7 Nights [Siem Reap - Saigon]
7 NIGHTS
Siem Reap – Saigon
The mighty Mekong – a mysterious body of water flowing through six countries in Asia. Giving love and life to millions, it received its fame by the legendary God King of ancient Cambodia, King Jayavarman VII, who linked hands with the waters of the Mekong to build the magnificent Angkor civilization.
This classic 7-Night Mekong River cruise named “The Lost Civilisation” combines places rarely visited with fantastic historical heritage sites. If offers a complete fluvial discovery of Vietnam and Cambodia along the Mekong with a combination of experiences one never will forget.
7 NIGHTS
Siem Reap – Saigon
The mighty Mekong – a mysterious body of water flowing through six countries in Asia. Giving love and life to millions, it received its fame by the legendary God King of ancient Cambodia, King Jayavarman VII, who linked hands with the waters of the Mekong to build the magnificent Angkor civilization.
This classic 7-Night Mekong River cruise named “The Lost Civilisation” combines places rarely visited with fantastic historical heritage sites. If offers a complete fluvial discovery of Vietnam and Cambodia along the Mekong with a combination of experiences one never will forget.
Mid-Nov - End-Aug
End-Aug - Mid-Nov
The water levels on the Lower Mekong in Cambodia vary seasonally. A low-water period typically happens between mid-November and end-August; the high-water period between end-August and mid-November (periods may alter). Cruise itineraries vary between both periods.
Day 1
Siem Reap – Kampong Cham – Angkor Ban
details
Heritage Line extends a heartfelt welcome to our guests in Siem Reap at our welcome lounge. Enjoy a second coffee this morning before the transfer departs to the moored vessel on the Mekong River. Upon boarding, our crew will guide you to your staterooms providing a short briefing on the cabin’s facilities. After spending some time to settle in, lunch awaits in the ship’s restaurant, followed by a welcome & safety briefing in the lobby by our cruise director.
As the afternoon unfolds, sailing with the flow of the Mekong River, you can enjoy time on the deck. The cruise director invites you to a little sunset event with canapés and prosecco, where one can socialise with other fellow passengers. After officially kicking off your journey, dinner is served. If you like, join the evening cinema in the climatised indoor lounge later.
Dining: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2
Angkor Ban - Prek Bangkong - Kampong Laeang
details
Early risers may like to join the daily offered Tai Chi session on the sun deck before breakfast. Today’s morning excursion let us explore the village of Angkor Ban.
Default Morning Excursion (any ship): Angkor Ban features a monastery with an adjacent, enchanting local village. You'll have the chance to meet monks during their morning class and engage in friendly conversations with the villagers. As we stroll through the village, we understand the local way of life in various aspects, collecting wonderful memories of Cambodia's rustic lifestyle. The village offers great photographic moments whilst interacting with the local community.
OPTIONAL MORNING EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship 'Jayavarman' only): In addition to a shorter visit to the Angkor Ban village, the culinary excursion group extends their excursion to pass by the house of Mr B., who used to work as a young chef aboard the ship ‘Jayavarman’. After he got married, he moved to his wife’s home village. Together with his “mom-in-law” and the “chef” in the household (his wife), we prepare and cook a century-old soup recipe called “Samlor Korko”. The soup is kind of a fish soup made with many vegetables, spices, herbs, and roasted rice, accompanied by a duck egg omelette
Cycling (any ship, extra cost): Today’s cycling tour journey starts with a tranquil monk meeting, that sets the tone for the day. As you cycle through verdant seasonal vegetable fields, picturesque old local houses dot the landscape, offering glimpses into Cambodia's heritage. Witness skilled blacksmiths at work to understand more about traditional craftsmanship. Conclude your adventure with a delightful pause, sipping on ice-cold local beer or indulging in the refreshing taste of freshly pressed sugar cane juice.
Distance: 10 km / Duration: approx. 120 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path
We are boarding our luxury ship again sailing now downstream again towards Phnom Penh. Before we arrive at Cambodia’s capital, we halt at a small silk weaving community.
