Luxury Mekong and Temple Discovery Cruise
About This Cruise
Who Is This Cruise For?
Adults only
Scenic Spirit is an adults-only ship
Couples
An adults-only atmosphere made for two
Over 50s
A gentle pace with daily excursions and no sea days
Type
River, Luxury
Ship
Scenic Spirit
Departure Date
12 January 2028
Cruise Line
Scenic
Duration
8 Nights
Select Your Cabin Type
Call Us at 01 6874149Itinerary
Cambodia
Siem Reap
Welcome to Cambodia and the regional city of Siem Reap where ancient and contemporary worlds exist side by side.Check in to the Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, a legendary address that has defined Siem Reap’s sense of colonial grandeur since the 1930s. French-inspired architecture, richly appointed interiors and service of the highest standard make this a true highlight of the journey. The remainder of the day is yours to settle in and explore the surrounds.
Cambodia
Siem Reap
Your Siem Reap exploration starts with a delicious champagne buffet breakfast at the hotel.Scenic Freechoice: Enjoy a range of Scenic Freechoice activities. The 10th-century Banteay Srei Temple, referred to as the Ladies Temple for its rose-pink sandstone and dedication to the Hindu god Shiva, is one of the most intricately carved structures in the Angkor region, best paired with a visit to the Landmine Museum, which has been working since 1997 to clear Cambodia’s countryside of unexploded ordnance.Other options include a visit to the Senteurs d’Angkor workshop, where skilled artisans produce soaps, balms, candles and spices by hand using traditional methods, with guests invited to try their hand at each workstation.A village walk through Ta Brak offers a quieter, more personal perspective on daily life in the region.Those drawn to the water may join a cruise on Tonle Sap (available July to February), a vast inland biosphere reserve where entire communities live on floating platforms.Alternatively, a behind the scenes tour of the Angkor Wildlife Aquarium offers insight into the Mekong’s ecosystem, including feeding sessions and close encounters with resident species.For a different vantage point entirely, a tethered balloon flight reveals the full scale of the Angkor landscape, with the temples visible below as you rise above the canopy.This afternoon, visit Angkor Wat itself as the softer afternoon light plays across its towers and galleries, creating ideal conditions to take in this extraordinary site. This evening, your VIP reserved seats await at the Phare Circus, where Cambodian performers weave storytelling, music and acrobatics into a show of genuine artistry.
Cambodia
Siem Reap
Scenic EnrichAn early start brings its own reward this morning. Arrive at Angkor Wat before the crowds to witness the sunrise reflecting across the temple’s moat, a sight of rare and lasting beauty. Afterwards, gather at a private location near a temple for a champagne breakfast, with food thoughtfully prepared by a Scenic-supported NGO bakery school.The morning continues with a visit to the jungle-enveloped Ta Prohm Temple, where tree roots have slowly claimed the ancient stonework over centuries, before moving on to Angkor Thom and the remarkable Bayon Temple, its dozens of carved stone faces gazing out in every direction. The afternoon is yours to rest or revisit the markets after an early start.Scenic EnrichAs evening falls, your Tour Director and the Scenic team escort you into one of the most exclusive experiences of the entire journey. A private gala dinner awaits within the grounds of Prasat Kravan, a small but deeply atmospheric 10th-century temple of five reddish brick towers. Apsara dancers perform by candlelight as complimentary drinks flow freely, an evening that belongs entirely to Scenic guests.
Cambodia
Siem Reap
This morning, depart Siem Reap for the journey to Kampong Cham, passing through the Cambodian countryside and calling at the ancient Khmer bridge at Kampong Kdei and Kampong Thom, with a stop at a traditional stone cutters village along the way.In Kampong Cham, the Scenic Spirit awaits, your five-star floating home for the Mekong River cruise ahead. A welcome cocktail reception hosted by your Cruise Director marks the start of life on board. Take time to familiarise yourself with the ship’s beautifully appointed spaces, then settle into your private balcony suite knowing your dedicated butler is on hand whenever needed, day or night.
