Mekong Navigator Cruise

Embark in the late morning and lunch onboard. In the afternoon, guests are free to further explore Phnom Penh. Alternatively, guests can opt to go shopping or sample the city’s vibrant restaurants and bars.

Pre-dinner cultural entertainment is provided on the Sun Deck as guests enjoy a performance by local children of Aspara, the Khmer national dance, and other traditional folk dances.

Overnight docking at Phnom Penh Port.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Phnom Penh at 09:30

Relax and enjoy a morning of leisure on the sundeck, in the lounge, library or wonderful La Vie spa as the ship sails downstream towards the border. Guests observe a fascinating transformation in the riverfront architecture and landscape. Exciting cultural activities will take place on board.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives at Border area about 18:00

Overnight at the border area

Border Formalities about 06:00

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs at Border area about 07:30

And arrives Long Khanh Island area about 09:00

09:00: In the morning you are taken by traditional sampans to the local island village of Hong Ngu in the Mekong Delta, close to the Vietnam-Cambodia border. Here, a large number of traditional Khmer scarves are woven in many village homes and exported to Cambodia. Guests have the opportunity to observe the weaving process passed down many generations. Some villagers are also embroidery artists and display their art for visitors to enjoy. The inhabitants of this rural area have only recently become familiar with western travelers and always offer a friendly welcome. Before returning to the sampans, guests can enjoy a walk around the beautiful evergreen island, stopping for a visit at the home of a local war veteran.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Long Khanh Island area after all guest back on board about 11:00 The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives Cu Lao Gieng area about 14:00

14:00: After lunch on board, guests make the short journey from ship to shore by sampan, landing on the charming island of Cu Lao Gieng to visit a local village where hundreds of sampans and rowing boats are made daily. An enchanting sampan cruise circumnavigating the island ends with a visit to the Cu Lao Gieng Cathedral which was built in 1879, shortly after the Notre Dame Cathedral in Saigon in 1863. There may be an opportunity to interact with a local priest at the Cathedral (subject to his availability). The peaceful villages are surrounded by flourishing orchards and verdant green lawns, far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Cu Lao Gieng area after all guests are back on board about 17:00 and arrives Sa Dec area about 21:00

Overnight mid-river Sa Dec area

On arrival at Sa Dec Port the traditional sampan is again used to navigate the tapestry of Mekong canals, giving guests the opportunity to observe traditional village life before arriving at the historic town of Sa Dec. If water levels allow, a stop is planned at Cao Dai Temple. A visit to Sa Dec would not be complete without a visit to the former home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, who was the inspiration for Marguerite Duras’ famous novel, L’Amant (The Lover), here you will also enjoy a private calligraphy demonstration exclusive for you. After that, you will visit the Chinese Temple - Kien An Cung which was built in honor of the Huynh Thuy Le Family where you will be welcomed by traditional Chinese Lions Dances. Guests return to the ship on foot through the town's market which is a bustling, extraordinary and colorful experience, providing many wonderful photo opportunities of the fresh and unusual produce of meat, live fish and seafood for sale.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Sa Dec area after all guests are back on board about 11:00

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives Cai Be area about 14:00

14:00: After a short sail to Cai Be, the English-speaking guide will accompany you on the tapestry of waterways by sampan, passing a colorful collection of local boats from the delta provinces, larger boats selling their goods and the characterful stilted houses of Cai Be. Continuing into the narrower canals of Cai Be, a stop is made to visit Ba Duc House, traditional Vietnamese home and garden. Back onboard the sampans, it’s a short paddle through the canals to reach a traditional rice factory where industrious artisans produce rice paper, rice wine and popped rice. There’s a selection of postcards, souvenirs, and beautiful oil paintings on sale.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Cai Be area after all guests are back on board (about 17:00)

Before dinner guests gather on the Sun Deck as the ship sets sail for My Tho to enjoy a farewell reception with all the crew, followed by a Vietnamese Farewell Dinner in Le Marche Dining Room.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives My Tho port at about 21:00

Overnight docking at My Tho Port

Following breakfast, the crew bid farewell as guests are invited to disembark for transfer to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

08:30: Coaches Depart My Tho Port to Ho Chi Minh City

14:30: Depart Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoon on a scenic drive to the port of My Tho to embark the luxurious Mekong Navigator and settle into your elegant suite. As your upstream journey commences towards Cai Be, experience our cordial hospitality on the Sun Deck at a welcome reception and introduction to our friendly and professional crew who will present a safety briefing. In the evening a ‘Mekong Delta’ themed dinner offers a cultural and innovative introduction to Vietnamese cuisine.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs My Tho after all guests are on board about 17:00

