Boating in Laos
The rivers in Lao change the water level between the wet and dry seasons, sometimes you have a big long steps to get on or get off the boat to the river banks. If you see any too steep walk way in the river bank, Let the captain find the best parking. But steps are unavoidable
The boats are not much protected with the cover, and made of wood, it may be very coldin the dry season ( from November to March), you must wear enough warm clothes while sitiing on the boat. Even in the wet season ( from May to Sept), you should bring some light jacket or rain coat as you feel little bit chilly if you get some stormy rain.
All the boats have very low ceiling, you must watch your head when you get on and get off the boat. Try to get help from the local guide or the captain to get on/ off easily.
Many boats have no bathroom at all, so if you get one like that, you must tell the captain to stop at some convinient place for quick toilet. (don't bring some toilet paper on your boat trip)
Once you look out of the boat, the scenery is just marvelous and you can (almost) easily ignore the pub atmosphere on board. Moreover, the natural beauty is by no means all the same during the cruise. You will pass tiny, forgotten villages, fishermen, boulders, lush, green jungles and other boats.
Slow boat from Huay Xai Border to Luang Prabang after Chiang Mai, Thailand
The popular border crossing between Laos and northeast Thailand is also the most popular river trip in Southeast Asia: Luang Prabang to Pakbeng to Huay Xai. There are three options for this trip: speedboat, slowboat, and luxury cruise.
A slow boat to Luang Prabang ride down the Mekong River is a very popular and scenic adventure for travelers in Laos. This two day slow boat ride runs from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang with an overnight stay in Pakbeng.
Slow boats depart every day at 11 am with up to 100 passengers. There is only one slow boat per day and in high season up to 2 slow boats if there are between 150 – 200 passengers.
This boat trip seems the best way with adventurous experience from Thailand to Luang Prabang, Laos, instead of quick flight.
The ride is rough and noisy, but an absolute thrill. Many people consider it to be dangerous, and passengers are given lifejackets and helmets.
Time : 6 hours from Huay Xai to Pakbeng , and other 6-7 hours from Pakbeng to Luang Prabang
( total 12-14 hours boat from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang)
Passengers on a slow boat from Huayxai Border to Luang Prabang
