Ultimate Journey through South East Asia

Welcome to Cambodia and the regional city of Siem Reap. Your hotel, is a step back in time in the definition of luxury and will be your historical home for the next three nights in Siem Reap. This brilliantly appointed accommodation is styled with a mix of French inspired architecture, local interior furnishings and amenities fit for royalty with the attentive staff providing a service beyond expectations.

Enjoy the day at leisure until tonight when you meet your Scenic Tour Director and fellow travelling companions at your welcome briefing and dinner. (D)

Your Siem Reap exploration starts with a delicious champagne buffet breakfast at the hotel. (B/L)

Freechoice: As part of Scenic's Freechoice you have multiple options to choose from.

• Explore the 10th-century Banteay Srei Temple, a temple commonly referred to as the Ladies Temple because of its pinkish sandstone and dedication to the Hindu god Shiva. Afterwards visit the Landmine Museum, founded in 1997 with the aim to make the country safe through the removal of mines.
• On another option visit Satcha Cambodian Handicraft Incubation Centre. The aim of Satcha is to create the first Cambodian handicraft centre that incubates local artisans, mixing traditional knowledge with contemporary design to showcase Cambodian talents. Alternatively, if you have enjoyed being on the water, sail on Tonle Sap Lake (July to February), a picturesque UNESCO biosphere reserve and dive deep into discovery when visiting and experiencing the life of a floating village.
• Or take flight in a tethered balloon to discover the aerial beauties of the combination between traditional and modern Siem Reap. Enjoy the fresh air and take some remarkable photographs of the skyline as you lift into the skies of Siem Reap overlooking Angkor Wat below before visiting a Lotus Flower workshop. Alternatively choose the Market Shopping Excursion, transfer to the central market by tuk tuk and shop independently.

Later this afternoon explore Angkor Wat itself, the largest religious monument in the world. Originally constructed as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu for the Khmer Empire, it was gradually transformed into a Buddhist temple towards the end of the 12th century. An afternoon visit provides the perfect light for those idealic pictures of this colossal structure.

This evening head to the colourful Cambodian Phare Circus where your VIP premium reserved seating awaits you. Beautifully dressed performers style a stunning show that is more than just a circus. The performers use theatre, music, dance and modern circus arts to tell uniquely Cambodian stories; historical, folk and modern.

Enrich: Marvel at the sunrise over the magnificent Angkor Wat before moving to a special location near a temple for a scrumptious champagne breakfast with food prepared by an NGO supported local bakery school which also Scenic sponsors.

After breakfast, visit the atmospheric, jungle covered Ta Prohm Temple, before stopping at Angkor Thom and the multi-faced Bayon Temple. Fortunately, you have the remainder of the afternoon to discover more of the Siem Reap markets or relax at your luxury hotel after your early morning start. (B/D)

Enrich: Tonight is truly a special and exclusive one, one that is best experienced first hand to fully appreciate it's scale. Your tour directors and Scenic team will leave you in awe as you enter a private magical gala themed dinner at Prasat Kravan, a small 10th-century temple consisting of five reddish brick towers on a common terrace. Including free flow drinks and a show featuring Apsara dancers in front of the candle lit temple ruins, this evening brings a most incredible end to your time in Siem Reap.

Discover the rural side of Cambodia as your coach will transfer you to Kampong Cham where the breathtaking Scenic Spirit awaits. Before arriving, you will be visiting the stunning Khmer bridge at Kampong Kdei, Kampong Thom and a stone cutters village.

After boarding, begin your cruise in style with a cocktail reception hosted by your Cruise Director. Take a stroll around the decks to orientate yourself as to where all the amenities are. After your welcome dinner, settle into your private suite. At any time, your dedicated personal butler is available to assist with a nightcap and delivery of your preferred pillows. (B/L/D)

Awake as you approach Wat Hanchey, an ancient hilltop pagoda and monastery. After learning about life as a novice monk from one of the locals, wander around the complex and admire the view over the Mekong River and surrounding countryside. Sail back to Kampong Cham.

Freechoice: Back in Kampong Cham, your Scenic Freechoice excursions this afternoon provides the chance to learn about the history and industries of the area.

