Select the week and day to view day-by-day itineraries for this voyage.
Welcome to Vietnam!
Historic HanoiThis morning, your Guided Sightseeing takes a look at the life of Ho Chi Minh, the father of modern Vietnam. First, visit the mausoleum and the humble cottage from which “Uncle Ho” ruled Vietnam until his death in 1969. Next on the agenda: One Pillar Pagoda, the Presidential Palace, and the infamous “Hanoi Hilton.” Also visit the ancient Temple of Literature, over 900 years old and Hanoi’s first university. Lunch is at Koto, a non-profit restaurant and hospitality program that trains local street children in restaurant skills they can use to find a job and build a stable life. After lunch, enjoy an electric cart ride through the fascinating Old Quarter, with 36 ancient streets where peddlers trade as they have for centuries. An early dinner this evening is followed by a fascinating performance of Hanoi’s renowned water puppets, a traditional art form dating back to the 11th century.
Tunnels, Caves, and Islands Travel from Hanoi through the fertile countryside to Hon Gai, gateway to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, the bay is dotted with more than 3,000 limestone islands carved into fanciful shapes by the action of the water. Tunnels, caves, and weirdly shaped outcroppings with imaginative names can be found on many of the small islets sprinkled across the bay. Board a Cruise Excursion to explore the caves and admire the beauty and scale of this bay before stopping at one of the many secluded islands. Enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening.
Hanoi Bound This morning, drive to Hanoi and board your flight for Siem Reap.
Tranquil Temples and Joyful Dances
CLASSIC Explore the temples by tuk-tuk. Start at the best preserved and most famous of all the temples: Angkor Wat. Featuring five trademark towers, it is the symbol of Cambodia. Then, continue your Guided Excursion to visit Angkor Thom, where you will explore Bayon Temple with its 200 striking faces carved in 54 towers and impressive bas relief sculptures.
Enjoy some time at your leisure this afternoon to explore Siem Reap’s shops for local artisan crafts.
DISCOVERY This evening, enjoy dinner and a private Apsara Dance Performance brings ancient Khmer culture to life through music, song, and dance.
Root-Covered Ruins and Native Noodles
CLASSIC Continue your Sightseeing Tour of the Angkor temples at Ta Prohm. Tree roots cover the ruin walls, allowing you to experience the temple with the same wonder as early explorers. Then visit Banteay Srei, a unique temple built on a small scale from red sandstone, which can be carved like wood. En route, stop at a village famous for making Khmer noodles by hand. Be sure to sample some of the freshly prepared noodles!
Spend the afternoon at your leisure.
Your Suite Ship® Awaits! Fly to Phnom Penh and transfer to the port where your ship’s crew will be waiting to welcome you onboard. Get acquainted with the ship and relax before your welcome reception this evening. Please note: Flight schedules are constantly changing which may require a scenic overland transfer to Phnom Penh.
Welcome to Vietnam!
Historic HanoiThis morning, your Guided Sightseeing takes a look at the life of Ho Chi Minh, the father of modern Vietnam. First, visit the mausoleum and the humble cottage from which “Uncle Ho” ruled Vietnam until his death in 1969. Next on the agenda: One Pillar Pagoda, the Presidential Palace, and the infamous “Hanoi Hilton.” Also visit the ancient Temple of Literature, over 900 years old and Hanoi’s first university. Lunch is at Koto, a non-profit restaurant and hospitality program that trains local street children in restaurant skills they can use to find a job and build a stable life. After lunch, enjoy an electric cart ride through the fascinating Old Quarter, with 36 ancient streets where peddlers trade as they have for centuries. An early dinner this evening is followed by a fascinating performance of Hanoi’s renowned water puppets, a traditional art form dating back to the 11th century.
Tunnels, Caves, and Islands Travel from Hanoi through the fertile countryside to Hon Gai, gateway to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, the bay is dotted with more than 3,000 limestone islands carved into fanciful shapes by the action of the water. Tunnels, caves, and weirdly shaped outcroppings with imaginative names can be found on many of the small islets sprinkled across the bay. Board a Cruise Excursion to explore the caves and admire the beauty and scale of this bay before stopping at one of the many secluded islands. Enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening.
Hanoi Bound This morning, drive to Hanoi and board your flight for Siem Reap.
