morning sail around Halong Bay and beyond with its 1,500 dramatic limestone islands and extraordinary rock formations, dating back 20 million years.

PM: Stop at Viet Hai Village and explore on mountain bike or electric buggy, visiting the village’s vegetable farm and typical village houses. It is a breath-taking trip along a small road winding its way through the limestone rocks.

AM: Exploration of Halong Bay continues with a visit to the so called “Dark and Bright Cave”. Take a kayak or a local basket boat rowed by fishermen and enter this remarkable cave into an enclosed area similar to a crater. Bats can be heard in the cave and massive stalagmites hang from the ceiling.

PM: In the afternoon, we leave Halong Bay and enter the river, where we drop anchor near Hai Phong.

AM: Observe the lively and interesting life of the Kinh Thay river, a key commercial waterway. In the afternoon we visit Thanh Ha Commune, considered the origin of water puppetry in Vietnam. After a stroll or bicycle through the quaint village, we enjoy a private water puppet show set under shade by a beautiful pond of lotus and lilies, as it has been enjoyed for centuries.

PM: We continue cruising until late evening and drop anchor midstream.

AM: This morning, we sail along the Lower Red River and Day River while getting more acquainted with your expedition vessel during a ship tour.

PM: After lunch onboard, we head ashore to Co Chat village in Nam Dinh. Here, we visit local craftspeople who are making silk by hand and explore the local markets filled with exotic produce.

AM: We continue our exploration of the Red River Delta, cruising towards Ninh Binh before mooring at Khanh Thien Village. In the morning, we disembark and embark on a journey to Phat Diem, home to the magnificent Phat Diem Cathedral, a 19th-century Roman Catholic church showcasing a unique blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles.

PM: After lunch, explore Khanh Thien Village by local transportation or bicycle, discovering a host of local handicrafts including water hyacinth weaving and a variety of rice paper and cakes. Conclude the day with an enchanting performance by local artists showcasing ‘Chau Van’ singing, an ancient art form unique to this region.

AM & PM: Discover ‘Halong on Land’ today as we visit Ninh Binh, and take small bamboo rowing boats through the magnificent limestone caves. Visitors traveling in September and October, or April and May will witness the valleys shine golden as the rice fields prepare for harvest. We then return to our ship and sail upstream on the Red River towards Hanoi.

AM & PM: Dropping anchor in the bustling city of Hanoi, passengers will embark on a captivating journey through Hanoi, venturing beyond the typical tourist trail. Explore the historic Temple of Literature, a testament to Vietnam's Confucian roots, and gain a poignant understanding of the city's past at the Hoa Lo Prison. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Old Quarter, a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and aromas. Witness the unique spectacle of Train Street, sipping Vietnamese coffee as a train passes just inches away. Explore the local markets of Hang Da and Hang Gai Street and meet for transfer back to the RV Angkor at Thang Long Theatre.

AM & PM: This morning, we visit Bat Trang ceramic village, a hub of ceramic production for generations. The ceramics made here are famous throughout Vietnam and adorn many homes both north and south. Before returning to the ship, a local dance troupe will treat us to a lion dance on the pier. This colourful and energetic dance is customary during festivals throughout Vietnam, most notably during Tet. We then set sail into the lesser visited upper Red River beyond Hanoi. We make a stop at a small village dedicated to the handmade production of Vietnam’s most famous headwear, the Non La conical hat before continuing to Thay Pagoda. Hardly known, yet with exquisite temples dating from the 11th century, we visit this beautiful temple beside a lake and explore the village that surrounds the pagoda.

AM: In the morning we go ashore to visit the UNESCO praised village of Duang Lam. This ancient village is a well preserved example of a traditional Vietnamese village from centuries ago with intricate architecture and fascinating culture.

PM: In the afternoon we visit the smith village of Ly Nhan to witness first-hand the traditional production methods still being used to this day. We then sail upstream for your farewell dinner onboard.

AM: Disembark after breakfast and enjoy a morning excursion en route to Hanoi. We start with a visit to Hung Lo Temple, where we will be serenaded with traditional folk music and enjoy an exploration of this quaint traditional town.

PM: Lunch will be served at a local restaurant followed by a transfer to Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport for your flight to Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai. On arrival in Thailand, transfer to your hotel for the evening.