• Your first option is to learn about the local folklore with stops at Phnom Pros (Man Hill and Wat Nokor). Phnom Pros was part of a traditional local legend but more recently was used as a Killing Field during the Khmer Rouge era. The temple now features a Buddha garden and is home to a local troop of monkeys. Wat Nokor Bachey is a unique architectural experiment blending an Angkorian era temple with a new temple built inside it.
• Alternatively you can explore Kampong Cham's history and industry with a drive past shop houses, remnants of the French colonial era and the large Central Market. Visit a local rubber plantation established by the French, followed by a tour to view the processing of the raw rubber at a rubber factory before stopping at a village known for growing betel nut, a popular item in Cambodian culture.
• Cambodia is known for its villages, so your third option is to visit Kho Penh Village. Only accessible by local remork and located on Pen (Bamboo) Island, across the bamboo bridge / ferry from Kampong Cham, this remote village gives a good insight into the simple rural lifestyle of farmers in Cambodia.

Once back on board Scenic Spirit, enjoy some time to unwind in your spectacular suite. Your dedicated butler can arrange for a beautiful meal to be served in your suite as you enjoy the sights and sounds of the Mekong, overlooking the gorgeous sunset of the Cambodian skyline as you sail to Angkor Ban. (B/L/D)

Upon arrival in Angkor Ban, explore its historical rural wooden houses, which survived the Khmer Rouge and visit a local pagoda where a private and solemn excursion at a Buddhist pagoda awaits. (B/L/D)

Enrich: Receive a blessing from a monk and learn how to pray in a Buddhist pagoda before partaking in a ceremony which contributes to the daily meal of the resident monks.

Afterwards return to Scenic Spirit for lunch and sail downstream to the island of Oknha Tey, where residents are dedicated to the art of silk weaving. Travel by tuk tuk to the farm and learn about the process of silk production. Return to Scenic Spirit where you may wish to absorb more about the local culture with our team by learning how to make and wear the Cambodian scarf.

Enjoy the amenities on Scenic Spirit and truly unwind. What better way to do so than by heading to the Wellness Centre or Beauty Salon for a bit of pampering. This evening, you may wish to dress up for the Scenic Sunset Drinks cocktail reception on the Sun Deck against the backdrop of Phnom Penh's lights and stunning scenery as we approach the capital of Cambodia.

Sunset Drinks Cocktail reception on the sundeck.

Freechoice:

• Your Scenic Freechoice excursions provide the option to journey to the Killing Fields and tour Tuol Sleng Prison. These locations are a sobering reminder of the terrors unleashed by the Khmer Rouge regime. Although not a delightful tour, visiting these monuments unlocks the keys to understanding the development of this country. You will then return to Scenic Spirit for lunch.
• The second Scenic Freechoice excursion today is a hands-on cooking class. Take a trip to the local market with a local chef to purchase your ingredients. Head back to the kitchen to cook your own lunch, testing out the styles and flavours of the Cambodian cuisine.
• The third option is to travel by Remok, a local style of Tuk Tuk to visit the French architecture and history of Phnom Penh. Finish this tour with a stop at the unique designed Central Market for some shopping. At the conclusion of this choice, you can head back to the Scenic Spirit for lunch.

The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure.

Sunset Drinks Later this evening revel in our Phnom Penh by City Lights tour, giving you an insight to the nightlife of the capital before stopping at a distillery for an exclusive Sundowners tour and tasting behind closed doors. (B/L/D)

Experience the opulent side of Phnom Penh this afternoon at the Royal Palace with the famous Silver Pagoda, during your included visit to this must-see attraction. Upon returning to the ship, set sail and say goodbye to Phnom Penh as we sail to the Cambodian and Vietnamese border. A relaxing afternoon of sailing will allow you to take advantage of the many exclusive facilities on board Scenic Spirit.