Tranquil Temples and Joyful Dances
CLASSIC Explore the temples by tuk-tuk. Start at the best preserved and most famous of all the temples: Angkor Wat. Featuring five trademark towers, it is the symbol of Cambodia. Then, continue your Guided Excursion to visit Angkor Thom, where you will explore Bayon Temple with its 200 striking faces carved in 54 towers and impressive bas relief sculptures.
Enjoy some time at your leisure this afternoon to explore Siem Reap’s shops for local artisan crafts.
DISCOVERY This evening, enjoy dinner and a private Apsara Dance Performance brings ancient Khmer culture to life through music, song, and dance.
Root-Covered Ruins and Native Noodles
CLASSIC Continue your Sightseeing Tour of the Angkor temples at Ta Prohm. Tree roots cover the ruin walls, allowing you to experience the temple with the same wonder as early explorers. Then visit Banteay Srei, a unique temple built on a small scale from red sandstone, which can be carved like wood. En route, stop at a village famous for making Khmer noodles by hand. Be sure to sample some of the freshly prepared noodles!
Spend the afternoon at your leisure.
Your Suite Ship® Awaits! Fly to Phnom Penh and transfer to the port where your ship’s crew will be waiting to welcome you onboard. Get acquainted with the ship and relax before your welcome reception this evening. Please note: Flight schedules are constantly changing which may require a scenic overland transfer to Phnom Penh.
Water Blessings and Back-to-School Adventures
DISCOVERY Visit Wat Hanchey, a hilltop temple dating back to the 8th century. Climb or be driven to the top where you will enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area and partake in a traditional water blessing given by local monks.
DISCOVERY After lunch, enjoy a Walking Tour through the rural village of Angkor Ban. Here, you will visit a traditional Khmer house and interact with children at a local school.
The Royal treatment
CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour of the city by private cyclo with visits to the Royal Palace with the spectacular Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum featuring an outstanding display of Khmer artifacts.
The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Just before dinner, children from a local orphanage will perform a show, featuring local song and dance.
Good Morning, Vietnam!
DISCOVERY Take a Village Walk through the Chau Doc market and absorb the atmosphere as locals are busy buying and selling fish, meat, and produce. After lunch, embark on a Guided Excursion down the backwaters of the Mekong. Along the way, see traditional floating homes, speedboat merchants, religious sites, a market selling dried goods, and more.
Cotton Weaving, Conical Hats, and Handcrafted Sampans
DISCOVERY This morning, a sampan brings you to the village of Long Khanh A, for a Cotton-Weaving Demonstration of this well-preserved tradition.
DISCOVERY This afternoon, enjoy scenes of daily life on Cu Lao Gieng Island via sampan and local motor cart. Your Guided Excursion starts with a stop at one of Vietnam’s oldest Catholic churches. Then, visit the home of a local family that makes Vietnamese conical hats, or “Non la,” from materials available to them such as palm leaves and bamboo. These iconic hats are primarily used as protection from the sun and rain, but you may also see them used as a basket to carry home goods from the market. Lastly, visit a local workshop where a skilled family hand-crafts sampan boats.
Sweets and Rice Treats
DISCOVERY Board a sampan this morning to Visit a Local Workshop in Vinh Long where you will see how rice paper, rice wine, and traditional candies are made.
This afternoon, enjoy time on board the ship as we sail to exciting Ho Chi Minh City.
Motorbikes, Monuments, and Mouth-watering Cuisine
CLASSIC Take a Walking Tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s historic landmarks, including a stop at the Rex Hotel for a refreshing drink at the rooftop bar where the U.S. Military held the infamous “Five O’clock Follies” during the war. Then, visit the War Remnants Museum and bustling Ben Thanh Market.
DISCOVERY For lunch, participate in a hands-on Vietnamese Cooking Class. Learn to prepare several local dishes and how to recreate them at home. Last, but not least, sample your delicious creations!
Enjoy time at your leisure this afternoon and evening for independent exploration. Maybe stop for a drink at the famous rooftop bar at the Caravelle Hotel.
Water Blessings and Back-to-School Adventures
DISCOVERY Visit Wat Hanchey, a hilltop temple dating back to the 8th century. Climb or be driven to the top where you will enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area and partake in a traditional water blessing given by local monks.
DISCOVERY After lunch, enjoy a Walking Tour through the rural village of Angkor Ban. Here, you will visit a traditional Khmer house and interact with children at a local school.
The Royal treatment
CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour of the city by private cyclo with visits to the Royal Palace with the spectacular Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum featuring an outstanding display of Khmer artifacts.
