Visiting Cities: Siem Reap - Tonle Sap Lake - Kamphong Chhnang - Phnom Penh - Mekong River - Vinh Xuong - Chau Doc - My An Hung - Sa Dec - Cai Be - My Tho - Saigon or vice versa
Phone: +84 982 661 133
Number of Cabins: 20 rooms
Room rates: $ 6790 - $ 0
Price from: $ 6790 - Book now!
- BRIEF
- ITINERARY
- PRICE
- CABIN INFO
- DECKPLANS
- MAP
BRIEF
Cruising Asia’s Mekong River between Vietnam and Cambodia, the 205-foot Aqua Mekong is a floating five-star luxury boutique hotel with a guide to guest ratio of 1 to 10. The sustainably crafted ship’s 20 designer suites – the river’s largest guestrooms – overlook the Mekong through floor-to-ceiling windows. This is the only ship on this stretch of the river to offer a fully equipped gym, screening room, outdoor cinema, observation deck, and an upper-deck pool. Dine on world-class dishes created by top Southeast Asian cuisine chef, David Thompson and board the Mekong’s only private tenders for expert-guided shore excursions to serene Buddhist temples and stilted villages or explore the unique landscape by bicycle and kayak. A full-time paramedic ensures guest safety on every adventure.
Design and Architecture
Designed by Saigon-based architectural firm Noor Design, the Aqua Mekong is the first five-star small luxury cruise ship to travel up and down the Mekong River between the Mekong Delta in Vietnam and the Kingdom of Cambodia. The Aqua Mekong is also the first cruise ship on Southeast Asia’s greatest river to offer a fitness center, library, screening room and observation deck.
Measuring 62.4 meters (205 feet) in length, the matte-black hulled Aqua Mekong brings Hodkinson’s Indochine influenced aesthetic to the Aqua Mekong’s interiors which are built entirely of local sustainable materials and incorporating natural fibers of the surrounding environment with artisanal touches of the Mekong’s multifaceted cultures.
Across the first and second decks, the Aqua Mekong is home to 20 Design Suites, each one a generous 30 square meters (320 square feet). Floor to ceiling windows allow guests to gaze upon the Mekong from the pillow top bed and a Mekong River facing day bed, placed indoors, or outside among the ten Design Suites with a private balcony.
This understated elegance, realized in the most modern, natural materials continues in the ship’s social areas. In the sun lit dining room, fresh tropical flowers add a subtle pop of color against the polished wood floors and natural woven fibers. Here as well, the Mekong influenced cuisine of our Michelin starred Executive Chef David Thompson of Bangkok’s Nahm restaurant is served on fine china with our sommelier selected wines in crystal glassware.
Upstairs on the Observation Deck, slide onto sleek contemporary interpretations of this region’s woven cane planters chairs, found in the air conditioned Indoor Lounge alongside plump couches finished in a cool grey so as not to distract from the engrossing panorama constantly streaming in through floor to high ceiling walls of windows. Tropical wind and fresh air on the Outdoor Lounge encourage unwinding on cushioned loungers or easing into the river facing plunge pool. This shimmering oasis takes the edge off that equatorial swelter after an Aqua Expeditions excursion shopping for ingredients with our chef in Cambodia’s wet markets, watching traditional silversmiths at work, or among snakes and crocodiles at a Vietnamese riverside farm.
Aqua Mekong: Ship FACTS
* Year Built: 2014
* Ports of Embarkation: My Tho (Vietnam), Phnom Penh and Siem Reap (Cambodia)
* Vessel’s Registry: Cambodia
* Type of Vessel: River Expedition Vessel
* Length: 62.4 meters / 205 feet
* Beam: 11.5 meters / 38 feet
* Draft: 1.5 meters / 5 feet
* Cruising Speed: 12 knots
* Electricity: 220 volts
* Engines: 2 New Caterpillars, Tier 3 Emission compliant
* Generators: 2 New Caterpillars, encapsulated for noise reduction
* Water: Reverse osmosis and UV water treatment plant
* AC: Central air-conditioning throughout
* Laundry: Complimentary service (no dry cleaning on board)
* Internet: Complimentary satellite internet with intermittent connection.
Safety On Board the Aqua Mekong:
State of the art safety features include radio communications with separate battery pack, satellite phone, Carley float life rafts, flares and signals, fire extinguishers and smoke detectors in each cabin, automatic defibrillator on board.
Launch Boats for Mekong River Shore Excursions:
Four auxiliary aluminum launch boats equipped with two four-stroke low emission engines; constant radio communication with the main vessel. Each boat has a capacity of 10 passengers.
