Spacious and indulgent, yet intimate enough to feel entirely exclusive, Aqua Mekong incorporates relaxed yet refined lounging and dining areas, 20 luxury suites and modern navigation technologies to ensure smooth travel and safety while cruising the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia.
Aqua Mekong River Cruise
Travel aboard the 40-guest luxury Aqua Mekong, featuring suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, and explore the Mekong River and Tonle Sap River between Siem Reap, Cambodia, and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam, during 8-, 5- and 4-day itineraries.
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The 8-day Aqua Mekong River Cruise journeys through chic modern cities, past small villages and into areas where nature is in full bloom. Choose from the comprehensive 8-day journey, or shorter 4- and 5-day routes.
The High-Water 8-day expedition (Sep-Nov) travels between Siem Reap, Cambodia and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam, cruising along the bustling Mekong River and the Tonle Sap River. Along the way, visit remote fishing villages in Cambodia, see graceful floating houses, visit family homes and local markets, bicycle through charming landscapes, glide through flooded forests by skiff and experience the serenity of Buddhist monasteries. Plus, shop for Khmer pottery and enjoy a city tour in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Low-Water departures vary their route by month (Dec-Feb or Mar-Aug) and travel Down River from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City (Mar-Aug, listed below) or Up River from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap via a post-cruise flight from Phnom Penh (Mar-Aug, listed below). For Low-Water itineraries operating Dec-Feb, contact us for details.
Take in 2,000 years of human history on the Mekong River, which hosts 60 million people and almost 100 different ethnic groups. Unique experiences along the way include sitting with Buddhist monks and visits to small villages in the countryside via ox cart. Twice-daily excursions are customizable and selected along the way, due to the flexibility provided by private skiff boats that travel with the ship—a unique amenity among Mekong River vessels.
Consider extending the trip to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat. Up-River itineraries and those that only cruise the Cambodian section of the Mekong River either disembark directly at the port of Siem Reap or at the Cambodian travel hub of Phnom Penh. Guests disembarking at Phnom Penh may pre-arrange a complimentary flight to Siem Reap.
Home base is the 40-guest Aqua Mekong, a custom-designed luxury cruise ship that features 20 intimate suites with floor-to-ceiling windows offering unparalleled river views of Vietnam and Cambodia. Create memories that will last a lifetime as you experience the Mekong River in luxury aboard Aqua Mekong.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Asia cruises.
8-Day High-Water Down-River (Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh Expedition, Sep-Nov) Itinerary
Siem Reap, CambodiaHo Chi Minh City, Vietnam
The 8-day High-Water Down-River (southbound) cruise begins in Siem Reap, Cambodia and ends in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, operating from September through November. High-Water departures offer a longer cruise route, with southbound cruises starting at the Tonle Sap Lake due to the swell of the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers. Guests can uniquely visit floating villages and the Prek Toal Bird Reserve during High-Water cruises, as well as Cai Be, Vietnam, during Down-River cruises.
Gather at the designated meeting point in Siem Reap before boarding an air-conditioned van for a scenic 45-minute drive through the countryside to the Tonle Sap Lake dock, where your voyage aboard Aqua Mekong begins. Step into your floating sanctuary, where floor-to-ceiling windows reveal panoramic riverscapes. Unwind in the privacy of your design suite—whether from the comfort of your California King bed, private terrace, or daybed—as the Mekong quietly unveils its magic.
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, visit the floating village of Moat Khla, accessible only by water, and attend a Buddhist blessing ceremony in this isolated community.
Explore remote villages around the Tonle Sap Lake, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1997. Visit Phat Sandai, a remote village where schools, churches, and even the police station float along the riverbank. Learn about the locals’ unique way of life and efforts to conserve biodiversity in the area. For a truly immersive experience, kayak past floating houses and cool off in the shaded canopy of aquatic trees. After a cooking demonstration on board in the afternoon, continue learning about Khmer riverside life in Kampong Chhnang, the ‘Port of Pottery’ so called because archaeological findings here date to the 6th century.
This morning, visit Koh Chen, a silversmith village known for its fine craftsmanship favored by Khmer royalty. Continue to Udong, the royal capital from the 17-19th centuries, where you’ll learn about a uniquely challenging Buddhist practice at the Vipassana Dhura, a meditation center. In the afternoon, set off for the Mekong’s Silk Island (Koh Oknha Tey) where renowned weavers allow you to wander freely, admiring their intricate craftsmanship. Biking is optional for those who wish to explore deeper into the island.
Be introduced to the vibrant Cambodian capital by motorized tuk-tuk, with stops at the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. For those interested, visit the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide or explore the bustling stalls of the Russian Market. Bid farewell to 5-day guests who are disembarking in Phnom Penh.
Return to welcome the 4-day passengers over custom sundowners like the Salted Watermelon Crush with Thai basil. Together, celebrate the onward journey towards the heart of the mighty Mekong River with a Khmer Apsara performance, an indigenous tradition memorialized on the temple walls of Angkor Wat.
Say ‘Good Morning, Vietnam’ while you cross the border and sail towards Tan Chau. Here, you’ll visit the vibrant border town of Chau Doc to take the local rickshaw, called xe loi, for a trip around the town and market. Head off by van to Long Son Pagoda for a panoramic view atop Sam Mountain. Ask the monks about their age-old Mahayana Buddhist practices before returning via the bustling morning market. Optional 11-mile (18km) bike ride on Long Khanh Island to see paddy fields and get a snippet of local life.
In the afternoon, visit a typical Mekong Delta village called My An Hung where you will walk through verdant plantations. 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 10.5-mile (17km) biking option is also available for those who wish to explore the countryside on wheels.
Begin the day at Binh Thanh mat weaving village to bike through local markets, fruit plantations and fish farms. You can also take it slow and opt to visit Sa Dec where you will peruse the vibrant markets with our chef, along with a visit to the Lover House and Kien An Cung. Afterwards, enjoy a cooking demonstration followed by a scrumptious lunch on board.
Continue downstream for Cai Be and board a local sampan to Tan Phong Island, where you’ll visit a fruit garden, savoring local fruits along the way. Here, guests can pick their mode of adventure from a short5-mile (8km) trail around the island, to a kayak through a small canal, or a relaxing walk through the community for a closer look at local life.
After a hearty breakfast, bid farewell to Aqua Mekong and disembark in My Tho. En route to Ho Chi Minh (Saigon), stop at Vinh Trang Pagoda, one of the largest Mahayana Buddhist temples in the region. Notice the mixed architectural style and see three large buddha statues plus an impressive collection of bonsai trees.
Included
All meals while on board; non-alcoholic beverages, house wines and beer; all shore excursions; laundry service; bike use; access to high-speed Starlink WiFi; and group transfers.
Exclusions
All air tickets; visas (printed tourist e-visas are needed at airport & river border; guidelines will be provided upon booking); private transfers; spa services, boutique purchases and items of a personal nature; guide and crew gratuities; insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 121 days – full refund except for $500 service charge
120 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The 8-day High-Water Down-River Aqua Mekong River Cruise begins in Siem Reap, Cambodia (REP), and ends in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam (SGN). Plan to arrive at the meeting point, Park Hyatt Siem Reap Hotel (The Colonade), between 12:30 and 3:30pm on Day 1; a 45-minute group transfer departs at 3:30pm and embarkation is at 4:15pm from Siem Reap Port. Those who arrive prior to 2:00pm will be served lunch or high tea; arrivals after 2:00pm will be served a welcome drink. On Day 8, disembarkation at My Tho Port is at 8:00am, followed by group transfer and arrival/drop off in Ho Chi Minh City (The Reverie Saigon Hotel) at 11:00am. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Whether it’s by bicycle, in a kayak or on foot, the Aqua Mekong offers active ways to explore life along the amazing Mekong & Tonle Sap Rivers. Experienced river guides lead walks into the sultry jungle, or by bicycle on the riverbanks, in search of enigmatic vestiges of Indochine. Adventure activities may include skiff rides, kayaking, cycling, hikes/walks, wildlife viewing from the ship, swimming and visiting local communities. The ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level.
Skiff Rides
Two or three daily excursions in customized aluminum motorized launch boats with four-stroke low emission engines, or skiffs, which carry up to ten passengers each, showcase the unique wildlife and customs of the Mekong and Tonle Sap Rivers. Pass by flooded emerald forests and bamboo stilt villages accessible only by boat and remote Buddhist monasteries still home to noble saffron-robed monks.
All-Terrain Biking
Complimentary all-terrain touring bikes, available for both adults and children, are a unique way to observe the exotic rituals of daily life along the mighty Mekong. Enjoy 5- to 10-mile biking routes, stopping to photograph catfish sellers, the planting of rice paddies or local children playing with the family’s domesticated water buffalo.
Kayaking
Take advantage of eight double-kayaks throughout various locations in Cambodia. For example, kayaking in Oknha Tey to see local silk-weavers at work, kayaking the Moat Khla region by Tonle Sap Lake and/or in the waterways in the Kampong Chnnang Province.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 25% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Third person sleeping on sofa bed will receive a 20% discount. To book one of four interconnecting suites, please contact your Adventure Specialist.
Families & Children
Kids 5 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Save 20% per child under the age of 12 years old. A child under 12 years old sleeping as the third person on a sofa bed pays $570 per night(2026) or $600 per night(2027).
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Note that the Aqua Mekong’s itinerary varies according to up- and down-river routes, as well as high- and low-water seasons. Additionally, itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
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The 40-guest Aqua Mekong is a custom, architecturally appealing luxury cruise ship designed by Saigon-based architectural firm Noor Design. She 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, cinema screening room, and features the river's only private fleet of tender boats for the ultimate off-ship access.
Aqua Mekong Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Aqua Mekong review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Please read our Aqua Mekong review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Aqua Mekong with other small luxury ships and yachts offering Asia cruises.
Choose the Aqua Mekong for her many exclusives unique to the Mekong, most notably extra luxury touches and her private tender boats that put off-ship adventure first. Spacious and indulgent, yet intimate enough to feel exclusive, the Aqua Mekong incorporates relaxed yet refined lounging and dining areas and river-facing design suite views. Modern navigation technologies and the highest cruise ship standards as well as an experienced river pilot and crew ensure smooth travel and safety on the water, with twice-daily excursions to landmarks, temples, and villages.
Common Areas Aboard Aqua Mekong
Aqua Mekong has a Hodkinson’s Indochine influenced aesthetic and interiors built entirely of local sustainable materials. Expect lots of natural fibers of the surrounding environment with artisanal touches of the Mekong’s multifaceted cultures.
Sunlit indoors and out, the top-level Observation Deck aboard the Aqua Mekong is designed to seamlessly connect guests with the constantly shifting landscape, always in air conditioning and utmost comfort. Shade structures and lounge chairs entice relaxations while sliding doors lead to the Outdoor Lounge with its inviting infinity plunge pool–the only one on the Mekong River.
At night, the Outdoor Lounge transforms into a movie theater under the stars, with 300 onboard movies to choose from. Both the bow and the stern lounges are outfitted with comfortable sun loungers and a shade canopy, plus a rooftop bar, fully stocked to mix any sip. Gravitate to the Indoor Lounge in the mornings for Vietnamese coffee poured over ice with sweet condensed milk, and for lectures on ecology, culture and wildlife.
A private screening room with theater-style accommodation and a private library/games room provide entertainment for quiet times on board. A small selection of onboard iPads and high-speed Starlink WiFi add to the entertainment options. For fitness-minded guests, a top-deck, fully equipped gym overlooks the river. Shop for authentic souvenirs in the antique and artisanal boutique. There are two spa treatment rooms, each with single and double massage beds. An infirmary with onboard medical staff is also available in case any health needs arise, and a one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio makes sure every need is attended to. Aqua Mekong's 40 crew members include a cruise director and four English-speaking guides. Complimentary laundry service makes packing light an easy option.
Dining Aboard Aqua Mekong
The dining experience on board Aqua Mekong was created by Michelin-starred-chef David Thompson. Thompson is the Australian-born chef formerly of Nahm in Bangkok and the author of internationally acclaimed cookbooks including Thai Food and Thai Street Food. Guests can expect seasonal menus showcasing the full repertoire of flavors from Vietnam and Cambodia in refined style. Onboard chefs use peak-season produce and the freshest ingredients from the Mekong River and the region. The ship’s bar menu, created by renowned spirit experts and cocktail designers Proof & Co, echoes a similar locally-minded philosophy.
Some of Thompson's signature creations include lamb curry with Khmer spices and Vietnamese sugar cane prawns, most of which are served in a communal dining style authentic to the region’s traditions. In addition to onboard cooking demonstrations, guests can follow the ship's chefs to bustling local markets as they procure the finest produce, from freshly-caught Mekong river catfish to newly-harvested Asian greens, for the day’s meals. Coconut, lemongrass, coriander and turmeric are just a few of the most recognizable flavors you can expect on the inventive yet authentic seasonal menus.
Breakfast is served buffet style while lunch and dinner are served family style. Tables configurable for 2-20 guests enable both intimate and group dining experiences. The ship's chefs can cater to vegetarian, vegan, kosher, gluten-free and dairy-free diets, as well as other more specific preferences. Whether it’s allergies, dietary restrictions, or lifestyle preferences, the crew will do their best to serve you world-class meals of your choice.
Crew & Guides Aboard Aqua Mekong
Aqua Mekong exclusively offers a one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio. Four professionally trained guides lead guests of the Aqua Mekong on daily expeditions aboard comfortable skiffs deep into the Mekong’s tributaries and on foot among Khmer pottery villages, remote mountain monasteries and among the cultural treasures of Phnom Penh. Maximum group size of 10 guests per guide ensure excellent attention to detail. English-speaking, on-staff, professionally trained experts grew up along the Mekong River and know its Buddhist temples, Hindu ruins, Catholic churches and elusive wildlife as well as many of the Vietnamese and Cambodian people they will introduce guests to.
Activities Aboard Aqua Mekong
Land- and water-based activities from Aqua Mekong include cycling (daily), kayaking, swimming, sunrise daily guided meditation and more so that guests enjoy a more diverse, multidimensional experience. The ship carries 10 top-of-the-line Cannondale all-terrain bicycles, with options along the way to bike to visitor sites rather than ride in a car. Many off-ship excursions are on customized aluminum motorized launch boats, or skiffs, carrying up to 10 passengers on two to three daily excursions, with constant radio contact between captains. The Aqua Mekong is privileged as the only Mekong River vessel to have private skiffs.
Shopping Aboard Aqua Mekong
Southeast Asia’s rich artisanal traditions can be found among the treasures in the onboard boutique, designed to offer Aqua Mekong guests the convenience of shopping at their leisure for high quality, thoughtfully selected Cambodian and Vietnamese handicrafts and jewelry as well as Aqua Expeditions signature souvenirs. Items featured include original pieces sourced directly from talented artisans who live and work in the communities Aqua Mekong visits and actively supports. Aqua Mekong is proud that wherever possible, high quality pieces with a philanthropic origin have been selected, allowing her guests’ pleasure to be matched by the life-changing opportunities created for these artisans.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Aqua Mekong
There are 20 Design Suites aboard the Aqua Mekong, all air conditioned with panoramic floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, sitting area, large double closets, 220-volt and USB plugs throughout the cabin, music docking station and a password-generated security box. Nespresso machines are also available in each suite. Four sets of interconnecting suites (two sets on each deck) are suitable for families. Each suite has either one California King bed or two twin beds. En-suite bathrooms feature dual sinks, walk-in shower with rainforest showerhead, hairdryer and all-organic hair and bath amenities.
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