Classic Mekong

Embark your Pandaw vessel in central Saigon and relax on the spacious sundeck as we set sail past the towering skyscrapers of Vietnam’s bustling metropolis. After lunch onboard you will meet the crew and enjoy local entertainment on the deck as we sail toward the Mekong Delta. We moor overnight on the Vam Co River.

Early morning we set sail through the Cho Gao Canal, a vital waterway link for the transportation of goods to and from the city which was constructed in 1876 by the French and offers a fascinating insight to life along the water. We reach Ben Tre and journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards abundant in the area. This is a fertile farming region with half of Vietnam’s rice production coming from the Mekong Delta. It also hosts a rich artisanal culture which we will witness at a local village specialising in handicrafts. Back aboard we sail deeper into the delta toward Chau Doc.

In the morning, we take minivans for a short drive to Sam Mountain, the location of Phuoc Dien Tu or the Hang Pagoda. After climbing the steps we are greeted with stunning views across the Mekong. For those not keen on the stairs, explore the local market instead. Afterwards, we visit the nearby floating fish farms by Sampan before being treated to a private Lion dance performance at a local Village. Upon return to the ship, we navigate a web of canals before dropping anchor on the Vietnam/Cambodia border to undergo Immigration formalities.

Please Note: During high water periods in October and November, navigation into Chau Doc may be hampered by low bridges meaning today’s excursion will be replaced with a local village visit at Long Thuan.

Morning orientation of Phnom Penh by cyclo visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda followed by the National Museum with its marvellous collection of Angkorian statuary. In the afternoon we visit the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum to learn more about the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. We dock overnight in Phnom Penh city port with its lively bars, restaurants and nightlife. Feel free to explore the city before returning to your hotel on the water.

We leave the dock at Phnom Penh early morning and sail up the winding channels of the Tonle Sap River to Kampong Tralach. We travel by ox-cart around the river-side villages, markets and temples to get a sense of life in rural Cambodia. In the evening cocktails are served around a fire pit at a small fishing village where we will be joined by village folk keen to share tales and show us their traditional dancing.

In the morning, travel by coach to the ancient capital of Cambodia, Oudong where we visit the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre. Walk around the vast complex with it’s impressive Khmer architecture and experience a short meditation class to quieten your mind. We re-join our ship at Prek Kdam before sailing back onto the Mekong proper during lunch. This afternoon we step ashore at Pak Russei, a small and remote village on the banks of the Mekong. We will explore on foot and visit local craftspeople weaving silk and producing handmade noodles. Before returning to the ship, we learn about the ancient art of Bokator, a traditional form of martial art with a private performance in the village.

Enjoy morning Tai Chi or just a coffee on deck as we take a sunrise cruise to Peam Chi Korng, an untouched gem that is a hub of pottery in Cambodia. After a short tuk tuk ride from the banks of the Mekong, we witness the local potters in action before continuing to explore the village and local fresh market where you can test your language skills. In the afternoon we continue sailing along the mighty Mekong to Steung Trang, our final destination before your crew provides some final evening entertainment and a sumptuous farewell dinner is prepared by your kitchen team.

Disembark after breakfast and travel by coach from Steung Trang through stunningly lovely countryside to reach Siem Reap. Arrival into Siem Reap betweeen 12 – 1pm at the FCC Angkor Hotel, located next to the Royal Palace.

Travel by coach from Siem Reap to the riverside town of Steung Trang for embarkation. Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Mekong and meet your crew for the next 7 nights before your welcome dinner is served.

Enjoy morning Tai Chi or just a coffee on deck as we take a sunrise cruise to Peam Chi Korng, an untouched gem that is a hub of pottery in Cambodia. After a short tuk tuk ride from the banks of the Mekong, we witness the local potters in action before continuing to explore the village and local fresh market where you can test your language skills. This afternoon we step ashore at Pak Russei, a small and remote village on the banks of the Mekong. We will explore on foot and visit local craftspeople weaving silk and producing handmade noodles. Before returning to the ship, we learn about the ancient art of Bokator, a traditional form of martial art with a private performance in the village.

