Aqua Mekong
Mekong River, Vietnam and Cambodia
Duration
8 days
Departure
Guaranteed
Star Rating
WHAT TO EXPECT
Aqua Mekong offers a luxurious and immersive cruise experience along the Mekong River, spanning Cambodia and Vietnam. This sleek, contemporary vessel blends modern comfort with regional charm, featuring spacious suites, a spa, a pool, and an observation deck to enjoy the scenic beauty. Guests can expect curated itineraries that explore local cultures, ancient temples, vibrant markets, and remote villages, with expert guides providing insightful commentary. Onboard, the cuisine is exquisite, showcasing both local flavors and international dishes, paired with fine wines. The 3-, 4-, or 7-night cruises also offer activities such as kayaking, cycling, and excursions to historical sites, allowing travelers to discover the heart of Southeast Asia in unparalleled luxury. With personalized service, attention to detail, and a focus on sustainable tourism, Aqua Mekong promises an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most captivating and diverse regions.
Aqua Mekong
8 Days / 7 Night - Saigon to Siem Reap
Day 1: Mekong River – My Tho – Ho Chi Minh
We will collect you at the Ho Chi Minh meeting point and transfer you by air-conditioned van to My Tho dock where we will welcome you aboard the Aqua Mekong. Settle into your floating retreat, with its window wall unveiling an endlessly captivating panorama. Enjoy these private Mekong moments on your California King bed, terrace or daybed.
Day 2: Mekong River – Binh Thanh/ Sa Dec – My An Hung
Begin the day at Binh Thanh mat weaving village to bike through local markets, fruit plantations, and fish farms. Guests can also take it slow and opt to visit Sa Dec where we will peruse the vibrant markets with our chef, along with a visit to the Lover House and Kien An Cung. In the afternoon, visit a typical Mekong Delta village called My An Hung where we will walk through verdant plantations. We will be invited to a local's home to taste local fruits while hearing traditional folk songs performed by villagers followed by a unique unicorn dance. A 17-kilometer biking option is also available.
Day 3: Mekong River – Chau Doc – Vinh Xuong – Ka’om Samnor Border
Travel by skiff along Bassac Canal to the vibrant border town of Chau Doc where we’ll take a rickshaw called xe loi for a ride around the local town and market. We head off by van to Long Son Pagoda for a panoramic view atop Sam Mountain. Ask the monks about their age-old Mahayana Buddhist practices. Return via the bustling morning market. Optional 18-kilometers bike ride on Long Khanh Island to see paddy fields and get a snippet of local life. After lunch, relax by the pool, try a traditional Khmer massage, or learn to cook Mekong-inspired dishes while we cross the border.
Day 4: Mekong River – Koh Okhna Tey – Preah Prosop
On this river of time we admire dexterous Khmer artisans dyeing and weaving kroma, the ubiquitous fabric no Khmer lives without. Explore the riverbank on two wheels if you wish, past Buddhist temples and thatch houses perched on spindly wooden stilts while white oxen wade just offshore. After lunch, we board our marine- grade aluminum skiffs and head towards the tamarind trees of Preah Prosop, a remote village little changed over several lifetimes.
Day 5: Phnom Penh
We show off the Cambodian capital to our passengers by motorized tuk-tuk, the Royal Palace, and Silver Pagoda. For those who wish, we visit the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide, National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art, or shopping at Russian Market. We bid farewell to 4-night guests who are disembarking in Phnom Penh. Return to welcome our 3-night passengers over custom sundowners like the Salted Watermelon Crush with Thai basil. Together we celebrate the onward journey towards the heart of this mighty river with a Khmer Apsara performance, an indigenous tradition memorialized on the temple walls at Angkor Wat.
Day 6: Tonle Sap River - Koh Chen - Kampong Chhnang
This morning, we visit Koh Chen, a silversmith village known for its fine craftsmanship. Keep an eye out for their famous silver bowls, regularly chosen by Cambodia's king as gifts for visiting dignitaries. In the afternoon, we continue learning about Khmer riverside life in Kampong Chhnang, the 'Port of Pottery' so called because archaeological findings here date to the 6th century. Bike option is available.