Aqua Mekong Crew: 40 members, including a cruise director, paramedic and 4 English-speaking guides.
Aqua Mekong Capacity: 40 passengers
ITINERARY
Key sites/ activities in the area
• Experience the rural Mekong River life and explore the unique landscapes by bicycle and kayak.
• Guided shore excursions include enlightening visits to remote Buddhist temples, stilted villages and Cambodia’s vast Tonle Sap Lake.
• Visit Prek Toal, the largest bird sanctuary in Southeast Asia, in search of rare bird species.
• Visit the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and National Museum in Phnom Penh.
• Explore Moat Khla, an isolated floating village deep in the flooded forest.
HIGH WATER DOWNRIVER ITINERARY (From August to November)
All itineraries are subject to change, due to weather and other conditions.
Day 1Friday: Siem Reap - Tonle Sap Lake
Gather at our Siem Reap meeting point then board our air-conditioned bus for the scenic 45-minute countryside ride to the dock on the Tonle Sap Lake for check-in to your 3-story, five star Mekong abode. Settle into your floating retreat, with its window wall conferring an endlessly captivating panorama. Enjoy these private Mekong moments on your California king bed, terrace or daybed.
Day 2
Saturday: Tonle Sap Lake - Prek Toal - Moat Khla
Set off by skiff into the 22,000-hectare Prek Toal Core Bird Reserve, one of the largest freshwater bodies in Asia and the last refuge in Southeast Asia for large waterbirds like the spot-billed pelicans, milky stork, black-headed ibis and the elusive masked finfoot. After lunch, we visit the floating village of Moat Khla, accessible only by water, and attend a Buddhist blessing ceremony in this isolated community.
Day 3
Sunday: Tonle Sap Lake - Chhnok Tru - Kamphong Chhnang
Explore remote villages around the Tonle Sap Lake, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1997. In Chhnok Tru, we “slide” into an ice factory and learn from locals what it’s like to live in a town where schools, churches, pagodas, and even the karaoke bar and police station all float. We continue learning about Khmer riverside life in Kampong Chhnang, the 'Port of Pottery' so called because archaeological findings here date to the 6th century.
Day 4
Monday: Tonle Sap and Mekong River - Koh Chen - Koh Oknha Tey
This morning, we visit Koh Chen, a silversmith village known for its fine craftsmanship. Keep an eye out for their famous silver bowls, regularly chosen by Cambodia's king as gifts for visiting dignitaries. In the afternoon, we set off for the Mekong's 'silk islands' where renowned weavers allow us to wander freely, admiring their intricate craftsmanship. Biking is optional for those who wish to explore deeper into the island.
Day 5
Tuesday: Mekong River - Phnom Penh
We show off the Cambodian capital to our passengers by motorized tuk-tuk, the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. For those who wish, we visit the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide and the Killing Field or shopping at Russian Market. We bid farewell to 4-night guests who are disembarking in Phnom Penh.
Return to welcome our 3-night passengers over custom sundowners like the Salted Watermelon Crush with Thai basil. Together we 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.
Day 6
Wednesday: Mekong River - Ka´Om Samnor - Vinh Xuong Border Crossing - Chau Doc - My An Hung
Say ‘Good Morning, Vietnam’ while we cross the border and sail towards Tan Chau, a vibrant border town where we take the local rickshaw called xe loi for a trip around town or pedal 18 kilometers on the peaceful island of Long Khanh. In the afternoon, we visit a typical Mekong Delta village called My An Hung where we will walk through verdant plantations. We will be invited to a local's home to taste local fruits while hearing traditional folk songs performed by villagers, followed by a unique Unicorn dance. Biking option is also available for those who wish to explore on wheels.
Day 7
Thursday: Binh Thanh/Sa Dec - Cai Be - Mekong River
Begin the day at Binh Thanh mat weaving village or opt to visit Sa Dec where we will peruse the vibrant market and see the famous house of Marguerite Duras' legendary lover, Mr. Huynh Thuy Le. We continue downstream for Cai Be, zigzagging in our sampan past lone fishermen on their long tail boats. Later, our skiffs moor at a wooden pier. Here in Cai Be, walk or bike ride among high-roofed open courtyard houses, some dating back more than 100 years, and currently inhabited by gracious locals who will invite us to glimpse their property.
Day 8
Friday: Mekong River - My Tho - Ho Chi Minh City
Disembarkation. En route to Saigon, we stop at Vinh Trang Pagoda, one of the largest Mahayana Buddhist temple in the region. You will notice the mixed architectural style and see three large Buddha statues plus an impressive collection of bonsai trees.