Cambodia
Wat Hanchey
Rise as the Scenic Spirit approaches Wat Hanchey, an ancient hilltop pagoda and monastery perched above the Mekong. Step ashore to learn about monastic life from those who live it, then take in the sweeping views across the river and surrounding countryside before cruising back to Kampong Cham.Scenic Freechoice: This afternoon, choose your Scenic Freechoice experience. Join a guided visit to Phnom Pros, a mountaintop pagoda steeped in local legend and, more recently, the site of a Khmer Rouge killing field, a visit that carries both history and quiet reflection. Continue to Wat Nokor Bachey, a fascinating architectural layering of Angkorian era stonework and a working modern temple built within.Alternatively, take a drive through Kampong Cham’s colonial era shop houses to a French-established rubber plantation, and on to a village known for its betel nut cultivation, an enduring part of Cambodian rural culture.For those seeking a more remote encounter, Kho Penh Village on Pen Island is accessible only by local remork across a bridge, offering a glimpse into a way of life unchanged by the pace of the wider world.Should you prefer a quieter afternoon, your butler is delighted to arrange dinner served privately in your suite or on your balcony as the Scenic Spirit makes her way toward Angkor Ban beneath the Cambodian sky.
Cambodia
Angkor Ban
Arrive in the riverside settlement of Angkor Ban, where wooden houses more than a century old stand as quiet survivors of the Khmer Rouge era. Explore their history with a local guide before visiting a nearby Buddhist pagoda.Scenic EnrichReceive a traditional blessing from a resident monk, learn how to offer prayers within the pagoda, and participate in an alms ceremony, a contribution to the daily sustenance of the monks and a deeply respectful cultural exchange.Re-board the Scenic Spirit for lunch before cruising to the island of Oknha Tey, known locally as Silk Island and dedicated to the ancient art of silk weaving. A tuk tuk ride to the farm reveals the full process from silkworm to loom.Back on board, learn the many ways to drape and wear the krama, the traditional Cambodian scarf. The wellness centre and beauty salon are available for those seeking some quiet restoration, and complimentary laundry facilities are on hand ahead of a Scenic Sundowners cocktail reception on the Sun Deck as the Scenic Spirit approaches the illuminated skyline of Phnom Penh. This evening, a cultural performance by the Cambodian Student and Children’s Organisation provides a warm and uplifting close to the day.
Cambodia
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh holds its history with dignity, and this morning’s Scenic Freechoice invites you to engage with it meaningfully.Scenic Freechoice: Visit the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former school and later a prison during the Khmer Rouge regime, for a moving and essential account of Cambodia’s most turbulent period and the resilience of its people.Alternatively, a hands-on Cambodian cooking class begins at the city’s bustling market, selecting ingredients with a local chef before preparing and sharing a lunch of traditional flavours.Those wishing to take in the city’s fabric at street level may choose a remork tour through Phnom Penh’s French colonial quarter, finishing at the Art Deco Central Market, a striking building with a bright yellow façade and a labyrinth of stalls within.Return to the Scenic Spirit for lunch, with the afternoon at leisure. This evening, a Scenic Sundowners experience takes you out after dark for a city lights tour of Phnom Penh, with a private visit and tasting at a local rum distillery as the centrepiece.
Cambodia
Phnom Penh
Begin the morning with an included visit to Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda within. Set magnificently on the riverfront, this gilded complex has served as the official royal residence since the 1860s and remains one of Cambodia’s most impressive landmarks. Return to the Scenic Spirit and set course for the Vietnamese border.The afternoon passage invites you to settle into the rhythm of river life. The Scenic Spirit library is a peaceful retreat, the lounge a convivial space for conversation over a glass of wine, and the pool a welcome respite from the warmth of the afternoon. As the ship clears immigration into Vietnam, the evening takes an unexpected turn — a festive themed dinner on the Sun Deck, complete with a lion dance performed by local artists as the Mekong carries you deeper into Vietnam.
Vietnam
Tân Châu
Start the morning as you see fit, a session in the on-board gym, an early Tai Chi class or a quieter start in the sauna, before heading ashore to discover the character of Tan Chau.Scenic Freechoice: Three Scenic Freechoice options open the region from different angles. At Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, a sampan glides through 850 hectares of protected wetland, flanked by mangroves and waterways that are home to more than 100 species of waterbirds.On Evergreen Island, join local farmers for a morning of genuine discovery, then ride through the town in a xe loi, a three-wheeled bicycle rickshaw with roots in 19th-century French Indochina, before visiting the brightly hued Cao Dai Temple, a place of worship that draws on Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism and Confucianism in equal measure.Alternatively, take a speedboat to Chau Doc to visit Tay An Temple at the foot of Sam Mountain, its Indian and Islamic architectural influences making it a striking and singular sight, before a sampan journey along Vinh Te Canal for a riverfront perspective of the city.Back on board, the pool and a fresh cocktail offer a fitting close to the first full day in Vietnam as the Scenic Spirit sets course for Sa Dec.
