Mekong River - Upstream - Low water

Upon arrival, receive a welcome greeting in the lounge in Saigon. Kick back with a second coffee as the staff collects your details for the boarding. Bid a fond farewell to the hustle and bustle of Saigon and travel 70 kilometers south over land towards My Tho to embark on your vessel. After checking into your luxurious floating “home” for the next several days, your first inclination may be to step on your balcony to watch the ship set sail on its fascinating Mekong River voyage.

A lunch buffet is served as the vessel glides upstream. At twilight, the Mekong Delta glows in golden light—an ideal time to connect with fellow travelers and enjoy the official welcome, complete with canapés and prosecco.

By dinner, the ship is likely anchored near Tan Phong Island by Cai Be, offering a first look at the vibrant region to be explored on land the following day. The evening continues with late-night entertainment in the cinema, featuring classic films or engaging documentaries.

Wake early to see the morning activity of the Delta. Join a Tai Chi session, then have breakfast before taking a local boat to Cai Be and Tan Phong, a small island in the Mekong River.

Default Morning Excursion:
During the visit to a workshop in the town of Cai Be, guests have the opportunity to observe the production of distinct products of the Mekong Delta such as rice paper, rice cookies, rice wine and coconut candies. Get to know the very interesting manual processes involving manual labor and special production techniques. After the workshop, you reach Tan Phong Island to visit a local family and their fruit garden. The island showcases many kinds of tropical fruits to taste. A motorized buggy ride through the island let you have a glimpse of the local day-to-day life as it unfolds. You stop at another family’s house. They specialize in the weaving of water hyacinth plants into artistic crafts – all by hand.

Optional Morning Excursion:
Cycling (extra cost): This cycling tour offers a ride over the scenic Tan Phong Island. Cycle along well-maintained and flat concrete paths winding through orchards of rambutan, longan, and jackfruit. You stop and visit a local family business producing charming handicrafts from water hyacinths. The tour continues for 3 km along a canal to a local temple for a refreshing break under a banyan tree before continue the ride to a tropical fruit farmer's home for a tasting.
Distance: 12km / Duration: approx. 90 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path

Relax and enjoy some time on your private balcony or at the bar as you continue your voyage upstream. In the afternoon, you arrive at Sa Dec, a charming riverside town in Dong Thap Province.

Default Afternoon Excursion:
This town reveals a graceful blend of colonial elegance and everyday Mekong life. Begin with a walk through the lively central market, where an abundance of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies reflects the region’s rich agricultural rhythm. The cultural layers deepen with a visit to the historic home of Huynh Thuy Le, closely tied to Marguerite Duras’ The Lover. Stepping inside offers a glimpse into a narrative that has left its mark on both literature and the town itself. The journey continues to Kien An Cung Pagoda, a century-old temple of Chinese heritage. With its ornate details and tranquil riverside setting, it provides a peaceful contrast to the town’s lively streets before returning on board.

Optional Afternoon Excursion:
Cycling (extra cost): Once on shore, the cycling discovery around the town begins at a lively local market, followed by a visit to Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House, a well-preserved French-Chinese residence tied to the love story behind The Lover. The cycling tour leads to Sa Dec Flower Village, with stops at family-run gardens where growers explain their traditional methods amid rows of colorful blooms. After a refreshing drink at the Pink House, the ride ends at Cao Dai Holy See, a striking religious landmark with distinctive architecture.
Distance: 15 km / Duration: approx. 90 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path

Before dinner, take part in a presentation about life on the Mekong Delta as the ship sails toward your mooring spot for the night near Gieng Island.

After the morning Tai Chi session and a delightful breakfast, you embark on an exploration revealing a vibrant kaleidoscope of the diverse activities bringing the Mekong Delta to life.

Default Morning Excursion:
Gieng Island, also known locally as Mango Island, is perfect to stroll through under the shade of flourishing mango groves that shape the island’s landscape. A visit to a small incense workshop introduces you to the careful process of crafting these fragrance incense sticks by hand. Another local highlight is a traditional boat-building workshop, where generations of families assemble wooden vessels that are essential to life along the river. Before departing, you surely are going to taste some of these delicious and freshly picked mangoes with a local tea in the courtyard of a century-old local home. This is the moment when you all understand the rhythms and resilience of life on the Mekong - so simple, so joyful.