Note: Depending on flight times to Thailand, you may need to transfer to the airport sooner which will be advised nearer the time.

AM & PM: We cordially invite our guests to board their Pandaw vessel at Chiang Khong, a historic gateway to the Golden Triangle where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge. On behalf of the captain and the entire crew, we wish you a warm welcome aboard for this amazing cruise downstream to Vientiane. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Thai dance performance on the upper deck, a graceful art form characterised by slow, deliberate movements and elaborate costumes that reflect the region's rich Lanna heritage.

AM: We take a minivan for 15 minutes to the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge for immigration formalities before transferring to the ship on the Lao side. Onboard, join a Lao language class to learn essential phrases such as "Sa-bai-dee", an integral part of local etiquette.

PM: In the afternoon, we visit Ban Pak Sit, a village home to the Khmu people, one of the oldest ethnic groups in Laos known for their intricate basket weaving and animist traditions. The evening features a screening of the documentary "The Secret of Nature" regarding Laos' natural wonders.

AM & PM: Our morning excursion takes us to Ban Loung Tong, a lowland Lao village, offering insight into the agricultural lifestyle and traditional stilt-house architecture typical of the region. We then arrive at the Pak Beng Elephant Camp, a rescue sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of elephants in Laos—historically known as the "Land of a Million Elephants"—and providing sustainable livelihoods for Mahouts. We moor at a riverbank for a special evening where guests are invited to fly traditional paper lanterns with the crew and enjoy a dance performance in this remote setting, followed by a BBQ.

AM: We explore Ban Bor Village, a unique settlement where Lao and Khummu people coexist, demonstrating the harmonious blend of different ethnic customs and farming practices. Onboard, we screen the documentary "Luang Prabang Timeless" .

PM: In the afternoon, we visit Ban Huay Khae, a village inhabited by Khummu and Hmong people; the Hmong are renowned for their vibrant textiles and distinct cultural heritage originating from the mountainous regions of Southern China.

AM & PM: We transfer to a local boat to visit the extraordinary Pak Ou Buddha Caves, a sacred Buddhist sanctuary set within limestone cliffs containing thousands of Buddha statues left by pilgrims over centuries. Afterward, we sail downstream to visit Ban Xang Hai, locally known as the "Whisky Village," to observe the production of Lao-Lao (rice whisky) and traditional handicrafts Upon arrival in Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its fusion of traditional Lao architecture and European colonial structures, join your guide for an orientation walk to familiarise yourself with the local area.

AM: We take Tuk Tuks to visit the National Museum (the former Royal Palace), which houses the sacred Phra Bang Buddha image, and the Buddhist temples of Wat Mai and Wat Xieng Thong, a masterpiece of Lao temple architecture featuring intricate glass mosaics.

PM: In the afternoon, we climb the 328 steps to the top of Mount Phou Si, the spiritual heart of the city offering panoramic views of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. The evening features a traditional Lao Baci Ceremony followed by a performance of Pha Lak Pha Lam (Ramayana), a dance-drama that is integral to Lao culture.

AM: We depart on foot to observe the morning Alms Offering (Tak Bat), a sacred ritual where locals offer food to hundreds of monks processing through the streets. Later, we take a Tuk Tuk to visit Ock Pop Tok, a social enterprise preserving traditional Lao textile techniques, and the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre (TAEC), dedicated to the diverse ethnic cultures of Laos.

PM: In the afternoon, we take a Tuk Tuk to visit Ban Xang Khong, a village famous for its traditional Saa paper making and silk weaving.

AM: We visit the Ban Chan Pottery House to witness a demonstration of traditional pottery techniques that have been passed down through generations. We then travel by minivan to visit the Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm, a sustainable enterprise supporting local farmers, and the dramatic Kuang Si Waterfall, a 15-minute drive away, where turquoise waters cascade over limestone formations.

PM: In the evening, we present the movie "Mekong River" by Sue Perkins.

AM & PM: Our morning excursion visits Ban Na San Village to meet the Hmong people, an ethnic group historically known for shifting cultivation and distinctive silver jewelry. Onboard, our guide gives a presentation on Laos. We arrive at the Xayaburi Dam, a controversial yet impressive hydroelectric engineering project, and pass through the lock. Our chef demonstrates how to prepare famous Lao dishes such as Tum Som (Green Papaya Salad). Later, we visit Ban Khok Fark to observe the lifestyle of the Lao Loum (Lowland Lao), the dominant ethnic group in the country. The evening concludes with a screening of the "Pandaw History" documentary.

