Your Mekong River Cruise from Ho Chi Minh then embarks from My Tho dock. Board the Aqua Mekong river cruise vessel to explore one of the longest rivers in the world and the lifeblood for many in Southeast Asia.

Along its lush rural shorelines, you will find Buddhist monks and villagers going about their lives, fishermen casting their nets into the water, and local sampans making their way down the river.

As the first five-star vessel to cruise this popular stretch of river and offer some of the best tours of Vietnam and Cambodia, the Aqua Mekong river cruise offers unparalleled experiences. Indeed, he sustainably crafted ship boasts 20 suites overlooking the Mekong through floor-to-ceiling windows. Additionally, it includes rare amenities like a fully-equipped gym, screening room, outdoor cinema, and an upper deck pool.

With a guide to guest ratio of one-to-one, excursions from the boat promise in-depth immersions. From the Aqua Mekong river cruise vessel, board a skiff to make your way through narrow channels to villages like Binh Thanh. Here locals weave mats from Mekong water hyacinths. And in Preah Prosop, explore a remote village of stilt houses that remain incredibly isolated.

Phnom Penh

After your Mekong River cruise from Ho Chi Minh, disembark in Phnom Penh in Cambodia. Here you will set out on a motorized tuk-tuk tour of the capital, stopping at the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum of Cambodia.

Siem Reap

Then fly to Siem Reap. The enchanting land of the legendary Angkor Empire features ancient temples peeking over lush jungles, floating villages, and warm people.

Take a deep dive into the history of this Southeast Asia jewel by hopping between temples at the Angkor Archaeological Park, including Ta Prohm, Bayon, and Angkor Thom. Wake before dawn to catch a glimpse of the sun rising up over Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most impressive temples and largest religious complex. Indeed, this world-famous temple is the crowning achievement in Khmer art and architecture.

Outside of Cambodia’s temples, explore the rural communities surrounded by rice paddies and woodlands near Siem Reap. Seek a blessing from the monks, visit with local families, and spend an evening in a private country villa listening to traditional Khmer music while a chef prepares your evening meal.

The final stop on this journey through Southeast Asia is Luang Prabang in Laos. Here, the Mekong River proves central to Lao culture and geography.

While in Laos, explore this tranquil portion of the river, whether by boat, or sitting outside near the river, watching the sun set over it. Stay in Aman Resorts’ Amantanka, set on a large verdant estate framed by the Mekong and Khan Rivers with Phousi Mountain in the background.

Additionally, take a boat to the Pak Ou Caves where you’ll find two linked caves full of thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues. Your Ker & Downey guide will also take you to visit Wat Long Khun, the limestone cave Tham Sakkarin, and the Ban Xiengmene village.

While in Laos, make plans to rise early to witness hundreds of monks walking through the streets of Luang Prabang, accepting offerings of food from the local residents and businesses. It is one of the most timeless scenes in all of Southeast Asia.