Vietnam
Sa Déc
Arrive in Sa Dec and step into one of the Mekong Delta’s most atmospheric wet markets by sampan, a two-hour immersion into local trade where the morning wares range from fresh produce to live fish, frogs and snakes. Along the way, pass the ornate home of Mr Huynh Thuy Le, the Chinese merchant whose love affair with a young French woman inspired Marguerite Duras’ celebrated novel L’Amant. Return to the Scenic Spirit for lunch as the ship moves downstream toward Cai Be.Scenic Freechoice: This afternoon, your choice of Scenic Freechoice shapes the rest of the day. A sampan journey to Tan Phong Island reveals a patchwork of tropical fruit orchards across more than 1,000 lush hectares, with stops at a water hyacinth weaving workshop and a motorised buggy ride through the groves, before discovering the cottage industries of Cai Be where families handcraft rice paper and coconut-based sweets using generations-old methods.Alternatively, drift by sampan to Le Longanier, a gracious French colonial restaurant set among mature trees, for a relaxed afternoon tea accompanied by live traditional music.Those who prefer to stay on board are warmly welcomed to a cocktail and mocktail making class with the Scenic Spirit’s bar team, using the freshest local ingredients.As the sun lowers over the delta, settle in to watch the ever-changing life of the Mekong River from the deck.
Vietnam
My Tho
Departing My Tho, the Scenic Spirit enters the Cho Gao Canal, one of Vietnam’s most significant arterial waterways connecting Tien Giang Province with Ho Chi Minh City. Spend the day on board watching the extraordinary volume of commercial traffic navigating this vital channel, with upwards of 1,800 vessels passing through each day. Cargo barges, fishing boats and local craft create a constantly shifting tableau of river life.As the afternoon unfolds, find your preferred spot on deck, in the library or the cool of the lounge as the Scenic Spirit makes her way toward the city. By evening, the glow of Ho Chi Minh City appears along the riverbank. Due to Vietnamese customs regulations, guests remain on board tonight, but the view from the deck is a compelling one. Gather with your fellow guests and the crew for a farewell dinner, sharing stories that have accumulated over a remarkable cruise.
Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City
Bid a fond farewell to the Scenic Spirit and its crew this morning before transferring to the airport and farewelling Vietnam. Depart with memories that will remain long after the journey ends.Rivers and waterways are subject to variations in water levels. While every effort is made to adhere to the planned itinerary, changes in river conditions, local government regulations or local festivities may require journey modifications. These will be made based on the advice of local authorities or for safety reasons. Hotels are indicative and subject to change.Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.
Suite
Royal Panorama Suite
Your rejuvenating retreat
These indulgent, spacious suites redefine industry standards and feature a private terrace, where you can unwind in your outdoor Jacuzzi and take in 180° views. Enjoy a range of exclusive inclusions while staying in your Royal Panorama Suite, from private transfers to in-suite breakfast, and hotel privileges when on your combined land journey.
Suite Features
At a generous 80sqm, these suites feature a private terrace with an outdoor Jacuzzi, day bed and amazing 180° views from the bow of the ship.
Suite Highlights
- A Queen-size Scenic Slumber Bed with a pillow menu
- Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
- Separate lounge area
- Walk-in wardrobe
- Oversized bathroom with bath
Amenities & Features
- Club Floor privileges at the Caravelle Saigon and Landmark rooms at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap
- Private transfers
- A bottle of Champagne on boarding
- Invitation to Chef’s table whilst on board
- A US$100 per couple on board Wellness Centre credit
- Unlimited complimentary laundry services
- Butler service with valet, shoeshine and drinks service and morning tea and coffee
- Cocktails arranged in the lounge of your suite
- In-suite breakfast
- Plush bathrobes
- Nightly turndown service
Suite
Grand Deluxe Suite
Discover our Grand Deluxe Suites
With luxury furnishings and a stylish lounge area to unwind in, your Grand Deluxe Suite will be your home away from home. Enjoy the captivating Mekong views from your Scenic Sun Lounge and the range of exclusive inclusions, from delicious pre-dinner canapes to hotel privileges when on your combined land journey.
Suite Features
Our Grand Deluxe Suites are a spacious 40sqm and include Diamond Deck benefits.
Suite Highlights
- A queen-size Scenic Slumber Bed with a pillow menu
- Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
- Separate lounge area
- Walk-in wardrobe
- Spacious bathroom
Amenities & Features
- Butler service with valet, shoeshine and drinks service and morning tea and coffee
- Club Floor privileges at the Caravelle Saigon and Landmark rooms at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap.
