Jayavarman Cruise

PEARL OF THE ORIENT Saigon to Phnom Penh (or Phnom Penh to Saigon), 4 Days – 3 Nights

A lower Mekong cruise that modules the diversity of the rich, local and evergreen life of the Mekong Delta. The cruise gives a full insight on the Mekong at its last “meters” before the ocean and displays the importance of the delta to Vietnam and actually the whole planet. Like pearls on a rope you will collect all your memories of this fascinating spot on our planet. A half day leisure cruise will provide “the” magic therapeutic Mekong River cruise moments as add-on.

The displayed program below is a sample of a 3-night upstream cruise between Saigon and Phnom Penh. The downstream Cruise is also available. This cruise is not affected by high or low water levels.

We gather before noontime at our welcome lounge in Saigon. Lean back with a drink as our staff welcomes you and collects your details for the boarding.

We bid farewell to the hustle and bustle of Saigon and travel 70 kilometers south overland to My Tho to embark your luxury floating home for your coming journey along the Might Mekong.

Upon boarding our crew warmly welcomes you and you check in to your prepared staterooms. The ship set sail and your fasctinating journey of exploring the Mekong can begin. Lunch buffet is served in the restaurant while the vessel steadily glides upstream to reach the overnight spot. Make yourself familiar with all the ship facilities. Now it is time to become one with one of the largest streams in Asia.

The afternoon allows you pastime at your private balcony or join our tea time at the open air bar as the twilight bathes the land of Mekong Delta into a golden haze.

During the time you savor your dinner the ship reaches Cai Be. Cai Be is a charming small town, famous for its Catholic French church and manufacturing of traditional crafts and food products. The floating market of Cai Be is getting smaller every year, since trading on the water is shifting more and more into modern central markets.

We drop anchor mid-stream and overnight near Cai Be.

Everyday, we offer to our guests an invigorating Tai Chi class on the sun deck. Set in your day like many local people do around Asia just as the sun begins its gentle glow.

A sumptuous buffet breakfast is the perfect start in your first exploration day in the Mekong Delta.

The morning tour takes you Cai Be. Cai Be still hosts a small floating market for boat to boat trading of local goods such as fruits and agricultural products. Our guide explains the particularities of this long lasting dealing cutlture. Each boat has a special marker to let buyers know what goods they are selling.

Cai Be is a rustic town criss-crossed by and many water canals. We go on-shore to visit a workshop where we learn about and observe how rice paste, rice paper, rice cookies or rice wine is manufactured. Cai Be and its surrounding areas are covered by palmtrees and hence the region is also famous for the production of coconut candies. With our local boat we continue to cruise through the lush and green canel network and can observe farmers working in the fields.

Back on board lunch is served and you have some time for yourself afterwards to either enjoy a true Vietnamese coffee at the bar or simply watch the life on the riverbanks floating by.

In the afternoon, we reach the area of Sa Dec. We embark a traditional sampan and tour towards Binh Thanh Island. This island is one of the larger ones in the vast stream of the Mekong. Some communities have settled here and make their living by growing water hyazinths. We visit exclusively one of those untouched areas. By wandering through the village we get a deep understanding of the native life. But moreover we can follow the whole process of ratt making. You can even try yourself the weaving which is still done manually. We will meet also an old local people who shares with us their story on this island and they are happy for any chit-chat with you.

Back on board you may like to pamper yourself with a spa treatment or take a dip in our pool on the sun deck. Our expert guides offer a presentation on the “Life on the Mekong Delta” as the ship continues sailing to Chau Doc - near the boarder to Cambodia. We moor mid-stream near Chau Doc.

Dinner is served and afterwards you can join our evening cinema session (offered every night) featuring selected classic movies.

Welcome to the fish sanctuary of Vietnam. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the dining hall or in the quiet sanctuary of your balcony.

Brace yourself for a tour around Chau Doc, a pleasant, slow-paced town with a sizeable Chinese, Kinh and Khmer community. Once on-shore we hop on “xelois” to explore Chau Doc. A “xeloi” is a local vehicle which is still used as a taxi in this region. We slowly move around the streets to see all the workshops, houses and domiciles. Get to feel the laid-back vibes of this place. We stop at the colorful local market near one of the town’s temples. This is the best time to interact with the vendors of this friendly town to practice your bargaining skills. We board our local boat and cruise past floating houses and finally reach a floating fish farm. This region is the source of a fish production that is sold all over the world. Here we get a deep insight on how fish farming works.