Default Afternoon Excursion (any ship): At the confluence of the Tonle and Mekong Rivers lies the small village of Prek Bangkong, known for its silk weaving community. This village was also the former residence of the Royal family before they moved to the Royal Palace. However, the real stars in this area today are the silk weavers, artisans who craft silk from the very beginning. We will have the opportunity to closely observe and learn about this intricate silk production process. We conclude this excursion by visiting the heritage house of H.E. Sam-El, once a famous architect for the royal family.
OPTIONAL AFTERNOON EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship 'Jayavarman' only): Not available
Cycling (any ship, extra cost): Our cycling tour today takes us to the wonderful former royal palace of “Lavea Em” (1601-1618). Pedal at ease through picturesque landscapes, punctuated by captivating stops at historic pagodas, vibrant silk weaving workshops, and bustling local markets. Indulge in a delightful tea break at the residence of H.E. Sam-El, adding a touch of elegance to your cycling adventure.
Distance: 14 km / Duration: approx. 120 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path
The rest of the day is a joyful sailing, passing the skyline of Phnom Penh and heading into the small Tonle River northbound. Enjoy a multi-course menu for dinner and the nightly entertaining evening cinema offered afterwards in the lounge. We moor midstream in the Tonle River.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Kampong Laeang - Kampong Tralach - Phnom Penh
details
Default Morning Excursion (any ship): We are in the midst of the vast Tonle region, one of Cambodia’s amazing ecosystems. The tour this morning leads to Kampong Laeang, an unknown hamlet situated just across from the famous pottery town of Kampong Chhnang. Once ashore, we embark on tuk-tuks to travel the heart of rural Cambodian life. During this excursion, we'll explore various locals, discover the art of pottery making, and visit a charming pre-Angkorian temple. From a vantage point, amazing panoramic views of the vast floodplains and lush rice fields (seasonal) can be enjoyed.
OPTIONAL MORNING EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship 'Jayavarman' only): The culinary-themed excursion offers in addition to the default cultural excursion the possibility to participate in a cooking demonstration. Get to know how to prepare together the quite famous snack called “Nom Kruak” which is a kind of cake made from white or brown rice. Originally cooked only one side only, the Khmer invented Nom Kruak and cooked it on both sides. This dish is a tasty pre-dinner snack often consumed by locals.
Cycling (any ship, extra cost): Upon disembarking, we hop on our bikes to embark on our local Khmer discovery. Our journey leads us through rice paddy fields and quaint villages where small businesses produce pottery or palm sugar. With flat terrain and mesmerizing rural landscapes, the pedal is easy-going, offering a captivating glimpse into local life unfolding before our eyes.
Distance: 17 km / Duration: approx. 90 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path
Back on the ship, lunch can be enjoyed along with spectacular views of the Tonle River region, as the ship sails south to Kampong Tralach. An afternoon tea is served at the bar before we continue with another excursion.
Default Afternoon Excursion (any ship): Embark on an exciting outing to discover another part of the rural Cambodian countryside. Our ox-pulled cart will transport us along the riverside and down winding back roads, flanked by picturesque rice paddies, until we arrive at a small village. Here, we will have the opportunity to learn about a local NGO school and library project. Alternatively, you can choose to visit the nearby ancient 300-year-old temple and Buddha shrine.
OPTIONAL AFTERNOON EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship 'Jayavarman' only): Not available
Cycling (any ship, extra cost): Experience another day in the heartland of Cambodia with a biking tour through the picturesque Tonle Region. Pedal through captivating landscapes, encountering treasures like the former royal palace of ‘Lungvek’ and the venerable Buddha Jade Temple (1560) and simply enjoy the timeless rhythms of local life as you witness skilled fishermen casting their nets in the tranquil waters of the Tonle.
