Aqua Mekong Expedition Cruise 8 days: Saigon - Siem Reap/ Phnom Penh

Afternoon

Our team awaits your arrival at the scheduled meeting point in Ho Chi Minh City. From there, you enjoy comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned coach to My Tho dock.

Once aboard, take a moment to settle in, then enjoy savoring the tranquility and beauty of the Mekong River.

Morning

The morning adventure offers you two options with two enchanting destinations: Binh Thanh's mat weaving village or the bustling market ofSa Dec, where you delve into the history of the legendary lover, Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, famously depicted by Marguerite Duras.

Afternoon

Set sail heading to the picturesque village of My An Hung. Take a leisurely stroll through the traditional wooden houses, verdant fields, and bustling market, offering a glimpse into the authentic rural life of Vietnam.

Pay a visit to the local houses, you will experience the warm hospitality of the residents. Sample delicious regional delicacies and local fruits and enjoy captivating performances of traditional folk songs by the villagers.

For those seeking more adventure, you can also embark on a 17-kilometer biking excursion, meandering through the charming countryside at your leisure, soaking in the rustic beauty of the landscape.

Morning 

The cruise glides along the Bassac Canal in a cozy skiff, fully engaging in the lively ambiance of the Chau Doc floating market. Here, vibrant boats adorned with colorful produce and local delicacies create a captivating scene.

Arrive at the Long Son Pagodaby van, situated atop Sam Mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. You will be greeted by ornate architecture, intricate carvings, and the gentle fragrance of incense wafting through the air. 

Partake in insightful dialogues with wise monks, delving deep into the enduring traditions of Buddhism that have endured through centuries.

As your journey back, we make a stop at a bustlingmorning market, where the spirited pulse of local commerce thrives, offering a feast for the senses amidst its lively atmosphere.

For those seeking more adventure, there’s the opportunity to take part in an exciting 18-kilometer bicycle excursion acrossLong Khanh island, presenting stunning views of the rural landscape.

Alternatively, relish a relaxed rickshaw journey to Tan Chau market, accompanied by our adept chef, who will acquaint you with diverse flavors and local cuisine.

Afternoon

The afternoon is yours to unwind and bask in the serene ambiance poolside, letting the tranquility of the surroundings wash over you. Do not miss the opportunity to treat yourself to a traditional Khmer massage.

Alternatively, you can also divide into the art of cooking Mekong-inspired dishes, led by our expert chefs.

Morning

The cruise glides along the tranquil river, offering views of Khmer craftsmen expertly dyeing and weaving Kroma, a fabric essential to Khmer culture.

Hop on a bicycle to explore the riverbank, passing serene Buddhist temples and quaint thatched houses perched on slender wooden stilts as you pedal along to gain insight into the local culture.

Afternoon

Embark on our marine-grade aluminum skiffs leading to the tamarind trees of Preah Prosop, a secluded village untouched by time. Observe a way of life that has persevered through generations, offering a rare glimpse into Cambodia's rich cultural heritage.

Morning 

Get on a tuk-tuk to discover the vibrant Cambodian capital. We will make stops at iconic landmarks such as the Royal Palace, the majestic Silver Pagoda, and the prestigious National Museumof Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art.

To enrich your experience, you also can choose to discover the country's poignant history at the Tuol Sleng Museumof Genocide or enjoy shopping time at the renowned Russian Market.

Afternoon

As we say goodbye to our guests who have spent four nights with us, disembarking in Phnom Penh, we eagerly greet our new passengers joining us for a three-night journey. 

We kick off their experience with a special reception, featuring custom sundowners like the Salted Watermelon Crush with Thai basil.

Then we come together for a captivating Khmer Apsara performance. This cultural tradition immortalized on the ancient temple walls of Angkor Wat, serves as a fitting tribute to the rich heritage of the region.

Morning

The day journey begins with a visit to Koh Chen village, a charming village renowned for its skillful silversmiths. Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship as you witness artisans delicately shaping silver into exquisite bowls and ornaments. 

Afternoon

Continuing our adventure of exploring Khmer riverside life, we reachKampong Chhnang, renowned for its rich heritage of pottery craftsmanship dating back to the 6th century. This charming town offers a fascinating glimpse into Khmer riverside culture. 

For those seeking more activities, we offer a biking option to enrich your journey.

Morning

This morning, we will explore the hidden villages nestled around the Tonle Sap Lake, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1997. 

Our expedition begins with a visit to Chhnok Tru, offering a rare chance to explore an ice factory. Experience firsthand how essential establishments are ingeniously built on floating platforms, showcasing the community's way of adapting to the water environment.

Afternoon

We stop at the enchanting floating village ofMoat Khla, reached only by water. Here we engage in a profound Buddhist blessing ceremony, fully immersing ourselves in the rich tapestry of local traditions and customs.

Morning

We discover Prek Toal Core Bird Reserve, a crucial conservation area located in Cambodia, offering excellent opportunities for bird watching. Observe a diverse range of bird species in their natural habitat, including rare and endangered species. 

