At a Glance
Embark on a cultural odyssey along the Mekong River on this luxury, 5-day river cruise through Cambodia from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh. Relax and unwind on board the 5-star Aqua Mekong cruise ship and experience authentic Mekong culture, mouth-watering cuisine and breathtaking scenery including local fishing villages, a stunning bird sanctuary and the hustle and bustle of Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh.
Departing from Siem Reap, set sail along the iconic Mekong River, the lifeblood of South East Asia. Explore local fishing villages and immerse yourself in traditional practices including fishing, cooking, pottery making, silversmithing and silk weaving. Journey to the UNESCO-protected Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia, and discover hundreds of rare plants and animals including immense storks and pelicans. Take part in a traditional ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 4 nights on board the luxurious Aqua Mekong cruise ship in a non-balcony, first deck Design Suite (balcony and interconnecting suites available at extra cost)
- All meals while onboard
- Premium selected wines and beer, non-alcoholic drinks
- Excursions with knowledgeable local guides
- Group transfers between vessel and meeting point
- Laundry
Itinerary
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Departing from Siem Reap, start your Cambodian adventure with a 45 minutes countryside journey in an air-conditioned coach to the UNESCO-protected Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia. Here, you will find more than 300 species of fish, snakes, crocodiles, tortoises, turtles and otters along with more than 100 species of water birds including storks and pelicans. Upon arrival at the Lake, the crew warmly welcome you aboard the Aqua Mekong with special refreshers including salted watermelon crush with Thai basil. Settle into your luxurious river-facing suite and take time to explore your home away from home. Sip a cocktail in the outdoor and indoor lounges and bars. Splash around in the outdoor jacuzzi plunge pool. Rejuvenate your mind, body and soul in the spa. Immerse yourself in the finest literature about the region or play a game of foosball in the library and games room. Or, simply look out over the glorious Mekong River and get acquainted with the lifeblood of South East Asia. In the evening, celebrate the journey towards the heart of the Mekong River with the Khmer Apsara dance performance, a famous centuries-old tradition that is immortalised on the temple walls of the iconic Angkor Wat. For dinner, enjoy communal style dining authentic to the region’s traditions. |
Aqua Mekong
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Delve deeper into Tonle Sap Lake and uncover vast wetlands and remote stilt communities. On board a skiff, visit the Prek Toal Core Bird Reserve, one of the last refuges in South East Asia for large waterbirds including the colossal lesser and greater adjutant storks, the milky stork and the spot-billed pelican. Even the uninitiated will be impressed, as these birds have a massive wingspan and build equally impressive nests. In the afternoon, visit Moat Khla, another remote floating village where you will take part in a traditional Buddhist blessing ceremony that will leave you feeling at one with this beautiful country. For dinner, unwind back onboard before enjoying another communal style dining authentic to the region’s traditions. |
Aqua MekongBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Begin today exploring remote villages surrounding the Tonle Sap Lake, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Immerse yourself in the local way of life in Chhnok Tru, a remote floating village where everything from the school, pagodas, the police station to the karaoke bar is balanced above the water. Here, you will visit a fascinating ice factory that contains ice bricks large enough to build an igloo – a refreshing treat in scorching summer heat! In the afternoon, journey to Kampong Chhnang, an easy-going river port. Here, you will meet traditional potters and palm sugar producers who will show you age-old craftsmanship and techniques dating back to 6th century that are still highly relevant and valuable today. For dinner, retreat back to the ship and enjoy communal style dining authentic to the region’s traditions. |
Aqua MekongBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Start your day with a visit to Koh Chen, an island of traditional arts and crafts. When approaching the island by skiff, the first notable sight you will see is a big sitting Buddha in front of a grand yellow tile temple. In the village proper, meet local artisans specialising in clay and magnificent royal Khmer silverware. Keep an eye out for their famous silver bowls, often chosen by Cambodia’s king as gifts for visiting dignitaries. In the afternoon, venture to Koh Oknha Tey, the Mekong’s ‘Silk Island’ where Khmer artisans showcase a traditional method of silk making. Here, you can wander among the looms and admire the silk making process from dyeing and weaving to beautiful, shimmering krama: silk scarfs beloved by locals that date back to the Angkor period. A biking option is also available for those who wish to explore deeper into the island. Come evening, unwind onboard and enjoy communal style dining authentic to the region’s traditions. |
Aqua MekongBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Cap off your adventure with a chauffeured tuk tuk tour of Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh. Marvel at the magnificent Royal Palace, the stunning Silver Pagoda and the National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. Pay your respects at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, the site of a former secondary school that was used as Security Prison 21 (S-21) by the Khmer Rouge during the Cambodian Genocide from 1975 to 1979. Or visit the Russian Market, the hippest neighbourhood in the city, bursting with boutique bars, unique eateries and countless knickknacks and souvenirs. In the afternoon, disembark the vessel in Phnom Penh to commence your onward journey. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
NoneBreakfast, LunchAccommodation
Dates & Prices
The price is based on suites located on the First Deck. Upgrade to the suites located on the Second Deck is available at an additional cost. Please contact us for available suites and prices.
