A Refined Journey Through the Mekong Delta
Philip McKenna - Ireland
RV Mekong Discovery Cruise Upstream Tour Ho Chi Minh - Siem Reap (November - August) - 8 Days
Destination: Ho Chi Minh City, Go Cong, My Tho, Cai Be, Sa Dec, Chau Doc, Phnom Penh, Koh Chen, Kampong Tralach, Kampong Chhnang, Koh Chen, Siem Reap
Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details
Itinerary of RV Mekong Discovery Cruise Upstream Tour Ho Chi Minh - Siem Reap (November - August) - 8 Days
Your luxury Small Ship Mekong River Cruise begins at 14:00 with embarkation aboard the ultra-modern RV Mekong Discovery in Saigon. After settling into your lavish, high-ceilinged suite, gather with fellow travelers for a warm welcome reception. Meet your dedicated crew, receive a comprehensive safety briefing, and enjoy a specially curated "Mekong Delta" Welcome Dinner in the elegant Tonle Sap Restaurant.
The ship casts off at approximately 15:00, gliding away from the bustling metropolis toward the tranquil waters of Go Cong.
Overnight: Mid-river in Go Cong
Awaken as the ship sails into My Tho. At 08:30, embark on a morning adventure to the peaceful Thoi Binh island hamlet. Traveling by a mix of tender boats, hand-rowed sampans through narrow creeks, and motorized buggies, you will visit a local abalone mushroom farm, sample fresh seasonal treats in a tropical fruit garden, and enjoy sweet honey tea at a rustic bee farm.
After lunch on board, arrive in Cai Be at 14:30. Board a tender to explore a tapestry of waterways leading to local cottage industries. Witness artisans crafting coconut candy, rice paper, and local rice wine. Continue through the slender canals to visit the historic Ba Duc ancient house to uncover its fascinating family heritage. The ship departs Cai Be at 17:00, sailing upstream toward Sa Dec while a gourmet dinner is served.
Overnight: Mid-river in Sa Dec
At 08:30, board traditional wooden boats to navigate the winding canals of Sa Dec, observing the authentic morning routines of the riverside villagers. Upon arrival in the historic town, visit the famous Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House - the setting that inspired Marguerite Duras’ celebrated novel, The Lover. Next, explore the beautiful Kien An Cung Chinese Temple, built in honor of the Huynh Thuy Le family, before wandering through the vibrant local market packed with colorful produce, fresh meats, and live seafood.
At 10:30, return to your Boutique Mekong Cruise as the vessel sails toward the border town of Chau Doc, arriving around 19:00.
Overnight: Mid-river in Chau Doc
Begin your morning at 08:00 to explore the captivating border town of Chau Doc, a beautiful destination brimming with lush forests, energetic riverbanks, and historic temples. This scenic region offers a fascinating fusion of cultures, ethnic Cham communities, and hidden wetlands that showcase the true charm of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta.
Suggested Excursion Timing:
- 08:00 Board a local sampan to cruise toward an authentic Cham village
- 08:45 Continue by sampan to visit a traditional floating fish farm
- 09:15 Return to the main pier and take a short coach ride to the foot of Sam Mountain
- 09:45 Visit the sacred Ba Pagoda, then ascend to the mountain summit for a spectacular panoramic view stretching toward the Cambodian border
- 11:00 Return to the comfort of the RV Mekong Discovery
The ship sets sail at 11:00, navigating toward the international border and arriving at approximately 14:00. Once border formalities are completed around 16:00, the vessel officially crosses into Cambodia, cruising smoothly toward the capital city.
During the afternoon on board, guests can enjoy a refreshing tropical fruit introduction and tasting, followed by a fun culinary masterclass on how to roll traditional Vietnamese spring rolls. In the evening, gather in the lounge for an entertaining music quiz program as the cruise arrives in Phnom Penh at around 23:30.
Overnight: Docked at Phnom Penh Port
Following breakfast at 08:30, climb into a traditional Tuk Tuk for an exciting tour of Cambodia's capital. Ride along the scenic riverfront to the spectacular Royal Palace complex, the official residence of the King. Stroll through the manicured grounds to view the Throne Hall and the famous Silver Pagoda, home to the Emerald Buddha and a diamond-encrusted Maitreya Buddha. Continue to the open-air National Museum to admire one of the world's largest collections of ancient Khmer art and Angkorian artifacts.
Enjoy a free afternoon for independent exploring or shopping, utilizing our complimentary shuttle service to the Central Market. Before dinner, gather on the Sun Deck to enjoy a captivating cultural performance of the Apsara national dance by local children.
Overnight: Docked at Phnom Penh Port
At 09:00, step ashore at the island village of Koh Chen. Explore the community on foot and follow the rhythmic sound of hammers to meet talented artisans shaping and engraving intricate bronze and silver artwork.
In the afternoon, arrive at Kampong Tralach at 14:00. Experience a traditional ox-cart ride through wide-open rice paddies and beautiful rural landscapes. Visit the local pagoda, Wat Kampong Tralach Leu, where you can chat with the monks and receive a traditional water blessing. Return to the ship via Tuk Tuk. The vessel departs at 16:30, navigating toward Kampong Chhnang.
Overnight: Mid-river in Kampong Chhnang
At 08:30, hop on a Tuk Tuk to explore the rural charms of Kampong Chhnang. A guided walking tour reveals the village's signature crafts, including traditional Khmer-style pottery making and the authentic process of extracting sweet palm sugar from local trees.
The ship sets sail at 11:30, heading back towards Koh Chen. In the evening, gather on the Sun Deck outside the lounge for a warm Farewell Reception with the officers and crew, followed by a celebratory Cambodian Farewell Dinner in the dining room, finalizing your All Inclusive Mekong Cruise experience.
Overnight: Mid-river in Koh Chen
Enjoy your final breakfast on board before bidding farewell to the crew. Disembark the vessel at 09:00 and board our comfortable shuttle coach for the scenic overland journey to Siem Reap. The transfer includes a scheduled lunch stop along the way, arriving at the FCC Angkor by Avani in Siem Reap at approximately 14:00, bringing your Mekong River Cruise Luxury Experience to a memorable close.
What's included
All entrance fees and admission tickets to featured itinerary sites
Professional services of expert local English-speaking guides during excursions
Onboard crew gratuities and all main daily meals included
Free-flowing freshly brewed coffee, teas, and herbal infusions
Full access to the sun deck, jet pool, jacuzzi, and mini-golf
Scheduled shared land transfers between designated drop-off points and the ship
Domestic and international flights along with any airport taxes
Port dues and local docking levies if implemented during the cruise
Personal expenses such as laundry, spa treatments, and boutique purchases
International visa processing fees and passport documentation costs
Fuel surcharges applied according to standard booking terms
Premium beverages including fine wines, spirits, and espresso-based coffees at the bar
Tips to land-based service providers including local guides, drivers, and boat operators