AM: We visit Ban Pak Yun, a village known for its mix of minority groups living together, offering a unique perspective on ethnic integration in rural Laos. Back onboard, guests can enjoy a napkin folding demonstration and a guided tour of the vessel, including the galley and engine room.

PM: In the afternoon, we walk through Pak Lai, a former French administrative town featuring colonial buildings and bustling local shops that reflect its history as a commercial outpost. The captain and crew present a farewell gathering on the upper deck.

AM: We disembark at Pak Lai and transfer by local long-tail boat downstream to Vientiane, the charming capital city known for its French colonial architecture and Buddhist temples.

Note:

Disembark 08.30 in Pak Lay after breakfast and transfer to Vientiane by the local long-tail boat. Arrival in Vientiane approx 17:30 at your chosen hotel or VTE airport.

AM: Transfer from Hanoi to your ship moored along the Red River in Viet Tri.

PM: After lunch we visit Lac Long Quan or the Hung Kings Temple and learn about the history of the Hung Kings and the founding of the first nation in Vietnamese history. We return to the ship for your welcome dinner and introduction to your crew.

PLEASE NOTE:

TRANSFER FROM HANOI AIRPORT

We pick you up at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport – Seat in coach. Last departure is no later than 12.00 noon. Our representative will be waiting for you with a Sign at column No.12, on the right hand sided of the international arrival exit. Hanoi Airport has two exits; if you don’t see us, please try the other exit on the same level (30 meters).

TRANSFER FROM HANOI CITY

Meeting point for embarkation in Hanoi will be the Pan Pacific Hotel (1 Thanh Nien Road, Ba Dinh Dist., Hanoi 10000, Vietnam) and registration will be at 09:30am in reception. Please ensure you are checked out and ready in reception on time, departure 10:00am.

For those not staying at the Pan Pacific Hotel, We will arrange a taxi from your hotel in central Hanoi to the meeting point. We will arrange with your hotel reception and inform of exact time the evening before, typically pick up will be between 08:30 and 09:00am. Surcharges apply for hotels outside of Hoan Kiem District or Hanoi Old Quarter.

AM: A day of exploring the various crafts produced throughout the delta. We start with a visit to Hung Lo temple where we will be serenaded with traditional folk music as well as enjoy an exploration this quaint traditional town.

PM: In the afternoon we visit the smith village of Ly Nhan to witness first-hand the traditional production methods still being used to this day.

AM: We visit the UNESCO praised village of Duong Lam an ancient village that is a well-preserved example of a traditional Vietnamese village from centuries ago with intricate architecture and fascinating culture.

PM: After lunch we continue downstream on the Red River and visit a timeless Arcadian Vietnam with emerald, green rice paddies punctuated by limestone rock formations. We make a stop at a small village dedicated to the handmade production of Vietnam’s most famous headwear, the Non-La conical hat before continuing to Thay Pagoda. Hardly known, yet with exquisite temples dating from the 11th century, we visit this beautiful temple beside a lake and explore the village that surrounds the pagoda.

AM & PM: Dropping anchor in the bustling city of Hanoi, passengers will embark on a captivating journey through Hanoi, venturing beyond the typical tourist trail. Explore the historic Temple of Literature, a testament to Vietnam's Confucian roots, and gain a poignant understanding of the city's past at the Hoa Lo Prison. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Old Quarter, a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and aromas. Witness the unique spectacle of Train Street, sipping Vietnamese coffee as a train passes just inches away. Explore the local markets of Hang Da and Hang Gai Street and meet for transfer back to the RV Angkor at Thang Long Theatre.

AM: This morning, we visit Bat Trang ceramic village, a hub of ceramic production for generations. The ceramics made here are famous throughout Vietnam and adorn many homes both north and south. Before returning to the ship, a local dance troupe will treat us to a lion dance on the pier. This colorful and energetic dance is customary during festivals throughout Vietnam, most notably during Tet.

PM: We sail through the maze of waterways this afternoon and are entertained onboard by your Pandaw Chef with a cooking class and fruit carving.

