Grand Tour of Indochina

5.0/5 Based on 4 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor

Grand Tour of Indochina

5.0/5 Based on 4 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
Grand Tour of Indochina
Grand Tour of Indochina
Grand Tour of Indochina
Fully Guided Locally Guided Coach River Cruise
Our Price From
US$9,621
Save $7,266pp
Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
24 Days
 Cruise Starts
Hanoi
 Cruise Finishes
Bangkok
24 Day Grand Tour of Indochina Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand
 Cruise Length
24 Days
 Cruise Starts
Hanoi
 Cruise Finishes
Bangkok
24 Day Grand Tour of Indochina Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand
Ship
Departures
Passengers
84
Crew
40
Launched
2019
Cruise Code
EWUL-1
Ship
Departures
Passengers
84
Crew
40
Launched
2019
Cruise Code
EWUL-1

Overview

From Hanoi to Bangkok, immerse yourself in the cultural heritage, ancient treasures and mesmerising beauty of the Indochina region, as you journey through the heart of Southeast Asia by land, bay and river. Your unforgettable 24-day journey begins in Vietnam’s ancient capital Hanoi, enchanting with its legend-strewn lakes, historic Old Quarter and northern cultural heritage. While in Northern Vietnam, you’ll also enjoy an amazing three-day cruise through World Heritage-listed Halong Bay. Glide past limestone karsts rising from emerald-hued waters to the more serene parts of this spectacular read more ‘Bay of Descending Dragons’ and discover mythical caves and traditional fishing villages.





Along Vietnam’s Central Coast, visit World Heritage-listed Hoi An, one of Southeast Asia’s oldest towns and a Silk Road trading port and Hue, the former Imperial Capital and seat of the Nguyen emperors. From citadels to royal cuisine, delve deep into this region’s rich history and culture.





From dynamic Ho Chi Minh City, embark on an eight-day cruise along the Mekong River, on board your luxury Emerald Star-Ship. Cruise one of the world’s greatest waterways and through the Mekong Delta’s lush, pastoral landscapes and timeless rural communities. Explore slender canals by sampan and immerse yourself in the ‘Delta’s authentic riverine life. Arrive in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s vibrant capital and ‘Pearl of Asia’ to discover compelling legacies of momentous history. Receive a traditional Buddhist monk blessing in Oudong, before travelling to Siem Reap, where the stupendous collection of ancient Khmer temples, including Angkor Wat, await.

Witness monks receiving alms at dawn and ornate golden temples amid the Old Town in Luang Prabang, the former royal seat of Laos, before flying to the exciting Thai capital, Bangkok, where your extraordinary Indochina journey concludes.
From Hanoi to Bangkok, immerse yourself in the cultural heritage, ancient treasures and mesmerising beauty of the Indochina region, as you journey through the heart of Southeast Asia by land, bay and river. Your unforgettable 24-day journey begins in Vietnam’s ancient capital Hanoi, enchanting with its legend-strewn lakes, historic Old Quarter and northern cultural heritage. While in Northern Vietnam, you’ll also enjoy an amazing three-day cruise through World Heritage-listed Halong Bay. Glide past limestone karsts rising from emerald-hued waters to the more serene parts of this spectacular read more ‘Bay of Descending Dragons’ and discover mythical caves and traditional fishing villages.





Along Vietnam’s Central Coast, visit World Heritage-listed Hoi An, one of Southeast Asia’s oldest towns and a Silk Road trading port and Hue, the former Imperial Capital and seat of the Nguyen emperors. From citadels to royal cuisine, delve deep into this region’s rich history and culture.





From dynamic Ho Chi Minh City, embark on an eight-day cruise along the Mekong River, on board your luxury Emerald Star-Ship. Cruise one of the world’s greatest waterways and through the Mekong Delta’s lush, pastoral landscapes and timeless rural communities. Explore slender canals by sampan and immerse yourself in the ‘Delta’s authentic riverine life. Arrive in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s vibrant capital and ‘Pearl of Asia’ to discover compelling legacies of momentous history. Receive a traditional Buddhist monk blessing in Oudong, before travelling to Siem Reap, where the stupendous collection of ancient Khmer temples, including Angkor Wat, await.

Witness monks receiving alms at dawn and ornate golden temples amid the Old Town in Luang Prabang, the former royal seat of Laos, before flying to the exciting Thai capital, Bangkok, where your extraordinary Indochina journey concludes.