Back on board our “home” we sail towards the Vietnamese-Cambodian border. Get ready for a fascinating and leisurely cruise through the deep Cambodia countryside towards Phnom Penh.

The whole afternoon is at your own arrangements. This is the cruise part when even the last passenger will turn into cruise mode and hopefully experience the therapeutical influence this mighty river radiates. It is time for massages, time for sun bed relaxations, time for private balcony kick-backs - forsooth the time to merge with the river.

A culinary class if offered during the afternoon to sharpen your knowledge and skills on the local cuisine. Some may like to do a flying visit at the bridge - the captain always has a story to share about “his” river. “The Highway Blues” beckons as we float into a state of mild bliss and before you totally drift away join our afternoon high tea for some treats.

Dinner is served before we arrive in the capital of Cambodia around 8 o’clock. The boat docks at the pier of Phnom Penh. You are free to go for your first exploration by yourself. Stroll along the river promenade and watch the locals chit-chating, selling odds and ends or have a drink in one of the numerous bars (kindly inform our crew once you are leaving the ship on your own).

Welome to Phnom Penh - the once called Paris of the East. Despite its rapid development, it has retained a lot of its rustic charm and elegance. It is an amazing town to bespeak centuries of incredible history and culture which can still be felt at many street corners.

After breakfast we bid farewell to our passenger of the Pearl of the Orient Cruise (3-nights).

PEARL OF THE ORIENT Phnom Penh to Saigon (or Saigon to Phnom Penh), 4 Days – 3 Nights

A lower Mekong cruise that modules the diversity of the rich, local and evergreen life of the Mekong Delta. The cruise gives a full insight on the Mekong at its last “meters” before the ocean and displays the importance of the delta to Vietnam and actually the whole planet. Like pearls on a rope you will collect all your memories of this fascinating spot on our planet. A half day leisure cruise will provide “the” magic therapeutic Mekong River cruise moments as add-on.

The displayed program below is a sample of a 3-night downstream cruise between Phnom Penh and Saigon. The upstream Cruise is also available. 

In the morning, you will get a comprehensive lecture on board to understand more about the modern history of Cambodia. Today, most of time is spent sailing along the main Mekong Channel. At this session, you will see large ships running along this route.

In the afternoon, you will arrive in the Vietnamese border. It will take some time to finish border crossing procedures. During this time, you could take chance to relax in the glow of the sun on the sundeck of Jayavarman Cruise, indulge yourself at the Spa or try your hands with a cooking class. Overnight on board in Tan Chau.

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Jayavarman Cruise

After a hearty breakfast on board, take a short excursion in Tan Chau - the fish sanctuary of Vietnam. This border town is home to the different communities of Chinese, Kinh and Khmer. Set off your journey with a traditional vehicle to visit a local market. Then, embark a local boat to visit the fish farm and head back to Jayavarman Cruise. Along the way, you will get a real taste of local life in the Mekong.

After lunch on board, continue your trip to My An Hung village. Take a walk through the lush vegetable garden to get to a family house. You will then cross a monkey bridge and witness vegetable fields. Afterwards, gather at the family house to relax with a cup of tea and local delicacies and fruits and back to the Jayavarman Cruise for a cruise to Sa Dec. Overnight in Sa Dec.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Jayavarman Cruise

In the morning, embark a traditional sampan for a cruise along the man made canals to explore Binh Thanh Island. After lunch on board, you will arrive in Cai Be. Here you will visit the colorful floating market - one of the largest markets in the region. As cruising through the narrow canals, you will witness firsthand the breathtaking landscapes along the river and the rustic life on the Mekong Delta.

Nestled on the mighty Mekong River, the islands still remain unknown to many people. You are also offered special chance to see the exciting making process of rice paste, rice cookies, and coconut candies. After the stunning experience, re-embark Jayavarman Cruise to enjoy the tranquillity of the evening cruise to My Tho. This evening, there will be a farewell party on the terrace deck. Overnight in My Tho.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Jayavarman Cruise

This morning, Jayavarman Cruise makes its way to My Tho on the upper Mekong River. It’s time to say goodbye to the crew. You will disembark Jayavarman Cruise and transfer to the meeting point in Saigon. End of the trip.

