I was up in Loei last weekend and went to Chiang Khan on the Mekong River. It is a nice town and I was only there for a cople of hours, but I will for sure be going back. While I was there I noticed river boats about 8 metres long with aluminum shade covers. It got me thinking it would be nice to take one of those boats along the Mekong to Mukdahan, I figure we could stop at the provincial towns along the way and take about a week to do it. Has anybody done anything like this? Do you have any ideas of how to go about it, whom to contact etc. Thanks for your ideas.

If nobody replies, the next time you are there go talk to these guys at Kaeng Khut Khu. They would no doubt be able to give you some ideas. Nice place for a meal as well.

We've seen these boats dock in Nakhon Phanom for a few days and took a look round http://www.cruisemekong.com/cruise-ships/mekong-explorer/. Really nicely appoiunted, good wines, good food, great staff. Only problem is it would take most peoples yearly pension to take a cruise. This one is the same http://www.perlrivercruises.com/lernidee/rivers/index.html

Just google Mekong Cruises and you should get a few more reasonable ideas

If you travel about 40km East of Chiang Khan towards Pak Chom & Sangkhom you will soon realize why it is difficult to do this. During dry season the river in parts is nearly dried out. During wet season it becomes an extremely difficult part of the river to navigate, among others. Just past Nong Khai, Phon Phisai and Ban Siliwai are all difficult part sof the river to navigate.

I have known or heard of approximately 4 people who have managed to complete some portions of this journey and even 1 person who nearly made it to the Delta region.

It is unlikely you would find a local person willing to do it for any amount of money (that was not a drug runner or user).

Thanks for your replies. I think I will drive it first and perhaps there will be sec tions I can boat on at a later time.

Hey!

Ive been talking to my wife about something similar. Find some canoe and travel down from Noth Lao thu Muong Noi and on to Luang Prabang. Camping along the way.If time permits, all tbe way down to the Mekong. If even more time to spare as far southbas one could go on Mekong.

My wife enjoys outdoors and loves camping

A real adventure.