Explore the Mekong: 8-Day Toum Tiou I Cruise from Siem Reap to Saigon

Lower Water (January - June): The afternoon begins with a comfortable bus transfer for passengers from their Siem Reap hotel to Koh Chen. Once onboard, guests receive a comprehensive security briefing to ensure a pleasant and safe cruise. As evening arrives, a welcome cocktail is served, followed by an informative session detailing the cruise itinerary and introducing the dedicated crew. The day culminates with a delightful welcome dinner, setting the stage for a peaceful overnight stay on the vessel.

High Water (July - December): In the afternoon, guests are transferred by bus from their Siem Reap hotel to the scenic Phnom Krom pier. From there, a local boat takes travelers to the Toum Tiou I. Along the way, a stop at Chong Kneas floating village offers a chance to observe floating fish farms, homes, and local shops, providing a glimpse into riverine life. Upon boarding, a security briefing is conducted. The ship then anchors near the lake's forest for a tranquil evening. A welcome cocktail and an introductory meeting about the cruise and crew precede a welcome dinner, ensuring a comfortable overnight experience onboard.

Lower Water (January - June): The morning begins with breakfast and lunch served on board as the cruise proceeds towards Kampong Chhnang. This area is renowned as a significant fishing port on the Tonlé Sap. Guests will have the opportunity to explore products derived from the Thnot tree, a symbol of national pride. Following this cultural immersion, return to the ship for a leisurely lunch. In the afternoon, the vessel arrives at Kampong Tralach, a location historically important in Cambodia. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay on board.

High Water (July - December): After breakfast and lunch are served on board, the ship sails towards Kampong Chhnang. Guests will have free time until midday, followed by lunch. The afternoon features a visit to Kampong Chhnang, noted for being one of the largest fishing ports on the Tonlé Sap. There, explore various products made from the Thnot tree. Afterward, return to the cruise as it anchors a few miles away. The evening offers leisure time until dinner is served at 19:00, leading to a restful night onboard.

Following a delightful breakfast on board, the morning is dedicated to exploring the serene Vihara situated within the grounds of Wat Kampong Tralach Leu. This sacred site offers a window into Cambodia's rich cultural and religious heritage, characterized by intricate architecture and peaceful surroundings. After this enriching experience, guests return to the Toum Tiou for a relaxing lunch. As the afternoon progresses, the cruise reaches the dynamic city of Phnom Penh, allowing guests the freedom to explore its many attractions at their own pace. The evening culminates with a captivating local group performance of the traditional Apsara show onboard, a classical dance form showcasing elegant movements and vibrant costumes. A delectable dinner served on board concludes the day, enjoyed amidst the tranquil river ambiance.

The day commences with a substantial breakfast, preparing guests for an extensive city tour of Phnom Penh. The exploration begins at the majestic Royal Palace, a historic residence of Cambodia's monarchy, offering insights into the nation's past. Next, discover the Silver Pagoda, home to precious national treasures, including exquisite Buddha sculptures adorned with gold and jewels. The journey continues to the National Museum of Phnom Penh, a repository of Cambodia's archaeological and historical legacy, constructed during the French colonial era. The morning concludes with a visit to Wat Phnom, perched atop the city's only hill, blending spirituality with history. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, embark on a poignant visit to the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum, formerly the notorious Security Prison 21 (S-21), to gain understanding of Cambodia's turbulent Khmer Rouge period. Later, explore the lively Russian Market, a bustling center for local goods and culture. The evening brings a return to the cruise for another culturally rich experience: a mesmerizing local group performance of the traditional Apsara show onboard. The day concludes with a delicious dinner and a peaceful overnight stay.

Guests enjoy breakfast as the Toum Tiou gracefully sails towards Kaam Samnaar, the border crossing point between Cambodia and Vietnam. The morning is spent at leisure while necessary departure formalities are completed, in preparation for the onward journey to Chau Doc. Lunch is served during this scenic navigation. In the afternoon, a captivating cultural excursion awaits with a visit to a Cham minority village, accessed by a charming local boat. Guests can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage during a panoramic tour, discovering historical sites and unique cultural aspects. A stroll through the lively local market provides a glimpse into the daily rhythm of the residents' lives. As dusk approaches, return to the comfort of the Toum Tiou for a delectable dinner and a restful overnight stay.

The day begins with breakfast aboard the Toum Tiou as it departs Chau Doc and sets a course for Sa Dec. The afternoon features an engaging sightseeing tour. Guests transfer by bus to Trung Vuong Primary School to gain insights into the local education system and observe students' learning enthusiasm. The cultural journey continues with a visit to the Kien An Cung Pagoda, notable for its intricate architecture and spiritual serenity. A stroll along the Sa Dec River bank leads to the iconic "Chinaman's house," also known as Huynh Thuy Le's Ancient House, a historical gem featured in Marguerite Duras' novel "The Lover." Afterward, return to the Toum Tiou to continue the voyage towards Vinh Long. The evening concludes with a delightful dinner onboard, featuring a fusion of local and international flavors, promising a peaceful night on the river.

After an onboard breakfast, the cruise arrives at Vinh Long. The day's adventures commence with a visit to a brick and pottery factory, offering insight into traditional craftsmanship. Next, guests will appreciate the Binh Hoa Phuoc Islet Nursery of Fruit Trees, and explore a traditional house along with a showroom displaying classic farming tools, all accessed by boat. The morning continues with a visit to a handicraft village, where skilled artisans demonstrate the traditional production of rice paper, rice wine, and popped rice.

In the afternoon, the ship anchors near Thoi Son Island, and guests board a local boat for a short panoramic tour of My Tho Town, a vibrant city on the Tien River. Discover the delta's natural beauty, characterized by fruit orchards, gardens, and vast rice fields. The afternoon exploration includes visits to Vinh Trang Pagoda and a local market, providing an immersion into local culture. The day concludes with a visit to Dragon Island by local boat before returning to the Toum Tiou I, which then sails towards Saigon via the enchanting Cho Gao canal.

The evening features a memorable farewell cocktail, followed by the Captain’s farewell dinner, an enhanced menu complemented by a glass of wine. Guests will enjoy a tranquil overnight stay aboard the Toum Tiou I, cherishing memories of their remarkable cruise.

Guests enjoy a final breakfast and some leisure time onboard as the cruise makes its way towards Saigon. The vessel is scheduled to arrive at Saigon Port (Cang Nha Rong Port), adjacent to the Ho Chi Minh Museum, around 11:00. After completing disembarkation formalities, this unforgettable river journey comes to a close.