Pandaw Mekong Cruise Upstream 8 days: Saigon - Siem Reap

Morning

Embark your Pandaw ship in central Saigon and relax on the spacious sundeck as the ship sets sail past the towering skyline of this vibrant metropolis. Glide along scenic waterways lined with mangroves and bamboo, immersing yourself in the region’s natural beauty.

Afternoon

After lunch onboard, meet your crew and enjoy local entertainment on deck as the journey continues toward the Mekong Delta.

Evening

As evening falls, the ship moors overnight on the Vam Co River, offering a peaceful and atmospheric riverside setting.

Morning

In the early morning, cruise through the historic Cho Gao Canal, built in 1876 during the French colonial era, an essential waterway that reveals a captivating glimpse into life along the riverbanks.

Afternoon

Upon reaching Ben Tre, journey by sampan through mangroves and bamboo forests to lush fruit orchards. This fertile region, known as the rice bowl of Vietnam, is also rich in artisanal traditions, which you will experience during a visit to a local handicraft village.

Evening

Return to the ship and continue sailing deeper into the Mekong Delta toward Chau Doc.

Morning

In the morning, travel by minivan to Sam Mountain, where Phuoc Dien Tu (Hang Pagoda) offers breathtaking views across the Mekong. Climbing the 400 steps to reach the top of the pagoda to take in breathtaking Mekong views. For those not keen on the stairs, explore the local market instead.

Continue with a sampan excursion to floating fish farms, followed by an exclusive lion dance performance in a local village.

Afternoon

Upon returning to the ship, we sail through an intricate network of canals before anchoring at the Vietnam–Cambodia border for immigration formalities.

Note: During high water periods in October and November, navigation into Chau Doc may be hampered by low bridges, meaning today's excursion will be replaced with a local village visit at Long Thuan.

Morning 

Discover Phnom Penh with a cyclo tour and indulge in the sophisticated architecture of the Royal Palace and the dazzling Silver Pagoda. Then, delve into Cambodia's history at the National Museum, where a collection of Angkorian statues awaits to enchant and inspire.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, visit the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum for deeper insight into Cambodia’s history. Here, visitors get more knowledge about the innocence of the Khmer Rouge.

Evening

The ship docks overnight in Phnom Penh, where you are free to explore the city’s lively bars, restaurants, and nightlife before returning onboard.

Morning

Depart from the dock in Phnom Penh and embark on a scenic journey upstream along the meandering channels of the Tonle Sap River.

We continue the journey to Kampong Tralach, immerse ourselves in the peaceful surroundings and observe traditional Khmer architecture and way of life.

Afternoon

Following the lunch, we experience the vibrant river life as we venture into the riverside villages, bustling markets, and ancient temples. Here, explore the countryside by traditional oxcart for an authentic glimpse into rural Cambodian life.

Evening

In the evening, enjoy cocktails around a fire pit in a small fishing village, where locals share stories and perform traditional dances.

Morning

After a leisurely breakfast, we transfer to captivating Oudong by coach and stop at Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre, admire its Khmer architecture, and take part in a short meditation session.

We rejoin the ship at Prek Kdam before sailing back onto the Mekong during lunch.

Afternoon

Step ashore at Pak Russei, a tranquil village along the Mekong, and enjoy a guided walk to meet local artisans specializing in silk weaving and handmade noodle production.

Before returning to the ship, experience a private Bokator performance, offering insight into Cambodia’s ancient martial arts tradition.

Evening

Spend the night onboard the tranquility and luxuriate in the serene atmosphere of the Mekong River.

Morning

Start the day with Tai Chi or a relaxing coffee on deck as the ship cruises at sunrise toward Peam Chi Korng, a hidden gem renowned for its traditional pottery.

After a short tuk-tuk ride from the riverbank, visit local workshops to see artisans at work, then continue exploring the village and its lively fresh market.

Afternoon

Return to the ship and continue sailing along the Mekong River toward Steung Trang, taking in the scenic landscapes along the way.

Evening

Enjoy your final evening onboard with entertainment from the crew, followed by a sumptuous farewell dinner prepared by the kitchen team.

Morning

After breakfast, disembark and travel by coach from Steung Trang through scenic countryside to Siem Reap (approximately 5 hours), arriving between 12:00 and 13:00 at the FCC Angkor Hotel, located next to the Royal Palace.