'Mekong Cruise'
8 Days cruise price on enquiry.
UPSTREAM - Saigon to Vinh Long
Day 1 - Embarkation - Saigon to Vinh Long
Register for cruise at Sofitel Plaza Saigon Hotel and then we take motor coach transfer to Saigon Port, where we embark onto the luxurious vessel RV La Marguerite. We sail leisurely towards Soai Rap, 10 kilometres from the river mouth. After our first dinner onboard this evening the boat sails towards Cai Be. (L/D)
Day 2 - Cai Be to Sa Dec
After breakfast it is time to explore the hidden treasures through the canals on riverboats, and partake in late morning bantering with floating market vendors before going ashore to visit traditional candies making factory and rice paper mills. We then depart for Sadec, hometown of Marguerite Duras’ lover. Visit the old house of Huynh Thuy Le’s now known as The Lovers Museum, with local markets along the paved river banks, the ancient Pagoda and the Chinese deities at the Fujian Temple. Pass by the school where Marguerite's mother's taught and view the home of Marguerite from across the river bank. This evening cultural dancers take centre-stage at the Saigon Lounge before we proceed to the restaurant for a themed dinner. (B/L/D)
Day 3 - Tan Chau to border crossing
Early morning arrival in Tan Chau, a remote small town on the main Mekong River. After breakfast transfer to small boats, visit a floating fish farm and navigate along the tiny tribunals where stilt houses are haphazardly leaning on one another. Go ashore and make a city tour in Xe Loi where stops will be made at traditional silk making factory and rattan mats and slippers making factory. We return to the boat and cast off for the Vietnamese/Cambodian borders for port and immigration formalities. The border in Vietnam is Song Tien and the border in Cambodia is Ka Orm Samnor. After lunch and a leisurely cruise we start the second part of the journey into Cambodia and head towards Phnom Penh. (B/L/D)
Day 4 - Phnom Penh
Following breakfast we visit Phnom Penh city. Travel around by motor coach/bus and visit the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and National Museum. After lunch we visit the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng (S21) detention centre. After dinner, a special Cambodian performance awaits at the Saigon Lounge. (B/L/D)
Day 5 - Phnom Penh to Kampong Cham
Today the ship sails towards Kampong Cham. Arrive at Chong Koh Village, pack excursion gear and visit Chong Koh Silk Weaving Factory. The boat then sails towards Peam Chi Kang. where we visit the Wat/Monastry and its schools. The boat will then depart for Kampong Cham whilst we enjoy another wonderful themed dinner tonight. (B/L/D)
Day 6 - Kampong Cham to Phnom Penh
RV La Marguerite will sail towards Wat Hanchey early this morning where we visit a hilltop pagoda overlooking the Mekong. Return to the boat and cast off for Kampong Cham. The upland regions near Kampong Cham are rich in timbers, including Ceylon ironwood, rosewood, bean trees, teak, and rubber trees. Visit 12th century Angkorian temple of Wat Nokor and Eco village. (B/L/D)
Day 7 - Phnom Penh to Kampong Chhnang
At midnight we sail from Phnom Penh to Prek Kdam. After rising for breakfast we arrive at Kampong Chhnang and visit the town. Enjoy a quintessential river excursion through the floating houses to get a glimpse of the local lifestyles in the Tonle Sap River. Moor safely along the banks and go ashore for a leisurely walk through the city and perhaps find a good bargain at the market. Return to the boat and enjoy lunch where we then have a cultural forum on Cambodia in the Saigon Lounge. Farewell dinner & cocktails follow this evening as we spend the night in the middle of Tonle Sap Lake. (B/L/D)
Day 8 - Tonle Lake to Siem Reap
Early morning departure for Siem Reap and enjoy breakfast onboard from 7:00 to 8:30. The great lake of Tonle stretches over 150 km long and is profuse with bird life. From the middle of the lake, enjoy the stillness and tranquillity along the floating fishing villages. We reach Siem Reap, bid farewell to the crew and guides and disembark around 9:30. Take local boats to the jetty approximately 5 to 6 km away from the ship’s parking area. You’ll be transferred on to Le Meridien hotel in the city. End of the cruise. (B)
DOWNSTREAM - Siem Reap to Saigon
Day 1 - Embarkation - Siem Reap to Kampong Cham
Register for cruise at Le Meridien Angkor. We then transfer by motor coach or bus to the local jetty and embark RV La Marguerite. The captain moors towards Kampong Chhnang as we enjoy lunch. Along the way, enjoy a scenic view of the wild lives while passing through the sleepy yet inspirational river villages. Dinner will be served while the boat arrives into Tonle Sap Lake. Enjoy the first gourmet dinner onboard with fellow travellers. Anchor at Tonle Sap Lake for the night. (L/D)
Day 2 - Kampong Chhnang to Kampong Cham