AM: After breakfast we head ashore to Co Chat village, Nam Dinh. Here we visit local craftspeople making silk by hand and the local markets filled with exotic produce.

PM: After lunch onboard, we moor at Khanh Thien Village, a quaint town known for it’s skilled craftspeople. We explore this cultural hub by local transportation or bicycle and discover a host of handicrafts including water hyacinth weaving and a variety of rice paper and cakes. We end the evening with a performance by the locals of ‘Chau Van’ singing, an ancient art form local to this area.

AM: Discover ‘Halong on Land’ today as we visit Ninh Binh and take small bamboo rowing boats through the magnificent limestone caves. Visitors in September and October or April and May will witness the valleys shine golden as the rice fields prepare for harvest.

PM: After lunch we continue our exploration of the Red River Delta with a journey to Phat Diem, home to Phat Diem Cathedral, a 19th-century Roman Catholic church built in an eclectic blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles. We continue upstream on our journey to Halong.

AM: Observe the lively and interesting life on the river as we spend a morning sailing the delta. Enjoy an exploration of your vessel with a ship tour before lunch.

PM: In the afternoon we visit Thanh Ha Commune, considered the origin of water puppetry in Vietnam. After a stroll or bicycle through the quaint village, we enjoy a private water puppet show set under shade by a beautiful pond of lotus and lilies, as it has been enjoyed for centuries. We drop anchor near Hai Phong Port, the gateway to Halong Bay.

AM & PM: Cast off early morning along the river before entering Halong Bay’s amazing island scenery with its 2,000 dramatic limestone islands and extraordinary rock formations dating back 20 million years. Exploring Halong Bay, we stop at the so called “Dark and Bright Cave” where we take a kayak or a local basket boat rowed by fishermen and enter this remarkable cave into an enclosed area similar to a crater. Bats can be heard in the cave and massive stalagmites hang from the ceiling.

We continue our cruise through Halong Bay until we drop anchor in a quieter part of the bay.

AM: Continuing our sailing we make a stop at Viet Hai Village. We continue our journey by mountain bike or electric buggy to visit the village’s vegetable farm and typical village houses. It is a breath-taking trip along a small road winding its way through the limestone rocks.

PM: In the afternoon we will continue cruising towards Lan Ha Bay for a visit to a floating fishing house. Weather dependent, we will end the day with cocktails at a beautiful secluded beach.

AM & PM: Morning sail to Tuan Chau Jetty. Disembark and transfer to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Vientiane, with stop for lunch at a local restaurant (approximately 130km and 2.5-hour journey). On arrival in Vientiane transfer to your hotel for the evening.

Note: Depending on your flight time to Vientiane it may be necessary to transfer earlier to the airport. We will advise nearer the time.

AM: Your journey begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Vientiane, the charming, old French capital of Laos known for its relaxed atmosphere and colonial architecture. You will board a traditional Laotian long-tail boat for an expedition upstream, a lovely introduction to river life before you even step on board your Pandaw vessel.

PM: As the city recedes, enjoy lunch and drinks served by our Pandaw chef and bar staff while watching the lush jungle scenery and tiny riverside villages unfold. In the afternoon, you will embark your ship, settle in, and join the crew for a welcome briefing and drinks as we moor for the night at Pak Lay.

AM & PM: Today is dedicated to pure river immersion as we sail upstream against the Mekong's powerful current. From the sundeck, meditate on the unfolding panorama of stunning mountain scenery and deep, verdant gorges where the river carves its path through the landscape. In the morning, join a presentation on the Lao language to learn more about the local culture. We also stop for a short, invigorating walk at Pha Laeb village to stretch our legs and meet some of the friendly locals in this remote region.

AM: After a morning walk through the Khummu minority village of Ban Pak Bor, prepare for a fascinating encounter with modern engineering. You will experience passage through the Xayabouri Hydroelectric Dam, getting an inside look at the workings of this massive structure as your ship expertly navigates the locks.

PM: In the afternoon, we visit Ban Na San, a Hmong minority village, offering a precious opportunity to learn about the culture and traditions of one of Laos' most distinct ethnic groups, known for their vibrant textiles and silver jewelry.