Distance: 14 km / Duration: approx. 120 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path
The ship sets sail again for some more miles down the Tonle River before reaching Phnom Penh. We moor mid-stream with views of the skyline of this vibrant city.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4
Phnom Penh
details
Welcome to Phnom Penh, a city once renowned as the "Paris of the East." Despite its rapid development, it has retained much of its rustic charm and elegance. Phnom Penh is a remarkable city with a history and culture that spans centuries, still palpable at every street corner.
Our full-day sightseeing tour begins right after breakfast, allowing us to explore the city's highlights. We'll start with a cyclo ride, meandering through the town, and then visit historic places such as the palace and the silver pagoda. Our journey takes us to the "S21" prison, a poignant and dark chapter in Cambodia's history during the Khmer Rouge regime of the 1970s. Afterward, we'll pause for a delightful lunch in town before continuing to immerse within the Khmer culture. This afternoon starts with the visit of the Champey academy of arts, a school dedicated to preserve traditional arts. Observe young dancers training in the intricate Apsara dance and take the opportunity to learn basic “Kbach” techniques under their guidance. Alternatively, you can interact with students or simply witness traditional paintings and drawings created by local youth. Conclude the day with a leisurely stroll through the city’s French Quarter, including the iconic Wat Phnom temple.
To cap off this eventful day, we'll indulge in a delightful open-air barbecue and gala dinner accompanied by a classic Apsara dance performance. Afterward, feel free to explore the city at night, savouring Phnom Penh's vibrant nightlife or taking in the lively river promenade.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Phnom Penh - Border Crossing - Gieng Island
details
Before bidding farewell to Phnom Penh, join a captivating testimony held in the lounge of the ship. Having endured the S21 imprisonment and later taking an active part in the Khmer Rouge tribunal, Mr. Sum Rithy continues to bear witness to a difficult chapter of Cambodia’s history. Guests have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to talk, question and discuss a living witness of this dark Cambodian era.
Once the ship departed, the rest of the day is at your own disposal. Switch into cruise mode and experience the relaxing cadence this mighty river emanates. The afternoon is perfect for spa, relaxation on a terrace deck, or private balcony kick-backs. Conjure up a spell to merge with the river and float into a state of mild bliss. A visit to the bridge might be a pleasant amusement, as the captain always has a little story to share about “his” river. Or, learn more about Khmer gastronomy: join a local culinary workshop held by our head chef.
As you sip drinks and nibble on treats during afternoon tea, we approach the border and arrive in Vietnam. From here we continue the sailing into the heart of the bustling Mekong delta mooring near Gieng Island.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Gieng Island - My An Hung – Sa Dec
details
After our morning Tai Chi session and a delightful breakfast, we embark on an exploration revealing a vibrant kaleidoscope of diverse activities bringing the Mekong Delta to life.
Default Morning Excursion (any ship): Gieng Island, also known locally as Mango Island, is perfect to stroll through under the shade of flourishing mango groves that shape the island’s landscape. A visit to a small incense workshop introduces us to the careful process of crafting these fragrant sticks by hand. Another local highlight is a traditional boat-building workshop, where generations of families assemble wooden vessels that are essential to life along the river. Before departing, we surely are going to taste some of these delicious and freshly picked mangoes with a local tea in the courtyard of a century-old local home. This is the moment when we all understand the rhythms and resilience of life on the Mekong - so simple, so joyful.
OPTIONAL MORNING EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship 'Jayavarman' only): Conclude your morning excursion with a culinary twist: Prepare with a local family an authentic “Banh In”, a soft, sweet treat made from glutinous rice flour and sugar. Always served with jasmine tea, the ‘Banh In’ is popular during Vietnamese national festivals such as Tet.
Cycling (any ship, extra cost): The island’s flat terrain makes this ride so pleasurable and easy along lush green paths with many mango farms. Enjoy local Mekong Delta life at its best, left and right, with locals waving friendly. We ride along many fruit gardens and there is always something to stop and see on the way, like a traditional incense workshop or a local boat-building workshop.