In the morning, travel by coach to the ancient capital of Cambodia, Oudong where we visit the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre. Walk around the vast complex with it’s impressive Khmer architecture and experience a short meditation class to quieten your mind. Rejoin your ship in Kampong Tralach for lunch abaord. In the afternoon we travel by ox-cart around the river-side villages, markets and temples to get a sense of life in rural Cambodia. In the evening cocktails are served around a fire pit at a small fishing village where we will be joined by village folk keen to share tales and show us their traditional dancing.

Morning orientation of Phnom Penh by cyclo visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda followed by the National Museum with its marvelous collection of Angkorian statuary. In the afternoon we visit the Killing Fields and Genocide museum to learn more about the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. We dock overnight in Phnom Penh city port with its lively bars, restaurants and nightlife. Feel free to explore the city before returning to your hotel on the water.

We up anchor early in the morning and cruise downstream along the Mekong River to the Vietnam border for immigration formalities. The ship sails toward Chau Doc where we talk an evening stroll along the river before dinner aboard.

In the morning, we take minivans for a short drive to Sam Mountain, the location of Phuoc Dien Tu or the Hang Pagoda. After climbing the steps we are greeted with stunning views across the Mekong. For those not keen on the stairs, explore the local market instead. Afterwards, we visit the nearby floating fish farms by Sampan before being treated to a private Lion dance performance at a local Village. After lunch aboard we continue sailing into the heart of the Mekong delta and enjoy on-deck entertainment from your crew.

Please Note: During high water periods in October and November, navigation into Chau Doc may be hampered by low bridges meaning today’s excursion will be replaced with a local village visit at Long Thuan.

In the morning, we journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards of Ben Tre. This is a fertile farming region with half of Vietnam’s rice production coming from the Mekong Delta. It also hosts a rich artisanal culture which we will witness at a local village specialising in handicrafts. After returning to the ship enjoy lunch onboard as we sail through the Cho Gao Canal toward Saigon. The Cho Gao Canal is a vital waterway link for the transportation of goods to and from the city which was constructed in 1876 by the French and offers a fascinating insight to life along the water. In the evening we sail into central Saigon and enjoy the stunning skyline over dinner.

Disembark in central Saigon after breakfast for your onward travels.

Stay in a choice of two resort hotels in Siem Reap whilst visiting the Angkor temple complexes and getting to know the local Cambodian culture.

Your guide will meet you upon arrival to Siem Reap then arrange lunch before check in. In the afternoon we visit the most famous temple of Cambodia, Angkor Wat. It is visually, architecturally and artistically breathtaking with a massive three tiered pyramid crowned by five beehive-like towers rising 65 meters from ground level. This temple is the centerpiece of any visit to the temples of Angkor. Take in the romantic view at sunset from Bakheng Hill.

Following breakfast in your hotel, set out for a day of exploration amongst the various temples and ruins of the Angkor Empire. The morning we will cover the large complex surrounding the imposing Bayon Temple. After lunch at a local restaurant, we discover more secluded temples including the awe inspiring and overgrown Ta Prohm, made famous by the Tomb Raider movie.

In the evening we experience a true highlight of Cambodia and meet talented young performers in a breathtaking and original Cambodian show at Phare Ponleu Selpak’s Circus. Not just for entertainment, Phare is also a social enterprise supporting the youth of Cambodia gain skills and employment.

Post Cruise: After breakfast travel by air conditioned car to visit Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, East Meborn. Transfer to the airport.

Pre Cruise: Check out of the hotel and transfer to your ship.

Please note some meals and touring options vary between pre & post cruise options.