Breakfast will be served at the Mekong restaurant as we arrive at Kampong Chhnang. Transfer to Kampong Chhnang onboard local boats. Enjoy a quintessential river excursion through the floating houses to get a glimpse of the local lifestyles in the Tonle Sap River. The boats will moor safely along the banks, go ashore and enjoy a leisurely walk through the city and perhaps find a good bargain at the market. We return to the boat and cast off towards Kampong Cham. We arrive at Phnom Penh and continue towards Kampong Cham. Enjoy a wonderful paired gourmet dinner this evening. (B/L/D)
Note: In the low water season, the first two days will be as follows
Day 1: Siem Reap to Kampong Sat
Registration opens at Le Meridien Angkor. Transfer by motor coach or bus to Prek Kdam. Arriving Prek Kdam around 17:00 we embark the wonderful La Marguerite at 18:30 and check into your cabins. Iced mineral water and cold towels will be served. This evening enjoy the first gourmet dinner onboard with fellow travellers. Anchor at Kampong Sat for the night. (L/D)
Day 2: Kampong Sat to Chong Koh
Breakfast will be served at the Mekong restaurant as we arrive at Kampong Chhnang. Transfer to Kampong Chhnang onboard local boats. Enjoy a quintessential river excursion through the floating houses to get a glimpse of the local lifestyles in the Tonle Sap River. The boats will moor safely along the banks, go ashore and enjoy a leisurely walk through the city and perhaps find a good bargain at the market. Return to boat and cast off towards Kampong Cham. After lunch we arrive at Phnom Penh and continue towards Kampong Cham before we arrive at Chong Koh. Go ashore and visit traditional silk weaving factory and simply stroll around this charming village. Return to boat and enjoy a wonderful paired gourmet a la Carte dinner. (B/L/D)
Day 3 - Kampong Cham to Wat Hanchey
RV La Marguerite will sails towards Wat Hanchey where we explore a hilltop pagoda overlooking the Mekong. We then cast off for Kampong Cham. After lunchwe arrive at Kampong Cha>ood, bean trees, teak, and rubber trees. We will visit the 12th century Angkorian temple of Wat Nokor and an Eco village. A themed dinner will be served this evening. (B/L/D)
Day 4 - Phnom Penh
The boat will continue to sail towards Phnom Penh Port this morning during breakfast. Transferring by motor coach/bus we visit the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and National Museum. We return to the boat for a re-energizing power lunch to prepare for the second part of the excursion today. Take motor coach/bus to visit the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng (S21) detention centre. After dinner this evening a special Cambodian dance performance awaits at the Saigon Lounge. (B/L/D)
Day 5 - Phnom Penh to Tan Chau
Enjoy a hearty breakfast as the ship departs for the border. En route we stop at Preak Dach Village, a jungle village, to visit fruit orchards. Continue towards the border as a buffet lunch is served. Border formalities are carried out at the border in Cambodia (Ka Orm Samnor) and Vietnam (Song Tien). we then continue for Tan Chau. This evening enjoy a themed dinner. (B/L/D)
Day 6 - Tan Chau to Sa Dec
Rise and dress for a wonderful breakfast. Afterwards we transfer to small boats and visit a floating fish farm and navigate along the tiny tribunals where stilt houses are haphazardly leaning on one another. Go ashore and make a city tour in Xe Loi. Stop and visit silk making factory, rattan mats and slippers making factory. We return to the boat and cast off for Sadec. This evening enjoy a culturally enriching ethnic dance performance after dinner.We arrive in Sadec and moor midstream overnight. (B/L/D)
Day 7 - Sa Dec to Cua Tieu
This morning follow guides to the hometown of Marguerite Duras& lover, quaint little city. Visit the old house of Huynh Thuy Le’s "The Lovers Museum", partake in the bantering of local markets along the paved river banks, visit a pagoda and the Fujian Temple, built and donated to the city by Le’s family. You will pass by the homes of Marguerite Duras from across the river banks and also visit the school where Margeurite's mum taught. We then depart for Cai Be as the boat sails towards Cua Tieu. Explore the hidden treasures through the canals on riverboats and partake in afternoon bantering with floating markets vendors before going ashore to visit traditional candies making factory and rice paper mills. Return to the boat before adjourning to the restaurant for a grand farewell dinner and drinks. (B/L/D)
Day 8 - Disembarkation in Saigon
The boat continues to sail towards Saigon. After breakfast we bid farewell to crew and disembark with guides. Arrive at Sofitel Plaza Saigon. End of the cruise. (B)
ADD-ON TOURS BEFORE or AFTER CRUISE
Enhance your cruise of the Mekong with additional tours of Indochina. Add one or more of the following itineraries to make your holiday a complete package. Our experienced staff will help you to arrange every element of your tour, making sure everything runs smoothly.
