A Timeless Journey Through Cambodia and Vietnam
Embark on a captivating cruise along the Mekong River, winding through the heart of Cambodia and Vietnam, where time seems to stand still, and the serene rhythms of the countryside offer a window into a world that has remained largely unchanged for generations. As you journey through this enchanting region, you’ll explore rural villages where life unfolds at a leisurely pace, allowing for intimate encounters with local traditions. Stroll through bustling, colorful markets teeming with vibrant produce and handmade goods, and step into a tranquil monastery to receive a special Buddhist blessing from the monks—a moment of spiritual connection that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
In Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh, delve deep into the rich tapestry of the nation’s history as you explore the opulent Royal Palace, home to the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of Khmer art. Beyond the city, discover the artistic prowess of skilled local artisans who craft exquisite handicrafts and delicacies, each piece telling a story of the region’s cultural heritage. Experience the authentic charm of the Mekong through unforgettable moments, whether it’s a ride through the countryside on an oxcart, a lively journey in a tut tut, or a leisurely trishaw ride through the bustling streets.
This transformative journey along the Mekong is more than just a cruise—it’s a deep dive into the vibrant cultures, histories, and landscapes that line the river’s shores, revealing a world that is both timeless and ever-changing.
All the things you need to know
Transfer via motorcoach from Siem Reap to the AmaDara in Kampong Cham for your sevennight cruise. Later, join fellow guests for an evening Welcome Dinner
During the morning, go on a walking tour to Angkor Ban, one of the few villages in Cambodia that was not destroyed under the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. Here people still live in their traditional wooden abodes and keep their old cultural traditions alive. Hundreds of wooden houses stand intact on stilts, shaded with banana trees, among the hustle and bustle of the daily agricultural ongoing of the local villagers. After visiting here, the ship sails to Oknhatey or “Silk Island,” located on the lush banks of the Mekong River. This island is known for its rich tradition of silk weaving. While here, you’ll visit a local elementary school and observe traditional silk weaving an art that has been preserved for centuries. Your ship moors in Oknhatey village.
*Based on seasonality, the port of Angkor Ban may be inaccessible from August September. During this time, Wat Hanchey will replace Angkor Ban as the port of call.
Your cruise continues to sail to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. The morning excursion takes you to Oudong, Cambodia’s former royal capital from the early 17th century until 1866. Today, Oudong is a place of pilgrimage for Cambodians. While here, be treated to a memorable Buddhist Blessing Ceremony at a monastery. You may walk around Oudong’s monastery or take an active walking tour to see panoramic views of the Oudong plain. After visiting Oudong, be treated to a truly authentic excursion, an oxcart ride through a local village Kampong Tralach. Later in the day, experience Phnom Penh via a tuk tuk ride and be enchanted by the city’s French Colonial architecture and treelined boulevards set amidst monumental Angkorian architecture, or continue your visit to Wat Phnom, a famous landmark of Phnom Penh. After returning to the ship, enjoy Khmer folk dancing performed by local children in the Saigon Lounge.
*Only offered on select sailings from November through April based on water conditions at the time of sailing.
This morning’s excursion takes you to Cambodia’s infamous Killing Fields and the Khmer Rouge’s grim Tuol Sleng S21 detention center (Genocide Museum). After lunch on board, you’ll explore the highlights of the city, followed by a visit to the Royal Palace, the spectacular Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, which has an outstanding collection of Khmer crafts. Alternatively, you may wish to shop for unique treasures at the bustling, yellowcolored Central Market after your visit to the Royal Palace.
Spend the day cruising the Mekong River as your ship crosses the border into Vietnam.
Enjoy a visit to Tan Chau, a small Mekong River town unspoiled by tourism. Be treated to an authentic experience on a traditional “xeloi” (trishaw) ride around the town, with stops at silkmaking and rattan mat workshops. You may also choose the trishaw ride with visits to craftsmen’s workshops, followed by an active walking tour to “Evergreen Island.” As a third alternative, explore the stunning Mekong Delta on an intimate tour through Vietnam’s Tra Su Forest and Sanctuary. Board a traditional sampan boat and glide through this diverse ecosystem that includes more than 70 species of birds, including the painted stork and oriental darter, and lush greenery encompassing majestic cajuput trees, lotuses, water lilies and a carpet of bright green moss in the rainy season that appears to glow as you gently drift through it. Later in the day, cruise to Sa Dec.
Once ashore in Sa Dec, tour the town where French writer Marguerite Duras spent many years in her youth. Visit a colorful local market and Cao Dai Temple, home to the unique religion of Caodaism in Southern Vietnam. It is a fusion of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Confucianism. You will have an opportunity to visit candy and rice paper making workshops, or you may also choose to add an active walking tour to the historic Kiet Old House and cap the day off with a festive Farewell Dinner on board.
Your cruise concludes in My Tho Port, where you’ll disembark and transfer via motorcoach from My Tho Port to Ho Chi Minh city.
Onboard you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours. A large variety of activities are always included, so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder. Here’s just some of tours included in this cruise.
- Active Walking Tour to Silk Village and local school
- Oxcart Ride
- Buddist Blessing Ceremony
- Royal Palace and National Museum in Phnom Penh
- Tuk Tuk Orientation Tour
- Tra Su Forest and Sanctuary
- Local Boat ride in Sa Dec
- Cao Dai Temple
- Walking Tour to historic Kiet Old House
- Savour AmaWaterways’ trademark exquisite, locally-sourced and masterfully prepared cuisine. Choose from the Al Fresco Restaurant with its refreshing outdoor space and vegetable-forward menu, as well as Jimmy’s, a family-style restaurant, in addition to The Chef’s Table and main dining room – all included in the price of your cruise.
- Spacious and uncrowded, with luxurious rooms and suites to choose from.
- Dedicated Wellness Hosts for complimentary small-group fitness classes on board your ship.
- Exceptional Cruise Managers and crew consistently elevate your onboard experience, surprising you with thoughtful details and anticipating your needs before you even ask.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi available on board.
- Easy-to-use myAmaCruise app
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We are here to help. Our travel experts will organise and book your dream holiday.
call us today or complete our online enquiry form to start your next adventure.
Let's Chat
We are here to help. Our travel experts will organise and book your dream holiday.
call us today or complete our online enquiry form to start your next adventure.