Day 7: Mouth Of The Tonle Sap Lake – Chhnok Tru – Moat Khla
Continue exploring the remote communities around the Tonle Sap Lake, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1997. In Chhnok Tru, we visit Phat Sandai, a remote village with floating houses dotting the sides of the water canal. Learn from locals what it’s like to live in a Tonle Sap town where schools, churches, pagodas, and even the karaoke bar and police station all float. For a truly immersive experience, kayak past floating houses and cool off in the shaded canopy of aquatic trees. After lunch, we visit the floating village of Moat Khla, accessible only by water, and attend a Buddhist blessing ceremony.
Day 8: Tonle Sap Lake - Prek Toal - Siem Reap
Set off by skiff into the 22,000-hectare Prek Toal Core Bird Reserve, one of the largest freshwater bodies in Asia and the last refuge in Southeast Asia for large waterbirds like the spot-billed pelicans, milky stork, black-headed ibis and the elusive masked finfoot. Disembarkation.
Additional Sailing Options
Flexible Cruising Options for Every Schedule
Tailor your Mekong adventure to fit your travel plans with 4-day or 5-day cruise options, starting from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. These shorter itineraries provide a perfect introduction to the region's rich culture and stunning landscapes, ideal for travelers with limited time. Enjoy the same luxurious onboard experience and exclusive excursions, all designed to highlight the best of the Mekong. Whether you’re seeking a quick getaway or a compact cultural exploration, these options offer unparalleled flexibility. Contact your travel consultant today for more details and to find the perfect itinerary for you!
Mekong Journeys: Explore the Magic of Southeast Asia – Your Way, Upstream or Downstream!
All itineraries offer the flexibility to be experienced in reverse, providing equally captivating downstream journeys. Travel from Cambodia to Vietnam, starting with the wonders of Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, and glide into the lush Mekong Delta, concluding in vibrant Ho Chi Minh City. Whether exploring upstream or downstream, each route delivers a unique perspective, blending breathtaking landscapes, cultural treasures, and unforgettable moments along the iconic Mekong River.
Cruise Images
Cabins
Restaurant and Facilities
Cruise Activities
Maps and other infos
Inclusions
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Insider Experiences
Village Cycling: Ride through Binh Thanh village, exploring markets and plantations, with an option to visit Sa Dec’s vibrant markets alongside the chef.
Traditional Folk Performance: In My An Hung, enjoy local fruits and a traditional folk music performance, including a rare unicorn dance.
Rickshaw Ride & Scenic Views: Explore Chau Doc by xe loi, then visit Long Son Pagoda for panoramic views and insights into Buddhist practices.
Floating Village Exploration: Kayak through Chhnok Tru, a floating village on Tonle Sap Lake, witnessing unique waterborne life.
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Accommodation
Enjoy a seven-night stay on board the cruise, with a range of cabin categories to suit different preferences.
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Meals
Daily breakfast
7 local lunches
7 local dinners
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Transport
Group transfers to/from vessel when traveling on recommended flights
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Touring
English speaking tour guide
Laundry
Onboard Entertainment
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Pre-and Post Tours
Enhance your cruise experience with a wide range of pre- and post-tour options designed to make your vacation even more unforgettable. Whether you're looking for additional tours, hotel accommodations for extra nights, or extended explorations, there are plenty of flexible combinations available.
From guided sightseeing in nearby cities to immersive cultural experiences, these options allow you to tailor your journey to your interests. You can opt for leisurely stays or in-depth tours, ensuring that your trip is as relaxed or adventurous as you wish. Let us help you create the perfect itinerary with these exciting add-ons. Please contact us for more details and to customize your dream cruise experience.
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Disclaimer
Many cruise companies might operate various types of vessels. The itinerary and images provided represent the general category and classification of the cruise but do not guarantee a specific vessel. Variations may occur, and the exact vessel name will be confirmed upon booking for your final approval.
Each vessel typically offers a range of cabin categories. The images shown are general representations of the available cabins and do not guarantee the specific cabin you will receive. Options usually range from standard to suite cabins. Please consult with your advisor to discuss available options and associated costs.
All cruise itineraries are designed around a standard route. However, depending on the season, itineraries may be adjusted or, in some cases, may not operate. For the most up-to-date information and personalized assistance, please consult with our expert travel advisors.
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