Welcome aboard our 5-star Heritage Line Jayavarman Cruise – Palace of the King! Immerse yourself in a captivating French-Indochinese design and exceptional service sailing through picturesque riverscapes in the mighty Mekong.
Heritage Line Jayavarman Cruise 8 days: Saigon – Siem Reap
Overview
Highlights
- Intricate woodcarving cruise in an elegant French-colonial and Khmer design
- An aesthetic floating art gallery with sophisticated Art-Deco in all cabins and public area
- Pure indulgence in culinary events, outdoor jacuzzi, spa, cultural & historical lectures
- Exceptional services and dedicated butlers for the best luxury river cruise experience
- Deep dive into Vietnamese and Cambodian rustic charms and local histories
What’s Included
- Accommodation
- Daily (group) shore excursions & entrance fees
- Sightseeing and transfers during the cruise
- Transfers from/to Heritage Line’s meeting point to/from the ship (please read details in the embarkation guide)
- English-speaking tour guiding on-and offshore
- Entertainment/activities during the cruise as mentioned in the program
- Meals as mentioned in the program
- Welcome drink, brewed coffee, tea, and mineral water
- Complimentary beverage package
- Passenger liability insurance
- Internet on the ship (subject to cellular network signal)
- Complimentary usage of ship facilities (exclusive of spa treatments)
- River pilots
- Fuel
- Taxes
- Phnom Penh port tax per passenger of 65 USD
- Crew and guide gratuities
- Visa fees
- Private transfers
- Personal expenses
- Other beverages than those stated under inclusions
- Medical services
- Spa treatments
- Port and anchorage fees
- All other services or items not listed under inclusions
Policy
- For cancellations of bookings, the following charges will apply:
- Prior 180 days to embarkation date: 5%
- 180 – 121 days prior embarkation date: 15%
- 120 – 91 days prior embarkation date: 30%
- 90 – 61 days prior embarkation date: 50%
- 60 – 31 days prior embarkation date: 75%
- 30 days – embarkation date: 100%
Children Policy
- A child from 5 to 11 years old: 50% of adult rate (sharing bed ), or 75% of adult rate if staying in a cabin with one adult . Children below 5 years are not allowed on board
- PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE
- Time changing between high water and low water program may different each year. It depends on water level of the river so the exact schedule will be confirmed exactly 2 weeks before the travel date .
- Kindly provide us passport information (Full name, sex, Nationality, passport number, date of birth, validity of visa) of passengers at least four weeks prior to cruise date.
- Passport: Heritage Line is required to keep guests' passport during the cruise due to port authority at different port of calls. Our tour guide will collect clients’ passports at the meeting point. The passport of guests will be kept until their disembarkation.
- Visas: For the downstream cruise from Cambodia to Vietnam, guests are required to have Vietnam visa before embarkation. Vietnam visa should be valid from or earlier. For the upstream cruise from Vietnam to Cambodia, Heritage Line will help to arrange a Cambodia visa onboard upon border arrival. A Visa fee of 35 USD/person will be added to the client’s invoice onboard.
- Gratuities:Â HL suggests that if satisfied with the service a gratuity will be collected on the last day aboard. HL suggests USD5 per passenger per day. Gratuities shall be settled together with the shipboard account at the end of a cruise. Please note that guests are under absolutely no obligation to make any gratuity at all. Guests may tip HL tour guides separately and the amount would be at your discretion.
Itinerary
Welcome aboard our 5-star Heritage Line Jayavarman Cruise - Palace of the King! Immerse yourself in a captivating French-Indochinese design and exceptional service sailing through picturesque riverscapes in the mighty Mekong.
Tour Plan
Morning
Guests are welcomed by our friendly staff at the welcome lounge at 15 Ton Duc Thang Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. While savoring a cup of coffee, staff members collect necessary information from the guests.
At noon, a comfortable bus awaits to transport guests from the meeting lounge to My Tho Pier, where they will board the elegant Heritage Line Jayavarman. The ride would be approximately 70 kilometers.
Upon boarding, you are ushered to your luxurious cabins. Stepping onto your private balconies, you can let your soul be free in the breathtaking landscape as the ship gracefully navigates the heart of the Mekong River.
A delectable lunch buffet awaits, providing guests with a delightful culinary experience.
Afternoon
Afternoon activity on our cruise will be enjoying an afternoon tea at the airy bar, perfect for watching the sunset, mingling with fellow travelers, and forging new friendships.Â
For ultimate relaxation, indulge in a rejuvenating Apsara Spa session or enjoy the tranquility on your private balcony. This moment on Heritage Line Jayavarman promises a serene escape, allowing you to unwind and enjoy moments of peace and bliss.
Evening
Enjoy a delicious dinner in the sophisticated Indochine dining hall while docking at Cai Be, a picturesque town in Tien Giang province.
Thereupon, treat yourself to an entertaining evening full of classic movies and interesting documentaries as a cinema is in the lounge.