Itinerary

Xin Chao and welcome to Hanoi. On arrival, you’ll be transferred to downtown Hanoi and your hotel for your included one-night stay. Relax at the hotel, explore the city, or wander Hanoi’s romantic West Lake. This evening, meet your tour director for your welcome briefing. (D)

This morning after breakfast, leave Hanoi and travel to Halong Bay where you will board your elegant Au Co cruise ship. Cruise through the bays and islets enjoying the stunning scenery of this magnificent region. Enjoy the tours offered on board, learn more about the main livelihood of the locals in the area or simply choose to relax. Towards the end of the day, the ship anchors for the night in the Trinh Nu area among the karst formations where dinner will be served on board. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion A two-night Halong Bay cruise on the elegant Au Co cruise ship

Today, continue sailing further into the region’s more untouched areas towards Lan Ha Bay. From a smaller boat, enjoy swimming on quiet beaches and kayaking in Ho Ba Ham Lake. Then visit Cua Van fishing village by rowing boat. After a full day’s exploration, you’ll return to your cruise ship and after dinner, try your hand at squid fishing. (B/L/D)

Enjoy the sunrise and breakfast. Then cruise through breathtaking rock formations and visit Sung Sot Cave, before arriving back at port for your transfer to Hanoi.

On arrival back in Hanoi, you’ll visit Hanoi’s Old Quarter also known as the ‘36 Streets’. This bustling area of narrow streets and alleys is home to literally thousands of small businesses and shopkeepers. It's a great place to explore with plenty of photo opportunities. Visit Hang Be Market, also located in the Old Quarter, before enjoying a walk around Hoàn Kiem Lake located in central Hanoi. Here walk across the red bridge to Ngoc Son Temple located on the Jade Islet within the lake. Later, enjoy a traditional water puppet show, a unique North Vietnamese art form depicting scenes from rural life and episodes of historical significance. As part of EmeraldPLUS, you'll enjoy dinner at KOTO (Know One Teach One), a unique restaurant set up to train and educate disadvantaged children. (B/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS Dinner at KOTO Restaurant
  • Included Excursion Visit Hanoi’s Old Quarter
  • Included Excursion A traditional water puppet show

Begin your morning city tour and learn about ‘Uncle Ho’, Ho Chi Minh, regarded as the father of modern Vietnam. Admire the exterior of his imposing mausoleum, before continuing to the Ho Chi Minh Quarter to glimpse his humble stilt house and the small but iconic One Pillar Pagoda. Then explore the nearby Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university established to educate Vietnam’s royalty, mandarins and members of the elite. The university functioned for an incredible 700 years, and its charming gardens and well-preserved architecture offer a fascinating glimpse into the nation’s storied past.

Depart Hanoi and transfer to the airport for your included flight to Da Nang (Hoi An). Upon arrival in Hoi An, transfer to your resort for your included three-night stay. Tonight you can join a DiscoverMORE excursion. (B)

  • DiscoverMORE Hoi An Memories Show (extra expense)
  • Included Excursion Hanoi’s City Tour, including the Temple of Literature

Today, start with our EmeraldPLUS visit to the Reaching Out Project. Reaching Out is an NGO (non-governmental organisation) established in 2000, which provides opportunities for people with disabilities to learn skills and gain meaningful employment. Visit the workshop and get a glimpse of how this NGO helps them to integrate fully with their communities and lead independent and fulfilling lives. After, enjoy a walking tour of Hoi An and see the old merchant’s houses, the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall of the Chinese Congregation. Tonight, after a dinner menu sampling the local style street food, the evening is yours free to wander the historical lantern lit streets and their many shops or bars. (B/L)

  • EmeraldPLUS Reaching Out Project
  • Included Excursion A walking tour of Hoi An

Enjoy a day of leisure to explore Hoi An and its surroundings. Perhaps take the time to explore the Old Town and visit one of the many tailors Hoi An is known for, or take a cyclo (bicycle style rickshaw) to An Bang Beach. Alternatively venture out on one of our DiscoverMORE excursions. The choice is yours. (B)

  • DiscoverMORE My Son Historic Kingdom Tour (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Hoi An Rural Life (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Ba Na Hills & Golden Hands Bridge (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Thu Bon River Sunset Cruise (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Red Bridge Cooking Class (extra expense)

Leave Hoi An for Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. You will drive through Danang before crossing the H?i Vân Pass, known as the Ocean Clouds Pass before dropping down to the wonderfully photogenic fishing village of Lang Co. In Hue, you will visit the Imperial Citadel where the Nguyen Dynasty ruled between 1802 and 1945. Enjoy a relaxing cyclo (bicycle-style rickshaw) ride from Dai Noi ‘Old City’ to Tinh Tam Lake where the Emperors where the emperors used to go to relax. Then later, join a boat trip to visit Thien Mu Pagoda before checking into your hotel for the night. This evening, for your EmeraldPLUS experience, savour a traditional Vietnamese royal dinner menu. (B/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS A traditional Vietnamese royal dinner at a local restaurant
  • Included Excursion Cyclo ride from Dai Noi ‘Old City’ to Tinh Tam Lake
  • Included Excursion A visit to the Imperial Citadel
  • Included Excursion A boat tour on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda

Today, transfer to Hue airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. After checking into your hotel, you will be free to explore the city. (B)

Drive away from Ho Chi Minh City to Cu Chi Tunnels, watching the city skyline fade into the distance as the road winds through rice paddies, villages and scenes typical to southern Vietnam. Spend a couple of hours walking around Cu Chi’s rugged grounds with a local guide. Upon your return to Ho Chi Minh City, enjoy a Pho (noodle soup) lunch with the remainder of the afternoon and evening yours to enjoy at leisure or venture out on one of our DiscoverMORE excursions. (B/L)

  • Included Excursion Cu Chi Tunnels
  • DiscoverMORE An evening Saigon Street Food walking tour (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Saigon After Dark by Vintage Jeep (extra expense)

After checkout, enjoy a guided city tour, visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral, Opera House and Town Hall. Then, visit the Reunification Palace before transferring to the port where you will board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, Emerald Harmony. You’ll be welcomed on board by your captain and crew before setting sail down the Saigon River to Cho Gao canal where you will anchor for the night. This evening, enjoy your first dinner on board with your fellow travellers. Your Cruise Director will conduct a port talk to review the activities and itinerary for the days ahead. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion An orientation tour of Ho Chi Minh City

This morning, you’ll cruise through the bustling Cho Gao canal, one of the major arterial canals of Vietnam connecting Tien Giang Province in the Mekong Delta with Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll be fascinated watching the heavy commercial traffic navigate this important waterway, where upwards of 1,800 vessels transit each day.

Once on the Mekong River, this afternoon you’ll visit the Tan My Floating community followed by a ride through local plantations to visit a mushroom farm, a fruit farm with sampling and a honey farm with local sweets. Later, you’ll sail onwards to Sa Ðéc, a Mekong Delta hidden gem. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit the Thoi Binh hamlet and its farming and fishing communities, untouched by tourism

After a short sampan ride to Sa Ðéc, enjoy a walking tour with a visit to the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, who inspired Marguerite Duras’ celebrated novel, L’Amant, and the town’s bustling central market.

Return to Emerald Harmony by sampan, then sail on to My An Hung Island. Recognised as a cultural and historical destination, this small rural village specialises in cultivating red-hot chilli and peppers. As part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, listen to local folk singing during your visit. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS Listen to some local folk singing in My An Hung
  • Included Excursion A visit to the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le and the bustling Sa Dec Markets
  • Included Excursion A visit to My An Hung village

Known as ‘Mango Island,’ Cu Lao Gieng is a small, scenic island untouched by tourism, located along the upper Mekong River. Travel by local motorcycle rickshaw through the island’s villages to visit families who work in a variety of local industries including Mango farming, different types of boat building and a factory making incense sticks for temples.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure on board. As part of our EmeraldPLUS experience, you’ll delight in a traditional Lion Dance performance on board. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS A Lion Dance performance on board
  • Included Excursion See the local industries in Gieng Island

Embark on a sampan ride to Evergreen Island for a walk through a local village, giving you a glimpse into the lives of the local farming community. Reboard your sampan and return to Tan Chau and as part of our EmeraldPLUS experience, visit the local Cao Dai Temple. Cao Dai is a syncretic, monotheistic religion established in Tây Ninh, southern Vietnam, in 1926. At the temple, learn more about this fascinating and complex religion. Afterwards, ride in a Xe Loi (local form of cyclo) back to your sampan before returning to Emerald Harmony. Back on board your Star-Ship, you’ll sail to the border between Vietnam and Cambodia. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS A visit to a local Cao Dai Temple and Xe Loi ride, unique to the Mekong Delta
  • Included Excursion A visit to Evergreen Island

This morning, you’ll awake in Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh. Known as the ‘Pearl of Asia,’ the city was almost entirely evacuated by the Khmer Rouge in 1975. Today, you’ll learn about the Khmer Rouge and the darkest days of Cambodia’s history. A short drive will take you to the Killing Fields at Choeung Ek, where you’ll have the opportunity to stroll through the fields, visit the memorial and understand more about this country’s sombre chapter.

Afterwards, visit Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (also known as ‘S-21’), a former school converted to the Khmer Rouge’s main prison and torture HQ. Spend the afternoon as you please, either exploring our DiscoverMORE excursions, visiting the Central Market located in the heart of Phnom Penh, or simply relaxing on board Emerald Harmony.

