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Embark on a cultural odyssey along the Mekong River on this luxury, 8-day river cruise through Cambodia and Vietnam from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City. Relax and unwind on board the 5-star Aqua Mekong cruise ship and experience authentic Mekong culture, mouth-watering cuisine and breathtaking scenery including local fishing villages, rice paddies, temples and Cambodia’s bustling capital Phnom Penh.
Departing from Phnom Penh, set sail along the iconic Mekong River, the lifeblood of South East Asia. Explore local fishing villages and immerse yourself in traditional practices including fishing, cooking, pottery making, silversmithing and silk weaving. Journey to the UNESCO-protected Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia, and discover hundreds of rare plants and animals including immense storks and pelicans. Cycle through the idyllic countryside or ...
Departing from Phnom Penh, set sail along the iconic Mekong River, the lifeblood of South East Asia. Explore local fishing villages and immerse yourself in traditional practices including fishing, cooking, pottery making, silversmithing and silk weaving. Journey to the UNESCO-protected Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia, and discover hundreds of rare plants and animals including immense storks and pelicans. Cycle through the idyllic countryside or take a rickshaw to the local market with an award-winning chef. Get swept up in the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh and enjoy a guided tuk tuk tour that takes in the magnificent Royal Palace, the stunning Silver Pagoda and more. If you wish, pay your respects at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Or, shop til you drop in the Russian Market.
When you’re not out exploring, relax and unwind on board the 5-star Aqua Mekong cruise ship. Catering to just 40 guests with a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, the Aqua Mekong guarantees best-in-class personalised luxury in this culture-rich landscape. Sip a cocktail in the outdoor and indoor lounges and bars. Or, splash around in the outdoor jacuzzi plunge pool. Multi-award-winning chef and restauranteur David Thompson ensures a first-class dining experience showcasing the full repertoire of flavours from Cambodia in a refined style.
This luxury, 8-day river cruise is all inclusive. Enjoy 7-nights’ accommodation in a non-balcony, first deck Designer suite on a twin share basis (upgrade to balcony and second deck at an extra cost). All meals, activities and experiences are provided.
Discover the real Vietnam and Cambodia on this once-in-a-lifetime voyage of the mighty Mekong River. The fascinating culture and history of the region will stay with you.
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to Red Centre. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points
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Departing from Phnom Penh TS1 Port for check in, the crew warmly welcome you aboard the Aqua Mekong with special refreshers including salted watermelon crush with Thai basil. Board your luxurious 3 storey 5 star Mekong abode, settle into your river-facing suite and take time to explore your home away from home. Sip a cocktail in the outdoor and indoor lounges and bars. Splash around in the outdoor jacuzzi plunge pool. Rejuvenate your mind, body and soul in the spa. Immerse yourself in the finest literature about the region or play a game of foosball in the library and games room. Or, simply look out over the glorious Mekong River and get acquainted with the lifeblood of South East Asia.
In the evening, celebrate the journey towards the heart of the Mekong River with the Khmer Apsara dance performance, a famous centuries-old tradition that is immortalised on the temple walls of the iconic Angkor Wat.
For dinner, enjoy communal style dining authentic to the region’s traditions.
Start your day with a visit to Koh Chen, an island of traditional arts and crafts. When approaching the island by skiff, the first notable sight you will see is a big sitting Buddha in front of a grand yellow tile temple. In the village proper, meet local artisans specialising in clay and magnificent royal Khmer silverware. Keep an eye out for their famous silver bowls, often chosen by Cambodia’s king as gifts for visiting dignitaries.
Continue on to Udong, the royal capital from the 17th to 19th century. Here, you will find the twin humps of Phnom Udong, which have several stupas on them. Both ends of the ridge have incredible views of the Cambodian countryside, studded with countless sugar-palm trees. Stop in at the Vipassana Dhura Mandala meditation centre to mingle with Buddhist monks and learn about their fascinating lives.
In the afternoon, a walking tour of Kampong Prasat offers an intimate look into local life by the river.
For dinner, head back to the ship and enjoy communal style dining authentic to the region’s traditions.
As the sun rises over the lush countryside, journey to Kampong Chhnang, an easygoing river port. Here, you will meet traditional potters and palm sugar producers who will show you age-old craftsmanship and techniques dating back to 6th century that are still highly relevant and valuable today. After, cycle or take a chauffeured tuk tuk into the rice paddies to watch wizened masters scale sky high palm trees to harvest coconuts.
In the afternoon, cruise along the glassy waters of the Tonle Sap River before disembarking among the lotuses for an ox cart ride along the riverbank. Along the way, you will see lacquered houses with impromptu living rooms where locals take refuge during the scorching summer months.
Sail into the legendary land of the glittering former Khmer empire. First stop of the day is Koh Oknha Tey, the Mekong’s ‘Silk Island’ where Khmer artisans showcase a traditional method of silk making. Here, you can wander among the looms and admire the silk making process from dyeing and weaving to beautiful, shimmering krama: silk scarfs beloved by locals that date back to the Angkor period. After, cycle along the idyllic riverbank past Buddhist temples and traditional thatched and stilt homes and see farmers with white oxen working in the rice fields.