To book one of the four sets of interconnecting suites, please contact us.
Please contact us for group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request and additional charges apply. Promo prices are only applicable to certain selected cabins and subject to availability at time of booking. Normal price shall apply if the promo cabins are sold out. The price is based on cabins located on the First Deck.
More Info
- The departure point is Siem Reap
- The finish point is Phnom Penh
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Siem Reap. The closest major airport is Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport and is 11 km from the center of Siem Reap.
The Lower Mekong River Basin is classified as tropical monsoonal and is almost always hot and often humid. In the warmest months of March to April, average temperatures range from 30°C to 38°C. Cooler temperatures prevail from November to February.
The Aqua Mekong operates a number of other itineraries ranging from 3 to 7 days, departing from Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City. All itineraries are subject to change, due to weather and other conditions.
- 20 luxurious 322 sq. ft (30 sq m) design suites, four 644 sq. ft (60 sq. m) interconnecting suites, inclusive of ensuite bathrooms
- Deluxe ensuite bathrooms with dual sinks, a spacious walk-in shower, and an overhead rain-shower
- Equipped with pampering organic natural hair and bath amenities
- Premium California-King-sized beds, twin bed configuration available
- Floor-to-ceiling panoramic view for all suites
- Patio doors for balconied suites and French windows for non-balconied suites, all fully openable
- Large double closets with chest of drawers and electronic safe
- Music docking station
- Professional hairdryer
- Nespresso machines available in all suites
- All suites are fully air-conditioned
- 8 balcony suites can each accommodate a maximum of two guests.
- 2 non-balcony suites can each accommodate a maximum of three guests (interior sofas can be combined to form a bed), with a maximum cap of 43 guests on board the vessel.
- All individual suites measure 322 square feet (30 sq m), inclusive of ensuite bathroom and closet space.
- 8 out of our 20 individual Design Suites on board the Aqua Mekong can be combined into four interconnecting suites via a sliding door. Each interconnecting suite can accommodate up to five guests and consists of one balconied and one non-balconied suite.
- For the ultimate romantic cruise, our interconnecting suites offer the luxury of having one suite configured as a living room, while the other as the master bedroom with our sumptuous California King bed. Enjoy his-and-hers baths and the magnificent grandeur of a 644 square foot (60 sq m) residence on the Mekong.
Observation Deck: is the highest vantage point aboard the ship and the ideal place to observe life on the river and riverbanks. It is also the perfect spot for photography, yoga or meditation.
Outdoor Lounge & Bar: admire the view with a cocktail or two or sit bar side and mingle amongst other guests with plenty of shade offered. In the evenings, engage in stargazing, outdoor cinema screenings, or endless conversations as the river settles into a soothing peace and quiet.
Indoor Lounge & Bar: is the focal point for social activities on the top deck. Complete with luxurious lounge sofas and air-conditioning.
Dining Room: stylishly adorned with contemporary Asian artifacts, fine china and crystal glassware while delivering 5-star dining experience with a celebrated on-board menu by Michelin-starred chef David Thompson.
Private Screening Room: organize a private screening for up to ten guests here or on the Observation Deck. Also functions for private lecture, videos and documentaries to learn about the fascinating cultures on your Mekong River journey.
Outdoor Pool: located at the bow of the Aqua Mekong, it is well shielded from the elements with a canopy and is a commanding position to soak in Mekong’s majestic panoramic vista. 3.5 by 5.17 metres and 1 metre deep.
Gym: faces out to the Mekong River with full-height windows. The gym is also comprehensively equipped with the essential machines and free weights.
Spa: indulge in therapeutic relaxation with a body massage. Both single and couple spa suites are available.
Library & Games Room: Immerse in the finest literature about the region or play a game of foosball. An ideal place for quiet contemplation.
Boutique: showcases the best artistry the Mekong region. This is the ideal place to take home souvenirs and memorabilia of superb quality.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. The tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
