RV Lan Diep Cruise Downstream 9 days: Siem Reap - Ho Chi Minh City

Afternoon & Evening

Meeting at 1:00 p.m. at the designated Lotus Blanc Hotel or similar; meeting points will be confirmed in your travel documentation. 

Transfer to the cruise vessel. After settling into your cabins, a welcome cocktail introduces the crew, followed by dinner on board.

Morning

Arrival in Koh Chen, a small riverside village known for its traditional silver and copper craftsmanship. You can explore the village and observe local artisans at work.

Afternoon

Return to the ship for lunch on board before continuing to Kampong Tralach. The visit includes the Vihara at Wat Kampong Tralach Leu, reached by tuk-tuk through the village along a narrow path crossing scenic rice fields.

Evening

Return to the ship to relax as the cruise continues. Dinner is served on board, followed by an overnight stay.

Morning

The day begins with a visit to Kampong Chhnang, one of the largest fishing ports on Tonle Sap Lake, known for its extensive fish farming and traditional pottery. You will have a chance to explore local workshops and enjoy a tasting of regional specialties here.

Afternoon

Return to the ship for lunch as the cruise continues toward Phnom Penh, arriving in the early evening. A short city tour by tuk-tuk offers a glimpse into the capital’s lively atmosphere.

Evening

Back on board, guests will enjoy a performance of classical Khmer dance and music, followed by dinner and an overnight stay on the ship.

Morning

The day begins with a guided tour of Phnom Penh, including the city's highlights:

• Royal Palace: A magnificent complex showcasing classic Khmer architecture with ornate details and golden spires
• Silver Pagoda: Famous for its silver-tiled floor and collection of sacred Buddha statues and treasures
• National Museum: Home to an exceptional collection of Khmer art and historical artifacts

Afternoon

After lunch in town, the itinerary includes a visit to Tuol Svay Prey School, a former Khmer Rouge detention center offering insight into Cambodia’s recent history. Free time at a local market allows for a glimpse into daily life.

Evening

Return to the ship as the cruise departs for Chau Doc, a historic border town between Cambodia and Vietnam. Dinner is served on board, followed by an overnight stay as the ship sails along the Mekong.

Morning

The day begins in Chau Doc, a vibrant border town shaped by its thriving fish farming industry and floating villages.

The visit includes Tay An Pagoda, set at the foot of Sam Mountain with its unique architectural blend, and Ba Chua Xu Temple, a popular pilgrimage site dedicated to the Lady Goddess.

Afternoon & Evening

Lunch is served before returning to the ship. The cruise then continues toward Sa Dec, offering views of daily life along the Mekong. You can relax on board as the ship sails onward

Morning

The day begins with a visit to Sa Dec, a charming riverside town known for its colonial heritage. Highlights include the ancient house of Huynh Thuy Le, linked to Marguerite Duras’ novel The Lover, followed by free time to explore the town.

Afternoon

Return to the ship for lunch before cruising toward Vinh Long. The journey continues by small boats through narrow canals and lush orchards, arriving in Cai Be to visit local workshops producing bricks, pottery, puffed rice, rice paper, and traditional rice alcohol.

Evening

Back on board, the cruise continues along the Mekong. 

Morning

The day begins in My Tho with a visit to a local bee farm, where guests can taste honey tea and fresh tropical fruits. The experience continues with a sampan ride along narrow canals shaded by mangrove palms, offering a glimpse into peaceful delta life.

Afternoon

Return to the ship for lunch on board before cruising through the narrow and bustling Cho Gao Canal en route to Ho Chi Minh City.

Evening

Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, where the ship docks in the city center. You can admire the vibrant beauty of the city at night before enjoying dinner on board and an overnight stay in port.

Morning

The day begins with a city tour of Ho Chi Minh City, once heavily influenced by French colonialism.

• Reunification Palace: A historic landmark symbolizing the end of the Vietnam War, featuring well-preserved 1970s architecture
• Notre Dame Cathedral: A striking French colonial cathedral built with red bricks, reflecting the city’s European heritage
• Central Post Office: An iconic colonial building with elegant arches and a grand interior design
• Museum of Vietnamese History: Showcasing a rich collection of artifacts that trace Vietnam’s cultural and historical development

Afternoon

After lunch on board, guests can enjoy free time or join an excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network used during the Vietnam War as hideouts, supply routes, and living quarters.

Evening

Return to the ship for a farewell cocktail and dinner, marking the end of the journey. The ship remains docked overnight in the city center.

Morning

After disembarkation, the journey continues with a visit to Cholon, the city’s vibrant Chinatown, known for its bustling market and strong Chinese cultural influences.

Afternoon

Lunch is served at a local restaurant before the trip concludes at approximately 2:00 p.m.