Essential Vietnam and Cambodia

About This Cruise

Immerse yourself in local life and culture as you embark on a seven-night cruise along the Mekong River, discovering the remote villages that line its banks.

Type

Ship

RV Lotus

Departure Date

9 April 2028

Cruise Line

Travelmarvel

Duration

7 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type

Itinerary

Day 1

April 9, 2028

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Day 2

April 10, 2028

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Day 3

April 11, 2028

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Day 3

April 11, 2028

Kampong Cham, Cambodia

Day 3

April 11, 2028

Angkor Ban, Cambodia

Day 4

April 12, 2028

Angkor Ban, Cambodia

Day 4

April 12, 2028

Oknha Tey Village, Cambodia

Day 5

April 13, 2028

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Day 5

April 13, 2028

Oudong, Cambodia

Day 5

April 13, 2028

Koh Chen, Cambodia

Day 6

April 14, 2028

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Day 7

April 15, 2028

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Day 7

April 15, 2028

,

Day 7

April 15, 2028

Tân Châu, Vietnam

Day 8

April 16, 2028

Tân Châu, Vietnam

Day 8

April 16, 2028

Sa Déc, Vietnam

Day 9

April 17, 2028

Sa Déc, Vietnam

Day 9

April 17, 2028

Cái Bè, Vietnam

Day 9

April 17, 2028

My Tho, Vietnam

Day 10

April 18, 2028

My Tho, Vietnam

Day 10

April 18, 2028

,

Day 10

April 18, 2028

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Day 11

April 19, 2028

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Day 12

April 20, 2028

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Cambodia

Siem Reap

Transfer to your hotel and spend some time relaxing. This afternoon, discover Ta Prohm, often referred to as the ‘Tomb Raider Temple’ due to its depiction in the Angelina Jolie film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. A range of immersive Insider Experiences mark a spectacular beginning to your journey.Insider Experience – Local Charity VisitVisit Opportunities of Development thru Art (ODA), a OneTomorrow partner that provides education to local disadvantaged children living in Siem Reap's remote villages.Insider Experience – Khmer Dinner and Apsara PerformanceDine on tantalising Khmer cuisine and peer into the heart of Cambodia as you watch an apsara dance performance, a delicate, beautiful tradition dating back to the seventh century.Insider Experience – Two Nights at Shinta Mani AngkorUnwind in an idyllic setting during an indulgent stay at this upscale retreat, designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley. Combining elegance and sustainability, your accommodation is situated in Siem Reap's leafy French Quarter, close to the famous Angkor Wat temple.

Cambodia

Siem Reap

Rise early for a special Insider Experience at Angkor Archaeological Park. After a guided tour of the well-preserved Angkor Wat temple, return to your hotel for breakfast. In the early afternoon, explore Siem Reap on your own or choose from our select experience options. Later this afternoon, return to Angkor Archaeological Park to visit Angkor Thom and the Bayon. This evening, enjoy free time to further explore or take part in an optional select experience.Insider Experience – Sunrise at Angkor WatWake up early and witness the sun rising over Angkor Wat. This also includes a seat during the experience as well as refreshments (coffee, tea or juice).Enhance Your Journey – Circus PerformanceTake your seat at Phare Circus and be amazed by the skills of the performers. This acclaimed show blends modern Khmer tales with music, dance, acrobatics, juggling, aerial acts and contortion.Enhance Your Journey – Local Boutiques and MarketsExplore Siem Reap’s vibrant arts and crafts scene, starting at the Angkor Handicraft Association. This Fair Trade Village is home to a wide variety of artisans who produce handmade goods using traditional techniques. Peruse Angkor Artwork to see traditional lacquerware crafted using ancestral techniques. Stop at Phsar Chas, the oldest market in Siem Reap, where you’ll find stalls selling everything from fresh vegetables, seafood and meat to souvenirs.Enhance Your Journey – APOPO HeroRATs Tour and Landmine MuseumTake a tour of APOPO, a non-profit organisation that trains African giant pouched rats to save lives by detecting landmines. Close by, the Landmine Museum shows the devastating impact of landmines, sharing personal stories of hope and resilience while highlighting ongoing de-mining efforts.Enhance Your Journey – Horse-Drawn Cart Ride  Relax and watch the scenery go by as you travel through the Cambodian countryside on a traditional horse-drawn cart.Enhance Your Journey – Quad Bike Adventure Explore authentic Cambodia away from the tourist crowds on a quad bike. Journey through rice fields, forests and villages. 