You may wish to unwind in the Scenic Spirit library to learn more about the ports you are visiting. Or head to the heart of this ship, the Scenic Spirit Lounge, which is a great place to unwind with a glass of wine and meet other guests. You may wish to socialise by the pool with a refreshing cocktail and swim, or just settle into the private comfort of your luxury suite. After clearing immigration into Vietnam at the border, experience a fantastically themed dinner on board the Scenic Spirit along with a lion dance performed by locals on the expansive Sun Deck. (B/L/D)

You may wish to start your day with some exercise in the on board gym, try stretching at the early morning yoga class or relax in the sauna before setting off to on a Scenic Freechoice excursion of your choosing in the areas surrounding Tan Chau. (B/L/D)

Freechoice:

• A prime example of leaving the city life behind will be found at Tra Su Bird Sanctuary in Tra Su Forest where you travel by sampan through endless waterways flanked by mangroves and lush greenery. This eco reserve spans 850 hectares and is known as an ecological haven for fauna and flora, with more than 100 species of water birds known to reside here.
• If you would like to experience the community side of Vietnam, look no further than Evergreen Island for a morning of discovery about the local farmers. Back in Tan Chau, experience a ride in a Xe Loi. This commonly used form of transportation in rural Vietnam will take you to the recently renovated Cao Dai temple. The religion of Cao Dai is a syncretic, monotheistic religion established in southern Vietnam in the city of Tây Ninh in 1926. Here, you will learn more about the mix of ideas that form the basis of this fascinating religion.
• The third Scenic Freechoice excursion involves boarding a speedboat to visit Chau Doc, a major city in the Mekong Delta. Upon arrival, continue on board a coach to visit Tay An temple, which is a mixture of Indian and Islamic style architecture located at the foot of Sam Mountain. Then board another sampan to visit Vinh Te canal and view life along the riverfront of Chau Doc, stop at a family-operated fish farm and then return to Scenic Spirit.

What better way to end the first day in Vietnam than a refreshing cocktail by the pool on board the Spirit along with a great view of the Mekong as you set sail for Sa Dec.

Upon arrival in Sa Dec, board your sampan to explore and interact with the sellers in the lively wet market where you will see live fishes, frogs and even snakes. This 2-hour exploration lets you dive deep into the local lifestyle. You can also see the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le who inspired marguerite Duras novel L'Amant a story of tragic love told by your entertaining expert. After your morning excursion, head back to the Scenic Spirit for lunch whilst sailing downstream to Cai Be. (B/L/D)

Freechoice: This afternoon enjoy your choice from the Scenic Freechoice activities.

• Re-board your sampan, pass the location of the morning floating market and soak in the local life on your way to visit Cai Be town. Stop at local cottage industries and a French colonial or traditional Vietnamese house.
• Alternatively take a sampan from Scenic Spirit to savour a delicious afternoon tea at the Le Longanier, a French colonial house restaurant, where staff will welcome you with tea, coffee and a range of local fruit and snacks for your tasting. You can dive into a local experience with a band playing music and performing traditional Vietnamese songs.
• Alternatively, if you are enjoying the comforts of the luxurious Scenic Spirit, our highly skilled bar team is ready to welcome you for a hands-on cocktail/mocktail making class featuring fresh local ingredients. Create delicious favourites from the Scenic Spirit menu.

Back on board you will have time to relax and overlook the gorgeous sunset of the Vietnamese skyline and life on the Mekong River before your engaging farewell dinner with the crew.

It is time to bid farewell to Scenic Spirit as you wave goodbye to the staff and commence your 90 minute drive to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival you will be dropped off at the airport as you prepare to depart Vietnam for your onwards flight to Denpasa, Bali.

Welcome to Bali, the Island of the Gods. It's just one of more than 18,000 islands that make up the country of Indonesia, but it's long been a favoured destination for travellers from all over the world. Spectacularly beautifully, culturally diverse and brimming with luxury, Bali is truly a little piece of paradise. Enjoy an overnight stay after being transferred from the airport upon arrival. (B)

Scenic Eclipse II will be waiting for you off the coast of Benoa, a peninsula on the southern edge of the island. You'll board your 6-star, ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht this afternoon. The crew will warmly greet you and show you to your spacious suite. With just up to 228 guests on board, get ready to experience an immersive, engaging voyage through this fascinating part of the world unlike any other. Ask your butler to bring a glass of Champagne to your suite and toast the start of the cruise from your private verandah. (B/D)

Sailing overnight, Scenic Eclipse II will arrive at the port of Badas on Sumbawa Island this morning. Order your breakfast to your room and get ready for sights to behold. Though it is close to Bali and Lombok, Sumbawa has yet to be discovered by tourists and retains its strong cultural identity. The few who do venture here come mostly for the epic surf, spectacular reefs and wild terrain, and there's plenty to satisfy a taste for adventure.

