Aqua Mekong Expedition Cruise 8 days: Ho Chi Minh - Phnom Penh/ Siem Reap

Afternoon

Your journey begins in Ho Chi Minh City, where guests gather at the designated meeting point between 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM before boarding a shared air-conditioned transfer to the Mekong Delta.

A light lunch is served prior to departure, followed by an approximately 2-hour scenic drive to Marina My Tho Port for embarkation.

Upon boarding the luxurious Aqua Mekong, step into a private floating sanctuary where floor-to-ceiling windows reveal sweeping river panoramas.

Relax in the comfort of your elegant design suite, complete with a cozy daybed, as the Mekong slowly unveils its timeless beauty.

Morning

Kick off your day with a journey to the 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.

Back onboard, enjoy a cooking demonstration followed by a delicious lunch featuring regional flavors and fresh local ingredients.

Afternoon

We continue to the charming village of My An Hung, a traditional Mekong Delta village surrounded by verdant plantations and peaceful countryside landscapes.

A visit to a local family home offers the chance to sample fresh tropical fruits while enjoying traditional folk music performances and a lively Unicorn dance presented by villagers.

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

Morning 

Travel by skiff along the Bassac Canal to the vibrant border town of Chau Doc, where a traditional xeloi rickshaw ride offers a lively introduction to the local town and bustling market.

Continue by van to Long Son Pagoda atop Sam Mountain, where panoramic views unfold and monks share insights into age-old Mahayana Buddhist practices. The journey returns through the energetic morning market

An optional 18-kilometer cycling route on Long Khanh Island offers a scenic ride through lush rice paddies and peaceful countryside, providing a closer glimpse into local rural life.

Afternoon

After lunch onboard, unwind by the pool or enjoy a traditional Khmer massage while the cruise continues crossing the Vietnam–Cambodia 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 (optional), 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 the 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

Explore the vibrant capital of Phnom Penh by motorized tuk-tuk, with stops at the magnificent Royal Palace, the majestic Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum of Cambodia, which houses the world’s largest collection of Khmer art.

For those interested, the itinerary may also include a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum or the bustling stalls of the Russian Market.

Afternoon & Evening

As we bid farewell to the 4-night guests disembarking in Phnom Penh, we warmly welcome our new passengers for a 3-night journey ahead.

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

The evening continues with a celebration of the onward journey along the Mekong, highlighted by a traditional Khmer Apsara performance, an ancient cultural art form famously depicted on the temples of Angkor Wat.

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 of Kampong 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

In the cooler morning hours, travel by skiff to the traditional village of Andong Russei, where local potters and palm sugar producers continue age-old craftsmanship passed down through generations.

The experience continues with optional exploration by mountain bike or tuk-tuk, passing through rural scenery and open countryside. Cycling routes lead across rice paddies, where palm climbers can be seen scaling tall sugar palms rising above the landscape.

Afternoon

After a cooking demonstration and lunch onboard, there’ll be more opportunities to explore the countryside by bicycle, try traditional fishing activities, and visit the floating village of Kampong Tralach by skiff.

The day concludes with kayaking along the Tonlé Sap waterways, followed by sunset sundowners served along the riverbank in a peaceful setting.

Morning

Enjoy customized exploration of Phnom Penh before disembarkation, with optional visits to the Sosoro Museum, the peaceful hilltop sanctuary of Wat Phnom, or the lively stalls of the Central Market.

Disembarkation takes place around 11:00 AM at Phnom Penh Passenger and Tourist Terminal TS1.

Guests continuing their Cambodian journey to Siem Reap and the ancient temples of Angkor Wat can enjoy a flight extension, including a shared transfer to Phnom Penh Airport.