Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong

Fly from the UK to Ho Chi Minh City. Xin Chao and welcome to Ho Chi Minh City! On arrival, you will be met by your Emerald Cruises representative and transferred to your hotel, situated in downtown District 1, for a two-night stay. After checking in, you will be free to explore the city before meeting your tour director for your welcome briefing and dinner at a local restaurant.

Drive away from Ho Chi Minh City to Cu Chi Tunnels, watching the city skyline fade into the distance as the road winds through rice paddies, villages and scenes typical to southern Vietnam. Spend a couple of hours walking around Cu Chi’s rugged grounds with a local guide. Upon your return to Ho Chi Minh City, enjoy a Pho lunch with remainder of the afternoon and evening yours to enjoy at leisure or venture out on one of our DiscoverMORE excursions.

Included Excursion
Cu Chi Tunnels

DiscoverMORE
An evening Saigon Street Food walking tour (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
One Night in Saigon (extra expense)

After checkout, enjoy a tour of the city, visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral, Opera House and Town Hall. Then, visit the Reunification Palace before transferring to the port where you will board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, Emerald Harmony. You’ll be welcomed on board by your captain and crew before setting sail after lunch down the Saigon River to Cho Gao canal where you will anchor for the night. This evening, enjoy your first dinner on board with your fellow travellers. Your Cruise Director will conduct a port talk to review the activities and itinerary for the days ahead.

Included Excursion
An orientation tour of Ho Chi Minh City

This morning travel through the bustling Cho Gao. The Cho Gao canal is one of the major arterial canals of Vietnam connecting Tien Giang Province in the Mekong Delta with Ho Chi Minh City. Today is a fascinating morning watching the heavy commercial traffic navigate this important waterway which can see upwards of 1,800 vessels transit each day. This afternoon once on the Mekong River, you’ll visit the Tan My Floating community followed by a ride through the local plantations to visit a mushroom farm, a fruit farm with samplings and a honey farm with local sweets before returning to Emerald Harmony to sail onwards to Sa Ðéc, a hidden gem on the Mekong Delta.

Included Excursion
Visit the Thoi Binh hamlet and its farming and fishing communities, untouched by tourism

After a short ride on a sampan to Sa Dec enjoy a walking tour around town with stops at the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, who inspired Marguerite Duras’ novel L’Amant, and enjoy a walk through the central market to peruse its varied produce.

Return to Emerald Harmony by sampan and sail to My An Hung Island. Recognised as a cultural and historical destination, this small village in rural Vietnam specialises in red-hot chilli and peppers. As part of our EmeraldPLUS programme, enjoy some local folk singing during the visit.

EmeraldPLUS
Listen to some local folk singing in My An Hung

Included Excursion
A visit to the bustling Sa Dec Markets

Included Excursion
A visit to My An Hung village and its Monkey Bridge

Situated in Vietnam's countryside, My An Hung is a beautiful verdant village offering a tranquil escape from urban life. Framed by rolling hills and rice fields, My An Hung is celebrated for its long-standing agricultural traditions, where the cultivation of rice, vegetables and fruits thrives using time-honoured methods passed down through generations. 

On Gieng Island you can travel through the island’s villages to visit families who work in a variety of local industries including boat building of different types and creating incense sticks for temples. Also visit Vietnam’s oldest church.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy your free time on board or, if you prefer, partake in a DiscoverMORE optional excursion to the Tam Nong Ramsar Bird Sanctuary in An Long.

Included Excursion
See the local industries in Gieng Island

DiscoverMORE
A visit to Tam Nong Ramsar Bird Sanctuary in Tram Chim National Park (extra expense)

Embark on a sampan to Evergreen Island for a walk through a local village to get a glimpse into the lives of the local farming community.  Reboard your sampan to travel back to Tan Chau and as part of our EmeraldPLUS programme, visit the recently renovated Cao Dai temple. The religion of Cao Dai is a syncretic, monotheistic religion established in southern Vietnam in the city of Tây Ninh in 1926. Here, you will learn more about the mix of ideas that form the basis of this fascinating religion. Afterwards ride in a Xe Loi (local form of cyclo) from the temple back to your sampan before returning to Emerald Harmony.

Back on board your luxury Star-Ship, cruise to the border between Vietnam and Cambodia. Whilst at the border, as part of our EmeraldPLUS programme, you’ll be delighted by a traditional Lion Dance performance on board. Tonight, celebrate crossing the border with a Cambodian-style family dinner.