Morning
A charming sunrise welcomes all the guests, as well as a Tai Chi lesson on the sundeck, followed by a rich breakfast buffet.
We'll reach Cai Be - a quaint market town well known for its French Catholic church, traditional crafts, and local food production. Here, you'll expand your sight to see bustling trading scenes.Â
Traversing the green canals, we take the sampan to visit a local factory where we will be informed about the outstanding traditional process of producing goods such as paste, paper, cookies, and wine from rice.Â
After our excursion, we'll return to the cruise for lunch and enjoy the rest time with an authentic Vietnamese coffee from the cruise bar.
Afternoon
Our voyage continues to get to Binh Thanh Island in Sa Dec, a large island in the vast stream of the Mekong. When strolling around this area, you'll admire the untouched beauty and get to know about native life by wandering through the village.
You also have a chance to meet one of the local artisans to explore how traditional mat is made. Don't be afraid to try your hand at weaving. Â
Furthermore, the locals will share their lives and the stories on this island with you. Not only do we get more interesting facts about this peaceful island, but tourists are also pleased with the local's kindness.Â
Evening
After finishing an afternoon excursion, we'll be back on board for a pool-dipping session. In the evening, our expert guide offers a presentation on life on the Mekong Delta as the ship continues sailing to Tan Chau - a quiet town with sizable Chinese, Kinh, and Khmer communities.Â
The ship moors near the town to have a view over riverbanks and overnight onboard.
Morning
After enjoying a hearty breakfast onboard, our morning outing will begin with getting to the mainland and exploring the vibrant town of the fish sanctuary of Vietnam - Tan Chau on "Xe Loi", famous transportation is as known as the local taxi.
On the ride, you will observe all the workshops, houses, and shops with the rustic and idyllic atmosphere here. Explore vibrant local markets near the town's temples, engage with friendly locals, and hone your bargaining skills while selecting souvenirs.
Afterward, embark on a local boat to visit a floating fish farm, offering an exclusive glimpse into the world's largest inland aquaculture industry. Discover regional specialties like Tilapia and Basa catfish (Pangasius), which are prized in the global seafood market.
Return to the cruise and set sail toward the Cambodian border, relishing a delicious lunch and gearing up for a scenic journey deep into Cambodia, heading towards the captivating capital of Cambodia.
Afternoon
Afternoon is the leisurely time for you to get off on relaxation and enjoyment. Feel free to either treat yourself to a spa or massage session, bask in the serene ambiance of the terrace deck, or unwind on the private balcony.
For those with a culinary curiosity, engage in our cooking class to explore the flavors of Cambodian cuisine.Â
Evening
Upon reaching the pier in Phnom Penh, passengers will enjoy a delightful dinner on board. Following the meal, a variety of engaging onboard activities are suggested for you.Â
Lastly, you can retire to the comfort of your cabin, and cherish the tranquil ambiance of the cruise as you prepare for the adventures that await the next day.
Morning
Welcome to Phnom Penh, known as the Paris of Indochina, a city that effortlessly blends modernity with rustic charm and elegance. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a bus journey to the outskirts.
The first place you will visit of the day is the Haunting Killing Fields and the S21 detention center. These significant historical sites stand as poignant reminders of Cambodia's harrowing past, under the oppressive rule of the Khmer Rouge, marked by tyranny and persecution.Â
Following this eye-opening round trip, take some time to explore the city at your own pace, immersing yourself in its vibrant atmosphere.Â
Later, reunite with the group for a delicious lunch at one of Phnom Penh's top restaurants, savoring both the flavors of the cuisine and the company you're keeping.
Afternoon
Our afternoon continued with a half-day city tour to explore the city's heritages, such as the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and National Museum. Those attractions are all the highlights of this charming city, which mark the wonderful culture as well as ancient structures of Royal Cambodian in their history for now.
Taking a local cyclo to stroll around the streets of downtown will finish your Phnom Penh Tour, and we'll return to the ship for the evening.
EveningÂ
The evening began with a lavish lounge where guests gathered to embark on a fascinating presentation on Cambodian history, guided by Mr. Jean-Michel from the Royal University of Phnom Penh.Â
The relaxing period featured an open-air gala dinner set against the mesmerizing Tonle River, where guests enjoyed a sumptuous BBQ feast with delectable flavors from around the world while an Apsara dance performance filled the air, transporting guests into the realm of ancient traditions.Â
Surrounded by the river's elegant beauty, guests can enjoy the romantic ambiance and discover new depths of appreciation for Cambodia's raw beauty. The night unwinds with guests staying onboard on the calming flow of the Tonle River.
Morning
At the crack of dawn, we embark on a leisurely cruise along the meandering Tonle River en route to Kampong Tralach. Should you awaken early, you'll be treated to the mesmerizing allure and enigmatic charm of this particular stretch of the river.
