Royal cruise on the Mekong
Cruise the Mekong River between Saigon and the temples of Angkor, aboard an exceptional vessel blending comfort, culture, and timeless landscapes. An intimate and unforgettable cruise.
8 days, 7 nights
Saigon, My Tho, Cai Be, Gieng Island, Phnom Penh, Kampong Luang, Kampong Leaeng, Siem Reap
From Saigon, the cruise travels up the Mekong River, the lifeblood of Asia, its spine flowing through the continent. Aboard the ship, you glide along the waterways towards floating villages, vibrant markets, colorful pagodas, and landscapes in endless shades of green and ochre. Each stop is a journey into history, from Khmer temples and bustling rice paddies to the warm smiles of the locals. As you travel further from the Vietnamese delta, the horizon opens onto the majestic ruins of Angkor... This tour is available from mid-August to mid-November, depending on the river's water levels. The rest of the year, an adapted version of the itinerary is offered, guaranteeing an equally immersive experience.
Doanh
Doanh, your English-speaking expert based in Vietnam, creates tailor-made cruises along the Mekong and the coasts of Asia, combining gentle navigation, authenticity and local stopovers.
What makes this cruise unique:
From the Mekong Delta to the Magnificent Temples of Angkor
A fabulous itinerary that connects the tranquil waters of the Mekong Delta to the archaeological wonders of Angkor. Between floating markets, lakeside villages, Khmer pagodas, and shimmering rice paddies, you'll navigate through authentic landscapes, punctuated by scenes of rural life and temples steeped in history. A comprehensive journey that immerses you in the soul of Vietnam and Cambodia, at the slow pace of the mighty river.
A charming cruise on an exceptional ship
Aboard a distinctive ship combining colonial refinement and modern comfort, enjoy spacious cabins with balconies, a spa, a sun deck, and personalized service. Every moment blends relaxation, intimacy, and cultural immersion. Here, time slows down with massages, reading overlooking the river, sunsets, and refined cuisine featuring local products. The art of traveling with elegance, without sacrificing authenticity.
Cultural Stopovers and Timeless Discoveries
Far from a simple sailing trip, this cruise invites you to explore villages, temples, and markets at each port of call. Discover rice noodle making, Khmer crafts, Buddhist pagodas, and stilt houses. Each stop immerses you in local life, with workshops, guided tours, tuk-tuk rides, and walks. A rich cultural immersion, punctuated by warm encounters and unforgettable landscapes.
Day 1: Saigon - My Tho - Tan Phong
A warm welcome awaits you in Saigon, followed by a private transfer to My Tho, the gateway to the Mekong River. Once aboard, the crew escorts you to your cabin and lets you settle in before inviting you to a leisurely lunch, with the river already in the background. A welcome briefing provides more information about life on board. The afternoon unfolds as you cruise along, passing through the landscapes of the delta, stilted villages, and scenes of river life. As the sun sets, an aperitif is served on deck, offering a chance to toast the journey ahead and chat with your fellow travelers. Dinner then immerses you in the serene atmosphere of the Mekong. The boat drops anchor near Tan Phong Island, facing the vibrant night sky of the delta, a promise of the discoveries to come tomorrow.
- Transfer to the pier, lunch and dinner
Day 2: Tan Phong - Binh Thanh - Gieng
At sunrise, life on the Mekong River is already bustling. After a Tai Chi session and a buffet breakfast, you’ll set off by local boat for Cai Be, where you’ll discover the traditional craftsmanship of typical delta products: rice cakes, coconut candy, rice wine, and more. Then, it’s off to Tan Phong Island for a homestay, a tasting of tropical fruits, and a buggy or bicycle ride through gardens and orchards. Back on board, enjoy some relaxation on your balcony or in the bar. In the late afternoon, the boat heads upriver towards Sa Dec before anchoring near Binh Thanh Island. After a presentation about life in the delta, the evening continues with a leisurely dinner as the ship sails on to Gieng Island.
- Breakfast, lunch, scheduled activities and dinner
Day 3: Gieng - Evergreen - Phnom Penh
After a Tai Chi session and a delicious breakfast, you’ll sail to Gieng Island, nicknamed “Mango Island.” Enjoy a stroll under the fruit trees, visit a traditional incense workshop, and explore a traditional boatbuilding yard before savoring freshly picked mangoes with local tea at a local family’s home. A simple and welcoming interlude in the heart of the Mekong. In the afternoon, board a sampan to reach Evergreen Island. Meet a farming family, learn about their crops, and participate in the current agricultural activities: sowing, planting, or harvesting, depending on the season. A rare glimpse into daily life in the delta, before the boat heads towards the Cambodian border and continues its overnight journey to Phnom Penh.
- Breakfast, lunch, scheduled activities and dinner
Day 4: Phnom Penh
Welcome to Phnom Penh, the former “Paris of the Orient,” where modernity, colonial heritage, and Khmer culture converge. After breakfast, explore the city by cyclo: the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and then a visit to the S21 concentration camp, a grim reminder of the Khmer Rouge era. Enjoy lunch in the city, followed by an immersion in a traditional arts school, where the apsara dance is passed down from master to student; you might even have the chance to try a few steps yourself. Back on board, listen to the poignant story of an S21 survivor before enjoying a barbecue dinner on deck, accompanied by an apsara dance performance under the stars. The evening is yours to stroll along the lively waterfront or savor a drink in one of the city’s colonial-style cafes.