EmeraldPLUS
A visit to a local Cao Dai Temple

EmeraldPLUS
A Lion Dance performance on board

Included Excursion
A visit to Evergreen Island

Included Excursion
Experience a Xe Loi ride, unique to the Mekong Delta

Wake up in Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh. The city, known as the “Pearl of Asia”, was almost entirely evacuated by the Khmer Rouge in 1975. This morning, you will learn more about the Khmer Rouge and the darkest days of the country’s history. A short drive will take you to the Killing Fields at Choeung Ek. Here you will have the opportunity to walk through the fields, visit the memorial and learn about this sad historic chapter.

Afterwards visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (also known as S-21). This is a former school that was converted to the main prison and torture headquarters of the Khmer Rouge. Spend the afternoon as you please exploring our DiscoverMORE excursions or simply relaxing on board Emerald Harmony. In the evening, as part of your EmeraldPLUS programme you will have a chance to experience an evening remork (local Tuk-Tuk) ride through Phnom Penh to enjoy the city lights.

EmeraldPLUS
Phnom Penh by night on a remork (Tuk-Tuk) tour

Included Excursion
Killing Fields at Choeung Ek and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

DiscoverMORE
A silk farm tour at Koh Oknha Tei (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
Craft Beer Adventure by remork (extra expense)

Located north of Phnom Penh, Oudong was the former royal capital of Cambodia up until it moved to Phnom Penh in 1866. Important remnants on the temple site include the burial sites of Khmer kings as well as religious artefacts dating back more than a hundred years. In the main temple of the Oudong Monastery, receive a traditional Buddhist blessing from the temple’s resident monks as part of your EmeraldPLUS programme. In the afternoon, you will visit the majestic Royal Palace with its gardens, followed by the Central Market located in the heart of the city.  Back on board, as part of your EmeraldPLUS programme, enjoy a cultural performance by the Cambodian Student and Children's Organisation. Afterwards set sail, gliding past the illuminated Phnom Penh at night for a short sail to Koh Khsach Krao.

EmeraldPLUS
A traditional Buddhist Monk blessing

EmeraldPLUS
Cultural Performance by the Cambodian Student and Children’s Organisation

Included Excursion
A visit to the Royal Palace and Central Market

Oudong, once the royal capital of Cambodia, is a historical gem nestled about 40 kilometres north of Phnom Penh. This serene town is known for its impressive temples and stupa-covered hills, offering a glimpse into the country’s royal heritage. Visitors can explore the ancient capital’s stunning pagodas, including the prominent Wat Udong, which boasts beautiful architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The area is rich in history, with many archaeological sites that reflect the legacy of the Khmer Empire. With its tranquil atmosphere and cultural significance, Oudong is a captivating destination for those looking to delve deeper into Cambodia’s past.

Disembark Emerald Harmony in the morning and continue by road to Siem Reap for your included three-night stay. Stay at the beautiful Shinta Mani, a deluxe boutique property of world-class design that takes great care in honouring the environment and paying homage to the traditional and local aesthetics. This evening as part of your EmeraldPLUS programme, attend Phare, The Cambodian Circus, where a combination of acrobatics, music and dance tell a uniquely Cambodian story.

EmeraldPLUS
Phare Cambodian Circus performance

DiscoverMORE
Dinner at Phare Circus (extra expense)

Siem Reap, in the northwest Cambodia, is a major tourist hub in the country. Once the seat of power for the Khmer Empire, the name of the city translates to Siamese defeated - a reference to the victory of the Khmer Empire over the army of the Thai kingdom in the 17th century. Siem Reap is the closest city to the world famous temples of Angkor, and its provincial capital sits on the shores of the Tonle Sap lake, making it the most popular tourist destination for those exploring Cambodia.

Today, start with a visit to Angkor Thom, not a single temple such as the historic sites it neighbours, but rather one of the most remarkable royal cities of the Angkor Period and an architectural wonder. As the last capital of the Khmer Empire, it was a fortified city, home to priests, officials of the palace, military and buildings for administering the kingdom. Afterwards, visit the sacred Temple of Ta Prohm. In an incredible standoff between human creation and nature, the jungle's root systems have reclaimed this spiritual location now enshrouded in wild vegetation. The backdrop to many Hollywood scenes, the incredible Ta Prohm is both a cinematic and contemplative location. This evening is free to visit ‘Pub Street’ or try a DiscoverMORE option this evening.

Included Excursion
Visit to Angkor Thom

Included Excursion
Visit to Ta Prohm Temple

DiscoverMORE
Evening – Sunset Drinks Gondola Boat at Bayon (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
Evening - Cambodian Street Food Discovery Tour (extra expense)

Rise early and witness the sunrise over Angkor Wat. Afterwards walk through this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site known for its elaborate decorations and intricate carvings throughout. This afternoon is free time to visit the town and markets or try a DiscoverMORE tour. Later this evening, enjoy your farewell dinner as part of your EmeraldPLUS programme, accompanied by an Apsara dance performance.

