anne's journeys - Cruising the Mekong
There can be no tapestry of river life as fascinating and varied as the River Mekong. Indeed there can be no more striking cultural contrast as that between the bustling Mekong Delta, rich in human life and endeavour, and the tranquility of the Cambodian countryside. This unique and very special cruise takes you through two vibrant countries, two cultures and two ways of life..linked by one great river.
The 12 day itinerary operates up-river or down-river, between the vibrant French colonial port of Saigon, now called Ho Chi Minh City, in Vietnam, to Siem Reap, previously known as Angkor Wat, in Cambodia.
The cruise offers a practical and comfortable way of exploring the heart of Indochina, visiting principal sites like Phnom Penh, as well as areas well off the beaten track not easily accessible by land. Enjoyable highlights include exploring the back waters of the Delta by country boat, floating markets, local factories and handicraft workshops, walking tours of river villages, Buddhist temples and monasteries, the Tonle Sap, and the stunning scenery and birdlife of the region.
The ships are newly built replica steamers. Finished in brass and teak by traditional craftsman, they offer a unique concept and style of river cruising. 4 star luxury and style are discreetly present, but it is the colonial character and friendly atmosphere that passengers talk about.
ITINERARY (Up-River)
Day 1 - HO CHI MINH CITY
Arrive Ho Chi Minh where your guide will meet you and transfer you to the Duxton Hotel. Dinner at famous NamKha Restaurant
Day 2 - HO CHI MINH CITY
Enjoy a half day tour including Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum. Lunch at well-known Poh 24, the afternoon and dinner is at leisure.
Day 3 - HO CHI MINH CITY
Tour to the incredible Cu Chi Tunnels. Afternoon and evening at leisure.
Day 4 - HO CHI MINH CITY to MY THO
Travel to the Delta part of My Tho to board your 4 star river boat. First stop is Cai Be to explore evergreen islands and An Kiet House.
Day 5 - CAI BE
Junk trip to the floating market and colourful port area, then cruise to Vinh Long to visit a Bonsai Garden and fruit farm
Day 6 - CHAU DOC (Border crossing from Vietnam to Cambodia)
Visit a Cham tribal village, take a rickshaw ride around the town and after lunch cast off for the Cambodian border. After clearing formalities you cruise on to Phnom Penh.
Day 7 - PHNOM PENH
Explore the capital of Cambodia, visit the "Wats" and Silver Pagoda. Dinner on board or stay ashore and enjoy the busy nightlife of this vibrant city.
Day 8 - PHNOM PENH TO KAMPONG CHAM
First stop is a little known Chong Koh silk weaving village, then cruise past the Mekong's timeless villages and be immersed in the sights and sounds of river life.
Day 9 - KAMPONG CHAM
Journey to the hilltop, 8th century pre-Angkorian temple of Wat Hanchey. Explore this beautiful area including Wat Nokor and the twin holy mountains of Phnom Pros and Phnom Srer
Day 10 - TONLE RIVER
Sail the Tonle River, a highlight of the cruise. Wind your way through the jungle so close to local houses and people you can almost reach out and touch them. Journey to the lakeside wetlands with stunning displays of bird life, and the local fish trap industry.
Day 11 - TONLE SAP/ SIEM REAP
Morning spent on Cambodia's great lake. Check into Angkor Century Hotel, and afternoon tour to Ta Prohm. Dinner at leisure.
Day 12 - SIEM REAP
Tour the temples of Angkor Wat for a full appreciation of these amazing monuments. Late check out from hotel.
** Please note this itinerary is based on arrangements for the up-river voyages and slight variations occur for the down-river voyages.
Cruise & Land package includes:
- 3 nights accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City, with breakfast, and welcome dinner at Nam Kha
- 1 night with late checkout accommodation in Siem Reap
- 7 night cruise including port charges, all meals, soft drinks, local beer, mineral water, tea and coffee
- All touring, shore excursions, and transfers as per itinerary
- Meals as noted in the itinerary
- Transfers between airports, hotels, and ships.
Cruise & Land package fares:
- October to March 2009:
Main Deck: from US$3035 per person share twin
Upper Deck: from US$3240 per person share twin.
Package itinerary and prices beyond April 2009 on application. Please note that these cruises are not operating in April & May 2009 due to the boats being in dry dock during that time.
Package rates are subject to currency fluctuation and availability at time of booking.
TAANZ Bonded & IATA Licensed
For details and full conditions of the package contact Anne.