Cruise Advice
Duration
7 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
8 Ports
11 October
Setting sail from Siem Reap
The town of Siem Reap is a pleasant enough place in its own right, but that's not why so many people flock here; this is the gateway to the sprawling ruins of Angkor, the spectacular seat of the ancient Khmer empire. The temple of Angkor Wat is the most famous, and some might say the most beautiful, of the structures that stand amongst the jungle around Siem Reap. We recommend getting here early in the morning if you can, to avoid the crowds. Other notable sights include the ruined city of Angkor Thom and the eerie temple of Ta Prohm, which has been left more or less as it was found, overgrown with vegetation, the stones gripped by huge tree roots.
Don't miss
Sunrise and sunset at the temples. An early morning will be well rewarded when you see the magical atmosphere the light creates at this time.
12 October
Cambodia: Tonle Sap
The waters of the huge freshwater Tonle Sap lake, which quadruples in size during the rainy season. play a crucial role in the cultivation of rice in Cambodia. The lake also provides a livelihood for the fishermen, many of them ethnic Vietnamese, who live on the lake in floating or stilted houses.
13 October
Cambodia: Kampong Chhnang
The town of Kampong Chhnang lies at the centre of the province of the same name, and the busy dock is a hub for exploration of the Tonle Sap river. Nearby you will find picturesque floating villages and lush green rice fields, and the region is known for its pottery.
14 October
Cambodia: Koh Chen
The island of Koh Chen sits on the Tonle Sap river to the north of Phnom Penh, and is renowned for its craftsmen and women, who work primarily in bronze, silver and copper. You can pick up some beautiful souvenirs here, including silver bowls, vases and decorative boxes.
15 October
Cambodia: Phnom Penh
Cambodia’s lively, youthful capital has shown a remarkable resilience in bouncing back from the horrors of the Khmer Rouge regime. The beautiful Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda shouldn’t be missed, while the former Tuol Sleng prison is a harrowing reminder of Phnom Penh’s recent past.
16 October
Mekong River
17 October
Vietnam: Cai Be
Cai Be is home to a fascinating floating market, and it’s a great place to observe life along the Mekong. You can learn about the production of rice paper, coconut candy and whisky, and take a trip along the backwaters on a little two-person rowing boat.
18 October
Arriving in Ho Chi Minh City
Still often referred to by its old name, Saigon, this is Vietnam's busiest city. Saigon was the capital of the South during the Vietnam War, and American-style capitalism has been embraced more enthusiastically here than in the North, with a clutch of shining skyscrapers standing as testament to Vietnam's surging economic growth. You can learn more about the city's turbulent recent history at the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum, shop for souvenirs at the colourful markets, or take a trip out of the city to the fascinating (and claustrophobic) Cu Chi Tunnels.
Our tip
With an enormous number of motorbikes on the busy streets even crossing the road is an adventure here. Our advice is to be bold and have faith that the traffic will avoid you!
Your home from home
Launched in 2014, the intimate Aqua Mekon is the most luxurious way to travel on the Mekong river, offering stylish suites and superb cuisine.
What we love
Combining luxury and exploration isn't easy, yet Aqua Expeditions have balanced locally inspired design with modern sophistication and a focus on the destination to create once in a lifetime experiences.
| Capacity | 40 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 40 International Staff |
| Style | An informal yet chic atmosphere on board driven by the communal spirit of shared exploration. |
| Inclusions |
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Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Siem Reap
La Residence d’Angkor edges in front as our favourite.
Touring the temples
A tour of the main sites at Angkor can be squeezed into a day, but take three days to explorer the outer temples and learn more about the medieval world's greatest metropolis.
Where to stay in Saigon
We think the Park Hyatt is a good choice.
Sightseeing in Saigon
The country’s turbulent past is captured superbly at the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. A fascinating visit.