• Meals: Breakfast

SERENITY CRUISE Siem Reap to Phnom Penh  (or Phnom Penh to Siem Reap), 5 Days – 4 Nights

The best of rural Cambodia is offered with this cruise program. See the unseen, discover ancient pre-Angkorian temples, relish the cordial smiles of the inhabitants of this region and feel emerges with the water landscape of the Ton Le River. The Ton Le is a magical River and an important lifeline of the Mighty Mekong during the low water period.

The displayed program below is a sample of a 4-night downstream cruise between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh for high water cruises. The downstream Serenity Cruise is also available as 3-night option. 

We gather in the morning at our welcome lounge in Siem Reap. Relax with a drink as our staff collects your details for the boarding. We bid farewell to the iconic sight of Angkor and travel a short distance to the pier at Tonle Lake. By local boat we transfer to our beautiful ship. While you check in to your prepared staterooms the ship sets sail and your fascinating journey on the Mighty Mekong can begin.

You have lunch on board while the vessel gently glides over Tonle Lake. The lake can only be crossed during high water season (approx. from August to mid-November). Let your soul float and your eyes wander while the boat makes its way across.

In the afternoon we serve a high tea at the bar. Enjoy your cruising day on board, relax on your balcony or relish a spa treatment before dinner. Our expert guide will also offer a presentation about the “Geography of the Mekong and Ton Le Sap”.

The boat moors at the Ton Le River. You can join our evening cinema session (offered every night) featuring selected classic movies.

Wake up early to witness the spectacular scenery at the break of down. Our morning Tai Chi class has the perfect backdrop today. Breakfast buffet is served in the dining hall.

We are at Kampong Chhnang, Cambodia’s “water world”, where everything is on sticks balanced on water rich soil. Perhaps this is the most fascinating cruise locale in Cambodia.

We take a local boat to the shore. With mini buses we head to a rural village nearby and go on a walking tour. Our guides introduce the village specialties – Khmer style pottery and the making of palm sugar. Definitely you should bring some home. Before returning to the boat we explore the local floating villages and wetlands of the region.

Back on board lunch is served while the cruise continues with a languid meander along the Ton Le River towards Kampong Tralach. A Monks’ blessing ceremony on board delivers spirits and wishes for health and prosperity for all. Gliding through leafy swaths of this jungle-like landscape we arrive in Kampong Tralach. Cacophonous children wave enthusiastically while bringing their livestock for a bath in the meandering river. We will stop at the “Green School” which is supported in part by Heritage Line. Travel to see all this life - which is so much different than ours - by a local ox cart ride.

Back on board we sail downstream, passing the confluence of the Ton Le and Mekong Rivers. The boat cruises overnight and you can enjoy a fine dinner in the dining hall.

After a sumptuous breakfast we stay on board to understand more about the education of the young Cambodian generation (NGO project). The children join us on board, always excited to show their skills in music and art. Be sure to be bathed in smiles upon your applause.

We leave the boat around 09:30am to arrive at the enchanting pre-Angkorian temple of Wat Hanchey (7th century). This small complex sits on a hill top right on the shore with breath-taking views on the Mekong.
After some refreshment back on the ship we serve lunch. During the afternoon our staff is keen to show you the variety of traditional Khmer fashion. Watch the riverbank life along the Mekong during our high tea as the ship proceeds to its next stop.

We arrive at the Island of Koh Oknha Tey. This spot in the middle of the Mekong owns its fame for the manufacturing of high class silk products. By tuk tuk we explore the island with its workshops and learn how silk is processed from its source, provided by little silkworms, to a final top quality product made of original Cambodian silk.

After some additional cruising time the boat arrives and docks at the pier of Phnom Penh. Feel free to have your first exploration by yourself after dinner. Stroll along the river promenade and watch the locals chit-chatting, selling odds and ends or have a drink in one of the numerous bars (kindly inform our crew once you are leaving the ship on your own).

Welcome to Phnom Penh - the once called Paris of the East. Despite its rapid development, it has retained a lot of its rustic charm and elegance. It is an amazing town to bespeak centuries of incredible history and culture which can still be felt at many street corners.