This evening, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, enjoy a remork (local Tuk-Tuk) tour through Phnom Penh to admire the city lights. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS Phnom Penh by night on a remork (Tuk-Tuk) tour
  • Included Excursion Killing Fields at Choeung Ek and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
  • DiscoverMORE A silk farm tour at Koh Oknha Tei (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Craft Beer Adventure by remork (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Samai Distillery (extra expense)

Located north of Phnom Penh, Oudong was the former royal capital of Cambodia until it relocated to Phnom Penh in 1866. Start your day with a visit to the Oudong Monastery and Temples. Important remnants here include the burial sites of Khmer kings as well as religious artefacts dating back more than a century. In Oudong Monastery’s main temple, receive a traditional Buddhist blessing from the resident monks, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the majestic Royal Palace, with its French-inspired gardens and Silver Pagoda. Back on board, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, enjoy a cultural performance by the Cambodian Student and Children’s Organisation. Afterwards set sail, gliding past the illuminated Phnom Penh at night, to Rokar Koang, a small town located further up along the up the Mekong River. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS A traditional Buddhist Monk blessing
  • EmeraldPLUS Cultural Performance by the Cambodian Student and Children’s Organisation
  • Included Excursion A visit to the Royal Palace

Disembark Emerald Harmony in the morning and continue by road to Siem Reap for your included three-night stay. Stay at the beautiful Shinta Mani, a deluxe boutique property of world-class design that takes great care in honouring the environment and paying homage to the traditional and local aesthetics. This evening as part of your EmeraldPLUS programme, attend Phare, The Cambodian Circus, where a combination of acrobatics, music and dance tell a uniquely Cambodian story. Take advantage of our DiscoverMORE dinner at the circus to further support Phare’s work. (B/L)

  • EmeraldPLUS Phare Cambodian Circus performance.
  • DiscoverMORE Evening – Local Fare at Phare Circus (extra expense)

Today, start with a visit to Angkor Thom, not a single temple such as the historic sites it neighbours, but rather one of the most remarkable royal cities of the Angkor Period and an architectural wonder. As the last capital of the Khmer Empire, it was a fortified city, home to priests, officials of the palace, military and buildings for administering the kingdom. Afterwards, visit the sacred Temple of Ta Prohm. In an incredible standoff between human creation and nature, the jungle's root systems have reclaimed this spiritual location now enshrouded in wild vegetation. The backdrop to many Hollywood scenes, the incredible Ta Prohm is both a cinematic and contemplative location. This evening is free to visit ‘Pub Street’ or try a DiscoverMORE option. (B/L)

  • Included Excursion Visit to Angkor Thom
  • Included Excursion Visit to Ta Prohm Temple
  • DiscoverMORE Vespa tour of Siem Reap (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Evening – Gondola Boat ride at Banyon with drinks (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Evening - Cambodian Street Food Discovery Tour (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Evening – Local Fare at Phare Circus (extra expense)

Witness a mesmerising sunrise over Angkor Wat. Afterwards, walk through this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, renowned for its intricate carvings. This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore the town, or join a DiscoverMORE excursion. Later, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, enjoy an immersive evening and farewell dinner, accompanied by an Apsara dance performance. (B/D)

  • Included Excursion Sunrise visit to Angkor Wat
  • EmeraldPLUS Apsara dance performance and dinner show
  • DiscoverMORE Siem Reap Countryside by Vespa (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Banteay Srei Temple and APOPO (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Tonlé Sap and Lotus Workshop (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Khmer Cooking Class (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Senteurs d’Angkor Workshop (extra expense)

After a morning at leisure in Siem Reap, join your included flight to Luang Prabang and enjoy a three-night stay at your hotel, walking distance to the famous night markets. (B/D)

Discover key landmarks within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, including the exquisite, 16th century temple, Wat Xieng Thong and former Royal Palace, now converted into the National Museum. Later, enjoy a boat cruise along the Mekong River, stopping at a local village which specialises in traditional rice wine before continuing to the Pak Ou Caves, a sacred grotto crammed with thousands of multi-sized golden Buddhas. After returning to Luang Prabang, let the locals show you how to play Pétanque, also known as Petong in Laos. Tonight, enjoy your free time, perhaps shopping for souvenirs and sampling local cuisine at the vibrant night market. (B/L)

Rise early to witness the incredible sight of Buddhist monks move silently through the atmospheric streets as they collect alms. Later, travel to Kuang Si waterfalls, a set of picturesque, tiered falls and swimming holes set amongst the lush, dense jungle. This afternoon, join an Emerald DiscoverMORE excursion, before enjoying your Farewell Dinner with your fellow guests this evening. (B/L/D)

  • DiscoverMORE Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Centre – natural dyeing class (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Ban Chan (Laos Pottery House) – Pottery lesson (extra expense)

This morning after breakfast, bid farewell to Laos and transfer to the airport for your included flight to Thailand and its vibrant capital, Bangkok, where your extraordinary Indochina journey ends.