The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Just before dinner, children from a local orphanage will perform a show, featuring local song and dance.
Good Morning, Vietnam!
DISCOVERY Take a Village Walk through the Chau Doc market and absorb the atmosphere as locals are busy buying and selling fish, meat, and produce. After lunch, embark on a Guided Excursion down the backwaters of the Mekong. Along the way, see traditional floating homes, speedboat merchants, religious sites, a market selling dried goods, and more.
Cotton Weaving, Conical Hats, and Handcrafted Sampans
DISCOVERY This morning, a sampan brings you to the village of Long Khanh A, for a Cotton-Weaving Demonstration of this well-preserved tradition.
DISCOVERY This afternoon, enjoy scenes of daily life on Cu Lao Gieng Island via sampan and local motor cart. Your Guided Excursion starts with a stop at one of Vietnam’s oldest Catholic churches. Then, visit the home of a local family that makes Vietnamese conical hats, or “Non la,” from materials available to them such as palm leaves and bamboo. These iconic hats are primarily used as protection from the sun and rain, but you may also see them used as a basket to carry home goods from the market. Lastly, visit a local workshop where a skilled family hand-crafts sampan boats.
Sweets and Rice Treats
DISCOVERY Board a sampan this morning to Visit a Local Workshop in Vinh Long where you will see how rice paper, rice wine, and traditional candies are made.
This afternoon, enjoy time on board the ship as we sail to exciting Ho Chi Minh City.
Motorbikes, Monuments, and Mouth-watering Cuisine
CLASSIC Take a Walking Tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s historic landmarks, including a stop at the Rex Hotel for a refreshing drink at the rooftop bar where the U.S. Military held the infamous “Five O’clock Follies” during the war. Then, visit the War Remnants Museum and bustling Ben Thanh Market.
DISCOVERY For lunch, participate in a hands-on Vietnamese Cooking Class. Learn to prepare several local dishes and how to recreate them at home. Last, but not least, sample your delicious creations!
Enjoy time at your leisure this afternoon and evening for independent exploration. Maybe stop for a drink at the famous rooftop bar at the Caravelle Hotel.
Secret Passageways and Underground Hideouts
CLASSIC Drive out of the city for a Guided Visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels—an extraordinary network of tunnels more than 120 miles in length—used as a hideout and secret village by the Viet Cong. Explore these tunnels and learn what life was like living in these cramped spaces.
Explore the city further during free time this afternoon. This evening, join your traveling companions for a special dinner in a local restaurant.
Bangkok BoundThis morning, fly to Bangkok. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Sacred Sights of Thailand This morning, your Guided Sightseeing begins with a boat ride on the klongs, Bangkok’s famous canals. Stop at the stunning Grand Palace featuring the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Also, Visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. It houses more than 1,000 Buddha images, including the 49-foot-high and 151-foot-long massive Reclining Buddha. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
Bold Colors of Bangkok Enjoy a full day at your leisure.
Your extension ends with breakfast this morning.
Secret Passageways and Underground Hideouts
CLASSIC Drive out of the city for a Guided Visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels—an extraordinary network of tunnels more than 120 miles in length—used as a hideout and secret village by the Viet Cong. Explore these tunnels and learn what life was like living in these cramped spaces.
Explore the city further during free time this afternoon. This evening, join your traveling companions for a special dinner in a local restaurant.
Bangkok BoundThis morning, fly to Bangkok. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Sacred Sights of Thailand This morning, your Guided Sightseeing begins with a boat ride on the klongs, Bangkok’s famous canals. Stop at the stunning Grand Palace featuring the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Also, Visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. It houses more than 1,000 Buddha images, including the 49-foot-high and 151-foot-long massive Reclining Buddha. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
Bold Colors of Bangkok Enjoy a full day at your leisure.
Your extension ends with breakfast this morning.
The Avalon Saigon Suite Ship incorporates the classic colonial charm befitting the Vietnam and Cambodia experience with the modern features you expect from Avalon. Each Panorama Suite features 245 square feet of living space with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows to create river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony. With luxurious beds that face the window, you'll never miss a fascinating view on the Mekong.
With Avalon, every dining experience brings your destination to life. They start with fresh, quality ingredients and delectable recipes that are crafted by their culinary experts. Try authentic dishes from Vietnam and Cambodia — or more familiar Western alternatives.