EmeraldPLUS
Apsara dance performance and dinner show

Included Excursion
Sunrise visit to Angkor Wat

DiscoverMORE
Vespa tour of Siem Reap (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
A visit to Banteay Srei and Apopo Visitor Centre (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
A visit to Tonlé Sap (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
Khmer Cooking Class (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
Senteurs d’Angkor Workshop (extra expense)

After breakfast this morning, you will be transferred to the Siem Reap airport for your flight to the UK.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above.

-

With open seating and elegant design, Reflections Restaurant sets the benchmark in on board dining across our luxury yacht and fleet of boutique Star-Ships. Here, savour delightful chef-prepared meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with dishes inspired by local flavours and a few favourites you may recognise from home.

-

A beautifully decked area at the front of our Yacht and Star-Ships, The Terrace provides a lovely retreat from which to enjoy a light snack or refreshing drink. Depending on the ship, this partly indoor and outdoor space is a spectacular vantage point from which to soak up the scenery, whatever the weather. This peaceful setting is also a great spot to enjoy a glass of local wine or beer with your loved ones or new-found companions as the wonders of Europe and Asia pass you by – what could be better.

-

From our elegant Star-Ships to our inclusive EmeraldPLUS and EmeraldACTIVE events, every aspect of an Emerald Cruises river cruise is designed to bring you closer to the heart of local life, discovering hidden gems and rare insights that go beyond ordinary travel encounters. And now, to help you immerse further in local history and culture, we’re proud to introduce DiscoverMORE – a collection of special events that invite you to delve deep into the wonders of Europe.

For those who want to experience more of the continent’s rich cultural tapestry, DiscoverMORE provides in-depth excursions which complement those provided by EmeraldPLUS and EmeraldACTIVE. These optional events can either be booked before you go or while you’re on-board. Look out for details of the DiscoverMORE options available on each of our detailed river cruise itineraries.

-

During your time with Emerald Cruises, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy our EmeraldACTIVE programme of excursions, encouraging you to stretch your legs, find your centre and keep active, whether you’re on board or onshore. This may consist of guided hikes to centuries-old castles, cycle rides from one spectacular town to the next, and a canoeing excursion, inviting you to get even closer to the river.

Introducing our on-board Activity Manager to all seven of our Star-Ships sailing the Rhine, Main, Danube, Moselle, Rhône and Douro rivers in Europe. These dedicated members of the team perform a varied role, from coordinating on board fitness classes and active onshore excursions, to organising the evening’s entertainment.

With at least one EmeraldACTIVE* activity included in all our cruise itineraries, you can look forward to yoga and Pilates sessions, aqua aerobics in our heated pool and our ‘walk-a-mile’ classes on the Sun Deck. And, on selected evenings, we’ll have karaoke nights, cards tournaments and gameshow-style quizzes.

As we continue to receive excellent feedback for our current programme, we’ll continue introducing new and exciting activities and adventurous excursions, with the guidance of our experts, both on land and on the water. We also provide unguided experiences, if you’d prefer to explore independently, allowing you to savour a destination’s highlights on a route of your making.

To get you started, we’ve picked our favourite EmeraldACTIVE excursions on each of the European rivers we navigate.

-

Immerse yourself further with EmeraldPLUS

EmeraldPLUS are our collection of extra-special excursions and events designed for you to see the destinations we visit in a different light, giving you memorable experiences that go beyond that of the ordinary traveller.

EmeraldPLUS is about seeking out rare insights, giving you the chance to uncover hidden gems you may not have discovered without the guidance of a local expert, as well as beloved tourist hotspots that cannot be missed. We believe it’s these special touches that make a holiday with Emerald Cruises truly unforgettable, offering moments of joy, wonder and discovery that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

-

With a different port call almost every day of your cruise; Emerald Cruises have organised a series of inspiring days ashore – taking you to the very heart of the beautiful towns and cities we visit. Exploring authentic local cultures, Emerald Cruises excursions are led by experienced, knowledgeable guides – introducing you to a wealth of knowledge.

Featuring as many as 16 destinations across up to five different countries, an Emerald Cruises cruise provides the perfect platform to absorb a huge array of cultures and traditions in one fell swoop. Every Emerald Cruises cruise itinerary is carefully planned to ensure the ship visits only the most fascinating, rewarding port towns and cities – affording you the opportunity to derive maximum reward and pleasure.

Whether exploring a new town on foot or navigating the streets of an ancient city by coach, English-speaking guides will be on hand to bring your destination to life through educational and enlightening commentary. And to ensure you don’t miss a second of the tour, we will provide all of our guests with a personal headset.