The island of Sulawesi sits directly north of Sumbawa and its local Makassarese culture has had a strong influence on the island. You can tour a village where you'll see centuries-old traditional cultures still in practice, like rice pounding and weaving. (B/L/D)

This is a momentous day for all those aboard Scenic Eclipse II, cruising into one of the world's great natural treasures. Today come face to face with the eponymous species of giant lizard that has been roaming these forests for millions of years.

Stretching up to three metres in length and weighing over 150kg, the Komodo dragon is a lizard unlike any other. It lives on just a handful of islands in the Indonesian archipelago, with the majority found on Komodo Island.

Board Scenic Eclipse II again at midday to cruise around the island to the famous Pink Beach. The soft sand is coloured pink by finely crushed pieces of coral and shells, just one of seven pink beaches found anywhere in the world. The turquoise water that laps the shoreline makes for a striking contrast. Beneath the surface, the wonders continue with hundreds of species of coral and an abundance of fish. (B/L/D)

A world of wonder awaits beneath the surface in the Taka Bonerate National Park. Stretching into the Flores Sea, south of Sulawesi, the park covers more than half a million hectares and includes an atoll of 28 islands, the third largest coral atoll in the world. In 2015, it was recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its incredible variety of marine life including fish, turtles, dolphins, whales and birds. You'll cruise right through the heart of this abundance of natural life; be sure to grab your in-suite binoculars or head to the Observation Lounge to look through the Swarovski telescopes.

Scenic Eclipse, the World's First Discovery Yachts use GPS Dynamic Positioning, which allows the ship to maintain position without the use of an anchor, protecting this sensitive ecosystem.

In this remote outpost, the captain will find a calm spot to stop for swimming, snorkelling and other water sports. Slip into the warm, crystal-clear waters and feel the cares of the world wash away. (B/L/D)

Arrive this morning in the town of Palopo, on the island of Sulawesi. The third largest town on the island, Palopo was founded around 1620 by the Muslim ruler Sultan Abdullah Muhiddin. The city's first mosque, Masjid Jami, was built during his reign and still stands along one of its main streets.

Palopo is the gateway to the lush highlands of Tana Toraja, home to one of Indonesia's most exotic and mysterious ethnic groups. Tucked into a valley beneath the green peaks of the Wallacea mountain range, the villages are clustered around elaborately carved and painted houses with distinctive boat-shaped roofs. A visit to Tana Toraja will give you an insight into an ancient and intriguing culture that's unique to this part of the earth. (B/L/D)

Today is yours to do as much or as little as you want. Perhaps you'd like to take things slowly, starting with breakfast brought to your suite by your butler, enjoyed on the verandah as the emerald-green coastline of Sulawesi slips by outside. Or you could start the day with an invigorating work out in the gym or a class in the Yoga & Pilates studio.

Take some time to explore your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, from the Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality Pool on the Sky Deck to the tranquil Senses Spa on Deck 6 with its steam rooms, saunas, plunge pool and KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge. Stop for a coffee or a cocktail at one of the nine bars and lounges on board, or curl up with a good book in the library of the Observation Lounge. Be sure to check the daily program to see what lectures or discussions the Discovery Team are running and learn more about upcoming ports, wildlife and activities on offer. (B/L/D)

After days of remote archipelagos and relaxed cruising at sea, Scenic Eclipse II will arrive in Makassar, the largest city in eastern Indonesia, a bustling and gritty metropolis that clings to the south-western tip of Sulawesi island. For centuries, Makassar was the global gateway to Indonesia, or the Dutch East Indies as it was then known. It has remained a vital port, with vast container ships and freighters from around the globe calling here every day. Makassar has long been a diverse, multicultural city, with a population of local Makassarese, Bugis people indigenous to Sulawesi and a large Chinese contingent.

