9 Day Mekong River Cruise: Vietnam ~ Cambodia

Your adventure begins with lunch at the Liberty Riverside Hotel, where you can arrive between 11:30 am and 12:30 pm. After a leisurely meal, we will explore the bustling Chinatown, immersing ourselves in the vibrant culture and daily life of the locals. Next, we’ll visit the historic Giac Lam Pagoda, which, at over 300 years old, is the oldest pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City. We’ll conclude the afternoon with a brief 15-minute walking tour through the Flower Market and Binh Tay Market, experiencing how locals buy and sell fresh produce, flowers, and traditional products.

Following the tour, we’ll transfer to the ship, where you can settle into your cabin. In the evening, meet the crew at a welcome cocktail, followed by dinner on board. Spend the night docked in downtown Ho Chi Minh City. If you’re keen for more adventure, the optional “Saigon After Dark” excursion.

MEALS: Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: RV Toum Tiou 2

***OPTIONAL ACTIVITY: SAIGON AFTER DARK VESPA TOUR***

Saigon After Dark is a unique evening excursion that combines the thrill of the city’s nightlife with a delicious street food journey. Experience Saigon like a local, riding through the vibrant streets on the back of a vintage Vespa scooter.

Tour Highlights:

1. Begin with a cocktail and appetiser at a rooftop lounge, soaking in stunning views of the city.

2. Head to a local eatery to enjoy street seafood paired with refreshing cold drinks.

3. Stop at a traditional Banh Xeo restaurant, where you’ll taste this iconic Vietnamese pancake, a specialty of Saigon and southern cuisine.

4. Finish the night at a live music venue, where you’ll relax with a drink while enjoying performances from local musicians.

This immersive tour takes you from one lively location to the next, giving you the chance to explore Saigon’s bustling streets and iconic landmarks under the glow of the city lights.

Tour Details:

• Daily Departure: 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

• Duration: 4 hours

After a delicious breakfast on board, we will embark on a city tour, starting with a short drive into the heart of downtown. The walking tour includes stops for photos at key landmarks influenced by French colonial architecture, such as the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Municipal Post Office, City Square, and the Opera House. As we explore the city on foot, take in the greenery and beauty of nature nestled within this dynamic urban environment. We’ll also stop at a local coffee shop to experience Vietnam’s renowned coffee culture.

After the morning tour, we’ll return to the ship for lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the War Remnants Museum for an insightful look into Vietnam’s complex history. After the tour, we’ll return to the ship, which will set sail for My Tho. Enjoy dinner on board and another peaceful night on the river.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: RV Toum Tiou 2

After breakfast on board, we’ll cruise along the magnificent Chao Gao Canal, an active waterway bustling with river traffic. This unique passage offers a rare glimpse of both the vibrant canal life and the tranquillity of the surrounding countryside, available exclusively on this cruise. Upon arrival in My Tho, we’ll board a local boat to visit Thoi Son Island, where you can experience the daily lives of the island’s residents and sample seasonal fruits.

We’ll continue with a serene sampan ride through the scenic canals of the Mekong Delta, providing an intimate look at the region’s unique waterways. Later, enjoy a biking excursion through a local village, giving you the chance to connect with residents and admire the lush fruit orchards. After returning to the ship, we’ll set sail for Cai Be and have lunch while cruising. On arrival, we’ll embark on another boat tour along the Mekong River and visit a local craft village to see traditional products being made. The day concludes with a kayaking adventure or a scenic bike ride through the countryside, offering different ways to experience the Mekong’s beauty. Dinner will be served on board as we cruise toward Sa Dec, where we will anchor for the night.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: RV Toum Tiou 2

After breakfast on board, we’ll begin the day with a short boat tour of Sa Dec. Our first stop is Trung Vuong Primary School (closed on weekends and holidays), where you’ll learn about the local education system. Next, we’ll stroll through Sa Dec Market along the riverbank, experiencing the buzz of local commerce and observing daily life (please note the market is closed during Lunar New Year).

We’ll return to the ship and set sail for Chau Doc, with lunch and dinner served on board during the journey. Relax and enjoy the scenic river views as we cruise through the Mekong Delta, arriving in Chau Doc in the evening, where we will anchor overnight.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: RV Toum Tiou 2

After breakfast, we’ll explore the thriving town of Chau Doc, located on the Cambodia-Vietnam border, known for its fishing and fish farming industry. We’ll visit the beautiful Tra Su Forest by small local boats, gliding through serene waterways surrounded by lush flora and abundant wildlife. After our forest tour, we’ll return to the ship for lunch.

In the afternoon, we’ll take a scenic cable car ride to Sam Mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. At the summit, we’ll visit the Ba Chua Xu Temple, an important pilgrimage site. After our visit, we’ll return to the ship and continue towards the Vinh Xuong border, where we’ll complete customs formalities and enter Cambodia. We’ll sail toward Phnom Penh, arriving in the evening. Dinner will be served on board, followed by a relaxing night at anchor.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: RV Toum Tiou 2

We’ll start the day with breakfast on board before embarking on a guided tour of Phnom Penh. Our first stops will be the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, two iconic examples of Cambodian architecture. Next, we’ll explore the National Museum, home to a rich collection of Khmer art and artefacts.

After lunch, we’ll enjoy an afternoon tour by tuk-tuk, offering an immersive and authentic way to explore the city. We’ll visit the beautifully restored Art Deco Central Market (locally known as Phsar Thmei) to experience the bustling shopping scene. From there, we’ll wander through hidden alleyways, where you’ll see locals enjoying coffee, playing chess, and going about their daily routines. We’ll also visit Wat Phnom, the city’s namesake pagoda built to house Buddhist relics. A short walk will take us to the French Quarter, where you can admire colonial-era architecture.

In the evening, back on board, enjoy a traditional Apsara dance performance before dinner. The night is yours to relax and enjoy at the port of Phnom Penh.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: RV Toum Tiou 2

After breakfast, we’ll set sail toward Udong, Cambodia’s former capital. Docking at Koh Chen, we’ll transfer by van to the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre to learn about Insight Meditation. Next, we’ll climb the steps to several temples and stupas, including three large stupas holding the ashes of former Cambodian kings, with sweeping views of the plains below.

Returning to the ship, we’ll cruise toward Kampong Tralach, with lunch on board. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the Wat Kampong Tralach Leu Pagoda. To reach the pagoda, we’ll ride ox carts through the picturesque village, passing through stunning rice fields. You’ll have the option to return to the ship on a mountain bike, riding through the scenic countryside for a closer connection with the natural beauty of the area. Dinner will be served on board as we sail toward Kampong Chhnang.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: RV Toum Tiou 2

After breakfast, we’ll visit Kampong Chhnang, one of the largest fishing ports on Tonle Sap Lake. The area features many fish farms and offers experiences in traditional pottery, where ancient techniques merge with modern methods. Enjoy a tasting of local products before returning to the ship. For those seeking more adventure, an optional cycling tour along the riverside and through the pottery village is available.

After returning to the ship, we’ll have lunch on board while cruising toward Koh Chen. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner on board, celebrating the journey’s highlights.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: RV Toum Tiou 2

After breakfast, we’ll disembark for a coach transfer from Koh Chen to Lotus Blanc Hotel in Siem Reap. The scenic drive takes approximately 5-6 hours. We expect to arrive at the meeting point around 12:30 pm.

Please ensure your onward flight is scheduled no earlier than 3:30 pm to allow ample time for transfer and check-in. This marks the end of your incredible journey through Vietnam and Cambodia.

MEALS: Breakfast