Distance: 15 km / Duration: approx. 90 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path
After back onboard a siesta after lunch, our expert guides offer a presentation about life in the Mekong Delta as the ship continues to My An Hung in the Sa Dec province.
Default Afternoon Excursion (any ship): My An Hung Village is a wonderful example of a real local village in the Mekong Delta where time stood still. We receive wonderful insights into the private household of a local family and visit the seasonal vegetable fields to understand what the farmers is currently cultivating. A Vietnamese tea tasting at a local family’s house is accompanied by a presentation of a variety of fruits that are grown near-by, freshly cut from the tree. An artistic group performs displays the traditional dragon dance, whilst we can snack on the “vitamins bombs”.
No optional afternoon excursion available
Back on board, the ship sails into the sunset towards the destination of the next day. A complimentary cocktail hour and alfresco snacks accompanied by music and dance vibes are offered to enjoy the blue hour before dinner is served.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Sa Dec - Tan Phong Island – My Tho
details
Wake early to embrace the stunning dawn scenery, a time when the Delta's inhabitants have already been active for hours. Energize yourself with our daily morning Tai Chi class before indulging in a lavish breakfast buffet. By local boat, we head out to Sa Dec, a charming riverside town in Dong Thap Province.
Default Morning Excursions (any ship): This town reveals a graceful blend of colonial elegance and everyday Mekong life. 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. The journey continues 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.
OPTIONAL MORNING EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship 'Jayavarman' only): Not available
Cycling (any ship, extra cost): Once on shore, the cycling discovery around the town begins at a lively local market, followed by a visit to Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House, a well-preserved French-Chinese residence tied to the love story behind The Lover. The cycling tour leads to Sa Dec Flower Village, with stops at family-run gardens where growers explain their traditional methods amid rows of colourful blooms. After a refreshing drink at the Pink House, the ride ends at Cao Dai Holy See, a striking religious landmark with distinctive architecture.
Distance: 15 km / Duration: approx. 90 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path
Default Afternoon Excursion (any ship): During a visit to a workshop in the town of Cai Be, we'll have the opportunity to observe the production of rice paper, rice cookies, rice wine and coconut candies. This is a very interesting manual process involving manual labour and special production techniques. After the workshop, we are heading to Tan Phong Island, a smaller island in the middle of the vast Mekong. We are visiting a local family and their fruit garden, offering us various kinds of tropical fruits to taste. A buggy ride through the island gave us a glimpse of the local day-to-day life as it unfolds. We stop at another family’s house. They specialize in weaving water hyacinth plants into artistic crafts by hand.
OPTIONAL AFTERNOON EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship 'Jayavarman' only): After a short buggy ride through lush fruit orchards, a local family welcomes you as a cooking apprentice to master the art of traditional Jackfruit Leaf Cakes. From picking fresh leaves and extracting their juice to shaping and steaming the cakes in their natural casings, you’ll experience every step of the process. And since the secret to great cuisine often lies in the sauce, you’ll also learn to prepare a perfect coconut dipping cream before savouring your creation with hot ginger tea.
Cycling (any ship, extra cost): Cycle over the scenic Tan Phong Island along well-maintained and flat concrete paths winding through orchards of rambutan, longan, and jackfruit. At a local business, the family shows us how to make handicrafts from water hyacinths. The tour continues along a canal to a local temple for a refreshing break under a banyan tree before continuing the ride to a tropical fruit farmer's home for a tasting.
Distance: 12km / Duration: approx. 90 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path
Once everyone is back on board, the ship makes its final journey to My Tho, offering some little farewell party vibes along the way.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8
My Tho – Saigon
details
Enjoy your last breakfast aboard your floating home. We disembark the ship after breakfast and take a bus transfer from My Tho to Saigon. It is only around 70 kilometres on the highway, and you arrive in Saigon by mid-morning.
We hope you enjoyed this fascinating river cruise, just as our crew does every single time, take home enchanting memories and friendships and share the stories of this amazing river - the Mighty Mekong.