Cambodia

Siem Reap

Journey through picturesque countryside and charming remote villages, arriving in Kampong Cham to embark on your Mekong River cruise. Here, you'll board the RV Lotus, your boutique river ship and home for the next seven nights. Spend the afternoon enjoying your Insider Experience. This evening, savour a Welcome Dinner on board with your fellow travellers.Insider Experience – Tuk Tuk Tour of Koh PenHop on a tuk tuk and explore the agricultural island of Koh Pen. Travel along the shaded lanes and past wooden stilted houses, tucked among palm and sandalwood trees. 

Cambodia

Kampong Cham

Journey through picturesque countryside and charming remote villages, arriving in Kampong Cham to embark on your Mekong River cruise. Here, you'll board the RV Lotus, your boutique river ship and home for the next seven nights. Spend the afternoon enjoying your Insider Experience. This evening, savour a Welcome Dinner on board with your fellow travellers.Insider Experience – Tuk Tuk Tour of Koh PenHop on a tuk tuk and explore the agricultural island of Koh Pen. Travel along the shaded lanes and past wooden stilted houses, tucked among palm and sandalwood trees. 

Cambodia

Angkor Ban

Journey through picturesque countryside and charming remote villages, arriving in Kampong Cham to embark on your Mekong River cruise. Here, you'll board the RV Lotus, your boutique river ship and home for the next seven nights. Spend the afternoon enjoying your Insider Experience. This evening, savour a Welcome Dinner on board with your fellow travellers.Insider Experience – Tuk Tuk Tour of Koh PenHop on a tuk tuk and explore the agricultural island of Koh Pen. Travel along the shaded lanes and past wooden stilted houses, tucked among palm and sandalwood trees. 

Cambodia

Angkor Ban

Start your day with a tour of Angkor Ban by foot. Nicknamed the 'Lucky Village', Angkor Ban is one of the few rural villages in Cambodia that escaped destruction from the Khmer Rouge regime. Stroll through town and see wooden houses, some over a century old. Return to your ship and continue cruising along the lush banks of the Mekong River to Oknha Tey (Oknha Tei), or Silk Island. Disembark and discover the village, renowned for its silk weaving traditions.

Cambodia

Oknha Tey Village

Start your day with a tour of Angkor Ban by foot. Nicknamed the 'Lucky Village', Angkor Ban is one of the few rural villages in Cambodia that escaped destruction from the Khmer Rouge regime. Stroll through town and see wooden houses, some over a century old. Return to your ship and continue cruising along the lush banks of the Mekong River to Oknha Tey (Oknha Tei), or Silk Island. Disembark and discover the village, renowned for its silk weaving traditions.

Cambodia

Phnom Penh

Begin your morning with an excursion by road to Oudong, Cambodia’s former royal capital, where a memorable Insider Experience awaits. En route back to Phnom Penh, take a leisurely walk through the village of Koh Chen. Stop to visit the open-air copperware workshops and witness the skills of the artisans. Return to the ship and enjoy a free afternoon in Phnom Penh, or enhance your time by choosing one of our select experiences.Insider Experience – Buddhist Blessing CeremonyTake part in a traditional Buddhist blessing ceremony to wish you good luck, health and safe journey, led by resident monks at a monastery in Oudong.Enhance Your Journey – Hands-On Cooking WorkshopMeet your chef and visit a local market to select fruits, spices and other local ingredients before learning how to prepare authentic Khmer dishes.Enhance Your Journey – Phnom Penh by CycloExplore Phnom Penh by cyclo, taking in sights such as Independence Square, the Royal Palace, trendy cafes, boutiques, local markets and pagodas.Enhance Your Journey – Phnom Penh by Tuk TukDiscover Phnom Penh by tuk tuk, passing sights like Wat Phnom, the Phnom Penh Post Office, U.S. Embassy, Raffles Hotel, and Royal Railway Station. Ride along Pasteur Street, the Central Market, and Phsar Tapang. Stop to walk around the Independence Monument and statue of King Norodom Sihanouk, then continue past NagaWorld, the Royal Palace and Sisowath Quay.