Overnight mid-river Cai Be area

08.30: After a short sail to Cai Be, the English-speaking guide will accompany you on the tapestry of waterways by sampan, passing a colourful collection of local boats from the delta provinces, larger boats selling their goods and the characterful stilted houses of Cai Be. Continuing into the narrower canals of Cai Be, a stop is made to visit Ba Duc House, a traditional Vietnamese home and garden. Back onboard the sampans, it’s a short paddle through the canals to reach a traditional rice factory where industrious artisans produce rice paper, rice wine and popped rice. There’s a selection of postcards, souvenirs, and beautiful oil paintings on sale. On return to the ship an elegant buffet lunch is served while sailing upstream through tranquil riverine scenery towards Sa Dec.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Cai Be area after all guests are back on board about 11:00

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives Sa Dec area about 14:00

14:00: On arrival at Sa Dec port the traditional sampan is again used to navigate the tapestry of Mekong canals, giving guests the opportunity to observe traditional village life before arriving at the historic town of Sa Dec. A visit here would not be complete without a visit to the former home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, who was the inspiration for Marguerite Duras’ famous novel, L’Amant (The Lover), here you will also enjoy a private calligraphy demonstration exclusive for you. After that, you will visit the Chinese Temple - Kien An Cung which was built in honor of the Huynh Thuy Le Family where you will be welcomed by traditional Chinese Lions Dances. Guests return to the ship on foot through the town's market which is a bustling, extraordinary and colourful experience, providing many wonderful photo opportunities of the fresh and unusual produce of meat, live fish and seafood for sale.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Sa Dec area after all guests are back on board about 17:00

Overnight mid-river Cu Lao Gieng area

08:30: In the morning, guests make the short journey from ship to shore by traditional sampan, landing on the charming island of Cu Lao Gieng to visit a local village where hundreds of sampans and rowing boats are made daily. An enchanting sampan cruise circumnavigating the island ends with a visit to the Cu Lao Gieng Cathedral, which was built in 1879, shortly after the Notre Dame Cathedral in Saigon in 1863. There may be an opportunity to interact with a local priest at the Cathedral (subject to his availability). The peaceful villages are surrounded by flourishing orchards and verdant green lawns, far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Cu Lao Gieng area after all guests are back on board about 11:00

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives Long Khanh A Island area about 15:00

(15:00) Mid-afternoon your sampans take you to the local island village of Hong Ngu in the Mekong Delta, close to the Vietnam-Cambodia border. Here, a large number of traditional Khmer scarves are woven in many village homes and exported to Cambodia. Guests have the opportunity to observe the weaving process passed down many generations. Some villagers are also embroidery artists and display their art for visitors to enjoy. The inhabitants of this rural area have only recently become familiar with western travelers and always offer a friendly welcome. Before returning to the sampans guests can enjoy a walk around the beautiful evergreen island, stopping for a visit at the home of a local war veteran.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Long Khanh Island area after all guest back on board about 17:30

Overnight at the border area

Border Formalities about 07:00

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs the Border about 09:30

After border formalities, relax and enjoy leisure time on the sundeck, in the lounge, library or wonderful La Vie spa until mooring close to the city of Phnom Penh late evening. Guests observe a fascinating transformation in the riverfront architecture. Exciting cultural activities will take place on board.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives at Phnom Penh about 20:00

Overnight docking at Phnom Penh Port

Following breakfast the crew bid farewell as guests are invited to disembark in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

11:00: In the afternoon, you will enjoy a scenic drive from Siem Reap to Kampong Cham, Cambodia, with a lunch stop, arrives on the Mekong Navigator cruise ship in the afternoon. After settling into your well-appointed Suite-cabin. That evening, following a welcome reception, safety briefing, and introduction to key members of our crew, a delicious Cambodian Welcome Dinner is served in Le Marche Dining Room.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Kampong Cham after all guests onboard about 17:30

Overnight docking at Wat Hanchey

08:30: This morning, walk up the hill to the local monastery of Wat Hanchey and receive a traditional Buddhist Water Blessing from the resident monks. After enjoying a walk around the monastery and the amazing views of the Mekong River valley, you descend 303 steps and return to the ship.