In the afternoon, venture to Preah Prosop, a remote village little changed over several lifetimes and home to a startlingly colourful Buddhist temple.
Experience the vibrancy of the Cambodian capital on a motorized tuk tuk. Marvel at the magnificent Royal Palace, the stunning Silver Pagoda and the National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. Pay your respects at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, the site of a former secondary school that was used as Security Prison 21 (S-21) by the Khmer Rouge during the Cambodian Genocide from 1975 to 1979. Or visit the Russian Market, the hippest neighbourhood in the city, bursting with boutique bars, unique eateries and countless knickknacks and souvenirs.
Bid farewell to your fellow travellers who are disembarking in Phnom Penh. For those extending their cruise, be treated with a welcome over custom sundowners like the Salted Watermelon Crush with Thai basil. Together, 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. This evening, tantalise your tastebuds with a communal style dining authentic to the region’s traditions.
Say ‘Good morning, Vietnam’ as you cross the border and sail towards Tan Chau, a vibrant border town famous for its high-quality silk. Take the local rickshaw (xe loi) for sightseeing trip around town, taking in immense rice paddies, coconut forests, canals and rivers. Or, pedal 18km on a top-of-the-line mountain bike on peaceful Long Khanh island where you will find many houses perched on stilts overlooking the river.
In the afternoon, venture to My An Hung, a small village well-known for its succulent and exotic fruits. Visit a local’s home to sample durian, jackfruit, mangosteen, dragon fruit and more, listen to villagers perform traditional folk songs and try your hand at a unique “unicorn” dance. A 17km (10.5mi) biking option is also available for those who wish to explore more of the idyllic countryside on two wheels.
Start your day in Binh Thanh village learning about traditional mat weaving: local women craft the beautiful and often colourful sleeping mats out of dried leaves to help keep bedding cool in often humid temperatures. Or, visit the charming colonial town of Sa Dec, the original setting of the autobiographical novel The Lover by Marguerite Duras. This romantic little town is famous for its flower gardens and has numerous gorgeous colonial buildings to explore including the beautifully preserved home of Duras’ legendary lover, Mr Huynh Thuy Le.
In the afternoon, continue downstream for Cai Be, sailing in a traditional sampan past lone fishermen on their long tail boats. Upon arrival, walk or cycle past the floating market and among high roofed open courtyard houses that date back to the 1900s. Step inside a family’s house for an unforgettable cultural immersion and tap into their everyday way of life.
Cap off your Mekong expedition with a visit to Vinh Trang Pagoda, one of the largest Mahayana Buddhist temples in the region. Marvel at the temple’s eclectic combination of European and Asian architecture including five buildings, three large Buddha statues and an impressive collection of Bonsai trees.
In the afternoon, disembark at My Tho port and transfer to Ho Chi Minh City to commence your onward journey.
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
The price is based on suites located on the First Deck. Upgrade to the suites located on the Second Deck is available at an additional cost. Please contact us for available suites and prices.
To book one of the four sets of interconnecting suites, please contact us.
Please contact us for group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request and additional charges apply. Promo prices are only applicable to certain selected cabins and subject to availability at time of booking. Normal price shall apply if the promo cabins are sold out. The price is based on cabins located on the First Deck.
- The departure point is Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- The finish point is Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH). It is the busiest and largest airport in Cambodia, operating domestic and international flights.
The Lower Mekong River Basin is classified as tropical monsoonal and is almost always hot and often humid. In the warmest months of March to April, average temperatures range from 30°C to 38°C. Cooler temperatures prevail from November to February.
- Aqua Mekong operates a number of other itineraries ranging from 3 to 7 days, departing from Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City. All itineraries are subject to change, due to weather and other conditions.
Observation Deck: is the highest vantage point aboard the ship and the ideal place to observe life on the river and riverbanks. It is also the perfect spot for photography, yoga or meditation.
Outdoor Lounge & Bar: admire the view with a cocktail or two or sit bar side and mingle amongst other guests with plenty of shade offered. In the evenings, engage in stargazing, outdoor cinema screenings, or endless conversations as the river settles into a soothing peace and quiet.
Indoor Lounge & Bar: is the focal point for social activities on the top deck. Complete with luxurious lounge sofas and air-conditioning.
Dining Room: stylishly adorned with contemporary Asian artifacts, fine china and crystal glassware while delivering 5-star dining experience with a celebrated on-board menu by Michelin-starred chef David Thompson.
Private Screening Room: organize a private screening for up to ten guests here or on the Observation Deck. Also functions for private lecture, videos and documentaries to learn about the fascinating cultures on your Mekong River journey.
Outdoor Pool: located at the bow of the Aqua Mekong, it is well shielded from the elements with a canopy and is a commanding position to soak in Mekong’s majestic panoramic vista. 3.5 by 5.17 metres and 1 metre deep.
Gym: faces out to the Mekong River with full-height windows. The gym is also comprehensively equipped with the essential machines and free weights.
Spa: indulge in therapeutic relaxation with a body massage. Both single and couple spa suites are available.
Library & Games Room: Immerse in the finest literature about the region or play a game of foosball. An ideal place for quiet contemplation.
Boutique: showcases the best artistry the Mekong region. This is the ideal place to take home souvenirs and memorabilia of superb quality.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurancePlease Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. The tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.