Compare Last Discovered Continent by Poseidon Expeditions vs Vietnam & Laos Explorer by Insider Journeys
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 13 days | 15 days |
| Price From | $ 6,295 | $ 2,945 |
| Price Per Day | $ 484 | $ 196 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small ship cruise | N/A |
| Lodging Level | Premium | Standard |
| Physical Level |
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| Travel Themes |
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| Countries Visited | N/A | |
| Cities and Attractions |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | No |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
Averaging 23 square metres/250 square feet, these staterooms have two twins and a comfortable sofa bed. The twins also convert to a King, if desired. Located on Oceanus Deck, these suites have a picture window, two wardrobes and en suite facilities. Amenities include: in-room safe, refrigerator, satellite telephone access, TV/VCR, individual temperature control, and hair dryer. |
A journey through Vietnam and Laos will leave you energised and inspired. Encounter welcoming people throughout, including Buddhist monks in Luang Prabang. Uncover the vibrant cities of Saigon and Hanoi, explore historical Hoi An and Hue, then unwind on the banks of the Mekong in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. Take in the region's breathtaking scenery, from mountainous regions to river life and sparkling bays. |
Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina.
Despite its small size, the city of Ushuaia is the world’s southernmost city, the capital of Tierra del Fuego and the main starting point for voyages to Antarctica.
Admire the surrounded views of Beagle Channel and the Andes Mountains. If you arrived early, you may want to visit Tierra del Fuego National Park, the southernmost on the planet. Stroll along the main street of Avenue San Martin, and pause at one of the many cafes, shops or restaurants.
Day 2: Ushuaia, embarkation.
This afternoon, embark the Sea Spirit and set sail down the picturesque Beagle Channel as the sun sets and dinner is served.
The Сaptain and our Expedition Team will welcome you and raise a toast to success of our expedition.
Day 3-4: Crossing the Drake Passage.
The Drake Passage spans 600 miles from the top of South America to the South Shetland Islands. The Sea Spirit’s stabilizer fins will help to make the crossing comfortable.
Lectures and presentations by our friendly team of Antarctic experts prepare us for what lies ahead. At the Antarctic Convergence, watch for sea mammals, albatrosses and petrels in these krill-rich waters. If the Drake has behaved, we will approach the sub-Antarctic South Shetlands during the afternoon of Day 4.
Day 5-6: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.
The Antarctic Peninsula and nearby islands provide exceptional opportunities to discover the unique wildlife and awesome landscapes. Depending on weather and ice conditions, the captain and expedition team will direct the Sea Spirit to a variety of secluded bays and harbors to optimize Zodiac landings and wildlife viewing. While we have a plan, flexibility is the key to successful expedition cruising. With the help of our expedition team, look for the four penguins, six seal and several whale species on your Antarctic checklist. We’ll also find a time for our most adventurous travelers to take a polar plunge, perhaps in Neko Harbor or the relatively warm waters of volcanic Deception Island.
Day 7-10: Antarctic Continent.
As we head south along the Antarctic Peninsula, you’ill understand why the imposing, snow-covered Lemaire Channel is called “Kodak Alley.” We’ll also try to visit a research station during the voyage, although the work schedules of the scientists may not always permit this. At the Ukrainian base of Academician Vernadskiy, you might want to sample the throat-burning gorilka, or Ukrainian pepper vodka, distilled on location. A Zodiac cruise of Paradise Bay, with its many glaciers, offers an experience like no other on the globe. Cruise by massive icebergs, with cracks and crevices reflecting an amazing spectrum of blue colors. Conditions permitting, we’ll set foot on the actual Antarctic Continent at Hope Bay or perhaps another site.
Day 11-12: Drake Passage.
As the Sea Spirit heads back to Ushuaia, there are some final opportunities to ask questions of our Antarctic experts, to share photos and experiences with newfound friends, and to enjoy our festive farewell dinner. Wave goodbye to the birds and whales, until you meet again on your next voyage to the White Continent!
Day 13: Ushuaia, disembarkation.
Disembark following breakfast, and transfer to the airport or the city centre.