Dining: Breakfast
Day 1
Siem Reap – Kampong Laeang (Tonle River)
details
Heritage Line greets our guests in the morning at our welcome lounge in Siem Reap. Enjoy a second coffee this morning before the transfer departs on a short bus ride to the pier at Tonle Lake, only a short distance away from the centre of town. A local boat brings you to the vessel and your luxurious “home” for the next several days. Upon boarding, our crew will guide you to your staterooms, providing a short briefing on the cabin’s facilities. After spending some time settling in, lunch awaits in the ship’s restaurant.
The vessel gently glides over Tonle Lake. The lake varies from 2,500 sqkm (965 sqmi) in size and 160 km (99 mi) in length during the dry season to an astonishing area of 16,000 sqkm (6,000 sqmi) and a length of 250 km (160 mi) in the wet season. Simply enjoy time aboard until our cruise director invites you to a little afternoon sunset event with canapés and prosecco, where one can socialise with other fellow passengers.
Before dinner, our expert guide holds a presentation about the geography of the Mekong River and Tonle Lake. If you are in the mood, join in for the nightly cinema in the lounge before retiring to your room.
Dining: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2
Kampong Laeang - Kampong Tralach - Prek Bangkong
details
Default Morning Excursion (any ship): We are in the midst of the vast Tonle region, one of Cambodia’s amazing ecosystems. We will discover Kampong Laeang this morning, situated just across from the famous pottery town of Kampong Chhnang. Once ashore, we embark on tuk-tuks to travel the heart of rural Cambodian life. During this excursion, we'll explore various locals, discover the art of pottery making, and visit a charming pre-Angkorian temple. From a vantage point, we can enjoy panoramic views of the vast floodplains and lush rice fields (seasonal).
OPTIONAL MORNING EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship 'Jayavarman' only): The culinary-themed excursion offers in addition to the default cultural excursion the possibility to participate in a cooking demonstration. Get to know how to prepare together the quite famous snack called “Nom Kruak” which is a kind of cake made from white or brown rice. Originally cooked only one side only, the Khmer invented Nom Kruak and cooked it on both sides. This dish is a tasty pre-dinner snack often consumed by locals.
Cycling (any ship, extra cost): Upon disembarking, we hop on our bikes to embark on our local Khmer discovery. Our journey leads us through rice paddy fields and quaint villages where small businesses produce pottery or palm sugar. With flat terrain and mesmerizing rural landscapes, the pedal is easy-going, offering a captivating glimpse into local life unfolding before our eyes.
Distance: 17 km / Duration: approx. 90 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path
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 another excursion.
Default Afternoon Excursion (any ship): Get ashore to discover rural Cambodia and its countryside. Our ox-pulled cart will transport us along the riverside and down winding back roads, flanked by picturesque rice paddies, until we arrive at a small village. Here, we have the opportunity to learn about a local NGO school and library project. Alternatively, you can choose to visit the nearby ancient 300-year-old temple and Buddha shrine.
OPTIONAL AFTERNOON EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship 'Jayavarman' only): Not available
Cycling (any ship, extra cost): Experience another day in the heartland of Cambodia with our biking tour through the picturesque Tonle Region. Pedal through captivating landscapes, encountering treasures like the former royal palace of ‘Lungvek’ and the venerable Buddha Jade Temple (1560) and just enjoy the timeless rhythms of local life as you witness skilled fishermen casting their nets in the tranquil waters of the Tonle.
Distance: 14 km / Duration: approx. 120 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path
With everyone back on board, we sail into the early evening. The ship will later anchor near Prek Bangkong.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Prek Bangkong - Angkor Ban - Phnom Penh
details
As you wake this morning with Tai Chi, available for early birds, the scenery has changed completely. We are in the vast land of the Mekong stream.
