Boat - Mekong Ferries

Ferry boats run from Vientiane to Luang Prabang and back as well as from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai and back.  Journeys can take several days, depending on the time of year - and whether travelling up or down river.  This kind of travel is for the experienced only!  Whilst cramped, hot and lengthy - it is one of the most interesting ways of touching the Lao lifestyle.

Ferries usually depart early in the morning.  Times, prices and just about everything else will change according to season.

On tributaries of the Mekong, ferries may run daily, or when there are enough people to run the trip.

Speed Boats

Speed boats run between Vientiane to Luang Prabang and Luang Prabang to Huay Xai and the journey takes about eight hours per leg.  The cost is considerably more than the ferry.   Speed boats can accomodate up to six people. Fares quoted are for example only.

Travelling by boat:

Private Jet Boats can be chartered from
Lao River Exploration Services
Email: lres2@laotel.com

Photo by Bernhard Heiser