Day 1 : SAIGON (VIETNAM)O
On arrival in Saigon, transfer to your hotel and embrace the frenetic energy of Vietnam before meeting your fellow travellers and Tour Leader (or local guide).Hotel: Northern Hotel (or similar)
Day 2 : CU CHI TUNNELSV
Venture to Cu Chi and discover the incredible network of underground tunnels. Explore Saigon on a walking tour taking in the city's most impressive sites and landmarks. Sip a cocktail as you watch the evening lights come to life over Saigon.Hotel: Northern Hotel (or similar)
Day 3 : MEKONG DELTAT
Travel south of Saigon to the Mekong Delta and explore the palm-fringed canals and tributaries of the Mekong in your private boat. Learn about the main local industries of the area as you visit a traditional brick factory and meet a family of weavers. Feast on a delicious lunch prepared using fresh local ingredients.Hotel: Northern Hotel (or similar)
Day 4 : SAIGON TO HUEF
Fly to Hue, a former imperial capital, and see the city's most famous sites including Emperor Tu Duc's tomb, Imperial Palace and Citadel. Visit Spiral Foundation, a unique enterprise which employs people with disabilities who make souvenirs from 100% recycled materials.Hotel: Hotel Saigon Morin (or similar)
Day 5 : HUE TO HOI AND
Drive along the Hai Van Pass from Hue to Hoi An and soak in some of Vietnam's most stunning scenery. Hoi An is a charming riverside town famous for its tailors and preserved architecture influenced by Chinese, Japanese and French culture. Spend time exploring the World Heritage listed old town.Hotel: Hoi An Historic Hotel (or similar)
Day 6 : HOI ANE
Enjoy a free day to do as much or as little as you like in Hoi An. Choose to explore the old town or cycle to An Bang Beach.Hotel: Hoi An Historic Hotel (or similar)
Day 7 : HOI AN TO HALONG BAYF
Fly to Haiphong and drive to Halong Bay. Board your luxurious private junk boat and cruise impressive Halong Bay. Begin your exploration of the magnificent bay which boasts over 3,000 islands that rise from the sea.Cruise: Overnight boat (or similar)
Day 8 : HALONG BAY TO HANOIR
Rise early to watch the sunrise as you greet the day with a Tai Chi lesson on the sundeck. Explore a remote island and climb to the peak for a 360 degree view of Halong Bay. Travel to Hanoi before discovering the Old Quarter and meet some boisterous locals at a 'Bia Hoi' establishment.Hotel: The Ann Hanoi (or similar)
Day 9 : HANOI CITY TOURD
Discover Hanoi's must-visit sites including Ho Chi Minh Quarter, House on Stilts, Presidential Palace and One Pillar Pagoda. Enjoy a farewell group dinner to celebrate your time in Vietnam.Hotel: The Ann Hanoi (or similar)
Day 10 : HANOI TO VIENTIANE (LAOS)D
Depart Hanoi and fly to Vientiane. In the evening, meet your new group of fellow travellers and Tour Leader (local guide).Hotel: Mandala Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Day 11 : VIENTIANE CITY TOURE
Enjoy an authentic Lao coffee at a local cafe. Discover Vientiane's main sites including Wat Sisaket, Pha That Luang, Patuxai Monument and COPE Centre before receiving a traditional 'baci' blessing to welcome you to Laos.Hotel: Mandala Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Day 12 : VIENTIANE TO LUANG PRABANGF
Fly to Luang Prabang and explore the National Museum. Visit serene Wat Mai temple before enjoying free time to explore Luang Prabang independently. In the evening, take part in a fun private cooking demonstration at Tamarind cooking school.Hotel: Sala Prabang (or similar)
Day 13 : LUANG PRABANG CITY TOURB
Begin the day with a steaming-hot noodle soup breakfast. At the tip of Luang Prabang peninsula, visit Wat Xieng Thong temple, one of the most beautiful in Laos. Take a boat trip to visit Pak Ou Caves, a sacred shrine where local people add to a repository of thousands of Buddha statues.Hotel: Sala Prabang (or similar)
Day 14 : KUANG SI FALLSR
Rise early to see brightly-robed Buddhist monks collecting alms. Explore a lively morning market before travelling to Kuang Si Falls and cooking your own lunch. Spend time exploring Luang Prabang independently. In the evening, participate in a game of petanque followed by sunset drinks overlooking the Mekong River. Celebrate a memorable visit to Laos with a farewell group dinner.Hotel: Sala Prabang (or similar)
Day 15 : LUANG PRABANGT
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.Saigon Luang Prabang 15 Days
