THE DETAILS

Three-day cruises on the Gypsy from Chiang Saen to Luang Prabang start from US$7,920 per trip, including meals, select drinks, and shore excursions. In the opposite (upstream) direction, the journey takes four days but costs less, from US$5,280 per trip. Mekong Kingdoms ( mekongkingdoms.com) also offers packages that include stays at sister hotels Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort and Avani+ Luang Prabang at either end of the cruise.