Please book your flight to depart out of Bangkok after 07:00 PM.

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, ad hoc 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 are subject to change. (B)

Xin Chao and welcome to Hanoi. On arrival, you’ll be transferred to downtown Hanoi and your hotel for your included one-night stay. Relax at the hotel, explore the city, or wander Hanoi’s romantic West Lake. This evening, meet your tour director for your welcome briefing. (D)

This morning after breakfast, leave Hanoi and travel to Halong Bay where you will board your elegant Au Co cruise ship. Cruise through the bays and islets enjoying the stunning scenery of this magnificent region. Enjoy the tours offered on board, learn more about the main livelihood of the locals in the area or simply choose to relax. Towards the end of the day, the ship anchors for the night in the Trinh Nu area among the karst formations where dinner will be served on board. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion A two-night Halong Bay cruise on the elegant Au Co cruise ship

Today, continue sailing further into the region’s more untouched areas towards Lan Ha Bay. From a smaller boat, enjoy swimming on quiet beaches and kayaking in Ho Ba Ham Lake. Then visit Cua Van fishing village by rowing boat. After a full day’s exploration, you’ll return to your cruise ship and after dinner, try your hand at squid fishing. (B/L/D)

Enjoy the sunrise and breakfast. Then cruise through breathtaking rock formations and visit Sung Sot Cave, before arriving back at port for your transfer to Hanoi.

On arrival back in Hanoi, you’ll visit Hanoi’s Old Quarter also known as the ‘36 Streets’. This bustling area of narrow streets and alleys is home to literally thousands of small businesses and shopkeepers. It's a great place to explore with plenty of photo opportunities. Visit Hang Be Market, also located in the Old Quarter, before enjoying a walk around Hoàn Kiem Lake located in central Hanoi. Here walk across the red bridge to Ngoc Son Temple located on the Jade Islet within the lake. Later, enjoy a traditional water puppet show, a unique North Vietnamese art form depicting scenes from rural life and episodes of historical significance. As part of EmeraldPLUS, you'll enjoy dinner at KOTO (Know One Teach One), a unique restaurant set up to train and educate disadvantaged children. (B/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS Dinner at KOTO Restaurant
  • Included Excursion Visit Hanoi’s Old Quarter
  • Included Excursion A traditional water puppet show

Begin your morning city tour and learn about ‘Uncle Ho’, Ho Chi Minh, regarded as the father of modern Vietnam. Admire the exterior of his imposing mausoleum, before continuing to the Ho Chi Minh Quarter to glimpse his humble stilt house and the small but iconic One Pillar Pagoda. Then explore the nearby Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university established to educate Vietnam’s royalty, mandarins and members of the elite. The university functioned for an incredible 700 years, and its charming gardens and well-preserved architecture offer a fascinating glimpse into the nation’s storied past.

Depart Hanoi and transfer to the airport for your included flight to Da Nang (Hoi An). Upon arrival in Hoi An, transfer to your resort for your included three-night stay. Tonight you can join a DiscoverMORE excursion. (B)

  • DiscoverMORE Hoi An Memories Show (extra expense)
  • Included Excursion Hanoi’s City Tour, including the Temple of Literature

Today, start with our EmeraldPLUS visit to the Reaching Out Project. Reaching Out is an NGO (non-governmental organisation) established in 2000, which provides opportunities for people with disabilities to learn skills and gain meaningful employment. Visit the workshop and get a glimpse of how this NGO helps them to integrate fully with their communities and lead independent and fulfilling lives. After, enjoy a walking tour of Hoi An and see the old merchant’s houses, the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall of the Chinese Congregation. Tonight, after a dinner menu sampling the local style street food, the evening is yours free to wander the historical lantern lit streets and their many shops or bars. (B/L)

  • EmeraldPLUS Reaching Out Project
  • Included Excursion A walking tour of Hoi An

Enjoy a day of leisure to explore Hoi An and its surroundings. Perhaps take the time to explore the Old Town and visit one of the many tailors Hoi An is known for, or take a cyclo (bicycle style rickshaw) to An Bang Beach. Alternatively venture out on one of our DiscoverMORE excursions. The choice is yours. (B)

  • DiscoverMORE My Son Historic Kingdom Tour (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Hoi An Rural Life (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Ba Na Hills & Golden Hands Bridge (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Thu Bon River Sunset Cruise (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Red Bridge Cooking Class (extra expense)