The city itself has few charms, but the surrounding countryside is the real attraction. The limestone karst mountain ranges of nearby Rammang Rammang look as though they have been pulled from the time of the dinosaurs. These ancient peaks, formed by erosion over millions of years, are covered in thick green foliage and interwoven by tranquil waterways. A handful of traditional villages are dotted throughout the area, where the people have been tending their rice paddies the same way for generations. (B/L/D)

Make the most of another sea day indulging in the many exceptional dining experiences on board Scenic Eclipse. Start with breakfast al fresco at the Yacht Club (be sure to return later to visit the large gelato fridge). For lunch, Azure Bar & Café serves light meals, pizza and salads that are available for grazing throughout the day. Elements is the ship's main restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, where the menu ranges from Italian to steak and seafood.

The selection of specialty restaurants on board allows you to dine around the world each night. Channel the spirit of Asia at Koko's Asian Fusion; choose one of the sunken Japanese-style tables for an authentic ambience. Grab a seat at the bar at Sushi @ Koko's to watch the chefs at work or enjoy the spectacle of teppanyaki-style dining inspired by the markets of Asia at Night Market @ Koko's, an exclusive experience for just eight guests at a time. Journey to France at Lumière, a contemporary fine dining French restaurant replete with a luxe Champagne bar. (B/L/D)

Sprinkled off the east coast of the island of Borneo, the Derawan Islands are made up of 31 islands, of which only four are accessible. Added to the World Heritage List in 2015, the archipelago is impossibly beautiful with turquoise seas, white sand beaches and waving palm trees. It's also one of the region's most biodiverse places, home to giant manta rays, whale sharks, dolphins, endangered sea turtles and hundreds of species of fish.

For a truly out-of-this-world experience, take a dip alongside rare stingless jellyfish in a natural lake on Kakaban Island. The four species found in the lake – moon jellyfish, upside down jellyfish, spotted jellyfish and box jellyfish – normally have stingers, but have lost the ability over time because they have been isolated from predators. Kakaban Lake is one of only two places on earth where this phenomenon has been recorded. The jellyfish are practically tame and swimming amongst their translucent forms is something you'll never forget. (B/L/D)

Your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht will cross from Indonesia into Malaysia this morning, arriving at the city of Sandakan. Once the capital of British North Borneo, the city is today the gateway to the island's incredible wildlife encounters. Some of the world's most vulnerable and endangered animals live here in Borneo, and concerted conservation efforts have worked hard to turn the tide.

The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre first began rescuing orphaned orangutans for almost 60 years. Today, around 60 to 80 orangutans live independently in the reserve and up to 25 babies live in the nursery. These large apes with their distinctive shaggy orange coats can be seen from an outdoor viewing platform set in the lush jungle, where they will arrive for their twice daily feeding, or you can watch the juveniles from the nursery in their last stages of rehabilitation.

Nearby, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre is committed to the protection of the world's smallest bear. Found only in South East Asia, these bears are threatened by forest clearing and illegal hunt. Around 40 bears currently live at the centre, where you can see them living in their natural habitat. (B/L/D)

After a couple of active days on shore, today would be a good time for some relaxation. The indulgent Senses Spa awaits on Deck 6. With expansive 550m2, the spa is unlike anything you've experience at sea. Inside this luxurious retreat you can be pampered with a range of ESPA treatments^ including massages, facials, manicures and pedicures, as well as alternative therapies like Tibetan bowl sound healing.

Relax in the Vitality plunge pool on the Senses Spa Pool Deck or warm up in the exclusive KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge, where the heated beds have naturally purifying properties. You'll also find saunas, steam rooms, therapeutic pressure showers, and a hair and beauty salon within the spa complex.