HANOI & HALONG - 5 DAYS
Day 1 - Arrival in Hanoi
You will be met on arrival in Hanoi and transfer to hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 2 - Hanoi city tour
Today we tour Hanoi’s tree-lined boulevards, French colonial architecture, peaceful lakes, temples, and other outstanding sights. We’ll visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, Museum of Ethnology and the Lake of Restored Sword. We’ll explore Hanoi’s famous “Old Quarter,” noted for its 36 guild streets, from our rickshaws. The evening will be highlighted by a performance of the famed Water Puppet Theatre of Ha Noi, a traditional art form created by village farmers around the Red River Delta region - unique, but recognized internationally. (B)
Day 3 - Hanoi to Halong Bay
Today we journey east to Vietnam’s greatest natural wonder, Halong Bay. On arrival we will board a nice junk and set sail. From the comfort of our very own 100–foot private sampan, we’ll spend the day exploring this incredible setting and discovering the many islands and inlets found in the bay made famous in the film Indochine. You can also challenge yourself with kayaking and swimming. Vietnamese seafood lunch and dinner included. Overnight on board. (B/L/D)
Day 4 - Halong Bay to Hanoi
Wake up to fresh coffee and a wholesome breakfast before cruising back to Halong City. En route the junk weaves through strange-shaped rock formations that invite comparisons from fighting cocks to dragons and even further! After brunch on board disembark and return to Hanoi. The rest of the day at leisure in Hanoi. (Brunch)
Day 5 - Depart Hanoi
At leisure until transfer to Noi Bai Airport for departure flight. (B)
SAIGON - 4 DAYS
Day 1 - Arrival in Saigon
You will be met on arrival in Saigon and transfer to hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 2 - Saigon city tour
Today we tour the city’s major sights, taking in the American Embassy, the Reunification Palace, the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Saigon Post Office. We ride rickshaws to and stroll the bustling Chinese ethnic quarter of Saigon, Cho Lon, to see a myriad of merchandise and the ornate pagoda of Lady Hau. Enjoy a walk a long the colonial boulevards of Dong Khoi and Nguyen Hue and conclude touring on the rooftop garden restaurant of Rex hotel. (B/D)
Day 3 - Saigon / Cu Chi tunnels
We start the day driving off the city to Cu Chi amazing tunnel system built by Communist guerillas during the Vietnam War. We then head for Tay Ninh to witness the noon services of adherents to Caodai Sect, a most ridiculous religion in a beautiful edifice called Holy See Temple. Return to town and spend remainder of the day your favourite way. (B/L)
Day 4 - Saigon departure
At leisure until departure (airport or cruise ship transfer included). (B)
HUE & HOIAN - 4 DAYS
Day 1 - Arrival in Hue from Hanoi or Saigon
Arriving at Phu Bao airport you will be greeted and transferred to hotel. This afternoon enjoy a boat trip to Thien Mu, the best known pagoda in Central Vietnam. Next we tour the ancient Imperial Citadel. In an area of many square miles that’s declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO we’ll see remains of beautiful palaces, temples and paraphernalia’s from the Nguyen dynasty. We also stroll the exotic sights and sounds of Dong Ba Market which is known countrywide for its conical hats. This evening we sample a royal banquet, dressed in regal attires, having royal food and enjoying court music. (D)
Day 2 - Hue to Danang to Hoian
This morning we pay a visit to the mausoleum of King Tu Duc, his royal residence for life in the other world, and a garden house which once belonged to the royalty. Next we drive south to Danang, with stops at the scenic Lang Co Beach and atop the Ocean Cloud Pass. Visit the museum of Cham Sculptures in Danang and continue to Hoian for the evening. (B/L)
Day 3 - Hoian