Optional Morning Excursion:
Cycling (extra cost): The island’s flat terrain makes this ride so pleasurable and easy along lush green paths with many mango farms. Enjoy local Mekong Delta life at its best, left and right with locals waving friendly. You ride along many fruit gardens and there is always something to stop and see on the way, like a traditional incense workshop or a local boat-building workshop.
Distance: 15 km / Duration: approx. 90 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path

Default Afternoon Excursion: After lunch, the afternoon unfolds at a gentle pace as the ship glides towards the border. You are invited to join a hands-on cooking class, where you’ll learn a Vietnamese dish simple enough to recreate at home later. Alternatively, the time is yours to unwind on deck as the landscapes drift by, or retreat to the spa for a soothing treatment that restores both body and mind.

Once in Cambodia, the journey continues with an overnight sail into Cambodia, en route to the country’s capital.

Your full-day sightseeing tour begins right after breakfast, allowing you to explore the city's highlights. You start with a cyclo ride, meandering through the town, and then visit historic places such as the palace and the silver pagoda. Your journey takes you to the "S21" prison, a poignant and dark chapter in Cambodia's history during the Khmer Rouge regime of the 1970s. Afterward, you pause for a delightful lunch in town before continuing to immerse within the Khmer culture. This afternoon starts with a visit of a famous academy of arts and a school dedicated to preserve traditional arts. Observe young dancers training in the intricate Apsara dance and take the opportunity to learn some basic techniques on your own under guidance. Conclude the day with a leisurely stroll through the city’s French Quarter, including the iconic Wat Phnom temple.

Back on board, join a captivating testimony held in the lounge of the ship. Having endured the S21 imprisonment and later taking an active part in the Khmer Rouge tribunal, Mr. Sum Rithy continues to bear witness to a difficult chapter of Cambodia’s history. Guests have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to talk, question and discuss a living witness of this dark Cambodian era. To cap off this eventful day, guests can indulge in a delightful open-air barbecue and gala dinner accompanied by a classic Apsara dance performance. Afterward, feel free to explore the city and its nightlife on your own, with its lively river promenade and colorful bars and cafes.

Before the sun peeks over the horizon, the cruiser sets sail, entering the Tonle River. The Tonle River is a natural wonder of Cambodia, and the scenery on both sides of the river is a true gem.

Discover the rural Cambodian countryside of Kampong Tralach. Journey along picturesque rice paddies aboard an ox-pulled cart, reaching a small village where you can learn about a local NGO school and library project or visit the ancient 300-year-old temple and Buddha shrine.

Optional Afternoon Excursion
Cycling (extra cost): Experience another day in the heartland of Cambodia with a biking tour through the picturesque Tonle Region. Pedal through captivating landscapes, encountering treasures like the former royal palace of ‘Lungvek’ and the venerable Buddha Jade Temple (1560) and just enjoy the timeless rhythms of local life as you witness skilled fishermen casting their nets in the tranquil waters of the Tonle.
Distance: 14 km / Duration: approx. 120 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path

As you sail upstream, lunch is served, and the crew showcases afterwards various traditional Khmer fashions worn by locals during special occasions.

You are in the midst of the expansive Tonle region, one of Cambodia’s amazing ecosystems. The tour this morning leads to Kampong Laeang, an unknown hamlet situated just across from the famous pottery town of Kampong Chhnang. Once ashore, you embark on tuk-tuks to travel the heart of rural Cambodian life. During this excursion, you'll explore various locals, discover the art of pottery making, and visit a charming pre-Angkorian temple. From a vantage point, amazing panoramic views of the vast floodplains and lush rice fields (seasonal) can be enjoyed.

Optional Afternoon Excursion:
Cycling (extra cost): Upon disembarking, you hop on the bikes to embark on a local Khmer discovery. Your journey leads you through rice paddy fields and quaint villages where small businesses produce pottery or palm sugar. With flat terrain and mesmerizing rural landscapes, the pedal is easy-going, offering a captivating glimpse into local life unfolding before your eyes.
Distance: 17 km / Duration: approx. 90 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path

Once back onboard, you sail toward Kampong Luong, where you anchor for the night.

