How to Plan a Seamless Sailing Experience

Cruising can be a fun and exciting experience – especially if it is your first time on a vessel. One of the main obstacles you need to clear is the jitter you feel, not knowing what to expect. Worry not. Here are some must-learn hacks that will ensure that you sail smoothly through the Mekong River’s waters. 

Pre-planning 

One of the key features of a smooth travel experience is pre-planning. This is especially essential if you are a first-time cruiser, as you are unaware of what to expect. Do some research about the route you are about to take and what kind of weather and environment you can anticipate there. If you are holidaying near Luang Prabang in Laos, November to April is ideal for a Luang Prabang River Cruise as it is the dry season there. Therefore, this is a great time to make the most of your river cruise by admiring the lush natural beauty surrounding this destination. 

Also, make sure that you arrive at the departure port on time, as there is a set time for the vessels to leave. It would be wise to place yourself in an accommodation close to this site so that you will be able to head there quickly. Travel insurance will be handy if you are faced with unexpected situations like medical emergencies or trip cancellations. 

Take along essentials

Clothes which are comfortable and made of light fabrics like cotton and linen are great for these types of extrusions. Also, include a pair of comfortable walking shoes to wear for your explorations at ports. If you are planning to take part in a dinner cruise, pack something fancy to go along with the ambience. Toss in some high-SPF sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses, as you might be spending plenty of time on the deck. A reusable water bottle will come in handy to carry around with you once you disembark from your boat. Also, pack a light jacket in case it gets chilly in the afternoons. 

Include a camera to take stunning pictures of your journey and any universal travel adaptors or power banks to keep your electronic gear well-charged. Personal hygiene and toiletries need to be added, too, along with any medicine and first aid items, as it might be difficult to purchase the brands you are used to in the stores that you can visit near ports. 

Amenities onboard 

Pick your vessel according to your budget, the services offered onboard and the route that it is heading. You get amenities like spa therapies, sunbathing space, bars and dining options to consider. Also, take note of the cabin types and how spacious they are and what kind of facilities come with each of them. 

Mention your requirements to your travel consultants or the cruise operator, and they will find the perfect vessel for your journey. This way you can decide on what to keep you engaged during the time you are onboard, especially during lengthy periods. This is especially important if you are taking the cruise along with your family, as children need plenty of entertainment to keep themselves amused.  

Know where you are heading 

Familiarising yourself with the route you are taking is a must, as you can keep an eye out for any amazing sites as you cruise by or prepare yourself to disembark at a port and explore the area. Since the ship normally spends only a limited time at each port, you will only be able to make the most of the place you are getting down if you know what to expect there.  If you are thinking of exploring the Mekong, the longest river in the Asian continent, choose a cruise river operator like Mekong Kingdoms, which offers overnight cruises and day cruises in diverse vessels that encompass a variety of amenities and head to diverse locations, giving its passengers different types of experiences along the way.  You will find that they will take you to landmarks like the Kuang Si Waterfalls and Pak Ou Caves, and also offer amenities like sunset dinner cruises.