*For gentle walkers, there is a small coach provided bringing you up and down the hill.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Wat Hanchey after all guests onboard about 10:30

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives Angkor Ban about 14:30

14:30: In the afternoon, we will visit the charming village of Angkor Ban. Here, you will have a glimpse into the lives of the local people, starting with a visit to a family's home to see how the locals live, along with an opportunity to meet the family and discuss their lifestyle. Next, you will continue through the village to the local private school, where you will join the children in their classroom and experience what their typical school day is like. You will then walk back through the village to the ship, with an opportunity to take photos along the way, including a brief stop at the local monastery complex.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Angkor Ban after all guests on board about 17:00 and docks at Phnom Penh about 22:30.

Overnight docking at Phnom Penh Port

08:30: In the morning, learn more about the darkest days of Cambodian history. After a scenic 45minute drive from the ship, you arrive at the Choeung Ek killing fields, where you may walk through the fields, visit the small museum and Memorial Stupa, and learn more about the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime. Before returning to the ship, tour Tuol Sleng (also known as S-21), the former school converted to the main prison and torture headquarters of the Khmer Rouge.

After returning to the ship from the Killing Fields, enjoy a free afternoon in Phnom Penh—shopping, dining at one of the many wonderful restaurants, or exploring the city independently or join the optional Excursion with an additional cost.

*There is a scheduled shuttle coach with your local guide provided from the Port to the Central Market for your shopping time.

Optional Afternoon Excursion Tour to visit one of the local silk weaving Villages:

Board a local Boat and cruise about 40 minutes around the Head-lands from the Tonle Sap River back into the Mekong River reaching the Silk weaving area. Get in in-depth information from silk worm raising to weaving the beautiful silk products like silk Sarong, Phamuong, Hol and silk Karma. Returning by boat the same way, whilst cruising along Sisowath Quay and the Royal Palace, during the sunset.

Overnight docking at Phnom Penh Port

08:30: After breakfast on board this morning, Tuk Tuk drivers meet you on the pier for an exciting morning tour of Phnom Penh. You are gently transported along the riverfront to the Royal Palace complex, where you enjoy a leisurely walk through the grounds. After viewing Throne Hall and Moonlight Pavilion, you visit the famous Silver Pagoda, home of Cambodia's Emerald Buddha and the Maitreya Buddha, which is encrusted with more than 9,000 diamonds. Your Tuk Tuk is waiting outside to take you on the short ride to the open-air National Museum, housing the largest collection of Angkorian and pre-Angkorian artifacts excavated at the Angkor Temple complex at Siem Reap, as well as other areas around Cambodia.

After returning to the ship, enjoy a free afternoon in Phnom Penh.

Before dinner, join us on the Sun Deck to watch Cambodian cultural performances including Cambodian’s national dance as well as Apsara blessing dance.

Overnight docking at Phnom Penh Port.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Phnom Penh at 09:30

Morning Departing Phnom Penh to sail downstream to the Cambodia Vietnam border.

This morning we sail downstream to the Boarder. Enjoy a leisurely cruise and taking in the sights along the Mekong River. Some cultural Activities are planned on board.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives at Border area about 18:00

Overnight at the border area

Border Formalities about 06:00

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs at Border area about 07:30 And arrives Long Khanh Island area about 09:00

(09:00) This morning sampans take you to the local island village of Hong Ngu, not far from the Vietnam-Cambodia border. Hong Ngu produces a large number of the traditional, Khmer scarves exported to Cambodia. Woven in many homes around the village, you will have the opportunity to see the weaving process under several homes. Some villagers are also embroidery artists, displaying their art in and around the homes. The inhabitants of this area had only encountered one western visitor prior to the arrival of the Mekong Navigator and are especially friendly and welcoming. Before returning to the sampans, we will walk around this evergreen island and visit the home of a local War Veteran.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Long Khanh Island area after all guest back on board about 11:00

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives Cu Lao Gieng area about 14:00

(14:00) In the afternoon, your sampans will bring you Gieng Island with a visit to a local village where hundreds of sampans and rowing boats are made daily. Experience a sampan cruise around the Island and finally visiting the Gieng Cathedral built in 1879 right after the Notre Dame Cathedral in Saigon in 1863. You will have a chance to interact with a local priest at the Cathedral (subject to his availability).