The first stop is Kampong Luong, a renowned Silver Smith Village. Here, 400 families breathe life into silver, copper, and brass, crafting art pieces and jewelry. A short stroll on the island reveals their hard labor. Continue with a visit to Wat Prang, the Royal Buddhist Temple. This sacred site offers a moment of reflection on the king’s legacy, intertwining both history and spirituality. Engage with the monks and laymen, learning about their daily lives, rituals, and personal stories.

With everyone back on board, offer a funny but also interesting fashion show to the guests about local Cambodian attire.

At the confluence of the Tonle and Mekong Rivers lies the small village of Prek Bangkong, known for its silk weaving community. This village was also the former residence of the Royal family before they moved to the Royal Palace. However, the real stars in this area today are the silk weavers, artisans who craft silk from the very beginning. You have the opportunity to closely observe and learn about this intricate silk production process. Conclude this excursion by visiting the heritage house of H.E. Sam-El, once a famous architect for the royal family.

Optional Afternoon Excursion
Cycling (extra cost): Cycling tour today takes you to the wonderful former royal palace of “Lavea Em” (1601-1618). Pedal at ease through picturesque landscapes, punctuated by captivating stops at historic pagodas, vibrant silk weaving workshops, and bustling local markets. Indulge in a delightful tea break at the residence of H.E. Sam-El, adding a touch of elegance to your cycling adventure.
Distance: 14 km / Duration: approx. 120 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path

The rest of the day is spent sailing up the Mekong to the overnight location. Enjoy a relaxing poolside sundowner cocktail hour with dance tunes before dinner and an evening cinema.

Early risers may like to join the daily offered Tai Chi session on the sun deck before breakfast. Today’s morning excursion let you explore the village of Angkor Ban.

Angkor Ban features a monastery with an adjacent, enchanting local village. You'll have the chance to meet monks during their morning class and engage in friendly conversations with the villagers. As you stroll through the village, you understand the local way of life in various aspects, collecting wonderful memories of Cambodia's rustic lifestyle. The village offers great photographic moments while interacting with the local community.

Optional Morning Excursion
Cycling (extra cost): Today’s cycling tour journey starts with a tranquil monk meeting that sets the tone for the day. As you cycle through verdant seasonal vegetable fields, picturesque old local houses dot the landscape, offering glimpses into Cambodia's heritage. Witness skilled blacksmiths at work to understand more about traditional craftsmanship. Conclude your adventure with a delightful pause, sipping on ice-cold local beer or indulging in the refreshing taste of freshly pressed sugar cane juice.
Distance: 10 km / Duration: approx. 120 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path

While you sail to Kampong Cham during lunchtime, the whole afternoon is at your own disposal. It is time to switch into cruise mode for your last full day onboard. Experiences the relaxing cadence this mighty river emanates. The afternoon is perfect for massages, relaxation on a terrace deck sunbed or private balcony kick-backs. Conjure up a spell to merge with the river and float into a state of mild bliss. You also may like to visit the bridge, as the captain always has a little story to share about “his” river. Or, if you are curious to learn more about Khmer gastronomy, join a culinary workshop to sharpen your knowledge about local cuisine.

Afterward, the ship makes its final journey, mooring mid-river near Kampong Cham with some farewell and party vibes along the way.

Enjoy your final breakfast aboard your floating sanctuary. You disembark the ship and transfer by bus to Siem Reap, which takes approximately 4 hours. To keep you entertained during the journey, your guides share interesting insights about Cambodia and the region you pass through. Hope you've enjoyed this captivating river cruise as much as the crew does every single time. Take the enchanting memories and friendships with you and share the stories of this amazing river - the Mighty Mekong.

Arrive in Siem Reap in the early afternoon.

Please Note:
Itinerary and program are subject to change and are operated as advertised on public website or collateral at the time of boarding
Optional tours and program are subject to change and are operated as advertised on public website or collateral at the time of boarding