Anantara-affiliated luxury cruise operator Mekong Kingdoms has unveiled Bohème, the newest addition to its fleet.
The 50-metre-long suite-only vessel plies the mighty Mekong River between the Kingdom of Laos’ royal capital, Luang Prabang, and the national capital, Vientiane.
Unfolding over six days and five nights, guests can start or end their signature journey exploring the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang.
Once on Bohème, travelers can expect carefree mornings spent bird-watching on one of the three decks or unwinding with massages in the two onboard treatment rooms.
Afternoons are punctuated with cultural adventures, and nighttime is filled with the magic of riverside dining.
Guests can also use the time between excursions to learn new skills with cooking and mixology classes led by a dedicated crew of 20, which includes a cruise manager, head chef, mixologists, tour guides and spa therapists.
Onshore, adventurers can explore the Pak Ou caves, torch in hand, to marvel at the countless Buddha images. They can also enjoy dining near the breathtaking Kuang Si waterfall, which flows through the jungle and spills into cascading pools. Creatively minded guests will enjoy making saa paper using mulberry tree bark, fresh flowers and leaves at Ban Xang Khong paper-making village and learning from the artisans of Ban Chan pottery village.
As they continue their downstream journey, travellers will meet the friendly elephants that call Xayaboury’s Elephant Conservation Centre home and spend time with their mahouts for insights into elephant welfare and the sanctuary’s mission.
Afterwards, Bohème will glide past lush jungle landscapes and picturesque riverside villages on its way towards Pak Lay, where a traditional Lao dance and farewell dinner await. Then, the following morning, it will arrive in Vientiane.
Designed to offer a boutique experience and maximum exclusivity, Bohème accommodates up to 26 passengers in its 13 suites. Each cabin features premium amenities such as a high-quality sound system, a Nespresso coffee machine and a minibar.
Understated décor is rich in tactile qualities, from bed throws made from Laotian Ikat fabric to parquet floors in handsome blond wood and silky-soft bed linens.
Located on the lower deck, the 30-square-metre Deluxe Suites come with the choice of one queen or two twin beds and feature a cosy living room, en-suite bathroom, and a private balcony for taking in views of the Mekong River.
The 26-square-metre Premier View Suites, positioned on the main deck for panoramic views from a Juliet balcony, guests can enjoy Laotian design motifs and plush furnishings.
For ultimate exclusivity, passengers can book the 60-square-metre Royal Suite, complete with a private sundeck, a freestanding bath strategically positioned by the window, and dedicated butler services.