HIGH WATER UPRIVER ITINERARY (From August to November)
All itineraries are subject to change, due to weather and other conditions.
Day 1Friday: Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong River - My Tho
We will collect you at the Saigon meeting point and transfer you by air-conditioned coach to My Tho dock where we will welcome you aboard the Aqua Mekong. Settle into your floating retreat, with its window wall conferring an endlessly captivating panorama. Enjoy these private Mekong moments on your California king bed, terrace or daybed.
Day 2
Saturday: Mekong River – Binh Thanh/Sa Dec - My An Hung
Begin the day at Binh Thanh mat weaving village or opt to visit Sa Dec where we will peruse the vibrant market and see the famous house of Marguerite Duras' legendary lover, Mr. Huynh Thuy Le. In the afternoon, visit a typical Mekong Delta village called My An Hung where we will walk through verdant plantations. We will be invited to a local's home to taste local fruits while hearing traditional folk songs performed by villagers followed by a unique unicorn dance. A 17-kilometer Biking option is also available.
Day 3
Sunday: Mekong River - Chau Doc - Vinh Xuong - Ka’Om Samnor Border
Travel by skiff along Bassac Canal to Chau Doc floating market then head off by van to Long Son Pagoda atop Sam Mountain. Ask the monks about their age-old Buddhist practices. Return via the bustling morning market. Optional 18 kilometers bike ride on Long Khanh Island or take a rickshaw ride to visit Tan Chau Market with chef. After lunch, relax by the pool, try traditional Khmer massage or learn to cook Mekong inspired dishes while we cross the border.
Day 4
Monday: Mekong River - Koh Oknha Tey - Preah Prosop
On this river of time we admire dexterous Khmer artisans dyeing and weaving kroma, the ubiquitous item no Khmer lives without. Explore the riverbank on two wheels if you wish, past Buddhist temples and thatch houses perched on spindly wooden stilts while white oxen wade just offshore. After lunch, we board our marine-grade aluminum skiffs and head towards the tamarind trees of Preah Prosop, a remote village little changed over several lifetimes.
Day 5
Tuesday: Phnom Penh
We show off the Cambodian capital to our passengers by motorized tuk-tuk, the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. For those who wish, we visit the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide and the Killing Field or shopping at Russian Market. We bid farewell to 4-night guests who are disembarking in Phnom Penh.
Return to welcome our 3-night passengers over custom sundowners like the Salted Watermelon Crush with Thai basil. Together we 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.
Day 6
Wednesday: Tonle Sap River - Koh Chen - Kampng Chhnang
This morning, we visit Koh Chen, a silversmith village known for its fine craftsmanship. Keep an eye out for their famous silver bowls, regularly chosen by Cambodia's king as gifts for visiting dignitaries. In the afternoon, we continue learning about Khmer riverside life in Kampong Chhnang, the 'Port of Pottery' so called because archaeological findings here date to the 6th century. Bike option is available.
Day 7
Thursday: Mouth of the Tonle Sap Lake - Chhnok Tru - Moat Khla
Continue exploring the remote communities around the Tonle Sap Lake, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1997. In Chhnok Tru, we “slide” into an ice factory and learn from locals what it’s like to live in a town where schools, churches, pagodas, and even the karaoke bar and police station all float. After lunch, we visit the floating village of Moat Khla, accessible only by water, and attend a Buddhist blessing ceremony.
Day 8
Friday: Tonle Sap Lake - Prek Toal - Siem Reap
Set off by skiff into the 22,000-hectare Prek Toal Core Bird Reserve, one of the largest freshwater bodies in Asia and the last refuge in Southeast Asia for large waterbirds like the spot-billed pelicans, milky stork, black-headed ibis and the elusive masked finfoot. Disembarkation.
LOW WATER DOWNRIVER ITINERARY (From December to August)
All itineraries are subject to change, due to weather and other conditions.
Day 1Friday: Phnom Penh - Mekong River
We meet you at the Phnom Penh TS1 Port for check-in to your 3-story, five star Mekong abode. Welcome aboard. We’ll leave you to settle into your floating retreat, with its window wall conferring an endlessly captivating panorama. Enjoy these private Mekong moments on your California king bed, terrace or daybed. Together we 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.
Day 2
Saturday: Mekong River - Koh Oknha Tey - Preah Prosop
On this river of time we admire dexterous Khmer artisans dyeing and weaving kroma, the ubiquitous item no Khmer lives without. Explore the riverbank on two wheels if you wish, past Buddhist temples and thatch houses perched on spindly wooden stilts while white oxen wade just offshore. After lunch, we board our marine-grade aluminum skiffs and head towards the tamarind trees of Preah Prosop, a remote village little changed over several lifetimes.
