Heritage Line Jayavarman Cruise Downstream 5 days: Siem Reap - Phnom Penh

Morning

We welcome our guests in the morning at our Siem Reap welcome lounge, offering a leisurely start with a cup of coffee before a brief bus ride to the pier. 

Saying goodbye to the iconic sights of Angkor, we embark on a short journey to the shore of Tonle Lake, where a local boat transports you to your luxurious "home" for the upcoming days. 

Upon settling into your staterooms, consider stepping onto your balcony to witness the ship gracefully setting sail for a captivating lake crossing. As you savor lunch, the cruise smoothly traverses Tonle Lake. 

Afternoon

Allow your spirit to drift and your gaze to wander as the boat glides across the lake. Afternoon tea is served, providing an ideal opportunity for passengers to connect with fellow travelers and enjoy delightful treats. 

However, the afternoon is yours to unwind. You can either rest on your private balcony or have a relaxing session at the Apsara Spa.

Evening

Before dinner, our expert guide offers insights into the geography of the Mekong River and Tonle Lake, delving into the unique attributes of the region. 

For those in the mood for evening entertainment, the lounge features a cinema showcasing classic movies and documentaries.

Morning

Rise early to marvel at the breathtaking sunrise of the Tonle River. Our next destination is Kampong Laeang, situated just across from the famous pottery town of Kampong Chhnang. 

We will use the famous tuk-tuk to explore around the Cambodian countryside, such as visiting locals, discovering the art of pottery making, and visiting a charming pre-Angkorian temple. 

Depending on the season, you can take advantage of the open-air view to indulge in the scenic landscapes here.

Back on the ship with lunch enjoyed and spectacular views on the Tonle River, we sail south to Kampong Tralach. An afternoon tea is served at the bar before we continue with the afternoon excursion.

Afternoon

A thrilling trip awaits us as we step onto another part of the rural Cambodian countryside. 

We will be transported by ox-pulled cart along the riverside and down winding back roads, surrounded by picturesque rice paddies. Our destination is a small village, where we will have the opportunity to learn about a local NGO school and library project. 

Evening

After sightseeing, we attended a fashion Show offered onboard in the early evening. The ship will continue the journey across the Mekong River overnight.

Morning & Afternoon

As you wake this morning, the scenery has changed to the serene water of the Mekong River. To be specific, the cruise reaches the town of Kampong Cham, an essential trade and transportation center.

En route to Cambodia’s capital, we will pass by a small silk weaving community located at the confluence of the Tonle and Mekong Rivers. Its name is Prek Bangkong, also the former residence of the Royal family before they moved to the Royal Palace. 

Today, the village is best known for its skilled silk weavers, artisans who create this luxurious fabric from start to finish. We’ll observe their meticulous craft and then step inside the heritage home of H.E. Sam-El, a distinguished royal architect.

We continue to Angkor Ban. This place includes a monastery with a delightful local village behind it. You'll have the chance to meet monks during their morning class and engage in friendly conversations with the villagers. 

Try to explore and learn as much as possible about the local lifestyle, and get yourself many memorable experiences in Cambodia's rustic region. The untouched nature and peaceful landscapes here are truly a gem for photography.

We come back to our fancy accommodation to continue the downstream journey towards Phnom Penh. 

Morning

Today’s destination is Phnom Penh, also known as the Paris of the East. Despite the swift modernization, the city has managed to preserve its rustic charm and elegance, highlighting the captivating beauty of its centuries-old history.

Embarking on a full sightseeing tour by cyclo after breakfast, we delve into the city's profound history, such as the Royal Palace with its remarkable architectural site, and the Silver Pagoda.

We continue to visit the Prison S21. Although little has changed since those harrowing times, the terrifying experience can still be challenging for guests’ emotions. 

Lunch unfolds, and we are offered a taste of the refined ambiance that characterizes Phnom Penh's top destinations.

Afternoon

The afternoon begins with a visit to a renowned academy of arts, where efforts are devoted to safeguarding Cambodia’s cultural heritage. Watch young performers practicing the graceful Apsara dance and even try a few of the elegant movements yourself under the guidance of the instructors.

Conclude the tour with a stroll through the city's French quarter, including the iconic and aptly named monument of Wat Phnom.

Evening

The evening holds a special lecture by an expert in the lounge.  Followed by a delightful open-air gala featuring a barbecue dinner feast. Then it will be complemented by a classic Apsara dance performance.

As the evening unfolds, relish your supper with a fine glass of wine while marveling at the serene night of Phnom Penh.

Morning

Before disembarking, the final breakfast is served onboard your floating home. 

We bid farewell. We hope you had wonderful memories and stories to tell about this incredible river, the Mighty Mekong.