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Cu Lao Gieng area after all guests are back on board about 17:00 and arrives Sa Dec area about 21:00

Overnight mid-river Sa Dec area

08:30: Upon arrival to Sa Dec, your sampans return for a leisurely, scenic navigation of the narrow canals of the Mekong, where you will observe daily routines of the villagers en route to the historic town of Sa Dec. A stop is planned at a Cao Dai Temple, but a visit is depending on the Rivers water-level and accessible disembarkation area. Then in the town of Sa Dec you visit the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, the inspiration of Marguerite Duras' novel, L'Amant (The Lover), here you will also enjoy a private calligraphy demonstration exclusive for you. After that, you will visit the Chinese Temple - Kien An Cung which was built in honor of the Huynh Thuy Le Family where you will be welcomed by traditional Chinese Lions Dances. On your itinerary is a walk through the town's market, where you experience the sights, sounds, smells and provides you wonderful photo opportunities of the colorful fresh produce, meat, live fish and seafood for sale.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Sa Dec area after all guests are back on board about 11:00

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives Cai Be area about 14:00

14:00: After a short sail to Cai Be, the English-speaking guide will accompany you on the tapestry of waterways by sampan, passing a colourful collection of local boats from the delta provinces, larger boats selling their goods and the characterful stilted houses of Cai Be. Continuing into the narrower canals of Cai Be, a stop is made to visit Ba Duc House, a traditional Vietnamese home and garden. Back onboard the sampans, it’s a short paddle through the canals to reach a traditional rice factory where industrious artisans produce rice paper, rice wine and popped rice. There’s a selection of postcards, souvenirs, and beautiful oil paintings on sale.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Cai Be area after all guests are back on board (about 17:00)

In the evening, you gather in the Sun Deck in front of the Le Salon Lounge this evening for a Farewell Reception with the entire crew, before enjoying a Vietnamese Farewell Dinner in Le Marche Dining Room.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives My Tho port at about 21:00

Overnight docking at My Tho Port

Following breakfast, you say goodbye to the crew as you disembark the cruise ship and transfer to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

08:30: Coaches Depart My Tho Port to Ho Chi Minh City

14:30: In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho Port, South Vietnam. From there, you will begin your journey aboard the luxurious Mekong Navigator cruise ship. After settling into your well-appointed Suite-cabin, that evening, following a welcome reception, safety briefing, and introduction to key members of our crew, a delicious Vietnamese ‘Mekong Delta’ Welcome Dinner is served in Le Marche Dining Room.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs My Tho after all guests are on board about 17:00

Overnight mid-river Cai Be area

08:30: After a short sail to Cai Be, the English-speaking guide will accompany you on the tapestry of waterways by sampan, passing a colorful collection of local boats from the delta provinces, larger boats selling their goods and the characterful stilted houses of Cai Be. Continuing into the narrower canals of Cai Be, a stop is made to visit Ba Duc House, traditional Vietnamese home and garden. Back onboard the sampans, it’s a short paddle through the canals to reach a traditional rice factory where industrious artisans produce rice paper, rice wine and popped rice. There’s a selection of postcards, souvenirs, and beautiful oil paintings on sale. On return to the ship an elegant buffet lunch is served while sailing upstream through tranquil riverine scenery towards Sa Dec.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Cai Be area after all guests are back on board about 11:00

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives Sa Dec area about 14:00

14:00: This afternoon, your sampans return for leisurely, scenic navigation of the narrow canals of the Mekong, where you will observe daily routines of the villagers en route to the historic town of Sa Dec. In the town of Sa Dec you visit the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, the inspiration of Marguerite Duras' novel, L'Amant (The Lover), here you will also enjoy a private calligraphy demonstration exclusive for you. After that, you will visit the Chinese Temple - Kien An Cung which was built in honor of the Huynh Thuy Le Family where you will be welcomed by traditional Chinese Lions Dances. From there, you will begin a walk through the town's market, where you experience the sights, sounds, smells and provides you wonderful photo opportunities of the colorful fresh produce, meat, live fish and seafood for sale.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Sa Dec area after all guests are back on board about 17:00

Overnight mid-river Cu Lao Gieng area

08:30: This morning sampans take you to Cu Lao Gieng Island with visit to a local village where hundreds of sampans and rowing boats are made daily. Experience a sampan cruise around the Island and finally visiting to the Cu Lao Gieng Cathedral built in 1879 right after the Notre Dame Cathedral in Saigon in 1863. You will have a chance to interact with a local priest at the Cathedral (subject to his availability).