Discover the vibrant and dynamic Ho Chi Minh City, the largest and most populous city in Vietnam. On this two-night pre or post-cruise tour, you will experience the city’s rich history, culture, and cuisine staying in our specially selected hotel partners. Visit the iconic landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the War Remnants Museum, and the Cu Chi Tunnels as well as soaking up the hectic atmosphere of central Saigon.

The order of sightseeing tours varies for pre and post cruise extensions.

Tour guide will be waiting for you at the airport to transfer you to your hotel. Free time in the evening, we suggest a relaxing stroll along the Saigon Riverside Park or Bach Dang Wharf to enjoy the cool breeze and the city’s vibrant waterfront nightlife.

In the morning, our tour guide will meet you at the lobby and drive you to the extraordinary Cu Chi tunnels, about 65 km (1.5 hour drive) from Saigon. The intricate system of underground networks was built by the Viet Cong guerrillas and your local guide will outline the impact of the war on the local communities and country as a whole.

We return to the city for lunch at a local restaurant before taking in the sights of Saigon. We visit the War museum of Remnants, an essential stop to reflect on the historical events that have profoundly shaped modern Vietnam. Then, we view the Reunification Palace from the outside, one of the most famous landmarks of the city which is now preserved in a time-capsule state. After we stroll through the 30 April Park toward Notre Dame Cathedral and General Post Office where you can also glimpse the former CIA building where the famous last helicopter out of Saigon picture was taken. End the day with some shopping at Ben Thanh market, one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and symbol of the city turned tourist shopping hotspot.

Morning at leisure. Transfer with your fellow Pandaw passengers to embark your ship.

Hue and Hoi An are two of Vietnam’s scenic and historic highlights and a ‘must see’ on most people’s visit to this most wonderful country. This trip includes a fascinating ride along the Perfume River and a visit to the enormous Hue Citadel.

Hoi An is best explored independently and retains a charming village feel which comes alive after sunset with the glow of red lanterns and the senses of Asia. And, of course, plenty of time to relax at your beach resort.

We are pleased to offer a pre or post extension including connecting domestic flight, all transfers, excursions in Hue, a scenic journey from Hue to Hoi An and a 2-night stay in Hoi An. You will be staying in a delightful selection of boutique hotels.

Welcome to Vietnam. After arrival at Hue Airport meet your guide and driver for the transfer to your hotel. Rest of day at leisure.

This morning we take a boat on the serene Perfume River to the best known pagoda in Middle Vietnam, Thien Mu. We then pay a visit to the impressive tomb of former Emperor Tu Duc and a beautiful garden once belonging to royalty followed by a royal style lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit Hue citadel including Moon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, Royal Urns and the ruins of the Forbidden Purple City.

After breakfast we leave Hue for Hoian. En route we pause to unwind on top of the Ocean Clouds Pass, on the Non Nuoc Beach and then visit the fascinating Cham Museum.

We then proceed to the quaint town of Hoian for check in and to relax. In the afternoon, there is time to explore this charming and wonderfully preserved merchant town that retains Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese and European influences from its flourishing old days.

Day at leisure. Explore the beautiful old town of Hoi An or relax at the beach.

Transfer to the airport for a flight from Danang 08.00 to Saigon 09.25 (flight times subject to change). Upon arrival, drive to the extraordinary Cu Chi tunnels, about 65 Km (1½ hours’ drive) from Saigon. This complicated underground network was built by Viet Cong guerillas. En route, you have the chance to see how rural people live and work such as cashew nut farming, duck breeding, rice farming and production of rice paper, a key ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine.

After lunch in a local restaurant, return to Saigon. In the afternoon, visit to Reunification Hall, Notre Dame Cathedral, General Post Office, Former US Embassy, City Hall, War Museum of Remnants. Shopping at Ben Thanh market.

Pre Cruise: Morning at leisure. Transfer with your fellow Pandaw passengers to My Tho to embark your ship.

Post Cruise: Itinerary operates in reverse