Embark on the Toum Tiou II Downstream Mekong Journey: Siem Reap to Saigon

The journey commences at 13:00 with a pickup from the Lotus Blanc hotel in Siem Reap. Guests will then embark on a scenic coach transfer, approximately 5 to 6 hours, to reach Koh Chen. Upon arrival, board the Toum Tiou II Cruise, where a welcome cocktail awaits, along with introductions to the ship's dedicated crew. After settling into comfortable cabins, a delicious dinner will be served on board as the ship prepares for its overnight stay.

Begin the day with breakfast and lunch served as the vessel sails towards Kampong Chhnang, a significant fishing port on Tonle Sap Lake. In the afternoon, explore Kampong Chhnang, renowned for its fish farms and traditional pottery, where ancient techniques meet modern artistry. Guests will delve into local culture, observing pottery making and tasting regional specialties. An optional activity allows for a bicycle ride along the riverside to the pottery village, offering an alternative perspective of the area. The ship then departs for Kampong Tralach, with dinner and an overnight stay on board.

Following breakfast, the morning is dedicated to an excursion to Oudong, Cambodia's former capital. The visit includes the Vipassana Dhura Buddhist Meditation Center, where guests learn about insight meditation. A climb up to the stupas, which house the ashes of past kings, provides sweeping views of the plains below. Return to the cruise for lunch. In the afternoon, journey to the Vihara at Wat Kampong Tralach pagoda, experiencing local transportation via tuk-tuk. Guests can choose to return to the boat by tuk-tuk or enjoy a bicycle ride through picturesque rice fields, absorbing the rural charm. The ship then sails towards Phnom Penh, offering an evening of classical Khmer dancing and music, followed by dinner and an overnight stay.

After breakfast on board, embark on a full-day city tour of Phnom Penh. The morning includes visits to the Royal Palace, a marvel of Cambodian architecture, and the Silver Pagoda, home to a gold Maitreya Buddha adorned with diamonds. The tour continues to the National Museum, offering insights into the region's complex history. Lunch is served in the city. The afternoon features an immersive tuk-tuk tour, visiting the renovated Art Deco Central Market for a local shopping experience. Guests will stroll through hidden alleyways, interacting with residents and observing authentic city life. The tour concludes with a visit to Wat Phnom, founded in 1373, and a walk through the French Quarter to admire colonial-era architecture. In the evening, return to the ship for dinner as it sails towards Vietnam.

Enjoy breakfast on board while cruising to Chau Doc, a vibrant city known for its fisheries, located at the border of Cambodia and Vietnam. The excursion includes a cable car ride up Sam Mountain, offering expansive views across the border. At the summit, absorb the scenery before descending to visit the Ba Chua Xu Temple. After returning to the ship for lunch, transfer to the Tra Su Forest in the afternoon. Explore this biodiverse ecosystem by small local boats, observing its unique flora and fauna. The cruise then sets sail for Sa Dec, Vietnam's prominent floral hub. Guests can relax and enjoy onboard services, followed by dinner and an overnight stay.

After breakfast, a local boat provides a panoramic tour of Sa Dec, followed by a stroll through its authentic riverbank market. This city, with its colonial houses including the "Chinaman's House" from Duras' novel, offers an unspoiled glimpse of the delta. The ship then sails to Cai Be, where a local boat trip explores the Mekong River and a craft village, showcasing local product creation. Visit fruit orchards to enjoy fresh fruits, hot tea, and live local music. Afterward, transfer by boat to a local restaurant for a cooking class with a chef, followed by lunch. The afternoon offers a kayaking adventure for a unique aquatic perspective or a mountain bike tour to explore the countryside. Return to the cruise as it sails towards My Tho for dinner and an overnight stay.

Enjoy breakfast on board before a morning excursion in My Tho. A local boat transports guests to Thoi Son Island to observe daily life and sample seasonal fruits. A sampan boat ride along the canals offers a closer look at the Mekong Delta's unique features. Guests can also cycle independently to explore the village and admire the fruit orchards. Return to the Toum Tiou II for lunch as it cruises towards the Cho Gao canal, the gateway to Saigon. Experience the lively canal, bustling with ships and activity, yet retaining a connection to shore life. Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City in the evening, concluding the day with dinner and an overnight stay in the city center. An optional "Saigon After Dark" Vespa street food tour is available from 18:00 to 22:00.

Following breakfast on board, embark on a city tour of Ho Chi Minh City. The morning includes photo stops at iconic French colonial landmarks such as Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Post Office, City Square, and the Opera House. Explore the city's green spaces and experience its renowned coffee culture. Return to the Toum Tiou II for lunch and a short break. In the afternoon, explore Chinatown, observing local daily life, and visit the 300-year-old Giac Lam Pagoda, the oldest in the city. Conclude with a 15-minute walking tour of the Flower Market and Binh Tay Market, witnessing local commerce. The evening features farewell cocktails on board, followed by dinner. The ship remains docked overnight in port.

Enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarkation. Following breakfast, guests will visit the War Remnants Museum to gain deeper insights into Vietnam's history. Afterward, a transfer will take guests to the Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel (17 Ton Duc Thang Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Phone: +84 28 3827 1717) or a local restaurant for lunch. The tour concludes with farewells at approximately 14:00. Guests are advised not to schedule flights before 17:00 to allow ample time for transfers.