Default Morning Excursion (any ship): At the confluence of the Tonle and Mekong Rivers lies the small village of Prek Bangkong, known for its silk weaving community. This village was also the former residence of the Royal family before they moved to the Royal Palace. However, the real stars in this area today are the silk weavers, artisans who craft silk from the very beginning. We will have the opportunity to closely observe and learn about this intricate silk production process. We conclude this excursion by visiting the heritage house of H.E. Sam-El, once a famous architect for the royal family.
OPTIONAL MORNING EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship 'Jayavarman' only): Not available.
Cycling (any ship, extra cost): The cycling tour today takes us to the wonderful former royal palace of “Lavea Em” (1601-1618). Pedal at ease through picturesque landscapes, punctuated by captivating stops at historic pagodas, vibrant silk weaving workshops, and bustling local markets. Indulge in a delightful tea break at the residence of H.E. Sam-El, adding a touch of elegance to your cycling adventure.
Distance: 14 km / Duration: approx. 120 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path
With everyone back onboard the ship sails now upstream towards Angkor ban.
Default Afternoon Excursion (any ship): Angkor ban features a monastery with an adjacent enchanting local village. You'll have the chance to meet monks during their morning class and engage in friendly conversations with the villagers. As we stroll through the hamlet, we understand the local way of life in various aspects, collecting wonderful memories of Cambodia's rustic lifestyle. The village offers great photographic moments whilst interacting with the local community.
OPTIONAL AFTERNOON EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship with 'Jayavarman' only): In addition to a shorter visit to the Angkor Ban village, the culinary excursion group extends their excursion to pass by the house of Mr B, who used to work as a young chef aboard the ship ‘Jayavarman’. After he got married, he moved to his wife’s home village. Together with his “mom-in-law” and the “chef” in the household (his wife), we prepare and cook a century-old soup recipe called “Samlor Korko”. The soup is kind of a fish soup made with many vegetables, spices, herbs, and roasted rice, accompanied by a duck egg omelette.
Cycling (any ship, extra cost): Today’s cycling tour journey starts with a tranquil monk meeting, that sets the tone for the day. As you cycle through verdant seasonal vegetable fields, picturesque old local houses dot the landscape, offering glimpses into Cambodia's heritage. Witness skilled blacksmiths at work to understand more about traditional craftsmanship. Conclude your adventure with a delightful pause, sipping on ice-cold local beer or indulging in the refreshing taste of freshly pressed sugar cane juice.
Distance: 10 km / Duration: approx. 120 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path
Just a short distance of sailing and we arrive in Phnom Penh, where the ship is mooring mid-stream with views on the city skyline.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4
Phnom Penh
details
Welcome to Phnom Penh, a city once renowned as the "Paris of the East." Despite its rapid development, it has retained much of its rustic charm and elegance. Phnom Penh is a remarkable city with a history and culture that spans centuries, still palpable at every street corner.
Our full-day sightseeing tour begins right after breakfast, allowing us to explore the city's highlights. We'll start with a cyclo ride, meandering through the town, and then visit historic places such as the palace and the silver pagoda. Our journey takes us to the "S21" prison, a poignant and dark chapter in Cambodia's history during the Khmer Rouge regime of the 1970s. Afterward, we'll pause for a delightful lunch in town before continuing to immerse within the Khmer culture. This afternoon starts with the visit of the Champey academy of arts, a school dedicated to preserve traditional arts. Observe young dancers training in the intricate Apsara dance and take the opportunity to learn basic “Kbach” techniques under their guidance. Alternatively, you can interact with students or simply witness traditional paintings and drawings created by local youth. Conclude the day with a leisurely stroll through the city’s French Quarter, including the iconic Wat Phnom temple.
To cap off this eventful day, we'll indulge in a delightful open-air barbecue and gala dinner accompanied by a classic Apsara dance performance. Afterward, feel free to explore the city at night, savouring Phnom Penh's vibrant nightlife or taking in the lively river promenade.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Phnom Penh - Border Crossing - Gieng Island
details
Before bidding farewell to Phnom Penh, join a captivating testimony held in the lounge of the ship. Having endured the S21 imprisonment and later taking an active part in the Khmer Rouge tribunal, Mr. Sum Rithy continues to bear witness to a difficult chapter of Cambodia’s history. Guests have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to talk, question and discuss a living witness of this dark Cambodian era.
