Minor Hotels has launched several river cruises that recreate the colonial romance of river travel but with a modern twist. Mekong Kingdoms Cruises elevates the concept of river travel with its fleet of five vessels where guests can enjoy first-class services from gourmet meals to plush cabins with curated experiences both aboard and ashore along the way. Cruises operate along the Mekong River from Thailand’s Golden Triangle to the ancient Lao capital and UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang and conjure up images of old Indochina. Adventurers can join Mekong Kingdoms’ flagship ‘Bohème’, a 42m, 13-cabin luxury barge at Luang Prabang or Chiang Khong located in the Golden Triangle. Decorated with Indochinese-inspired artwork and fitted with fine furnishings, ‘Bohème’ spoils guests with facilities including a sundeck, wine cellar and spa. The downriver journey takes two nights, while the upstream cruise takes three nights. Itineraries include guided jungle treks, visit to Pak Ou Caves, a Hmong Village at Pak Beng and Ban Baw weaving village. Intimate cruises are offered by ‘Gypsy’, an exclusive two-cabin cruiser perfect for one or more nights along the Mekong for up to four passengers. For shorter day trips in complete privacy, ‘Nomad’ offers couples an exclusive getaway. ‘Play’ is a floating lounge ideal for private events or family adventure and is suitable for up to 15 passengers with sundeck, private room and a sound system. ‘Monsoon’ is a scheduled touring shuttle to the Pak Ou Caves with canapés, coffee, tea and soft drinks.
Discovering the Mekong Kingdoms by Boat