Cambodia

Oudong

Begin your morning with an excursion by road to Oudong, Cambodia’s former royal capital, where a memorable Insider Experience awaits. En route back to Phnom Penh, take a leisurely walk through the village of Koh Chen. Stop to visit the open-air copperware workshops and witness the skills of the artisans. Return to the ship and enjoy a free afternoon in Phnom Penh, or enhance your time by choosing one of our select experiences.Insider Experience – Buddhist Blessing CeremonyTake part in a traditional Buddhist blessing ceremony to wish you good luck, health and safe journey, led by resident monks at a monastery in Oudong.Enhance Your Journey – Hands-On Cooking WorkshopMeet your chef and visit a local market to select fruits, spices and other local ingredients before learning how to prepare authentic Khmer dishes.Enhance Your Journey – Phnom Penh by CycloExplore Phnom Penh by cyclo, taking in sights such as Independence Square, the Royal Palace, trendy cafes, boutiques, local markets and pagodas.Enhance Your Journey – Phnom Penh by Tuk TukDiscover Phnom Penh by tuk tuk, passing sights like Wat Phnom, the Phnom Penh Post Office, U.S. Embassy, Raffles Hotel, and Royal Railway Station. Ride along Pasteur Street, the Central Market, and Phsar Tapang. Stop to walk around the Independence Monument and statue of King Norodom Sihanouk, then continue past NagaWorld, the Royal Palace and Sisowath Quay.

Cambodia

Koh Chen

Begin your morning with an excursion by road to Oudong, Cambodia’s former royal capital, where a memorable Insider Experience awaits. En route back to Phnom Penh, take a leisurely walk through the village of Koh Chen. Stop to visit the open-air copperware workshops and witness the skills of the artisans. Return to the ship and enjoy a free afternoon in Phnom Penh, or enhance your time by choosing one of our select experiences.Insider Experience – Buddhist Blessing CeremonyTake part in a traditional Buddhist blessing ceremony to wish you good luck, health and safe journey, led by resident monks at a monastery in Oudong.Enhance Your Journey – Hands-On Cooking WorkshopMeet your chef and visit a local market to select fruits, spices and other local ingredients before learning how to prepare authentic Khmer dishes.Enhance Your Journey – Phnom Penh by CycloExplore Phnom Penh by cyclo, taking in sights such as Independence Square, the Royal Palace, trendy cafes, boutiques, local markets and pagodas.Enhance Your Journey – Phnom Penh by Tuk TukDiscover Phnom Penh by tuk tuk, passing sights like Wat Phnom, the Phnom Penh Post Office, U.S. Embassy, Raffles Hotel, and Royal Railway Station. Ride along Pasteur Street, the Central Market, and Phsar Tapang. Stop to walk around the Independence Monument and statue of King Norodom Sihanouk, then continue past NagaWorld, the Royal Palace and Sisowath Quay.

Cambodia

Phnom Penh

Start the day with a sobering excursion to the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, where you will learn about Cambodia's Khmer Rouge regime, as well as the resilience of the Cambodian people. Take a moment to pay your respects at the Memorial Stupa, a monument erected in memory of the thousands of people who lost their lives. After lunch, admire the striking white and gold Khmer architecture of the Royal Palace, which was built in 1866. Head inside the glorious Silver Pagoda – named after its floors, which are designed with 5,000 silver tiles. The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure. You may wish to head to the Russian Market for souvenirs, the Central Market where you can try the local delicacy of fried tarantula and crickets, or simply stay on board and enjoy the facilities and service.

Cambodia

Phnom Penh

Relax on board as your ship cruises to the Vietnamese border. While border formalities are carried out, enjoy the onboard presentations and demonstrations. Cross into Vietnam and cruise into the riverside town of Tan Chau. 

Relax on board as your ship cruises to the Vietnamese border. While border formalities are carried out, enjoy the onboard presentations and demonstrations. Cross into Vietnam and cruise into the riverside town of Tan Chau. 

Vietnam

Tân Châu

Relax on board as your ship cruises to the Vietnamese border. While border formalities are carried out, enjoy the onboard presentations and demonstrations. Cross into Vietnam and cruise into the riverside town of Tan Chau. 

Vietnam

Tân Châu

Travel along the tributaries around Tan Chau by small boat, then go ashore for a rickshaw tour. Weave through rambling laneways past shops and friendly locals before visiting a local rattan weaving workshop. Later, step back in time during a visit to Vinh Hoa, also known as Evergreen Island. Take the opportunity to witness traditional Vietnamese farming practices, then head back to the ship and continue cruising towards the quaint town of Sa Dec.

Vietnam

Sa Déc

Travel along the tributaries around Tan Chau by small boat, then go ashore for a rickshaw tour. Weave through rambling laneways past shops and friendly locals before visiting a local rattan weaving workshop. Later, step back in time during a visit to Vinh Hoa, also known as Evergreen Island. Take the opportunity to witness traditional Vietnamese farming practices, then head back to the ship and continue cruising towards the quaint town of Sa Dec.