-

If you want to purchase a drinks package, enquire about a DiscoverMORE excursion or simply catch-up with our friendly crew, you’ll always receive a warm welcome in our on-board reception area.

-

Enjoy a regional beer, glass of wine, cocktail or mocktail in the Asian-inspired surrounds of the Horizon Bar & Lounge. Dark wooden interior and indigenous plants create an authentic environment. And, of course, delicious teas and coffees are always available.

Our bar tenders are experts when it comes to mixing up delicious cocktails, and we’ve sourced the best local and international wines and beers, all complimentary with lunch and dinner. Also available are a delicious selection of mocktails, created using local flavours, like lemongrass and tamarind.

-

On our Emerald Harmony Star-Ship, we have introduced the Lotus Lounge, where dark wooden tones and muted colours relax you as you sail towards your next destination. Located at the front of the Vista Deck, nibbles and snacks will be available here throughout the day, as well as teas and coffees. Watch the endless horizons unfold as you sip your favourite drink and nibble something delicious.

-

These truly remarkable spaces have been designed with your total relaxation in mind. Take a refreshing dip in the pool on warm days, before enjoying a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks from the bar. Sit back and relax in one of the comfortable chairs or sun loungers in the open-air space, or take shelter from the sun, as the river breeze invigorates you.

-

During downtime on-board Emerald Harmony, feel free to enjoy our games area and golf putting green. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the scenery while you challenge new-found friends.

-

These truly remarkable spaces have been designed with your total relaxation in mind. Take a refreshing dip in the pool on warm days, before enjoying a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks from the bar. Sit back and relax in one of the comfortable chairs or sun loungers in the open-air space, or take shelter from the sun, as the river breeze invigorates you.

-

Treat yourself to a soothing massage or facial in our beautiful on-board spa, where our experts are on-hand to make you feel great. And keep active in the well-equipped gym.

-

In need of a quick trim during your travels? You can treat yourself at any point during your cruise with our dedicated hairdressers – perfect if you’re looking to get spruced up for a special evening.

-

Providing excellent value for money, they are bigger than the average standard staterooms. Enjoy your time on-board in your home-away-from-home, with everything you could possibly need. Emerald Staterooms have porthole river views perfect for seeing the picturesque landscape pass by.

• Picture window (150cm x 34cm)
  
• Bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
  
• Queen-size of twin hotel-style beds
  
• Telephone
  
• Alarm click
  
• Hairdryer
  
• Safe for your valuables
  
• Individual climate control
  
• Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  
• Mini-fridge
  

-

Reaching a colossal 452ft² (42m²), there are just two of these spectacular suites on-board Emerald Harmony, boasting a separate bedroom and lounge area. In addition you’ll enjoy a private 323ft² (30m²) terrace with Jacuzzi. You’ll also be entitled to four laundered items per day, pre-dinner canapés in your suite and an invite to dine at the Captain’s Table. 

• Private terrace with Jacuzzi
  
• Separate bedroom and lounge area
  
• Bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  
• Walk-in wardrobe
  
• Complimentary in-suite mini-bar, restocked daily with wine, beer and soft drinks
  
• Complimentary Nespresso machine
  
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
  
• Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  
• Pillow menu
  
• Telephone
  
• Alarm Clock
  
• Hairdryer
  
• Safe for your valuables
  
• Individual climate control
  
• Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  
• Continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats served in your suite
  
• Four items of laundry a day
  
• Invite to dinner at the Captain's Table
  

-

Beautifully appointed with a private balcony, these luxurious suites reach 398ft² (37m²) and host a separate bedroom and lounge. Guests staying in these suites can enjoy the opulent surrounds of the en-suite bathroom, as well as breakfast, canapés and after-dinner treats.

• Indoor private balcony with open-air system and separate door to close from living room
  
• Separate bedroom and lounge area
  
• Bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers.
  
• Walk-in wardrobe
  
• Complimentary in-suite mini-bar, restocked daily with wine, beer and soft drinks
  
• Complimentary Nespresso machine
  
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
  
• Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  
• Pillow menu
  
• Telephone
  
• Alarm clock
  
• Hairdryer
  
• Safe for your valuables
  
• Individual climate control
  
• Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  
• Continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats served in your suite
  
• Two items of laundry a day
  
• Invite to dinner at the Captain's Table.
  

-

A private balcony with drop-down window is perfect for enjoying the ever-changing views. Reaching 273ft² (25.4m²), relax and unwind in your opulent en-suite bathroom, complete with toiletries, and sleep soundly in your queen-size or twin hotel-style bed.

• Indoor balcony with open-air system
  
• Bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
  
• Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  
• Telephone
  
• Alarm clock
  
• Hairdryer
  
• Safe for your valuables
  
• Individual climate control
  
• Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  
• Mini-fridge