We start with a full sight-seeing tour right after breakfast. By bus we visit the Killing Fields at the outskirts of the city and after the centrally located prison “S21”. Both historic sites display the sad and cruel chapter of Khmer history when once the Khmer Rouge ruled the country with terror and suppression. Those places have not changed much since the horrific time back in the early seven- ties and so it can be heart wrenching. There is the alternative to explore the city during the morning by your own pace individually before re-joining the group.

After breakfast it's time to bid farewell from your luxurious floating home.

We have lunch at a nice restaurant in town. Afterwards, our exploration of Phnom Penh focuses on its fascinating cultural heritage. The golden edifice of the Royal Palace with its Silver Pagoda and the exceptional Khmer crafts at the National Museum are the afternoon highlights. The day trip ends with a “cycle” ride back to the ship through the bustling streets of downtown Phnom Penh.

Take some rest in your spacious cabin or join other fellow passengers at the bar for some refreshing drinks before captivating evening activities start.

Early evening a barbecue dinner on the sun deck commences. The dinner is accompanied by an Apsara dance performance. You need to witness the brilliance and richness of this dance along with the soothing sounds of traditional music.

As the evening unwinds, enjoy your supper with a fine glass of wine and marvel at the skyline of Phnom Penh and the peaceful flow of the Ton Le River.

After breakfast we will gather at the lounge for a great lecture before it's eventually time to bid a farewell to your luxurious, floating home.

SERENITY CRUISE Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (or Siem Reap to Phnom Penh), 5 Days – 4 Nights

The best of rural Cambodia is offered with this cruise program. See the unseen, discover ancient pre-Angkorian temples, relish the cordial smiles of the inhabitants of this region and feel emerges with the water landscape of the Ton Le River. The Ton Le is a magical River and an important lifeline of the Mighty Mekong during the low water period.

The displayed program below is a sample of a 4-night upstream cruise between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap for high water cruises. The upstream Serenity Cruise is also available as 3-night option. 

This morning, take a city tour of Phnom Penh to visit some famous highlights including the Killing Field – the reminder of the genocide and S21 Genocide Museum. Continue onto the magnificent Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda and appreciate the stunning Khmer craft at the National Museum. Lunch is served at a local restaurant.

Afterwards, take a cyclo to transfer back to the Jayavarman Cruise. Take your time to relax at your comfortable balcony or in the lounge before joining the evening event. There will be a variety of cocktails on the sundeck followed by a BBQ dinner. You will then enjoy the Apsara dance performance to learn more the richness of this culture and the smooth sounds of traditional music. It is truly an outstanding experience with an open-air dining. Overnight in Phnom Penh.

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Jayavarman Cruise

This early morning, make a stop at the less known Silk Island community before heading back to the Jayavarman Cruise for cruising amongst the tranquil villages of the Mekong. Along the way, you will witness the rustic charm of the river life on the river banks. Then, visit the rural Angkor Ban village which dates back hundred years ago. The houses here are truly rustic without the impact of modern life. You could even join the daily activities of the local villagers to experience firsthand their unique lifestyle.

After the great experience, back to the Jayavarman Cruise and cruising to Kampong Cham. Overnight in Kampong Cham.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Jayavarman Cruise

You will wake up early this morning to start your excursion to Wat Hanchey - the pre-Angkorian temple where you could get to the top by taking a motor taxi or climbing 303 steps. Once on the top of the hill overlooking the river, you will be amazed at stunning views over the region. This ancient structure was built in the 8th century famous for its magnificent architecture of the Chenla Empire. You could also get to know more the unique lifestyle of some of the monks in the area. Later, head back to Jayavarman Cruise to see the blessing ceremony performed by local monks.

After lunch, Jayavarman Cruise will then cruise to Kampong Cham where you will visit Wat Nokor to explore its timeless story followed by a visit to OBT project of Heritage Line and organization for Basic Training. Overnight on board in Kampong Cham.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Jayavarman Cruise

As the sun rises on the horizon, Jayavarman Cruise starts sailing towards Kampong Chhnang on the tranquil Tonle River. Along the way, you may be greeted by the friendly children on the river banks. You will then reach Kampong Chhnang - a great place to enjoy Tai Chi session on the deck in the tranquil setting of the region.

Afterwards, take a minivan to explore the unique Khmer-styled pottery at the Aundaung Russey village before enjoying a motorboat excursion to discover wetlands, floating houses and fish farms. Head back to the Jayavarman Cruise for lunch as cruising along the meandering Tonle Sap River. Enjoy the peacefulness and tranquillity of the lake while cruising gently along the lake.