THE MEKONG EXPERIENCE
A journey with Avalon Waterways® along the mighty Mekong River reveals a course of history, mystery, and magical beauty through Vietnam and Cambodia. Avalon cruisers are treated to a fantastic fusion of distinctive sights, ancient wonders, and colourful cultures, while winding through the breathtaking riverscapes and landscapes of Southeast Asia. And because bigger isn’t always better where river cruise ships are concerned, our Avalon Suite ShipSM; on the Mekong delivers an intimate experience with unmatched personalized service aboard the award-winning Avalon SaigonSM. Carrying a maximum of just 36 guests, the Avalon SaigonSM brings you closer to the must-see sights, fascinating stories, and friendly people in each destination. All the while, you'll enjoy Avalon’s signature relaxed luxury on board. Plus, the Avalon SaigonSM is one of the few Mekong river cruise ships sailing between Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh, eliminating the need for hours of motorcoach travel time -- meaning more cruising time for you!
With Avalon, the onboard ship experience is as lively and captivating as your time on shore! Get behind the scenes as you tour the Galley and Bridge and join new friends for special events or movie nights.
Complimentary tea, coffee, soft drinks, local beer/spirits are offered on board throughout the day.
Fit for All.
Saying hello to adventure doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to your healthy habits and restorative rituals. From heart-healthy menu options and heart-pumping activities–from mindful yoga moves to more bikes to explore on shore and innovative ways to work out in our refreshed onboard fitness center, Avalon makes it easy to remain a picture of health amidst the most beautiful scenery in the world.
Avalon allow travellers from the ages of 8 and over although there are no children’s facilities on-board.
The Avalon Saigon Suite Ship incorporates the classic colonial charm befitting the Vietnam and Cambodia experience with the modern features you expect from Avalon. Each Panorama Suite features 245 square feet of living space with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows to create river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony. With luxurious beds that face the window, you'll never miss a fascinating view on the Mekong.
With Avalon, every dining experience brings your destination to life. They start with fresh, quality ingredients and delectable recipes that are crafted by their culinary experts. Try authentic dishes from Vietnam and Cambodia — or more familiar Western alternatives.
THE MEKONG EXPERIENCE
A journey with Avalon Waterways® along the mighty Mekong River reveals a course of history, mystery, and magical beauty through Vietnam and Cambodia. Avalon cruisers are treated to a fantastic fusion of distinctive sights, ancient wonders, and colourful cultures, while winding through the breathtaking riverscapes and landscapes of Southeast Asia. And because bigger isn’t always better where river cruise ships are concerned, our Avalon Suite ShipSM; on the Mekong delivers an intimate experience with unmatched personalized service aboard the award-winning Avalon SaigonSM. Carrying a maximum of just 36 guests, the Avalon SaigonSM brings you closer to the must-see sights, fascinating stories, and friendly people in each destination. All the while, you'll enjoy Avalon’s signature relaxed luxury on board. Plus, the Avalon SaigonSM is one of the few Mekong river cruise ships sailing between Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh, eliminating the need for hours of motorcoach travel time -- meaning more cruising time for you!
With Avalon, the onboard ship experience is as lively and captivating as your time on shore! Get behind the scenes as you tour the Galley and Bridge and join new friends for special events or movie nights.
Complimentary tea, coffee, soft drinks, local beer/spirits are offered on board throughout the day.
Fit for All.
Saying hello to adventure doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to your healthy habits and restorative rituals. From heart-healthy menu options and heart-pumping activities–from mindful yoga moves to more bikes to explore on shore and innovative ways to work out in our refreshed onboard fitness center, Avalon makes it easy to remain a picture of health amidst the most beautiful scenery in the world.
Avalon allow travellers from the ages of 8 and over although there are no children’s facilities on-board.
Welcome to the Cabin A - Tonle Deck aboard the Avalon Saigon from Avalon Waterways, your home away from home. Your private abode includes a range of amenities for your enjoyment, relaxation and comfort. The thoughtfully presented suite provides a wonderful space to relax after another fulfilling day exploring the world's waterways. Discover the full details and specifications below.
Welcome to the Cabin B - Mekong Deck aboard the Avalon Saigon from Avalon Waterways, your home away from home. Your private abode includes a range of amenities for your enjoyment, relaxation and comfort. The thoughtfully presented suite provides a wonderful space to relax after another fulfilling day exploring the world's waterways. Discover the full details and specifications below.