This morning we take a walk back in time to explore the ancient town of Hoian, visiting her old merchant houses, Chinese Assembly Halls, the landmark Japanese Covered Bridge, museums, central market and colourful parade of shops. Despite the ravages of time, the town remains much the same as in its heyday. Rest of the day will be at your leisure. (B)
Day 4 - Hoian departure
Free until transfer to Danang where we take a flight to Hanoi or Saigon. (B)
SIEM REAP - 4 DAYS
Day 1 - Arrival in Siem Reap
Upon arrival you will be transferred to a hotel in city centre. Late afternoon before sunset we climb Phnom Bakheng Hill to the temple of Phnom Bakheng for magnificent sunset views over the temples of Angkor. This evening enjoy a welcome dinner with Khmer traditional music and dance. (D)
Day 2 - Siem Reap
Today we visit the Southern Gate of Angkor Thom, the famous Bayon complex, Phimean Akas temples and Elephants and Leper King Terraces. After lunch in local restaurant we continue our tour to Taprom and Angkor Wat temple. (B/L)
Day 3 - Siem Reap
This morning we wake up early to watch the sunrise over the Angkor Wat temple. After breakfast we then continue to visit Pre Rup, Mebon, Tasom, Neak Pean and Preah Khan temples. In the afternoon we continue to Thommanum, Chaosay Tevoda temple, Spean Thma (Ancient Bridge), Gate of Death, Terrace of Sras Srang and Prasat Kravan. (B/L)
Day 4 - Siem Reap departure
At leisure until transfer to the airport for departure flight. (B)
LAOS - 5 DAYS
Day 1 - Arrival in Vientiane
Meeting and greeting upon arrival then transfer to hotel. We will explore famous sites such as That Luang, Wat Sisaket , Monument Anousavari and the area by the bank of Mekong River.
Day 2 - Vientiane to Luang Prabang
This morning we fly north to the charming former capital Luang Prabang. Set amongst mountains at the confluence of the Mekong and Khan Rivers, this delightful town retains a unique charm rarely found in Asia today. We visit the former Royal Palace, walk up Phousi Mount for an exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as a beautiful sunset view of the city and the Mekong River. We also explore Street Night Bazaar, where you can find the lovely collection and handmade textile by local and hill tribes. This evening you will see a traditional Baci ceremony and original Luang Prabang traditional dance show performance. (B)
Days 3 to 5 - Further exploring of Luang Prabang
Wake up early one morning and participate in the daily early morning ritual of saffron-clad monks receiving offerings from the local people. We'll see the city's oldest temple of Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, which represent the classical architecture of Luang Prabang temples. Travel by boat through beautiful mountain scenery to the sacred Buddhist cave of Pak Ou Caves. Visit the village of Ban Xanghai to study its cottage industries and taste some rice wine. Enjoy the unique hospitality of ethnic minorities group in some villages. Refresh with a swim in the beautiful Khouang Si Waterfalls before departure. (B)
Package price on enquiry.
Price includes:
- Return international flights
- 7 night accommodation on board of RLV La Marguerite (fullboard) for cruise;
- Accommodation of type chosen for add-ons;
- Meals: daily breakfast at hotel and others as mentioned in itinerary;
- Sightseeing excursions with English speaking guides;
- All road transportation in private air-con car or minibus;
- Entrance fees;
- Domestic flights;
- Boat trip as mentioned in sights;
- Government tax and service charge;
- Luggage handling and drinking water.
Price excludes:
- Vietnamese Visa fee
- Cambodian Visa fee;
- Hotel accommodation before and after cruise;
- Departure tax;
- Personal expense such as laundry or drinks during meals etc.;
- Optional visits;
- Travel insurance (can be arranged, please ask for details);
- Tips to guides and drivers.