Leave Hoi An for Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. You will drive through Danang before crossing the H?i Vân Pass, known as the Ocean Clouds Pass before dropping down to the wonderfully photogenic fishing village of Lang Co. In Hue, you will visit the Imperial Citadel where the Nguyen Dynasty ruled between 1802 and 1945. Enjoy a relaxing cyclo (bicycle-style rickshaw) ride from Dai Noi ‘Old City’ to Tinh Tam Lake where the Emperors where the emperors used to go to relax. Then later, join a boat trip to visit Thien Mu Pagoda before checking into your hotel for the night. This evening, for your EmeraldPLUS experience, savour a traditional Vietnamese royal dinner menu. (B/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS A traditional Vietnamese royal dinner at a local restaurant
  • Included Excursion Cyclo ride from Dai Noi ‘Old City’ to Tinh Tam Lake
  • Included Excursion A visit to the Imperial Citadel
  • Included Excursion A boat tour on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda

Today, transfer to Hue airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. After checking into your hotel, you will be free to explore the city. (B)

Drive away from Ho Chi Minh City to Cu Chi Tunnels, watching the city skyline fade into the distance as the road winds through rice paddies, villages and scenes typical to southern Vietnam. Spend a couple of hours walking around Cu Chi’s rugged grounds with a local guide. Upon your return to Ho Chi Minh City, enjoy a Pho (noodle soup) lunch with the remainder of the afternoon and evening yours to enjoy at leisure or venture out on one of our DiscoverMORE excursions. (B/L)

  • Included Excursion Cu Chi Tunnels
  • DiscoverMORE An evening Saigon Street Food walking tour (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Saigon After Dark by Vintage Jeep (extra expense)

After checkout, enjoy a guided city tour, visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral, Opera House and Town Hall. Then, visit the Reunification Palace before transferring to the port where you will board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, Emerald Harmony. You’ll be welcomed on board by your captain and crew before setting sail down the Saigon River to Cho Gao canal where you will anchor for the night. This evening, enjoy your first dinner on board with your fellow travellers. Your Cruise Director will conduct a port talk to review the activities and itinerary for the days ahead. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion An orientation tour of Ho Chi Minh City

This morning, you’ll cruise through the bustling Cho Gao canal, one of the major arterial canals of Vietnam connecting Tien Giang Province in the Mekong Delta with Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll be fascinated watching the heavy commercial traffic navigate this important waterway, where upwards of 1,800 vessels transit each day.

Once on the Mekong River, this afternoon you’ll visit the Tan My Floating community followed by a ride through local plantations to visit a mushroom farm, a fruit farm with sampling and a honey farm with local sweets. Later, you’ll sail onwards to Sa Ðéc, a Mekong Delta hidden gem. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit the Thoi Binh hamlet and its farming and fishing communities, untouched by tourism

After a short sampan ride to Sa Ðéc, enjoy a walking tour with a visit to the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, who inspired Marguerite Duras’ celebrated novel, L’Amant, and the town’s bustling central market.

Return to Emerald Harmony by sampan, then sail on to My An Hung Island. Recognised as a cultural and historical destination, this small rural village specialises in cultivating red-hot chilli and peppers. As part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, listen to local folk singing during your visit. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS Listen to some local folk singing in My An Hung
  • Included Excursion A visit to the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le and the bustling Sa Dec Markets
  • Included Excursion A visit to My An Hung village

Known as ‘Mango Island,’ Cu Lao Gieng is a small, scenic island untouched by tourism, located along the upper Mekong River. Travel by local motorcycle rickshaw through the island’s villages to visit families who work in a variety of local industries including Mango farming, different types of boat building and a factory making incense sticks for temples.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure on board. As part of our EmeraldPLUS experience, you’ll delight in a traditional Lion Dance performance on board. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS A Lion Dance performance on board
  • Included Excursion See the local industries in Gieng Island

Embark on a sampan ride to Evergreen Island for a walk through a local village, giving you a glimpse into the lives of the local farming community. Reboard your sampan and return to Tan Chau and as part of our EmeraldPLUS experience, visit the local Cao Dai Temple. Cao Dai is a syncretic, monotheistic religion established in Tây Ninh, southern Vietnam, in 1926. At the temple, learn more about this fascinating and complex religion. Afterwards, ride in a Xe Loi (local form of cyclo) back to your sampan before returning to Emerald Harmony. Back on board your Star-Ship, you’ll sail to the border between Vietnam and Cambodia. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS A visit to a local Cao Dai Temple and Xe Loi ride, unique to the Mekong Delta
  • Included Excursion A visit to Evergreen Island

This morning, you’ll awake in Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh. Known as the ‘Pearl of Asia,’ the city was almost entirely evacuated by the Khmer Rouge in 1975. Today, you’ll learn about the Khmer Rouge and the darkest days of Cambodia’s history. A short drive will take you to the Killing Fields at Choeung Ek, where you’ll have the opportunity to stroll through the fields, visit the memorial and understand more about this country’s sombre chapter.

