Heritage Line Jayavarman Cruise Downstream 4 days: Phnom Penh - Saigon

Morning

Step aboard Heritage Line and begin your unforgettable Mekong River journey. After check-in, gather in the lounge for a safety briefing to ensure a smooth start.

Before leaving Phnom Penh, guests are invited to a powerful and moving talk. Mr. Sum Rithy, a survivor of the notorious S21 prison and later a key witness in the Khmer Rouge tribunal, shares his story of survival and resilience. This rare encounter offers a deeply personal perspective on one of Cambodia’s darkest periods.

Afternoon & Evening

Once the ship sets sail, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy. Let the gentle flow of the river set the pace, unwind with a spa session, relax on your balcony, or simply take in the views.

While the captain shares stories about the river, a culinary workshop is also open for those interested in Khmer gastronomy. 

As the afternoon winds down, enjoy tea and light snacks while the vessel approaches the border. By evening, we officially cross into Vietnam and continue downstream into the lively Mekong Delta, anchoring overnight near Gieng Island.

Morning

Begin your day with a revitalizing Tai Chi session followed by breakfast. Our first stop is Gieng Island, often called Mango Island, where you’ll experience a vibrant slice of Delta life. Wander beneath fruit-laden groves, visit a small incense-making workshop, and watch skilled artisans at a traditional boatyard crafting wooden vessels.

Before leaving, savor freshly picked mangoes and a cup of local tea in the courtyard of a century-old home, a simple but memorable taste of Mekong hospitality.

Afternoon

The tour continues to My An Hung Village, where you will have the opportunity to get a deep insight into the private household of a local family and their seasonal cultivation.

You will be invited to their house for a Vietnamese tea tasting and a presentation of fresh fruits growing in the garden. You can snack on the "vitamin bombs" as an artist group performs a traditional dragon dance.

Evening

Back onboard, the ship glides into a glowing sunset. Enjoy complimentary cocktails, light bites, music, and dancing on deck before sitting down for dinner. Overnight on board.

Morning & Afternoon

Wake up with a Tai Chi class and a sumptuous breakfast. Then, you will board a local boat to Sa Dec, which reveals a graceful blend of colonial elegance and everyday Mekong life.

We begin with a walk through the lively central market, where an abundance of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies reflects the region’s rich agricultural rhythm.

The cultural layers deepen with a visit to the historic home of Huynh Thuy Le, closely tied to Marguerite Duras’ The Lover. Stepping inside offers a glimpse into a narrative that has left its mark on both literature and the town itself.

Afterward, take a trip to Kien An Cung Pagoda, a century-old temple of Chinese heritage. With its ornate details and tranquil riverside setting, it provides a peaceful contrast to the town’s lively streets before returning on board.

Next, in Cai Be, we stop at small workshops to watch the traditional making of rice paper, coconut candies, cookies, and rice wine.

Next, continue to Tan Phong Island, where a local family greets us in their fruit garden, inviting us to taste fresh tropical delights. Then, enjoy a lighthearted buggy ride through the village, stopping to observe artisans transforming water hyacinths into beautiful handicrafts.

Evening

Return to the ship in the late afternoon as it sails toward My Tho, where a cheerful farewell gathering awaits. Our staff welcomes you to a farewell ceremony and some lighthearted moments before dinner. 

With a glass of wine from the open bar, you will have your meal aboard.

Morning

Take your final breakfast on board your floating house. We depart the ship and board a bus from My Tho to Saigon. The roadway is just around 70 kilometers long, and you'll arrive in Saigon by mid-morning.

At the last minute, we hope you had a pleasant experience during this amazing river excursion through the Mighty Mekong. Farewell and see you again!