- Complimentary laundry service for two garments pressed daily
- Fresh fruit delivered to your suite
- Canapes before dinner and petit fours after dinner
- Cocktails arranged in the lounge of your suite
- Plush bathrobes
- Nightly turndown service.
Suite
Deluxe Suite
Your spacious hideaway
The most spacious lead-in suites available on the Mekong River, these beautiful suites offer you a separate bedroom and lounge area to relax in. Enjoy dining, reading and taking in the passing views from your Scenic Sun Lounge, and a butler service to ensure every detail is taken care of.
Suite Features
At 32sqm these Deluxe Suites are the most spacious lead-in suites on the Mekong River.
Suite Highlights
- Queen-size Scenic Slumber Bed with a pillow menu
- Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
- Separate bedroom and lounge area
- Spacious bathroom
Amenities & Features
- Butler service with valet, shoeshine and drinks service and morning tea/coffee
- Cocktails arranged in the lounge of your suite
- Plush bathrobes
- Nightly turndown service
Exclusively for guests staying on the Diamond Deck:
- In-suite breakfast
- Complimentary laundry service for two garments pressed daily.
casual
Crystal Dining
Enjoy à la carte menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner at Crystal Dining. Available on all Europe and South East Asia river cruises, this main restaurant offers a relaxed dining experience with local delicacies.
casual
River Cafe
Offering a casual dining experience, you can enjoy all-day grazing options, light snacks and tasty treats to suit your schedule. The River Café is available on all Europe and South East Asia river cruises.
room
In-Suite Dining
Choose to dine in the comfort of your luxurious suite, while taking in the incredible views and enjoy included room service throughout your cruise.
asian
Chef’s Table Dining
Take a culinary journey through South East Asia when dining at Chef’s Table. Exclusively for Diamond Deck guests, this experience offers an enticing 10-course degustation dinner with matched wines for up to 10 guests, and is available on our South East Asia river cruises.
Bar, Lounge
Spirit Lounge
Enjoy a glass of your favourite wine, beer or spirit amid elegant and contemporary surroundings in the Spirit Lounge. This is the main bar area on board the Scenic Spirit, a place to relax and catch-up with new-found friends during your downtime on board.
Cinema, Sun Deck
Sun Deck and Open Air Cinema
The Sun Deck is an open-air space at the top of the Scenic Spirit, where you can drink in wonderful views and relax on one of the comfortable sun loungers. Take in a classic film or new release in Scenic Spirit’s state-of-the-art open-air cinema. With screenings available on select evenings during your river cruise, you can take in a film beneath the stars as your ship makes its way towards its next destination.
Pool Deck
Swimming Pool & Bar
Take a dip in Scenic Spirit’s sleek swimming pool, which is available for your bathing pleasure on the Sun Deck. Providing the ideal place to relax and unwind after a shore excursion, our contemporary pool and bathing area is the perfect way to cool off during your Mekong river cruise. Make the most of our generous all-inclusive drinks offering at the poolside bar, where you can indulge in a range of alcoholic drinks and hot and cold beverages throughout your Mekong river journey. Steps from the pool, it’s a fabulous way to refresh and unwind.
Reception
Spirit Reception
Whatever you need throughout your Mekong river cruise, our welcoming reception team are here to help.
Lounge
Spirit Outdoor Lounge
Relax and indulge in a little of what you fancy at our outdoor lounge, where you can enjoy a range of all-inclusive drinks and light meals. With fine views of the river, this is alfresco living at its best.
Library
Library
Take a book from the shelf and relax in Scenic Spirit’s on-board library. With plenty of novels and non-fiction works to choose from, your downtime lounging by the pool or relaxing in your suite guarantees total relaxation and enjoyment.
Spa, Wellness
Wellness Areas
Begin your day by taking a refreshing dip in the Vitality Pool, or with morning exercise or Tai Chi on the Sun Deck on board Scenic Spirit. Let our wellness experts guide you through mindful meditation or unwind and detox in the steam sauna.
Gym
Gym
The gym on board Scenic Spirit is equipped to help with your exercise routine while cruising. Enjoy the use of the bikes, treadmills, cross trainers, free weights and resistance training equipment.
Spa
Spa Treatments
The wonderfully relaxing spa in the Wellness Centre will iron out your travel weariness with a wide range of treatments curated to meet your needs. Try a deep tissue traditional Khmer massage or foot reflexology and let our expert wellness staff look after you.