If you're feeling more energetic, the state-of-the-art gym is fully equipped for cardio workouts and strength conditioning – all with a spectacular view of the ocean. The Yoga & Pilates Studio is the only of its kind at sea, offering traditional yoga and Pilates classes, plus aerial yoga (using silk hammocks strung from the ceiling), TRX and mindfulness meditation. (B/L/D)

Awake this morning in the middle of a magical place. El Nido sits on the northern edge of the Philippine Island of Palawan with the breathtaking Bacuit Archipelago rolling out into the ocean beyond. El Nido is a place that has to be seen to be believed, with its sun-kissed islands, towering marble cliffs, blindingly white beaches, rich green jungle and inviting tropical waters.

You'll enjoy a picturesque spot as your Discovery Yacht stops at bay. Fitted with state-of-the-art GPS Dynamic Positioning system, Scenic Eclipse II is able to hold her position without dropping anchor on ecologically sensitive seabeds. Your cruise arrives here in April, which is the best time of year to ensure perfectly clear water for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. You'll be completely immersed in this secluded paradise. (B/L/D)

From one extreme to the other – welcome to the densely populated, high-rise city of Manila. The Philippine capital moves at a frenetic pace 24 hours a day, the streets jammed with cars and teeming with pedestrians. It's a hub for commerce and business as well as shopping, dining, culture and luxury hotels. Take a deep breath and then decide what you'd like to see first.

If you're interested in history, Manila's is enticingly rich. The city was founded as a Spanish colony in the 16th century and soon become one of the New World's main trading ports, earning it the name Pearl of the Orient. Wander the streets of the oldest district, the Intramuros, which covers around 50 blocks and is full of Spanish-era landmarks like Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral and the original walls that protected the city. Across the river, marvel at the ornate façade of the Basilica of San Sebastian, which is built entirely from prefabricated steel panels.

Scenic Eclipse II will be docked here overnight, so you will be able to experience some of Manila's legendary nightlife after enjoying one of the up to 10 all-inclusive dining experiences on board. Alternatively, take a stroll along the Manila Baywalk to watch the sunset. (B/L/D)

After a day stepping back in time, today you might like to discover modern Manila.

The city has a thriving contemporary art scene. You may be able to visit major museums, like the Metropolitan Museum of Manila and Pinto Art Museum, or hunt out the smaller galleries that have taken over abandoned warehouses and stately homes to transform them into edgy exhibition spaces. Discover works from up-and-coming Filipino artists or pieces from international artists who have come to the Philippines to be inspired. (B/L/D)

This will be your last full day at sea, cruising north through the waters of the South China Sea. On board Scenic Eclipse II, there are endless ways to practice the art of total relaxation. First, to take a moment to yourself in your luxuriously-appointed suite.

Each of Scenic Eclipse's 114 suites cocoons you with the comforts of a 6-star hotel. The design throughout is elegant and spacious, with floor to ceiling glass windows that make the most of the ever-changing views. Your butler is on call at all times and can bring morning coffee, afternoon tea or cocktails to enjoy on your private verandah while marvelling at coastal scenery or ocean wildlife. Then enjoy some rest or watch a movie from the comfort of your signature Scenic Slumber Bed.

When you're ready to venture out, watch the world slip by as you relax in a cabana on Deck 10, before taking a dip in the pool with a refreshing drink in hand. Read a book in the Observation Lounge library or take one with you and find the hanging egg chairs on Deck 7. (B/L/D)

Enjoy a relaxed morning on board today as Scenic Eclipse II arrives in port at midday. The city of Hualien sits on the east coast of the island of Taiwan, famed for its beautiful coastline. It's the gateway to Taroko Gorge National Park, one of Taiwan's most famous sites.

The landscape of Taroko Gorge has been formed by the great forces of nature, from typhoons and earthquakes to millions of years of erosion. Today, it is a patchwork of marble gorges, bright blue rivers and pockets of untouched forest. There are challenging trails for experienced hikers or gentler routes that take you past ancient temples, tumbling waterfalls and hidden caves. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the most spectacular moments. (B/L/D)

Today, it is time to farewell Scenic Eclipse after 17 magical days on board. Be sure to fit in one last indulgent breakfast at the Yacht Club or ask your butler to bring coffee to your suite so you can take your time packing up. If you would like to explore more of Taiwan, Scenic can arrange post-cruise accommodation and suggest tours or activities.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. (B)