Treasures of the Mekong

Travel to Da Nang, stopping to explore the Marble Mountains, a striking cluster of limestone and marble hills. Discover the intricate caves, serene pagodas, and Buddhist sanctuaries that dot the landscape, as well as the tunnels that weave through these sacred peaks. Continue to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll settle into your hotel and enjoy dinner.

Begin the day with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network that offers a glimpse into the resourcefulness and resilience of the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Explore the tunnels, view historical artifacts, and learn about life in this subterranean world. After lunch, return to Ho Chi Minh City for a half-day tour that includes the Reunification Palace, a symbol of Vietnam’s complex history, and the striking Notre Dame Cathedral, a neo-Romanesque gem built with materials imported from France. Nearby, the Saigon Post Office impresses with its French colonial architecture and historic charm. Conclude your tour at Ben Thanh Market, a vibrant hub brimming with local goods and flavors.

In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner cruise along the Saigon River, savoring fine cuisine and live performances while admiring the city’s glittering skyline. This relaxing experience offers a unique perspective of Ho Chi Minh City at night.

Start the day with a leisurely morning in Ho Chi Minh City before transferring to your Pandaw vessel in central Saigon. Once onboard, relax on the spacious sundeck as the vibrant skyline fades into the distance. Enjoy a delightful lunch, meet the crew, and immerse yourself in local entertainment as we begin our journey toward the Mekong Delta. Spend the night on the tranquil Vam Co River.

Start the day sailing through the historic Cho Gao Canal, constructed in 1876 by the French, offering a glimpse into daily life along this vital waterway. Arriving in Ben Tre, explore its lush mangroves and bamboo forests by sampan, visiting fruit orchards and a local village renowned for its artisanal handicrafts. This fertile region, key to Vietnam’s rice production, showcases the rich culture of the Mekong Delta. Later, return to the ship as we sail deeper into the delta toward Chau Doc.

This morning, journey by minivan to Sam Mountain to visit the serene Phuoc Dien Tu (Hang Pagoda), where breathtaking views of the Mekong await at the summit. Alternatively, explore the vibrant local market for a glimpse of daily life. Continue by sampan to nearby floating fish farms and enjoy a captivating private Lion dance performance in a local village. Back on board, navigate the intricate canals of the delta before anchoring at the Vietnam-Cambodia border for immigration formalities.

Note: During high-water periods (October and November), access to Chau Doc may be limited, and the day’s excursion will instead include a visit to Long Thuan village.

Begin the day with a cyclo tour of Phnom Penh, visiting the opulent Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum, home to an impressive collection of Angkorian artifacts. In the afternoon, gain insight into Cambodia’s history with visits to the Killing Fields and the Genocide Museum, reflecting on the Khmer Rouge era. The ship remains docked overnight at Phnom Penh’s city port, offering the perfect opportunity to explore the vibrant local scene before returning to the comfort of your onboard accommodation.

Depart Phnom Penh early morning and journey along the meandering Tonle Sap River to Kampong Tralach. Experience rural Cambodian life with an ox-cart ride through charming riverside villages, bustling markets, and serene temples. In the evening, enjoy cocktails by a fire pit in a small fishing village, where locals will share their stories and showcase traditional dances, offering an authentic glimpse into their vibrant culture.

Begin the day with a coach journey to Oudong, Cambodia’s ancient capital, where we visit the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre. Wander through the impressive Khmer-style complex and participate in a calming meditation session. Rejoin the ship at Prek Kdam, and enjoy lunch as we return to the Mekong River. In the afternoon, step ashore at Pak Russei, a remote riverside village. Explore its charming streets, meet local artisans weaving silk and making handmade noodles, and witness a private performance of Bokator, an ancient Cambodian martial art, before heading back to the ship.

Begin the day with a serene sunrise cruise, enjoying morning Tai Chi or a coffee on deck as we arrive at Peam Chi Korng, a hidden gem and pottery hub of Cambodia. After a short tuk-tuk ride, observe skilled local potters at work and explore the charming village, including its vibrant fresh market where you can try your hand at a few Khmer phrases. In the afternoon, we sail onward to Steung Trang, the last stop of our journey. The evening culminates with lively entertainment and a delightful farewell dinner prepared by the talented onboard culinary team.

After breakfast, disembark and journey by coach from Steung Trang through the picturesque Cambodian countryside to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before transferring to your hotel for check-in. The afternoon is free for you to explore and unwind at your leisure. In the evening, delight in a buffet dinner accompanied by a captivating Apsara Dance performance at the Angkor Village Theatre.

Step into the ancient world of Angkor Thom, the grand capital of the Khmer Empire, as you enter through the awe-inspiring South Gate, where giant faces gaze down from towering stone pillars. Wander through the Bayon Temple, with its 54 mysterious towers, each adorned with four serene faces, and immerse yourself in the vibrant scenes of daily life etched into its walls.

Next, explore the hidden wonders of Baphoun, once the centerpiece of the Royal Palace, and stroll along the Terrace of the Elephants, where kings once watched grand parades. Continue to the Terrace of the Leper King, with its intricate carvings depicting a mystical water world.

Delve deeper into history at Ta Prohm, where the jungle has claimed the ruins, creating a hauntingly beautiful blend of nature and architecture. Visit Banteay Kdei, the serene Buddhist monastery, and discover the sacred Srah Srang, known as the “pool of ablutions,” along with the twin temples of Tommanon and Chaosay Tevoda.

Marvel at the majestic Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, whose soaring towers and detailed bas-reliefs tell the epic stories of Hindu mythology and Khmer history.

End your day by witnessing a breathtaking sunset, either from the ancient heights of Phnom Bakheng Hill, offering panoramic views over the jungle and Angkor Wat, or from the enigmatic Pre Rup Temple, steeped in spiritual significance.

Enjoy a final breakfast with your group before bidding Cambodia “Lear hi” and transferring to the airport for your flights home. Upon arrival in Toronto, enjoy our private car to your home.