Heritage Line has returned its boutique river vessel Anouvong to service on the Upper Mekong following an extensive refurbishment and redesign.
The 10-cabin vessel began its latest season in late July, operating between Luang Prabang and Huay Xai, near the Thai border and Golden Triangle. Longer voyages extend south from Luang Prabang to the Lao capital, Vientiane.
The latest refit, described by Heritage Line as the ship’s third transformation, introduced a maroon-and-white exterior inspired by the historic temples of Luang Prabang. Interior changes include warmer lighting, redesigned wardrobes, a refurbished spa, a new bar and updates to one of the vessel’s two Signature Suites. [Watch Video]
The redesigned suite draws on Wat Si Saket in Vientiane, a temple constructed during the reign of King Anouvong, the final monarch of the former Kingdom of Vientiane after whom the vessel is named.
Heritage Line has also revised the ship’s shore program. New visits to Pak Sith and Ban Baw replace calls at Khok Phou and Huay Phaluang. Pak Sith is a Khmu community known for traditional blacksmithing, while Ban Baw is associated with cotton and silk weaving. The latter visit may also include a private meditation session with local monks.
The ship operates three-night voyages between Huay Xai and Luang Prabang in either direction. Seven-night downstream and nine-night upstream itineraries connect Huay Xai with Vientiane, with the longer upstream schedule allowing for the Mekong’s current.
Anouvong carries a maximum of 20 passengers in eight staterooms and two suites. Standard cabins measure about 20 square metres and have floor-to-ceiling windows opening to French balconies. The 30-square-metre Signature Suites include private balconies, indoor Jacuzzis and forward-facing views.
The vessel originally entered service in August 2023 as Heritage Line’s first ship dedicated to the Upper Mekong. Its return restores one of the few luxury multi-day cruise operations serving the remote Lao section of the river, where navigation is complicated by seasonal water levels, rapids and shifting channels.
Available facilities include a dining room, café-bar and lounge, spa and open terrace. Heritage Line is offering three-, seven- and nine-night departures during the new season.
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