Day 3
Sunday: Tonle Sap River - Koh Chen - Kampong Prasat
In the silversmith village of Koh Chen, we watch artisans producing the magnificent silverware favored by Khmer royalty. We continue to Udong, the royal capital from the 17-19th centuries, where we learn about a uniquely challenging Buddhist practice at the Vipassana Dhura Mandala, a meditation center. In the afternoon, a walking tour of Kampong Prasat offers a close up perspective on local lives and their riverside environment.
Day 4
Monday: Tonle Sap River - Kampong Chhnang - Kampong Tralach
In the cooler hours, we head into the lush countryside to visit traditional potters and palm-sugar producers, astride mountain bikes or chauffeured by shaded tuk-tuk. Into the rice paddies we pedal to watch wizened masters scale sky-piercing palms towering over us. Cruise across the glassy water and disembark among the lotuses for an ox-cart ride along the Tonle Sap riverbanks, past lacquered wooden houses where during these dry months residents take refuge in the relative cool of these outdoor impromptu living rooms.
Day 5
Tuesday: Mekong River - Phnom Penh
We show off the Cambodian capital to our passengers by motorized tuk-tuk, the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. For those who wish, we visit the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide and the Killing Field or shopping at Russian Market. We bid farewell to 4-night guests who are disembarking in Phnom Penh.
Welcome our 3-night passengers over custom sundowners like the Salted Watermelon Crush with Thai basil. Together we 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.
Day 6
Wednesday: Mekong River – Ka’Om Samnor - Vinh Xuong Border Crossing - Chau Doc - My Ah Hung
Say ‘Good Morning, Vietnam’ while we cross the border and sail towards Tan Chau, a vibrant border town where we take the local rickshaw called xe loi for a trip around town or pedal 18 kilometers on the peaceful island of Long Khanh. In the afternoon, we visit a typical Mekong Delta village called My An Hung where we will walk through verdant plantations. We will be invited to a local's home to taste local fruits while hearing traditional folk songs performed by villagers, followed by a unique Unicorn dance. Biking option is also available for those who wish to explore on wheels.
Day 7
Thursday: Mekong River - Binh Thanh/ Sa Dec - Cai Be
Begin the day at Binh Thanh mat weaving village or opt to visit Sa Dec where we will peruse the vibrant market and see the famous house of Marguerite Duras' legendary lover, Mr. Huynh Thuy Le. We continue downstream for Cai Be, zigzagging in our sampan past lone fishermen on their long tail boats. Later, our skiffs moor at a wooden pier. Here in Cai Be, walk or bike ride among high-roofed open courtyard houses, some dating back more than 100 years, and currently inhabited by gracious locals who will invite us to glimpse their property.
Day 8
Friday: Mekong River - My Tho – Ho Chi Minh City
Disembarkation. En route to Ho Chi Minh, we stop at Vinh Trang Pagoda, one of the largest Mahayana Buddhist temple in the region. You will notice the mixed architectural style and see three large buddha statues plus an impressive collection of bonsai trees.
LOW WATER UPRIVER ITINERARY (From December to August)
All itineraries are subject to change, due to weather and other conditions.
Day 1Friday: Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong River - My Tho
We will collect you at the Ho Chi Minh City meeting point and transfer you by air-conditioned coach to My Tho dock where we will welcome you aboard the Aqua Mekong. Settle into your floating retreat, with its window wall conferring an endlessly captivating panorama. Enjoy these private Mekong moments on your California king bed, terrace or daybed.
Day 2
Saturday: Mekong River - Binh Thanh/ Sa Dec - My An Hung
Begin the day at Binh Thanh mat weaving village or opt to visit Sa Dec where we will peruse the vibrant market and see the famous house of Marguerite Duras' legendary lover, Mr. Huynh Thuy Le. In the afternoon, visit a typical Mekong Delta village called My An Hung where we will walk through verdant plantations. We will be invited to a local's home to taste local fruits while hearing traditional folk songs performed by villagers followed by a unique unicorn dance. A 17-kilometer Biking option is also available.
Day 3
Sunday: Mekong River - Chau Doc - Vinh Xuong - Ka’Om Samnor Border
Travel by skiff along Bassac Canal to Chau Doc floating market then head off by van to Long Son Pagoda atop Sam Mountain. Ask the monks about their age-old Buddhist practices. Return via the bustling morning market. Optional 18 kilometers bike ride on Long Khanh Island or take a rickshaw ride to visit Tan Chau Market with chef. After lunch, relax by the pool, try traditional Khmer massage or learn to cook Mekong inspired dishes while we cross the border.