Afterwards, visit Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (also known as ‘S-21’), a former school converted to the Khmer Rouge’s main prison and torture HQ. Spend the afternoon as you please, either exploring our DiscoverMORE excursions, visiting the Central Market located in the heart of Phnom Penh, or simply relaxing on board Emerald Harmony.

This evening, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, enjoy a remork (local Tuk-Tuk) tour through Phnom Penh to admire the city lights. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS Phnom Penh by night on a remork (Tuk-Tuk) tour
  • Included Excursion Killing Fields at Choeung Ek and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
  • DiscoverMORE A silk farm tour at Koh Oknha Tei (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Craft Beer Adventure by remork (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Samai Distillery (extra expense)

Located north of Phnom Penh, Oudong was the former royal capital of Cambodia until it relocated to Phnom Penh in 1866. Start your day with a visit to the Oudong Monastery and Temples. Important remnants here include the burial sites of Khmer kings as well as religious artefacts dating back more than a century. In Oudong Monastery’s main temple, receive a traditional Buddhist blessing from the resident monks, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the majestic Royal Palace, with its French-inspired gardens and Silver Pagoda. Back on board, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, enjoy a cultural performance by the Cambodian Student and Children’s Organisation. Afterwards set sail, gliding past the illuminated Phnom Penh at night, to Rokar Koang, a small town located further up along the up the Mekong River. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS A traditional Buddhist Monk blessing
  • EmeraldPLUS Cultural Performance by the Cambodian Student and Children’s Organisation
  • Included Excursion A visit to the Royal Palace

Disembark Emerald Harmony in the morning and continue by road to Siem Reap for your included three-night stay. Stay at the beautiful Shinta Mani, a deluxe boutique property of world-class design that takes great care in honouring the environment and paying homage to the traditional and local aesthetics. This evening as part of your EmeraldPLUS programme, attend Phare, The Cambodian Circus, where a combination of acrobatics, music and dance tell a uniquely Cambodian story. Take advantage of our DiscoverMORE dinner at the circus to further support Phare’s work. (B/L)

  • EmeraldPLUS Phare Cambodian Circus performance.
  • DiscoverMORE Evening – Local Fare at Phare Circus (extra expense)

Today, start with a visit to Angkor Thom, not a single temple such as the historic sites it neighbours, but rather one of the most remarkable royal cities of the Angkor Period and an architectural wonder. As the last capital of the Khmer Empire, it was a fortified city, home to priests, officials of the palace, military and buildings for administering the kingdom. Afterwards, visit the sacred Temple of Ta Prohm. In an incredible standoff between human creation and nature, the jungle's root systems have reclaimed this spiritual location now enshrouded in wild vegetation. The backdrop to many Hollywood scenes, the incredible Ta Prohm is both a cinematic and contemplative location. This evening is free to visit ‘Pub Street’ or try a DiscoverMORE option. (B/L)

  • Included Excursion Visit to Angkor Thom
  • Included Excursion Visit to Ta Prohm Temple
  • DiscoverMORE Vespa tour of Siem Reap (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Evening – Gondola Boat ride at Banyon with drinks (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Evening - Cambodian Street Food Discovery Tour (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Evening – Local Fare at Phare Circus (extra expense)

Witness a mesmerising sunrise over Angkor Wat. Afterwards, walk through this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, renowned for its intricate carvings. This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore the town, or join a DiscoverMORE excursion. Later, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, enjoy an immersive evening and farewell dinner, accompanied by an Apsara dance performance. (B/D)

  • Included Excursion Sunrise visit to Angkor Wat
  • EmeraldPLUS Apsara dance performance and dinner show
  • DiscoverMORE Siem Reap Countryside by Vespa (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Banteay Srei Temple and APOPO (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Tonlé Sap and Lotus Workshop (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Khmer Cooking Class (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Senteurs d’Angkor Workshop (extra expense)

After a morning at leisure in Siem Reap, join your included flight to Luang Prabang and enjoy a three-night stay at your hotel, walking distance to the famous night markets. (B/D)

Discover key landmarks within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, including the exquisite, 16th century temple, Wat Xieng Thong and former Royal Palace, now converted into the National Museum. Later, enjoy a boat cruise along the Mekong River, stopping at a local village which specialises in traditional rice wine before continuing to the Pak Ou Caves, a sacred grotto crammed with thousands of multi-sized golden Buddhas. After returning to Luang Prabang, let the locals show you how to play Pétanque, also known as Petong in Laos. Tonight, enjoy your free time, perhaps shopping for souvenirs and sampling local cuisine at the vibrant night market. (B/L)