In the evening, after a sumptuous meal, get ready for a big entertainment with the Cambodian style dances with our staff. Overnight in Tonle Sap Lake.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Jayavarman Cruise

As the flowing heart of Cambodia which brings love and life to the nation, the Tonle Sap is home to a variety of birds and fish. This great lake is considered the largest freshwater lake in Asia. Take the chance to take in the stillness and tranquillity of the lake on the way to Siem Reap. Due to the varied water level, there will be some small changes in itinerary according to different seasons. As Jayavarman Cruise approaches the city of Angkor temple complex, you bid farewell to our cruise. Disembark the Jayavarman Cruise at the Siem Reap Port and then transfer to the drop off point in town.

• Meals: Breakfast

THE LOST CIVILIZATION  Saigon to Siem Reap (or Siem Reap to Saigon), 8 Days – 7 Nights

A mysterious body of water. Flowing through six countries in Asia. Giving love and life to millions. Received its fame by the legendary God King of ancient Cambodia, King Jayavarman VII, who linked hands with the waters of the Mekong to build the magnificent Angkor civilization.The displayed program below is a sample of a 7-night upstream cruise between Saigon and Siem Reap for high water cruises. The downstream Cruise is also available. 

We gather before noontime at our welcome lounge in Saigon. Lean back with a drink as our staff welcomes you and collects your details for boarding.

We bid farewell to the hustle and bustle of Saigon and travel 70 kilometers southwards by land to My Tho where we embark our luxury floating home for the upcoming journey along the Might Mekong.

Upon boarding our crew warmly welcomes you and you check into your prepared staterooms. The ship set sail and your fascinating journey of exploring the Mekong can begin. Lunch buffet is served in the restaurant while the vessel steadily glides upstream to reach the overnight spot. Make yourself familiar with all the ship facilities. Now it is time to become one with one of the largest streams in Asia.

The afternoon allows you pass time at your private balcony or join our tea time at the open air bar as the twilight bathes the land of the Mekong Delta into a golden haze.

During the time you savour your dinner, the ship reaches Cai Be, a charming small town, famous for its Catholic French church and manufacturing of traditional crafts and food products. The floating market of Cai Be is getting smaller every year, since trading on the water is shifting more and more into the modern central markets.

We drop anchor mid-stream and stay overnight near Cai Be.

Every day, we offer an invigorating Tai Chi class on the sun deck to our guests . Start your day like many local people do around Asia, just as the sun begins its gentle glow.

A sumptuous buffet breakfast is the perfect start for your first exploration day in the Mekong Delta.

The morning tour takes you to Cai Be. Cai Be still hosts a small floating market for boat to boat trading of local goods such as fruits and agricultural products. Our guide explains the particularities of this long lasting dealing culture. Each boat has a special marker to let buyers know what goods they are selling.

Cai Be is a rustic town criss-crossed by many water canals. We go on-shore to visit a workshop where we learn about the manufacturing of rice paste, rice paper, rice cookies or rice wine. Cai Be and its surrounding areas are covered by palm trees and hence the region is also famous for the production of coconut candies. With our local boat we continue to cruise through the lush and green canal network and observe farmers working in the fields.

Back on board, lunch is served. Afterwards, you have free time for yourself to either enjoy a true Vietnamese coffee at the bar or simply watch the life on the riverbanks floating by.

In the afternoon, we reach the area of Sa Dec. We embark a traditional sampan and take a tour towards Binh Thanh Island. This island is one of the larger ones in the vast stream of the Mekong. Some communities have settled here and make their living by growing water hyacinths. We visit exclusively one of those untouched areas. By wandering through the village we get a deep understanding of the native life. But moreover, we can follow the whole process of mat making. You can even try the weaving yourself which is still done manually. We will meet also an old local couple who shares their story on the island with us.

Back on board you may like to pamper yourself with a spa treatment or take a dip into our pool on the sun deck. Our expert guides offer a presentation on the “Life in the Mekong Delta” as the ship continues sailing to Chau Doc, near the boarder to Cambodia. We moor mid-stream near Chau Doc.

Dinner is served and afterwards you can join our evening cinema session (offered every night) featuring selected movies.