Day 4
Monday: Mekong River - Koh Oknha Tey - Preah Prosop
On this river of time we admire dexterous Khmer artisans dyeing and weaving kroma, the ubiquitous item no Khmer lives without. Explore the riverbank on two wheels if you wish, past Buddhist temples and thatch houses perched on spindly wooden stilts while white oxen wade just offshore. After lunch, we board our marine-grade aluminum skiffs and head towards the tamarind trees of Preah Prosop, a remote village little changed over several lifetimes.
Day 5
Tuesday: Phnom Penh
We show off the Cambodian capital to our passengers by motorized tuk-tuk, the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. For those who wish, we visit the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide and the Killing Field or shopping at Russian Market. We bid farewell to 4-night guests who are disembarking in Phnom Penh.
Return to welcome our 3-night passengers over custom sundowners like the Salted Watermelon Crush with Thai basil. Together we 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.
Day 6
Wednesday: Tonle Sap River - Koh Chen - Kampong Prasat
In the silversmith village of Koh Chen, we watch artisans producing the magnificent silverware favored by Khmer royalty. We continue to Udong, the royal capital from the 17-19th centuries, where we learn about a uniquely challenging Buddhist practice at the Vipassana Dhura Mandala, a meditation center. In the afternoon, a walking tour of Kampong Prasat offers a close up perspective on local lives and their riverside environment.
Day 7
Thursday: Tonle Sap River - Kampong Chhnang - Kampong Tralach
In the cooler hours, we head into the lush countryside to visit traditional potters and palm-sugar producers, astride mountain bikes or chauffeured by shaded tuk-tuk. Into the rice paddies we pedal to watch wizened masters scale sky-piercing palms towering over us. Cruise across the glassy water and disembark among the lotuses for an ox-cart ride along the Tonle Sap riverbanks, past lacquered wooden houses where during these dry months residents take refuge in the relative cool of these outdoor impromptu living rooms.
Day 8
Friday: Phnom Penh
Customized exploration of Phnom Penh and disembarkation.
PRICE
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- All meals while onboard
- Beverages (premium non-alcoholic, house wine and beer)
- All shore excursions
- Laundry
- Bike use
- Internet with intermittent connection
- Group transfers.
- All air tickets
- Visas
- Private transfers
- Spa services
- Boutique purchases
- Guide and crew gratuities.
Cancellation / Prepayment policy
Please check with our travel consultants about Aqua Cruise's Cancellation Policy.CABIN INFO
Number of Cabins: 20 Suites
Bed Types: Double or Twin Beds
Area : 30 sq.m (320 square feet)
For Aqua Expeditions founder Francesco Galli Zugaro, the ultimate river safari includes the best creatures comforts on board as well as unparalleled experiences with local experts in small groups exploring a destination. True to that vision are the 20 air conditioned Design Suites of the Aqua Mekong, each one a generous 30 square meters (320 square feet), eight with balconies and all created entirely of local materials with the relaxed sophistication and contemporary comforts of a five star resort.
Floor to ceiling panoramic windows allow guests to gaze upon the Mekong from the pillow top California king size bed that can be converted upon request into two full twin beds. More captivating views await on the plush, roomy daybed placed by the window wall or for our eight balcony accommodations, outside along with a romantic table for two. Those who wish to keep up on the world beyond these enthralling riverbanks will appreciate complementary high speed wireless internet.
The sleek bathroom features the latest eco-sensitive technology and an additional Mekong River facing picture window, plus dual sinks, a large walk in shower with rainforest showerhead and bench, professional hairdryer and natural bath amenities.
Four sets of interconnecting suites, with two sets on each deck offer convenience for traveling families. Or for the ultimate luxury, passengers may book these interconnecting accommodations, with one suite configured as a private living room, the other as a bedroom, and separate baths. The result is a private, 60 square meter (640 square foot) floating apartment on the Mekong River.
DECK PLAN
MAP
Other Mekong Cruises
- The Jahan: The Lost Civilization
- Jayavarman: Pearl Of The Orient
- Jayavarman: The Lost Civilization
- Aqua Mekong: Discovery Cruise
- The Jahan: Pearl Of The Orient
- Pandaw: Saigon and Phnom Penh
- Bassac Cruises: One night on Mekong River
- Mekong Eyes Classic: 2-day Mekong Delta Tour
- Indochine Cruise
- Mekong Pandaw River Cruises
Questions & Answers
Regards Peter shirreffs