Vietnam

Sa Déc

Pass floating fish farms as you take a boat ride to Sa Dec, then explore the colourful market on foot. Continue past crumbling waterside mansions to the home of Mr Huynh Thuy Le, who inspired the French writer Marguerite Duras' novel, L'Amant. Return to the ship for a delicious lunch while you cruise towards Cai Be, where a local boat will take you into the riverside town. Step ashore to visit the French gothic Cai Be Church, as well as a rice paper and coconut candy manufacturer. Tonight, enjoy a special Farewell Dinner on board as you cruise towards your final stop, My Tho.

Vietnam

Cái Bè

Pass floating fish farms as you take a boat ride to Sa Dec, then explore the colourful market on foot. Continue past crumbling waterside mansions to the home of Mr Huynh Thuy Le, who inspired the French writer Marguerite Duras' novel, L'Amant. Return to the ship for a delicious lunch while you cruise towards Cai Be, where a local boat will take you into the riverside town. Step ashore to visit the French gothic Cai Be Church, as well as a rice paper and coconut candy manufacturer. Tonight, enjoy a special Farewell Dinner on board as you cruise towards your final stop, My Tho.

Vietnam

My Tho

Pass floating fish farms as you take a boat ride to Sa Dec, then explore the colourful market on foot. Continue past crumbling waterside mansions to the home of Mr Huynh Thuy Le, who inspired the French writer Marguerite Duras' novel, L'Amant. Return to the ship for a delicious lunch while you cruise towards Cai Be, where a local boat will take you into the riverside town. Step ashore to visit the French gothic Cai Be Church, as well as a rice paper and coconut candy manufacturer. Tonight, enjoy a special Farewell Dinner on board as you cruise towards your final stop, My Tho.

Vietnam

My Tho

Disembark at My Tho and journey by road to the Cu Chi tunnels. Gain a first-hand insight into the history of the Vietnam War and learn about the immense network of underground tunnels carved out by hand. Continue to Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis formerly known as Saigon, where you'll stay for the next two nights. This evening for dinner, perhaps choose from one of our select experience dining options.Insider Experience – Two Nights at Le Méridien SaigonExperience a stay at the one-of-a-kind Le Méridien Saigon. Set in a prime location on the banks of the Saigon River in bustling District 1, this contemporary hotel is within walking distance to key attractions such as Bến Thành Market and Independence Palace. Enhance Your Journey – Street Food Tour by MotorbikeEmbark on a thrilling motorbike tour through the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, guided by a knowledgeable local. Savour three courses of classic Vietnamese street food, beginning with a steaming bowl of traditional noodles, followed by a bánh mì, and concluding with a fried rice flour cake – served with fresh juice or a smoothie. Finish at HỢP Sky Bar, a stylish rooftop venue offering panoramic views of the city’s dazzling lights, where you’ll enjoy a drink and a snack.Enhance Your Journey – Hoi An SenseIndulge in the authentic specialties of Hoi An in a unique culinary setting, complete with Vietnamese music and warm hospitality.Enhance Your Journey – Propaganda Vietnamese BistroOffering traditional Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist, this bistro draws inspiration from the theme of 'propaganda', enchanting guests with its lively ambience and striking hand-painted murals.

Disembark at My Tho and journey by road to the Cu Chi tunnels. Gain a first-hand insight into the history of the Vietnam War and learn about the immense network of underground tunnels carved out by hand. Continue to Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis formerly known as Saigon, where you'll stay for the next two nights. This evening for dinner, perhaps choose from one of our select experience dining options.Insider Experience – Two Nights at Le Méridien SaigonExperience a stay at the one-of-a-kind Le Méridien Saigon. Set in a prime location on the banks of the Saigon River in bustling District 1, this contemporary hotel is within walking distance to key attractions such as Bến Thành Market and Independence Palace. Enhance Your Journey – Street Food Tour by MotorbikeEmbark on a thrilling motorbike tour through the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, guided by a knowledgeable local. Savour three courses of classic Vietnamese street food, beginning with a steaming bowl of traditional noodles, followed by a bánh mì, and concluding with a fried rice flour cake – served with fresh juice or a smoothie. Finish at HỢP Sky Bar, a stylish rooftop venue offering panoramic views of the city’s dazzling lights, where you’ll enjoy a drink and a snack.Enhance Your Journey – Hoi An SenseIndulge in the authentic specialties of Hoi An in a unique culinary setting, complete with Vietnamese music and warm hospitality.Enhance Your Journey – Propaganda Vietnamese BistroOffering traditional Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist, this bistro draws inspiration from the theme of 'propaganda', enchanting guests with its lively ambience and striking hand-painted murals.

Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City

Disembark at My Tho and journey by road to the Cu Chi tunnels. Gain a first-hand insight into the history of the Vietnam War and learn about the immense network of underground tunnels carved out by hand. Continue to Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis formerly known as Saigon, where you'll stay for the next two nights. This evening for dinner, perhaps choose from one of our select experience dining options.Insider Experience – Two Nights at Le Méridien SaigonExperience a stay at the one-of-a-kind Le Méridien Saigon. Set in a prime location on the banks of the Saigon River in bustling District 1, this contemporary hotel is within walking distance to key attractions such as Bến Thành Market and Independence Palace. Enhance Your Journey – Street Food Tour by MotorbikeEmbark on a thrilling motorbike tour through the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, guided by a knowledgeable local. Savour three courses of classic Vietnamese street food, beginning with a steaming bowl of traditional noodles, followed by a bánh mì, and concluding with a fried rice flour cake – served with fresh juice or a smoothie. Finish at HỢP Sky Bar, a stylish rooftop venue offering panoramic views of the city’s dazzling lights, where you’ll enjoy a drink and a snack.Enhance Your Journey – Hoi An SenseIndulge in the authentic specialties of Hoi An in a unique culinary setting, complete with Vietnamese music and warm hospitality.Enhance Your Journey – Propaganda Vietnamese BistroOffering traditional Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist, this bistro draws inspiration from the theme of 'propaganda', enchanting guests with its lively ambience and striking hand-painted murals.

Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City

Today, discover Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace or choose from one of our select experience options. This evening, gather for a sumptuous Farewell Dinner.Enhance Your Journey – Ho Chi Minh City by FootExplore the bustling city on this walking tour, passing the Saigon Opera House, People’s Committee Building, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Central Post Office.Enhance Your Journey – History of SaigonDelve deeper into Ho Chi Minh City’s turbulent history. Start at the Reunification Palace, visit the War Remnants Museum and see the Burning Monk Memorial.Enhance Your Journey – Shopping Tour by CoachSeek out the city's boutiques as only a local knows and discover locally made items such as clothing, souvenirs and jewellery. 

Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City

Your journey ends after breakfast today with a transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your onward flight.

Overview

Immerse yourself in local life and culture as you embark on a seven-night cruise along the Mekong River, discovering the remote villages that line its banks. This journey is bookended by two-night stays in Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City, offering the chance to witness sunrise at Angkor Wat and explore the Cu Chi tunnels.

Suite

Mekong Suite

Elevate your cruise to new heights with a stay in one of the ship’s two Mekong Suites. At 58 square metres, the magnificent suites include all the amenities of the other suites, while additionally boasting a large outdoor terrace, entertainment area, king bed, two en suites and a whirlpool spa bath.

Category: Mekong | Deck: Sadec | Cabin Size: 624 sq. ft./58 sq. m.

Suite

Sadec Suite

Nestled in a prime location on the Upper Deck, the Sadec Twin Balcony Suites offer the same amenities of Deluxe Twin Balcony Suites with an even larger living space, plus an en suite featuring a spa bath.

Category: Sadec | Deck: Sadec | Cabin Size: 290 sq. ft./26.9 sq. m.

Suite

Deluxe Twin Balcony Suite

The RV Lotus’ Deluxe Twin Balcony Suites feature both indoor and outdoor balconies to savour unobstructed, sweeping views from the privacy of your suite, plus premium amenities including a mini bar, desk, wardrobe, flatscreen TV, climate control and an en suite with a shower.

Category: A, B+, B & C | Deck: Tonle & Saigon | Cabin Size: 226 sq. ft./21 sq. m.

international

Mekong Restaurant

The air-conditioned Mekong Restaurant offers the chance to indulge in local and international dishes expertly prepared by your chef, including traditional Vietnamese noodles as well as grilled chicken or pasta alfredo.

Sun Deck

Sun Deck

After a busy day of sightseeing, head out to the Sun Deck, where a large outdoor swimming pool and reclining lounges offer the perfect place to relax. Order a cool drink from the bar and savour it while looking out at the passing scenery along the Mekong.

Lounge

Saigon Lounge

Escape to the air-conditioned Saigon Lounge & Bar, a great place to while away your onboard leisure time. Order a drink, sit back and enjoy a selection of books, games and DVDs available for everyone.

Activity

Onboard Entertainment

There’s never a dull moment aboard. Attend lectures by local guides on Cambodian and Vietnamese culture and history. Watch a fruit-carving demonstration by the ship’s executive chef. Experience an evening of Khmer folk song and dance.

Spa

Spa

If you’re looking to pamper yourself during your Mekong River cruise, you don’t need to go very far. The RV Lotus (formerly RV Apsara) features an onboard spa, where you can unwind after a long day of exploring with a relaxing treatment.