Once the ship departed, the rest of the day is at your own disposal. Switch into cruise mode and experience the relaxing cadence this mighty river emanates. The afternoon is perfect for spa, relaxation on a terrace deck, or private balcony kick-backs. Conjure up a spell to merge with the river and float into a state of mild bliss. A visit to the bridge might be a pleasant amusement, as the captain always has a little story to share about “his” river. Or, learn more about Khmer gastronomy: join a local culinary workshop held by our head chef.
As you sip drinks and nibble on treats during afternoon tea, we approach the border and arrive in Vietnam. From here we continue the sailing into the heart of the bustling Mekong delta mooring near Gieng Island.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Gieng Island - My An Hung – Sa Dec
details
After a morning Tai Chi session and a delightful breakfast, we embark on an exploration of the unknown Gieng Island offering a wonderful and vibrant kaleidoscope of the life in the Mekong Delta.
Default Morning Excursion (any ship): Gieng Island, also known locally as Mango Island, is perfect to stroll through under the shade of flourishing mango groves that shape the island’s landscape. A visit to a small incense workshop introduces us to the careful process of crafting these fragrance incense sticks by hand. Another local highlight is a traditional boat-building workshop, where generations of families assemble wooden vessels that are essential to life along the river. Before departing, we surely are going to taste some of these delicious and freshly picked mangoes with a local tea in the courtyard of a century-old local home. This is the moment when we all understand the rhythms and resilience of life on the Mekong - so simple, so joyful.
OPTIONAL MORNING EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship 'Jayavarman' only): Conclude your morning excursion with a culinary twist: Prepare with a local family an authentic “Banh In”, a soft, sweet treat made from glutinous rice flour and sugar. Always served with jasmine tea, the ‘Banh In’ is popular during Vietnamese national festivals such as Tet.
Cycling (any ship, extra cost): The island’s flat terrain makes this ride so pleasurable and easy along lush green paths with many mango farms. Enjoy local Mekong Delta life at its best, left and right, with locals waving friendly. We ride along many fruit gardens and there is always something to stop and see on the way, like a traditional incense workshop or a local boat-building workshop.
Distance: 15 km / Duration: approx. 90 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path
After back onboard a siesta after lunch, our expert guides offer a presentation about life in the Mekong Delta as the ship continues to My An Hung in the Sa Dec province.
Default Afternoon Excursion (any ship): My An Hung Village is a wonderful example of a real local village in the Mekong Delta where time stood still. We receive wonderful insights into the private household of a local family and visit the seasonal vegetable fields to understand what the farmers is currently cultivating. A Vietnamese tea tasting at a local family’s house is accompanied by a presentation of a variety of fruits that are grown near-by, freshly cut from the tree. An artistic group performs displays the traditional dragon dance, whilst we can snack on the “vitamins bombs”.
No optional afternoon excursion available
Back on board, the ship sails into the sunset towards the destination of the next day. A complimentary cocktail hour and alfresco snacks accompanied by music and dance vibes are offered to enjoy the blue hour before dinner is served.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Sa Dec - Tan Phong Island – My Tho
details
Wake early to embrace the stunning dawn scenery, a time when the Delta's inhabitants have already been active for hours. Energize yourself with our daily morning Tai Chi class before indulging in a lavish breakfast buffet. By local boat, we head out to Sa Dec, a charming riverside town in Dong Thap Province.
Default Morning Excursions (any ship): This town reveals a graceful blend of colonial elegance and everyday Mekong life. 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. The journey continues 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.