Welcome to the fish sanctuary of Vietnam. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the dining hall or in the quiet privacy of your balcony.

Brace yourself for a tour around Chau Doc, a pleasant, slow-paced town with a sizeable Chinese, Kinh and Khmer community. Once on-shore we hop on “xelois” to explore Chau Doc. A “xeloi” is a local vehicle which is still used as a taxi in this region. We slowly move around the streets to see all the workshops, houses and domiciles. Get to feel the laid-back vibes of this place. We stop at the colorful local market near one of the town’s temples. This is the best time to interact with the vendors of this friendly town to practice your bargaining skills. We board our local boat and cruise past floating houses and finally reach a floating fish farm. This region is the source of a fish production that is sold all over the world. Here we get a deep insight on how fish farming works..

Back on board our “home” we sail towards the Vietnamese-Cambodian border. Get ready for a fascinating and leisurely cruise through the deep Cambodian countryside towards Phnom Penh.

The whole afternoon is at your own arrangements. This is the cruising part when even the last passenger turn on their cruise mode and hopefully experience the therapeutic influence this mighty river radiates. It is time for massages, time for sun bed relaxations, time for private balcony kick-backs - it's the time to merge with the river.

A culinary class is offered during the afternoon to sharpen your knowledge and skills on the local cuisine. Some may like to do a flying visit at the ships bridge - where the captain is always happy about a little chit-chat. “The Highway Blues” beckons as we float into a state of mild bliss, and before you totally drift away join our afternoon high tea for some treats.

Dinner is served before we arrive in the Cambodia's capital around 8 o’clock. The boat docks at the pier of Phnom Penh. You are free to go for your first exploration by yourself. Stroll along the river promenade and watch the locals chit-chatting, selling odds and ends or have a drink in one of the numerous bars (kindly inform our crew when you are leaving the ship on your own).

Welcome to Phnom Penh the once called Paris of the East. Despite its rapid development, it has retained a lot of its rustic charm and elegance. It is an amazing town of century-long, incredible history and culture which can still be felt at many street corners.

After breakfast we bid farewell to our passengers of the Pearl of the Orient Cruise (3-nights). At the same time around 8 o’clock, we welcome our passengers of the Serenity Cruise (4-nights).

We start with a full sight-seeing tour right after breakfast. By bus we visit the Killing Fields at the outskirts of the city and after the centrally located prison “S21”. Both historic sites display the sad and cruel chapter of Khmer history when the Khmer Rouge ruled the country with terror and suppression. Those places have merely changed much since the horrific time back in the early seventies and so it can be heart wrenching. There is the alternative to explore the city during the morning individually in your own pace before re-joining the group.

We take lunch in a nice restaurant in town. Our exploration of Phnom Penh focuses afterwards on the fascinating cultural heritage of Phnom Penh. The golden edifice of the Royal Palace with its Silver Pagoda and the exceptional Khmer crafts at the National Museum are the afternoon highlights. The day trip ends with a cycle ride back to the ship through the bustling streets of downtown Phnom Penh.

Take some rest in your spacious cabin or join other fellow passengers at the bar for some refreshing drinks before our capturing evening activities start:
It begins with a variety of cocktails served on the sun deck or at the open bar. We move to the lounge which is set up for a captivating lecture about Cambodian modern history, held by a professor of the Royal University of Phnom Penh. Definitely among the highlights of this cruise to receive knowledge out of first hand as our lecturer knew the former King of Cambodia privately and many other high ranking politicians.
After the lecture, a feast of a barbecue dinner commences on the sun deck. The dinner is accompanied by an Apsara dance performance. You have to witness the brilliance and richness of this dance along with the soothing sounds of traditional music.

As the evening unwinds enjoy your supper with a good glass of wine and marvel at the skyline of Phnom Penh and the calming flow of the Tonle River.

We depart before the break of dawn from Phnom Penh towards the small Angkor Ban village up the Mekong River. Wake up to the gentle cruise motion and get ready for breakfast in the dining room.

The Angkor Ban village is famous for it´s unspoiled community and beautiful, traditional houses. It feels like being transported back a hundred years into an era unaffected by modernity. Villagers are characterized by their unbridled friendliness.

Back on board our staff is keen on showing you the variety of traditional Khmer fashion. Lunch is served after this demonstration.