AM & PM: We moor at the small village of Ban Mouang Khai to visit one of Laos’ most spectacular natural wonders: the Kuang Si Waterfalls. These falls cascade down multiple tiers into a series of stunningly beautiful, turquoise-blue pools where you are welcome to take a refreshing swim. On the way back, we stop at the Laos Buffalo Farm, a social enterprise working to improve the local farming community through sustainable dairy production. In the afternoon, we arrive in the heart of the enchanting, UNESCO-protected city of Luang Prabang, where we will moor for the next three nights. We then climb the 328 steps to Mount Phou Si Temple, where the best views of Luang Prabang can be found, followed by an orientation tour before returning to the ship.

AM: Today is dedicated to exploring the rich artistic heritage of Luang Prabang. We begin at Ock Pop Tok, a wonderful social enterprise that provides sustainable employment and training for women from local weaving villages, preserving traditional Lao textile techniques. We then visit the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre (TAEC) to understand more about the diverse ethnic cultures and musical instruments of Laos.

PM: After lunch back on board, we take a short trip to the village of Ban Chan for a pottery demonstration at a local workshop. The day concludes with a serene sunset cruise on the Mekong alongside the city before returning to our central mooring.

AM: Your day begins before dawn with a truly unforgettable experience: a walking tour to witness the sacred and silent morning alms-giving ceremony (Tak Bat), where hundreds of saffron-robed monks walk through the streets to collect offerings from the local people. After breakfast, we visit the bustling morning market before taking tuk-tuks for a tour of this incredibly well-preserved heritage city, exploring its many dazzling Buddhist temples, historic libraries, and the former Royal Palace (now the National Museum).

PM: In the afternoon, we take a tuk-tuk to visit Ban Xang Khong, a village famous for its traditional paper making. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore the unique, peaceful atmosphere of Luang Prabang at your own leisure.

AM: After a final morning at leisure in Luang Prabang, we set sail at midday, continuing our journey upstream.

PM: In the afternoon, we board a local boat to explore the unique Pak Ou Caves. Set in a dramatic limestone cliff face at the confluence of the Mekong and Ou rivers, these two caves are a Buddhist sanctuary filled with thousands of Buddha images of all shapes and sizes, left by pilgrims over hundreds of years. Afterward, we visit the nearby "Whisky Village" (Ban Xang Hai) to see the production of the local lao-lao rice spirit and browse for local handicrafts.

AM: This day is spent sailing through some of the most remote and beautiful parts of the Upper Mekong. We'll take a morning walk through Ban Ton village to experience life in a place that few outsiders get to see, observing the daily rhythms of the local community.

PM: In the evening, a special Pandaw experience awaits, we moor alongside a secluded sandbank for a riverside barbecue and cocktail party. As darkness falls, you will light and release paper lanterns with the crew, their soft glow floating into the night sky over the river—a truly magical moment.

AM: Laos is famously known as ‘The Land of a Million Elephants’, and today we visit a sanctuary that is helping to preserve these majestic animals. The Pak Beng Elephant Sanctuary is a rescue center that provides a sustainable and ethical alternative for elephants and their mahouts who once worked in the logging industry. It’s a wonderful opportunity to see these gentle giants in a more natural environment.

PM: In the afternoon, we take a walk through the Khummu village of Ban Pak Sith to learn about the traditions of this ethnic group.

AM & PM: Today we sail the final leg of our journey, continuing upstream towards the Thai border. The scenery remains just as spectacular as the river carves its way through the mountains. You'll have time for a ship tour to see the inner workings of the vessel and a fruit carving demonstration from your talented Pandaw Chef. As we approach our final mooring in Chiang Khong, Thailand, you'll cross over the Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge. Tonight, we celebrate our incredible journey with farewell cocktails and a traditional Thai dance performance on board.

AM: After a final breakfast, you will disembark in Chiang Khong by 08.30 AM. Before your transfer, you will explore the historic Golden Triangle region, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. This includes a fascinating visit to the Hall of Opium Museum, which details the area's notorious past and the history of the opium trade. Afterwards, you will be transferred to your hotel or the airport in either Chiang Rai (a 2-hour drive) or Chiang Mai (a 6-hour drive). You will reach Chiang Rai at 15.30 and Chiang Mai at 17.30.

Note: Private transfers will need to be arranged at an extra cost. We suggest to book a hotel in Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai after your cruise.