OPTIONAL MORNING EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship 'Jayavarman' only): Not available
Cycling (any ship, extra cost): Once on shore, the cycling discovery around the town begins at a lively local market, followed by a visit to Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House, a well-preserved French-Chinese residence tied to the love story behind The Lover. The cycling tour leads to Sa Dec Flower Village, with stops at family-run gardens where growers explain their traditional methods amid rows of colourful blooms. After a refreshing drink at the Pink House, the ride ends at Cao Dai Holy See, a striking religious landmark with distinctive architecture.
Distance: 15 km / Duration: approx. 90 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path
Default Afternoon Excursion (any ship): During a visit to a workshop in the town of Cai Be, we'll have the opportunity to observe the production of rice paper, rice cookies, rice wine and coconut candies. This is a very interesting manual process involving manual labour and special production techniques. After the workshop, we are heading to Tan Phong Island, a smaller island in the middle of the vast Mekong. We are visiting a local family and their fruit garden, offering us various kinds of tropical fruits to taste. A buggy ride through the island gave us a glimpse of the local day-to-day life as it unfolds. We stop at another family’s house. They specialize in weaving water hyacinth plants into artistic crafts by hand.
OPTIONAL AFTERNOON EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship 'Jayavarman' only): After a short buggy ride through lush fruit orchards, a local family welcomes you as a cooking apprentice to master the art of traditional Jackfruit Leaf Cakes. From picking fresh leaves and extracting their juice to shaping and steaming the cakes in their natural casings, you’ll experience every step of the process. And since the secret to great cuisine often lies in the sauce, you’ll also learn to prepare a perfect coconut dipping cream before savouring your creation with hot ginger tea.
Cycling (any ship, extra cost): Cycle over the scenic Tan Phong Island along well-maintained and flat concrete paths winding through orchards of rambutan, longan, and jackfruit. At a local business, the family shows us how to make handicrafts from water hyacinths. The tour continues along a canal to a local temple for a refreshing break under a banyan tree before continuing the ride to a tropical fruit farmer's home for a tasting.
Distance: 12km / Duration: approx. 90 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path
Once everyone is back on board, the ship makes its final journey to My Tho, offering some little farewell party vibes along the way.
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8
My Tho – Saigon
details
Enjoy your last breakfast aboard your floating home. We disembark the ship after breakfast and take a bus transfer from My Tho to Saigon. It is only around 70 kilometres on the highway, and you arrive in Saigon by mid-morning.
We hope you enjoyed this fascinating river cruise, just as our crew does every single time, take home enchanting memories and friendships and share the stories of this amazing river - the Mighty Mekong.
Dining: Breakfast
INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
Please see below for cruise inclusions and additional benefits
Inclusions
Accommodation; daily (group) shore-excursions & entrance fees; Optional culinary excursion (offered for cruise bookings with ship ‘Jayavarman’ only) sightseeing and transfers during the cruise; transfers between meeting points and ship vice versa (please read details in the embarkation guide); English speaking tour guiding on-and offshore; entertainment/activities during the cruise as mentioned in the program; meals as mentioned in the program; welcome drink, brewed coffee, tea and mineral water; complimentary beverage package cruise (soft drinks, bottled juices, tea, brewed and barista coffee at all times, local beer and house wine (by glass) during lunch and dinner times only; passenger liability insurance; internet on the ship (subject to cellular network signal); complimentary usage of ship facilities (exclusive of spa treatments); river pilots; fuel; taxes.
Exclusions
Crew and guide gratuities; visa fees; private transfers; personal expenses; other beverages than those stated under inclusions; medical services; spa treatments; port and anchorage fees; Optional cycling excursion (offer for cruises with ship ‘The Jahan’ only); all other services or items not listed under inclusions.
For more information, please check detailed Inclusions leaflet below
All itineraries, programs, and optional tours are subject to change and will be operated as advertised on our website or through collaterals at the time of boarding.
During the months of January – April, dis-/embarkation in Cambodia for sailings aboard Heritage Line Jayavarman takes place at Kampong Cham.
The overall experiences remain unchanged.