We cruise further up the Mekong to visit a local school to understand more about the education of the young Cambodian generation (the project is funded by an NGO). Those children here are always excited to show their skills in music and art and will bath you in smiles upon your applause. We continue the travel by road to the enchanting pre-Angkorian temple of Wat Hanchey (7th century). This small complex sits on a hill top right on the shore with breath-taking views on the Mekong. Another temple on the way is the tiny, colorful monastery of Wat Nokor. Here we might get the chance to engage in a light banter with some of the monks living in the area.

Relax back on board until dinner is served. The boat moors mid-river near Kampong Cham.

We sail downstream the Mekong during breakfast time and stop at the Island of Koh Oknha Tey. This spot in the middle of the Mekong owns its fame for the manufacturing of high class silk products.

By tuk tuk we explore the island with its workshops and learn how silk is processed from its source, provided by little silkworms, to a final top quality product made of original Cambodian silk.

Before lunch our expert guides offer a presentation about the “Geography of the Mekong and Tonle Sap”.

After lunch a Monks’ blessing ceremony on board will deliver spirits and wishes for health and prosperity to all.

The cruiser continues its journey, passing the confluence of Mekong and Tonle River towards Kampong Tralach. Gliding through leafy swaths of this jungle-like landscape we reach Kampong Tralach. Cacophonous children waive enthusiastically while bringing their livestock for a bath in the meandering river. Live to see all this life - which is so different than ours - by a local ox cart ride.

The boat find its anchor spot later in the Tonle River near Kampong Chhnang allowing you to observe the interesting and close-by life on shore until dinner is served in the restaurant.

Wake up early to witness this spectacular water-world in the break of dawn. Our morning Tai Chi class has the perfect backdrop today. Breakfast buffet is served in the restaurant.

We are now at Kampong Chhnang, Cambodia’s “water world”, where everything is on sticks balanced on water rich soil. This is the most fascinating cruise part in Cambodia.

We take a local boat to the shore. With mini buses we head to a rural village nearby and go on a walking tour. Our guides introduce the village specialities – Khmer style pottery and the making of palm sugar. Definitely you should bring home some. Before returning to the boat we explore the local floating villages and wetlands of the region.

Back on board lunch is served as your floating sanctuary cruises gently along the narrow and meandering Tonle, towards the Great Tonle Lake. The river opens up to a vast “sea” - known as the biggest fresh water lake in Asia. This lake can only be crossed during high water season (approx. from End-July to Mid-November). Let your soul float and your eyes wander while the boat makes its way towards Siem Reap.

In the afternoon we serve a high tea at the bar and as the sun sets, our crew invites for a farewell event. Enjoy your dinner and some music and dancing afterwards together with the crew.

The boat moors mid-stream near Siem Reap.

The Tonle Sap (The Great Lake) is the flowing heart of Cambodia, giving love and life to millions of people. It has more fishes than any other lake in the world and is home to an incredible variety of birds, including rare – and endangered – feathered life.

Our Heritage Line cruise comes to an end. We prepare to disembark the ship and take a local boat to the shore, passing a vast floating community.

Around 9 o’clock, we arrive at the Siem Reap pier and bring you back by a short transfer to the drop-off point in the city center.

We hope that you enjoyed this fascinating river same as our crew does every single time. Moreover, we wish you plenty of memories and friendships that will linger with your stories of this amazing river - the Mighty Mekong.

THE LOST CIVILIZATION  Siem Reap to Saigon (or Saigon to Siem Reap), 8 Days – 7 Nights

A mysterious body of water. Flowing through six countries in Asia. Giving love and life to millions. Received its fame by the legendary God King of ancient Cambodia, King Jayavarman VII, who linked hands with the waters of the Mekong to build the magnificent Angkor civilization.The displayed program below is a sample of a 7-night upstream cruise between Siem Reap and Saigon for high water cruises. The upstream Cruise is also available. 

The Tonle Sap is considered the heart of Cambodia thanks to its importance to the life of the country. It is home to a variety of birds and fish.

Upon arriving at the meeting point, you will be transferred to the Jayavarman Cruise. Our friendly crew will welcome you warmly. After a welcome drink, enjoy a buffet lunch on the ship as Jayavarman Cruise glides along the water. Dinner is served on board. Then, take your time to relax on the sundeck in the sparkling glow of the moon and stars. Overnight on board at the midstream on the Tonle Sap River.