We disembark from the cruise, wrapping up our adventure.

Afternoon

Gather at the scheduled location in Ho Chi Minh City and get on an air-conditioned coach to Marina My Tho dock.

Upon arrival, you will be greeted with open arms. Settle into your room and immerse yourself in your floating oasis, where the expansive window walls unveil stunning views.

Morning

Kick off your day with a journey to Binh Thanh mat weaving village. Here, you can immerse yourself in the artistry of local artisans as they skillfully craft beauty mats using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Alternatively, opt for a visit to the bustling market in Sa Dec, a vibrant hub of activity where locals gather to buy and sell an array of goods. While in Sa Dec, don't miss the chance to visit the ancient house of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, a historic landmark steeped in romance.

Afternoon

We make a stop at charming My An Hung Village. Take a leisurely stroll through the traditional wooden houses, verdant fields, and bustling market, offering a glimpse into the authentic rural life of Vietnam.

Visiting the local houses, you will receive the warm hospitality of the residents. Savor delicious regional delicacies and local fruits and enjoy captivating performances of traditional folk songs by the villagers.

For those expecting more extra adventure, you can choose a 17-kilometer biking excursionto explore the beauty of natural surroundings.

Morning 

Set sail along the Bassac Canal, where you will visit the bustling Chau Doc. Witness colorful boats with fresh produce and local goods converge, creating a vibrant spectacle, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of daily life along the waterways.

Afterwards, travel to the Long Son Pagodaby van, situated atop the majestic Sam Mountain. Engage with knowledgeable monks and discover their ancient Buddhist traditions. 

On your return, admire the vibrant ambiance of the morning market. For the adventurous, you can choose an optional 18-kilometer bike ride on Long Khanh Island or enjoy a delightful rickshaw tour of Tan Chau Market guided by our skilled chef.

Afternoon

Take a chance to relax by the pool,  pamper yourself with a revitalizing traditional Khmer massage, or join in a cooking class featuring delightful Mekong-inspired dishes as we journey across the border.

Morning

The cruise glides along the tranquil river, providing glimpses of Khmer craftsmen skillfully dyeing and weaving Kroma, a fabric that carries profound meaning in the lives of the Khmer people.

Explore the riverbank on a bicycle, passing serene Buddhist temples and charming thatched houses on slender wooden stilts. Gain insight into the local culture as you pedal along.

Afternoon

Embark on our marine-grade aluminum skiffs to reach the tamarind trees of Preah Prosop, a secluded village untouched by time. Witness a way of life that has endured through generations, offering a rare glimpse into Cambodia's rich cultural heritage.

Morning

Hop on a motorized tuk-tuk to discover the vibrant Cambodian capital. We will make stops at iconic landmarks such as the Royal Palace, the majestic Silver Pagoda, and the prestigiousNational Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art.

To enhance your visit, you also have the option to delve into the county’s poignant history at the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide or enjoy shopping time at the renowned Russian Market.

Afternoon

As we bid farewell to our four-night guests disembarking in Phnom Penh, we warmly welcome our new passengers for a three-night journey ahead.

To celebrate their journey along the river, we invite guests to welcome fathering custom-crafted sundowners like the Salted Watermelon Crush infused with Thai basil.

Then we come together for a captivating Khmer Apsara performance, serving as a fitting tribute to the rich heritage of the region.

Morning

Begin your day at the small village of Koh Chen. Here, amid the narrow streets and rustic houses, we have the privilege of witnessing skilled artisans meticulously crafting exquisite silverware, a craft that has been cherished by Khmer royalty for centuries.

Next, journey to Udong, the revered royal capital of the 17th to 19th centuries. Amidst the remnants of ancient temples and crumbling palaces, we delve into the profound teachings of Buddhism at the Vipassana Dhura.

Afternoon

Partake in a captivating walking tour ofKampong Prasat. Meandering along the verdant riverbanks, we immerse ourselves in the daily rhythms of the locals, gaining insight into their age-old traditions and close relationship with the natural environment.

Morning

Amidst peaceful moments, we delve into the lush countryside, Andong Russei, to discover the vibrant customs of local potters and palm-sugar artisans. We can gracefully navigate the terrain on mountain bikes or opt for shaded tuk-tuk rides. 

Pedaling through scenic rice paddies, we witness skilled artisans scaling towering palm trees, seemingly reaching for the sky.

Afternoon

More chances to bike through the countryside, go fishing, and explore the floating village of Kampong Tralach on skiffs will be available after lunch. The day will conclude with sundowners by the riverbank and kayaking along the Tonle Sap.

Morning

Customized exploration of Phnom Penh and disembarkation.

If you want to continue your Cambodian adventure to Siem Reap and its ancient lost city of Angkor Wat, there are plane transfers available. In addition to offering complete escort services, our guides will transport visitors to the Phnom Penh Airport in a private, opulent vehicle.