Our next adventure involves a visit to a nearby village, and the mode of transportation is the well-known ox-cart. As you approach the village, a sense of tranquility envelops you, providing a serene backdrop to explore.Â
We might stop over "Green School" which is a local initiative supported by the Heritage Line. This project plays a pivotal role in supporting education for the underprivileged students of this village. Delve into the heartwarming opportunity to connect with the delightful local children, gaining insights into their daily lives at school.Â
Following this enriching experience, we return to the boat for a delectable lunch, all while our skilled crew showcases a vibrant array of traditional Khmer attire worn by locals during special occasions.
Afternoon
In the latter part of the day, our vessel navigated its way toward the captivating "water world" of Kampong Chhnang, where we found ourselves afloat on the serene waters.
A comfortable bus ride awaits to transport us to an extraordinary tour, inviting us to delve into its distinctive offerings. Among the highlights are the Khmer-style pottery and the intricate process involved in crafting palm sugar from the "skor not" palm tree native to Cambodia.
Returning to the ship one more time, we embark on a journey to appreciate the distinctive lifestyle of the locals living on the water. Back in the time, the intriguing floating houses appeared due to the resident’s decision to settle "on the water" stemming from a lack of available land.Â
Evening
We return to the ship for the evening, relishing dinner amidst the tranquil countryside. You'll spend the night aboard the cruise.
Morning
Transitioning from the lower reaches of the Tonle River to the Mekong, our destination today is Koh Oknha Tey, renowned for its production of exquisite silk products. Navigate the island's pathways aboard a "tuk tuk", immersing yourself in the charm of the village.Â
Seize the opportunity to witness the intricate process of crafting high-quality Cambodian silk, from the humble silkworm larva to the cocoon, followed by dyeing, spinning, and weaving.
Before lunch, a detailed presentation about the Mekong and Tonle Rivers is prepared to enlighten all the guests. Following this informative session is a monk's blessing ceremony, where prayers are offered for the well-being and happiness of all.
Afternoon
Our journey persists as we sail toward the quaint village of Angkor Ban nestled along the Mekong River, celebrated for its pristine charm and traditional dwellings.
As the sun begins its descent, seize the opportunity to indulge in the perfect ambiance for savoring cocktails and dancing with the crew in this splendid and secluded locale.
Evening
Docking for the night along the riverbank of Kampong Cham we will relish a delightful meal and spend the night comfortably aboard the ship.
Morning
Following a delectable breakfast aboard, we disembark to explore the enchanting Wat Hanchey, a pre-Angkorian temple dating back to the 7th century. Not only marveling at the stunning surroundings of this hilltop temple, but you can also get an opportunity to delve into the daily routines of young novice monks residing in this serene locale.
Afterward, we will return to the ship for a refreshing lunch.
Afternoon
Commence a serene retreat as we settle into the tranquility of Wat Nokor, a monastery that graces the landscape of Kampong Cham Province. Distinguished by its expansive black sandstone walls, this temple, though modest in size compared to the grandeur of Angkor Wat, stands as the largest of its kind in the region.
Timing our journey during the low water season (December - May), allows us to witness a natural marvel -Â Koh Paen Bamboo Bridge. Spanning the waters of the Mekong River, this bridge connects the mainland with Koh Paen Island, offering a way for local lives to cope with seasonal phenomena.
Our odyssey unfolds with a visit to a local school, shedding light on the educational landscape of Cambodia and the aspirations of its young minds. The vibrant atmosphere of the school promises to make you captivated.Â
As you have a chance to revel in the echoes of music and dance and showcase the remarkable talents of the students, let your applause resonate in appreciation of the joyous smiles adorning the faces of the children, a testament to the resilience and spirit of the younger generation in Cambodia.
Evening
At the end of the day, we will return to the cruise. Tonight, we have dinner and anchor to stay overnight in Kampong Cham once again.
Morning
Appreciate the final culinary delight aboard our cruise, relishing your last meal as wonder at the breathtaking vistas of the Mighty Mekong River one last time.
Bid farewell to the dedicated cruise team as we transit to the next leg of our journey, a bus ride to our drop-off point in Siem Reap.
Enter a roughly 4.5-hour journey, punctuated by a rest stop that provides both respite and an opportunity to absorb the insights shared by our knowledgeable local guides. As you traverse the scenic route, indulge in a snack, enhancing your travel experience with the flavors of Cambodia.
Afternoon
We'll arrive in Siem Reap, the enchanting Kingdom of Cambodia, marking the conclusion of our adventure. As our remarkable river excursion concludes, we hope that you have already carried with you many enchanting memories along the majestic Mekong River.
Cabin Rooms
14 Superior Staterooms located on the main deck with modern facilities and interiors.
11 Deluxe Staterooms located on the upper deck with a private balcony overlooking the pretty Mekong River.
2 Signature Staterooms located on the upper deck. This is the most luxurious cabin on board with a private balcony, TV, luxury interiors, etc.