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Jayavarman Cruise

Take some time in the morning to join a Tai Chi lesson in the sundeck in the tranquillity of the river. Coffee and tea are available on board. Jayavarman Cruise starts sailing across the Tonle River. Along the way, you will see the beautiful view of marshlands floating along the river banks. 

In the afternoon, continue your cruise meandering along the Tonle Sap River. Here, you may see kids waving their hands to greet you. Once in the land, you take a short bus ride to see the Khmer-styled pottery. Embark the boat to admire the wetlands, floating houses and fish farms in the region. Continue further down the river where you will join an ox cart ride in the afternoon. You will then have great chance to know more about the Heritage Line pro bono “literacy project”. Overnight in Kampong Cham.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Jayavarman Cruise

After an overnight cruising, you will wake up early this morning to set off your excursion to Wat Hanchey - the pre-Angkorian temple. Here, you could get to the top by taking a motor taxi or climbing 303 steps. Once on the top of the hill overlooking the river, you are offered one of the most stunning views in Cambodia. This ancient structure was built in the 8th century famous for its magnificent architecture of the Chenla Empire.

You could also get to know more the unique lifestyle of some of the monks in the area. Later, head back to Jayavarman Cruise to see the blessing ceremony performed by local monks. It will then cruise to Kampong Cham where you will visit Wat Nokor to explore its timeless story. Overnight on board at the midstream near Phnom Penh.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Jayavarman Cruise

In the morning, start your sightseeing tour of Phnom Penh with some famous highlights including the Killing Field – the reminder of the genocide and S21 Genocide Museum. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Afterwards, continue your trail to the magnificent Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda and appreciate the stunning Khmer craft at the National Museum.

After the visit, take a cyclo to transfer back to Jayavarman Cruise. Take your time to relax at your comfortable balcony or in the lounge before joining the evening event. There will be a variety of cocktails on the sundeck followed by a BBQ dinner. You will then enjoy the Apsara dance performance to learn more the richness of this culture and the smooth sounds of traditional music. It is truly an outstanding experience with an open-air dining. Overnight in Phnom Penh.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Jayavarman Cruise

Get ready to the new day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck with tea and coffee served on board. After breakfast, there will be a comprehensive lecture on board to understand more about the modern history of Cambodia. Today, most of the time is spent sailing along the main Mekong Channel. At this session, you will see large ships running along this route.

In the afternoon, you will arrive in the Vietnamese border. It will take some time to finish border crossing procedures. During this time, you could take chance to relax in the glow of sun on the sundeck, indulge yourself at the Spa or try your hands with a cooking class. Overnight on board in Tan Chau.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Jayavarman Cruise

After a hearty breakfast on board, take a short excursion in Tan Chau - the fish sanctuary of Vietnam. This border town is home to the different communities of Chinese, Kinh and Khmer. Set off your journey with a traditional vehicle to visit a local market. Then, embark a local boat to visit fish farm and head back to Jayavarman Cruise.

In the afternoon, continue your trip to My An Hung village. Take a walk through the lush vegetable garden to get to a family house. You will then cross a monkey bridge and witness vegetable fields. Afterwards, gather at the family house to relax with a cup of tea and local delicacies and fruits and back to the Jayavarman Cruise for a cruise to Sa Dec. Overnight in Sa Dec.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Jayavarman Cruise

In the morning, board a traditional sampan and cruise along the man made canals to explore Binh Thanh Island. Enjoy lunch on board before arriving in Cai Be. Here you will visit the colourful floating market - one of the largest markets in the region. As cruising through the narrow canals, you will witness firsthand the breathtaking landscapes along the river and the rustic life on the Mekong Delta.

Nestled on the mighty Mekong River, the islands still remain unknown to many people. You may find it interesting to see the exciting making process of rice paste, rice cookies and coconut candies. After stunning experience, re-embark Jayavarman Cruise to enjoy the tranquillity of the evening cruise to My Tho. This evening, there will be a farewell party on the terrace deck. Overnight in My Tho.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Jayavarman Cruise

This morning, Jayavarman Cruise makes its way to My Tho on the upper Mekong River. It’s time to say goodbye to the crew. You will disembark Jayavarman Cruise and transfer to the meeting point in Saigon. End of the trip.

• Meals: Breakfast