- Breakfast, lunch, scheduled activities and dinner
Day 5: Phnom Penh - Prek Bangkong - Angkor Ban - Kampong Luong
Early departure from Phnom Penh to Prek Bangkong, a village located at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. Famous for its silk craftsmanship, you’ll meet the weavers and discover the entire process, from cocoon to finished fabric. The visit continues in a traditional house linked to the former royal family. Before lunch, a presentation will shed light on the unique geography of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap. In the afternoon, a stop at Angkor Ban, an authentic village preserved from the passage of time. Visit the monastery, meet the monks, and stroll through the narrow streets to experience the daily life of the inhabitants. A special opportunity to observe and photograph local life. Return to the ship at the end of the day for a leisurely sail before anchoring for the night at the confluence of the two rivers.
- Breakfast, lunch, scheduled activities and dinner
Day 6: Kampong Luong - Kampong Tralach - Kampong Laeang
An early start for those who wish to practice Tai Chi on deck again. First stop of the day: Kampong Luong, a village renowned for its silversmithing. More than 400 families work with silver, copper, or brass to create jewelry and decorative objects. A stroll allows you to observe this ancestral craft before visiting the royal Buddhist temple of Wat Prang, a place of contemplation blending spirituality and royal heritage. Meet the monks to better understand their rituals and daily life. In the afternoon, explore the Kampong Tralach countryside by oxcart, traveling between rice paddies and rural paths. Visit a local educational project or have the option to visit an ancient temple over 300 years old. Return to the ship for sunset aperitifs before dinner.
- Breakfast, lunch, scheduled activities and dinner
Day 7: Kampong Laeang - Tonlé Sap Lake
In the heart of the vast Tonlé Sap region, one of Cambodia’s richest ecological areas, we dock at Kampong Laeang, a little-known hamlet opposite Kampong Chhnang. Aboard tuk-tuks, you’ll explore rural life: meeting potters, visiting a pre-Angkorian temple, and enjoying panoramic views of rice paddies and floodplains. A bicycle ride is also available to further immerse yourself in the local culture. In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a peaceful cruise on Tonlé Sap Lake, whose immensity evokes Cambodia’s inland sea. Between onboard entertainment and endless landscapes, the boat will reach its anchorage off Siem Reap. The day concludes with a dinner celebrating the end of the cruise.
- Breakfast, lunch, scheduled activities and dinner
Day 8: Tonlé Sap Lake - Siem Reap
Enjoy a final breakfast on board before departing this floating haven. The Tonlé Sap, the true beating heart of Cambodia, sustains millions of people: a unique ecosystem, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, teeming with rare fish and birds. The cruise is drawing to a close. We disembark by local boat, passing through a vast floating community, and arrive at the port of Siem Reap, where a transfer takes you to the city center. You leave the Mekong with unforgettable memories, warm encounters, and a desire to share the story of this legendary river.
- Breakfast and transfer to Siem Reap
Interested in this travel inspiration?
We create personalized estimates based on duration, season and your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I need to take my outbound and return flight?
The journey begins in Saigon and ends in Siem Reap.
Can I freely choose my cruise dates?
No, departure dates are fixed, as the cruises follow a precise schedule established in advance. They depend in particular on the Mekong River's navigation conditions and the availability of boats. Contact us to find out about upcoming possible dates and find the one that best suits your travel plans.
What is the difference between the cruise from mid-November to the end of August and the one from the end of August to mid-November?
The water level on the Mekong River varies considerably depending on the season. From late August to mid-November, during the high-water period, the boat can travel up Tonlé Sap Lake to Siem Reap. This is the case for the itinerary described here. The rest of the year, during the dry season (mid-November to late August), the boat cannot navigate Tonlé Sap. The cruise then stops at Kampong Cham on the Mekong River, and a transfer by vehicle (approximately 3 to 4 hours) is required to reach Siem Reap. The program remains very similar, but the final journey differs.
Can I choose the comfort level of my cabin?
Yes, several cabin categories are available on board, ranging from standard cabins with private balconies to more spacious suites with lounge areas or jacuzzis. Depending on the ship, some categories also offer exclusive services (priority check-in, minibar, etc.). Your travel advisor can help you choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.
Are all excursions included?
Yes, all the tours, guided activities, cultural workshops, boat trips, local encounters, and temple visits scheduled in the program are included in the price. Only certain optional activities, such as cycling excursions, buggy tours, or cooking workshops, may be offered at an additional cost depending on the ports of call. The pace is balanced between exploration, sailing, and free time.
Are all meals included?
Yes, the cruise is full board. All meals are served on board – from breakfast to dinner – featuring refined cuisine that blends local flavors with international influences. Tea, coffee, and filtered water are also included throughout the day. Themed dinners, barbecues on deck, or local snacks may also be offered depending on the evening.
Will I meet local residents ?
Yes, several activities put you in contact with artisans, villagers, or local families. These encounters are designed as authentic moments, respecting their way of life.
Is this suitable for a family trip?
Absolutely. The cruise is perfect for families, with a relaxed pace and a variety of activities. Children discover life on the river, participate in village visits, observe nature, and enjoy a peaceful environment. Some cabins can also accommodate three people or be connecting, depending on the boat's configuration.
Can I combine this cruise with a stay in Siem Reap or another country?
Yes, absolutely! We'd be happy to arrange an extension to visit the Angkor temples in Siem Reap after the cruise. It's also possible to continue your journey in Thailand, Laos, or even Vietnam, incorporating beach, cultural, or wellness breaks according to your preferences. Everything is customizable except for the cruise itinerary.
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