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Cu Lao Gieng area after all guests are back on board about 11:00

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives Long Khanh A Island area about 15:00

15:00: In the afternoon, your sampans will bring you to the local island village of Hong Ngu, not far from the Vietnam- Cambodia border. Hong Ngu produces a large number of the traditional, Khmer scarves exported to Cambodia. Woven in many homes around the village, you will have the opportunity to see the weaving process at several homes. Some villagers are also embroidery artists, displaying their art in and around the homes. The inhabitants of this area had only encountered one western visitor prior to the arrival of the Mekong Navigator, and are especially friendly and welcoming. Before returning to the sampans, we will walk around this evergreen island and visit the home of a local War Veteran.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Long Khanh Island area after all guest back on board about 17:30

Overnight at the border area

Border Formalities about 07:00

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs the Border about 09:30

This morning we sail upstream to enjoy a leisurely cruise and taking in the sights along the Mekong River reaching Phnom Penh in the evening. Some cultural activities are planned on board.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives at Phnom Penh about 20:00

Overnight docking at Phnom Penh Port

(08:30) In the morning, learn more about the darkest days of Cambodian history. After a scenic 45minute drive from the ship, you arrive at the Choeung Ek killing fields, where you may walk through the fields, visit the small museum and Memorial Stupa, and learn more about the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime. Before returning to the ship, tour Tuol Sleng (also known as S-21), the former school converted to the main prison and torture headquarters of the Khmer Rouge.

After returning to the ship from the Killing Fields, enjoy a free afternoon in Phnom Penh - shopping, dining at one of the many wonderful restaurants, or exploring the city independently.

(There is a scheduled shuttle coach with your local guide provided from the Port to the Central Market for your shopping time.)

Before dinner, join us on the Sun Deck to watch Cambodian cultural performances including Cambodian’s national dance as well as Apsara blessing dance

Overnight docking at Phnom Penh Port

08:30) After breakfast on board this morning, Tuk drivers meet you on the pier for an exciting morning tour of Phnom Penh. You are gently transported along the riverfront to the Royal Palace complex, where you enjoy a leisure walk through the grounds. After viewing Throne Hall and Moonlight Pavilion, you visit the famous Silver Pagoda, home of Cambodia's Emerald Buddha and the Maitreya Buddha, which is encrusted with more than 9,000 diamonds. Your Tuk Tuk is waiting outside to take you on the short ride to the open-air National Museum, housing the largest collection of Angkorian and pre-Angkorian artifacts excavated at the Angkor Temple complex at Siem Reap, as well as other areas around Cambodia.

After returning to the ship, another free afternoon in Phnom Penh or join the optional Excursion with an additional cost.

Optional Afternoon Excursion Tour to visit one of the local silk weaving Villages:

Board a local Boat and cruise about 40 minutes around the Head-lands from the Tonle Sap River back into the Mekong River reaching the Silk weaving area. Get in in-depth information from silkworm raising to weaving the beautiful silk products like silk Sarong, Phamuong, Hol and silk Karma. Returning by boat the same way, whilst cruising along Sisowath Quay and the Royal Palace, during the sunset.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Phnom Penh about 19:00

Overnight midriver at Angkor Ban

(08:30) This morning, we will visit the charming village of Angkor Ban. Here, you will have a glimpse into the lives of the local people, starting with a visit to a family's home to see how the locals live, along with an opportunity to meet the family and discuss their lifestyle. Next, you will continue through the village to the local private school, where you will join the children in their classroom and experience what their typical school day is like. You will then walk back through the village to the ship, with an opportunity to take photos along the way, including a brief stop at the local monastery complex.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Angkor Ban after all guests on board about 11:00 Arriving Wat Hanchey about 15:00

(15:00) In the afternoon your excursion will start with a walk up the hill to the local monastery of Wat Hanchey and receive a traditional Buddhist Water Blessing from the resident monks. After enjoying a walk around the monastery and the amazing views of the Mekong River valley, you descend 303 steps and return to the ship. *For gentle walkers, there is a small coach provided bringing you up and down the hill.

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship departs Wat Hanchey after all guests on board about 17:30

In the evening, you gather in the Sun Deck in front of the Le Salon Lounge this evening for a Farewell Reception with the entire crew, before enjoying a Cambodian Farewell Dinner in Le Mache Dining Room

The Mekong Navigator cruise ship arrives Kampong Cham port at about 19:00

Overnight docking at Kampong Cham

Following breakfast, you say goodbye to the crew as you disembark the cruise ship and transfer from Kampong Cham to Siem Reap, Cambodia, with a lunch stop, arriving early afternoon at your hotel in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Coaches departs Kampong Cham to Siem Reap about 08:30