Rise early to witness the incredible sight of Buddhist monks move silently through the atmospheric streets as they collect alms. Later, travel to Kuang Si waterfalls, a set of picturesque, tiered falls and swimming holes set amongst the lush, dense jungle. This afternoon, join an Emerald DiscoverMORE excursion, before enjoying your Farewell Dinner with your fellow guests this evening. (B/L/D)

  • DiscoverMORE Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Centre – natural dyeing class (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Ban Chan (Laos Pottery House) – Pottery lesson (extra expense)

This morning after breakfast, bid farewell to Laos and transfer to the airport for your included flight to Thailand and its vibrant capital, Bangkok, where your extraordinary Indochina journey ends.

Please book your flight to depart out of Bangkok after 07:00 PM.

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, ad hoc 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 are subject to change. (B)

Life Onboard Emerald Harmony

Emerald Harmony
Emerald Harmony

Enjoy inspired luxury infused with Asian design and flavours when you cruise the Mekong. Read more

EmeraldPLUS
EmeraldPLUS

Authentic included adventures that take you into the cultural heart of each destination. Read more

Emerald Cruises Excursions
Emerald Cruises Excursions

A range of complimentary excursions and options to Discover More at cost showcase Mekong life. Read more

The Flavours of Asia
The Flavours of Asia

Savour an impressive menu from breakfast to dinner in the relaxed ambience of the Reflections Restaurant. Read more

Pool Deck
Pool Deck

Witness river life pass by as you take a refeshing dip in the pool at the ship's stern. Read more

Sundeck
Sundeck

Head to the open Sun Deck at the top of the ship to relax outdoors. Read more

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Trip Reviews (4) Most Recent 'Grand Tour of Indochina' Reviews

5.0
Average Rating 5.0 / 5
4 Reviews
5 Star
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1 Star
Slowly down the Mekong   6 , NSW, Australia, Feb 2024
Wonderful experience on the Emerald Harmony . Lovely crew and delicious food on board, plenty to do or as little as you want. Highlight was experiencing Siem Reap and Angkor, much changed after 20 years since last here, as was Phnom Penh and Bustling Saigon, made more colourful by being there in Chinese NY and TET.
Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & The Mekong 8 , QLD, Australia, Nov 2023
Firstly I would like to thank Tracey, my travel consultant at Global Journeys, for all the help she gave to me in booking and processing this tour. This Emerald Cruises tour was the best trip I have been on for a long time. From day 1 arriving in Ho Chi Minh City to the end in Siem Reap the Tour Directors and their support staff along with the staff read more and crew on the Emerald Harmony were absolute professionals and the service provided by all was excellent.

The Emerald Harmony was a beautiful and comfortable ship and the food provided was beyond amazing, a great chef and his staff provided some of the most enjoyable meals I have experienced. The tours were short but interesting, taking into account the humidity still rather high in November. I had an amazing look into Vietnamese and Cambodian life and culture. The hotels in Ho chi Ming City and Siem Reap were excellent and very comfortable. I applaud Emerald for the support they give to various organisations, the dancing troupe, Satcha Cambodian handicrafts etc. I am highly recommending Emerald cruises and this tour and hopefully will be able to return to Vietnam and Cambodia in the future.
Vietnam and Cambodia by river 4 , Christchurch, New Zealand, Sep 2023
We have just returned from an amazing cruise on board the Emerald Harmony. Our only other river cruise was in Europe in the winter (Emerald also) so we were not sure what to expect on hot steamy days in South East Asia. From the Cruise director, AB, to the cabin staff and all in-between we were treated like VIPs and always knew what, where and why things read more were happening.
Sampan rides, tuktuk rides, rickshaws - all safely navigated.

The cultural events on board were worth attending and were given with passion by the people of the culture. Our new cruise friends were great fun but we also were able to find a quiet place if needed. The transfer and hotel service provided by Emerald made everything so easy so I really could relax for the whole journey. The cabins were all that was needed and were super clean and comfy.
A wonderful insight to the history of Vietnam and Cambodia 8 , VIC, Australia, Dec 2022
This was our first river cruise and was a wonderful experience. Thanks to Hannah at Global Journeys and the helpful, attentive and friendly guides and crew. Oh so much better than a large cruise ship. The itinerary was varied and encompassed some truly magical spots, the varied cultures and history of the region, even if it was confronting from time read more to time. Top marks to Emerald!

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Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Emerald Cruises. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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