Lunch cruise on Vang Vieng Lake

If you’re looking to combine relaxation, nature, and good food during your trip to Laos, a lunch cruise on Vang Vieng Lake offers just that. While I haven’t personally taken the tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a truly memorable outing. This cruise promises a gentle journey through a maze of islands, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying a freshly prepared BBQ lunch.

What really draws travelers in are the stunning views, the knowledgeable guides, and the chance to escape the busier parts of Vang Vieng. However, it’s worth noting that the cruise is about 4 hours in total, including travel time, so it’s best suited for those happy to spend part of the day on the water. If you love being on lakes, exploring nature, and trying local cuisine in a relaxed environment, this experience can be a highlight of your trip.

Three things we love about this experience include the peaceful cruise through countless submerged islands, the delicious homemade-style BBQ lunch, and the attentiveness of the guides who truly care for your comfort. One possible consideration is that the cruise involves a 45-minute ride from Vang Vieng, which might be a bit of a trek for some. Still, the scenery and the tranquility make it worthwhile.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a combination of adventure and downtime — perfect for nature lovers, foodies, and those wanting a break from more adrenaline-heavy activities. Now, let’s explore what makes this cruise a standout option in more detail.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: Cruise through a maze of submerged islands on Vang Vieng Lake, offering stunning natural vistas.
• Authentic cuisine: Enjoy a homemade BBQ lunch featuring local favorites like spring rolls, fresh fish, and seasonal fruit crumble.
• Flexible activities: Swimming, kayaking, and private canoe transfers are available, making the experience customizable.
• Knowledgeable guides: The crew, including a trilingual host, ensures a smooth, informative, and friendly journey.
• Well-equipped boat: The boat has a kitchen, toilet, life jackets, and support boat for safety and convenience.
• Family-friendly and private: Suitable for groups, special events, and those looking for a private, peaceful escape.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Vang Vieng Lake Lunch Cruise

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

The tour begins at the Green View Resort around 10:00 am, where you’ll meet and start a leisurely 1-hour boat ride. This initial stretch is not just transportation but a scenic prelude, as you glide past hundreds of submerged islands—an image that promises a peaceful, almost surreal landscape. Reviewers mention the boat’s cleanliness and spaciousness, making the ride comfortable. Guides like Teo, known for their warmth and attentiveness, keep the atmosphere friendly and informative, sharing insights about the lake’s unique geography.

After the cruise, you’ll arrive at a “secret island,” a pristine patch of untouched nature. Here, a beautifully set-up table awaits for the BBQ lunch, which is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The menu includes spring rolls with a traditional green papaya salad, fresh fish stuffed with lemongrass, and sticky rice. The fish, in particular, receives high praise for being perfectly cooked and flavorful, as noted by guests who appreciated the home-cooked quality of the meal.

The included drink options, such as beer, soft drinks, or water, complement the meal and refresh you for the afternoon activities. Some reviews mention the homemade crumble with seasonal fruit, adding a sweet finish that’s homemade and comforting.

Swimming, Kayaking, and Additional Activities

Post-lunch, you’re free to swim in the lake—reviewers describe the swim spots as safe, quiet, and ideal for cooling off after a warm day. Kayaking is available for those wanting a bit more adventure, with private canoe transfers to other parts of the lake if you wish to explore further.

For added fun, board games like chess, checkers, and backgammon are available onboard, making it a relaxed setting for socializing or family fun. The experience’s flexible nature is a highlight, with the option for private services, perfect for special events or intimate groups.

Return Journey and Optional Extras

The return ride takes another hour, rounding out the 4-hour experience. Afterward, guests often note that they feel refreshed and reconnected with nature. Private transfers to other parts of the lake can be arranged, giving you even more options to tailor your day.

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The Guide and Overall Atmosphere

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides, especially Teo, contribute significantly to the experience. Guests describe guides as warm, attentive, and fluent in multiple languages—Lao, French, and English—making for a comfortable and accessible journey for international travelers.

The boat itself is described as clean and spacious, with onboard facilities including a kitchen, toilet, and life jackets, emphasizing safety and convenience. The support boat ensures smooth navigation, especially if you wish to kayak or swim in different areas.

Practical Details and Value

This tour runs from about 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, making it a perfect half-day activity. The price point, considering the included meal, transport, and activities, offers good value. It’s especially appealing given the personalized service, the authenticity of the homemade lunch, and the stunning natural scenery. The flexibility of booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours makes it a low-risk choice for travelers with variable plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise appeals most to travelers craving a peaceful escape, nature lovers, and those interested in authentic local cuisine. It’s also an excellent choice for families or groups wanting a private, relaxed outing. If you’re into water activities like swimming or kayaking, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here.

However, if you prefer high-adrenaline adventures or multi-day excursions, this might feel a bit mellow for your style. Still, for a serene, scenic day on water with good food and friendly guides, it’s hard to beat.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Vang Vieng Lake Lunch Cruise offers a memorable blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and delicious food. The knowledgeable guides and peaceful setting ensure a relaxed experience that feels genuine rather than commercialized. The fact that many travelers rate it a perfect 5/5, with glowing reviews about the cuisine, scenery, and service, speaks volumes.

It’s especially valuable for those wanting a slice of Lao life away from the crowds, enjoying quiet lakeside moments, and savoring a homemade-style meal in the middle of nature. The flexibility and private options make it suitable for a range of travelers seeking a tailored, authentic experience.

For anyone wanting a balanced mix of exploration, relaxation, and good company, this cruise could easily become one of your favorite memories from Laos.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including two boat rides of approximately one hour each.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Green View Resort, with meet-up around 10:00 am.

Is transportation included?
The tour includes boat transfers from Green View Resort to the island and back. Private transfers to other lake parts can be arranged.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, towel, camera, sunscreen, and beachwear are recommended to enjoy the day comfortably.

Are meals included?
Yes, a BBQ lunch with starters, a main course (fresh fish and sticky rice), and dessert are included, along with a drink.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. The reviews mention safe swimming in designated spots, perfect for cooling off.

Is kayaking available?
Yes, kayaking can be arranged, and private canoe transfers are offered for exploring more remote parts of the lake.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the relaxed environment, safe swimming areas, and onboard games make it family-friendly.

What languages do guides speak?
The guides are trilingual, speaking Lao, French, and English, ensuring clear communication for international visitors.

How much does it cost?
While the specific price isn’t provided here, the value is considered good given the included activities, meal, and scenic experience, with flexible booking options allowing for reservation and payment later.

To sum it up, this Vang Vieng Lake lunch cruise is a well-rounded experience for those wanting to unwind amidst Laos’s stunning landscapes. It combines authentic local flavors, scenic boat rides, and tranquil waters, all guided by friendly professionals dedicated to providing a genuine and comfortable experience. It’s a perfect addition to your Laos itinerary if you seek peaceful, scenic beauty with a touch of adventure and good food.

You can check availability for your dates here: