Heritage Line Jahan Cruise Upstream 8 days: Saigon - Siem Reap

Morning

We welcome our guests at the Saigon lounge, where you can enjoy a leisurely second coffee as our staff gathers your boarding details.

Leaving the hustle of Saigon behind, we travel 70 kilometers south to My Tho, the starting point for our Mekong River journey. Once you've settled into your luxurious floating "home", step onto your balcony and witness the ship's captivating sail along the Mekong.

As the vessel glides upstream, savor a lunch buffet in the restaurant, learning about the mighty Mekong River, spanning 4,909 km and nurturing millions of lives across Asia.

Afternoon

Let the nautical air whet your appetite as you join us for afternoon tea in the open-air bar, where twilight bathes the Mekong Delta in a golden haze. 

If you need to relieve stress, put your feet up on the private balcony or indulge in the Apsara Spa during this cruising day.

Evening

As you enjoy a delightful dinner, the ship arrives in Cai Be, a historic town founded by Vietnam's last ruling family in the 19th century. 

For those seeking evening entertainment, the lounge offers a cinema showcasing classic movies and documentaries nightly.

Morning

Wake up early to enjoy the breathtaking dawn scenery, followed by our refreshing daily Tai Chi class. Afterward, indulge in a sumptuous breakfast buffet or opt for in-room service.

We then reach Cai Be, a picturesque market town acknowledged for its Catholic French cathedral as well as traditional crafts and food production. 

Explore the green canal network using a local boat, you are allowed to observe farmers at work and be a guest of a workshop showcasing the production of rice products and coconut candy.

While the time sails upstream, take time for yourself or savor a Vietnamese coffee at the bar, soaking in the riverside scenery.

Afternoon

We reach Sa Dec and arrive at Binh Thanh Island, one of the larger islands in the Mekong. Explore this untouched area, witnessing the cultivation of water hyacinths and engaging with local artisans, including a demonstration of traditional mat making.

Back on board, enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool on the sun deck. 

Evening

Our guide presents insights about the lifestyle on the Mekong Delta as the ship heads to Tan Chau, a serene border town near Cambodia with a diverse ethnic minority. 

We will dock beside the city with scenic riverbank views.

Morning

Today’s destination is called Vietnam's fish sanctuary - Tan Chau. We will hop on "Xe Loi" local vehicles serving as taxis to explore this laid-back atmosphere.

The vibrant local market near a temple is a must-go place, tourists should engage with friendly vendors and try their hand at bargaining there.

Board local boats to visit a floating fish farm - the world's largest inland aquaculture industry. Observe the tilapia and unique Basa catfish raised in netted structures hanging into the water, a process integral to the Mekong River basin's aquaculture.

Then, we sail through the Vietnamese-Cambodian border on a leisurely cruise to Phnom Penh.

Afternoon

The entire afternoon is yours to enjoy, whether indulging in massages, relaxing on the terrace deck or private balcony, or immersing yourself in the calming influence of the river. 

Additionally, you can visit the captain on the bridge for river tales or join a culinary workshop to delve into Khmer gastronomy.

Evening

After a tranquil cruise, we arrive at Phnom Penh in the evening (docking mid-stream or at the pier).

Make the most of your time onboard with entertainment, socializing in public venues, or unwinding in the privacy of your cabin.

Morning

You will be welcomed to Phnom Penh. Despite rapid development, the city retains most of the historic attractions, showcasing centuries of remarkable antiquity and culture at every street corner.

Following breakfast, embark on a comprehensive sightseeing tour. By bus, visit the Killing Fields and the central prison S21 poignant historic sites revealing the grim chapter of Khmer Rouge rule in the early seventies. 

Alternatively, explore the city independently in the morning before rejoining the group.

Lunch will be expected at a renowned restaurant, offering a taste of Phnom Penh's sophisticated atmosphere.

Afternoon

We continue exploring the city's cultural gems, including the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and National Museum. As delving into these spots, you will fall for the rich tapestry of captivating architecture and insightful culture.

Conclude the day with a "cyclo" ride through downtown Phnom Penh back to the ship.

Evening 

The lounge hosts an engaging lecture on modern Cambodian history by Mr. Jean-Michel, a local expert and professor from the Royal University of Phnom Penh. 

You can either rest or join fellow passengers at the bar for refreshing drinks. This evening takes a special gala dinner featuring a barbecue feast and a classic Apsara dance. 

Savor your dinner, accompanied by a glass of wine, while admiring the skyline and the serene flow of the Tonle River is an ideal way to free your mind.

Morning

Our cruiser embarks on a journey toward Kampong Tralach along the Tonle River. The narrow stretches of the river offer an intriguing view from the terrace, meandering through jungle-like landscapes.

Upon arrival, we encounter a warm welcome from smiley children and explore the area on traditional ox carts, a common means of transportation.

Afterward, we reach a small village where underprivileged children have the opportunity to receive education at the "Green School" - a local project supported by Heritage Line. The students, clad in green uniforms, eagerly greet us, along with the principal, who is always ready to provide insights about the school.

Lunch is served while the crew showcases traditional Khmer fashion. The versatile Cambodian scarf, known as the Krama, is highlighted, worn not only as a neck accessory but also in various practical ways.

Afternoon

Later, the ship cruises to Kampong Chhnang's water world. Balancing on sticks in water-rich soil, we explore a rural village and discover Khmer-style pottery and the process of making palm sugar from the Cambodian "skor not" palm tree.

Heading back to the ship by a local boat, we will discover more about the history of the communities that live in floating homes along the Tonle River.

Evening

We return to the ship for the evening, relishing dinner amidst the tranquil countryside. You'll spend the night aboard the cruise.

Morning

In the early morning, we embark on a journey from the lower Tonle River to the Mekong, passing their confluence at Phnom Penh. 

Our destination is Koh Oknha Tey, situated in the middle of the Mekong and renowned for producing high-class silk products. 

Exploring the island via tuk-tuk, we visit village workshops to witness the fascinating process of creating Cambodian silk, from silkworm larva to dyeing, spinning, and weaving.

Before lunch, our expert guide enlightens us about the geography of the Mekong River and Tonle Lake, along with the unique attributes of the region. Following this, a monk's blessing ceremony imparts spirits and wishes for health and prosperity.

Afternoon

Sailing towards the small Angkor Ban village along the Mekong, we encounter an unspoiled community with traditional houses, offering a glimpse into a bygone era untouched by modernity.

As the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the surroundings, we gather on the riverbank for cocktails and dancing with the crew in this remote location.

Evening

Cruising onward, dinner is served, and the boat anchors for the night at the riverbank of Kampong Cham.

Morning

Following a lavish breakfast, we get off the cruise for the captivating pre-Angkorian temple tour to Wat Hanchey, originally constructed in the 7th century to honor the Hindu god Hirahara. Nowadays, it has turned into a Buddhist temple.

Situated on a hilltop, Wat Hanchey offers breathtaking views of the Mekong, and we have the opportunity to observe the daily lives of young novice monks - praying, studying, and engaging in conversation in their saffron-colored robes.

After that visit, we return to the ship for lunch.

Afternoon

Our next stop is the serene monastery of Wat Nokor, which stands out for its black sandstone walls. Here, we may have the chance to share light banter with the friendly monks residing in the area.

During the low-water season, we might be fortunate enough to witness a spectacle only present when the Mekong's water levels drop. The Koh Paen Bamboo Bridge connects the mainland with Koh Paen Island, being damaged in April and rebuilt in November annually by the local community.

We resume our Mekong tour by cruising to a local school to learn about Cambodia's young generation's education. The Organization for Basic Training (OBT) offers free after-school programs in English, math, and the arts. The kids there were excited to demonstrate their musical and dancing abilities.

Evening

At the end of the day, we will return to the cruise, have dinner, and get some sleep aboard.

Morning & Afternoon

The final morning starts with breakfast aboard our floating sanctuary and then the preparation process to disembark for a bus transfer to Siem Reap.

The approximately 4.5-hour transfer, including a rest stop. Snacks are provided for your enjoyment during the journey, with an anticipated arrival in Siem Reap in the early afternoon.

We hope you enjoyed this enthralling river excursion as much as our hardworking staff.

Morning

Start your day by being welcomed at the Saigon lounge, where our staff will gather your boarding details. Leave the bustling city of Saigon behind as we embark on a 70-kilometer journey south to My Tho.

Once comfortably settled into your luxurious floating hotel, step onto your balcony and witness the mesmerizing sail along the Mekong.

A delightful lunch buffet is served in the restaurant while cruising upstream. At the same time, you can learn about the impressive Mekong River which is a source of sustainment for millions of lives across the SouthEast area.

Afternoon

Allow the river wind to whet your hunger as you join us for afternoon tea in the open-air bar, where dusk illuminates the Mekong Delta. 

Either rest on a private balcony or the Apsara Spa is your choice to take during this sailing day in case you need to unwind.

Evening

Savor a delightful dinner as the ship reaches Cai Be, a historic town established by Vietnam's last ruling family in the 19th century.

For the sake of guests in need of evening leisure activities, the lounge has a cinema that shows classic movies and documentaries.

Morning

Start your day by rising early to take in the breathtaking dawn and do Tai Chi class. Following that, treat yourself to a lavish breakfast buffet or opt for the convenience of room service.

Our first stop of the day is Cai Be, a charming market town renowned for its Catholic French cathedral, traditional crafts, and food production.

Next, the exploration through the verdant canal network aboard a local boat will provide you with observation of farmers at work and a workshop showcasing the production of rice-related products and coconut candy. 

As moving upstream, everyone shall take some time for personal relaxation or savor a Vietnamese coffee at the bar while immersing themselves in the picturesque riverside scenery.

Afternoon

We arrive at Sa Dec and Binh Thanh Island, one of the larger islands in the Mekong. Join an expedition trip to observe traditional mat-making and interact with artisans and the cultivation of water hyacinths.

Once back on board, unwind with a refreshing dip in the pool on the sun deck.

Evening

As evening falls, our guide provides insights into the Mekong Delta while the ship heads to Tan Chau, a border town near Cambodia with a diverse ethnic minority.

We will dock beside the city with scenic riverbank views.

Morning

Our destination for the 3rd day is Tan Chau, known as Vietnam's fish sanctuary. To explore the lively town life, we'll utilize 'Xe Loi' - a local vehicle as a taxi. 

You will be guided through the streets in a chilling atmosphere, visit the vibrant local market near a temple; engage with friendly vendors, and attempt your ability at bargaining.

Then, board local boats to visit a floating fish farm - the world's largest inland aquaculture industry. Witness the tilapia and distinctive Basa catfish raised in netted structures hanging into the water, a crucial process in the aquaculture of the Mekong River basin.

Upon returning to our vessel, we set sail towards the Vietnamese-Cambodian border.

Afternoon

The rest of the day is free for you to decide. There are options for you such as indulging in spa treatments, resting on the terrace deck or private balcony, visiting the captain for river tales, or taking part in a culinary course to learn about Khmer cuisine.

Evening

Following a tranquil cruise, we arrive at Phnom Penh (docking mid-stream or at the pier).

Maximize your time onboard with entertainment, socializing in public venues, or unwinding in the privacy of your cabin.

Morning

Upon arriving in Phnom Penh, you'll be greeted by its rustic charm and elegance. Despite rapid development, the city has preserved its historic attractions, showcasing centuries of remarkable antiquity and culture on every street corner.

After breakfast, go off on a sightseeing excursion. Getting on bus service to the Killing Fields and the primary jail S21, both of which are notable historical sites that depict the dark era of Khmer Rouge power in the early 1970s.

Alternatively, you can explore the city on your own in the morning before reuniting with the others.

Lunch will be served at a renowned restaurant, providing a taste of Phnom Penh's sophisticated atmosphere.

Afternoon

Move forward with your exploration of cultural highlights, such as the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and National Museum. Explore these locations to discover a rich tapestry of intriguing architecture and insightful culture. 

Finish the day with a "cyclo" ride back to the ship through downtown Phnom Penh.

Evening 

Mr. Jean-Michel, a local specialist and professor from the Royal University of Phnom Penh, gives an enthralling presentation on modern Cambodian history at the lounge.

You may either rest or join your fellow travelers in the bar for some refreshments. The evening takes a unique turn with an open-air BBQ gala dinner and a traditional Apsara dance.

Savoring your supper with a bottle of wine while enjoying the skyline and the tranquil flow of the Tonle River is an excellent way to unwind from the stresses of daily life.

Morning

Our journey takes us to the Angkor Ban Village, renowned for its pristine community and charming traditional houses, providing a glimpse into an era untouched by modernity.

As we sail upstream, a delectable lunch is served, followed by a showcase of traditional Khmer scarves on special occasions.

Afternoon

We cruise further up the Mekong to visit a local school and learn more about the education of the young Cambodian generation. Children from the Organization for Basic Training (OBT) are provided a free, supplemental education in English, maths, and the arts.

We continue our land journey to the enchanting pre-Angkorian temple of Wat Hanchey. Formerly built to honor the Hindu god, Hirahara, the complex is now a Buddhist temple, a testament to the country’s past and present religious beliefs.

We have the chance to observe the monks' daily lives: eating simple meals, praying, studying, or hanging out and making conversation while in their saffron-colored robes.

Another temple on the way is the tranquil monastery of Wat Nokor, the largest of its kind in Kampong Cham Province, and is unique with its black sandstone walls. Here, we have the chance to engage in light banter with some of the sociable monks.

Evening

Returning to the ship, you have spare time to relax until dinner is served. The boat moors mid-river near Kampong Cham.

Morning

As we sail downstream, our vessel makes a stop at Koh Oknha Tey, positioned amid the Mekong and renowned for its production of high-quality silk goods.

Utilizing a tuk-tuk, we explore the island's roads before reaching the village's workshops. Here, we witness the process of crafting silk, from the humble silkworm larva to the intricate stages of cocoon formation, dyeing, spinning, and weaving the fibers into exquisite Cambodian silk.

Before lunch, our knowledgeable guide provides a presentation on the geographical features of the Mekong River and Tonle Lake. Following this, a monks' blessing ceremony imparts spiritual wishes for health and prosperity to all.

Afternoon

We pass the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Rivers, navigating through lush landscapes until we reach Kampong Tralach welcomed by enthusiastic waves of laughing children.

Amidst Cambodia's rural expanse, traditional ox carts take us along the riverside and through back roads, flanked by picturesque rice-paddy fields, leading us to a small village. 

In recent years, a local initiative called the "Green School" supported by Heritage Line in this remote area, has provided educational opportunities for underprivileged youth. The students, donning green shirts, eagerly greet us each week as the principal updates us on the school's current situation.

Evening

As evening falls, our boat anchors in the Tonle River near Kampong Chhnang. This prepared spot allows us to closely observe river life until dinner is served.

Morning

Following a lavish breakfast, our destination is Kampong Chhnang, where a delicate balance exists with structures perched on sticks in water-rich soil. 

A local boat transports us to the shore, and a mini-bus ride brings us to a rural village. Here, our guide unveils the village's specialties – Khmer-style pottery and the intricate process of producing palm sugar from Cambodia's "skor t'not" palm trees.

Returning to the shore, we board the local boat for a trip back onboard. Lunch is served as our floating sanctuary gently cruises along the narrow Tonle River toward the next destination.

Afternoon 

We will visit the Great Tonle Sap Lake. The river then opens to a vast “sea”, the biggest freshwater lake in Asia.

For your information, Tonle Sap, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is Cambodia's lifeblood, sustaining millions with abundant fish and diverse bird habitats, including rare and endangered species.

NOTE: This shallow lake can only be crossed during the high water season (from August to mid-November).

Now that we are on the open water, let your soul float and your eyes wander towards Siem Reap as the boat makes its way across.

Evening

The staff crew extends an invitation to a farewell event, offering cheerful moments with music and Cambodian dancing before joining for the last dinner aboard. 

As you savor your final meal, everyone will have time to reminisce about the week's adventures with a glass of wine from the open bar.

Morning

Savor your final breakfast aboard our floating sanctuary. As the morning unfolds, we prepare to disembark, boarding a local boat that navigates past a sprawling floating community. Arriving at the Siem Reap pier, we will accompany you to the city center drop-off point.

We trust that you relished this captivating river cruise, mirroring the joy our crew experiences each time.