Kratie Expedition Cruise

Welcome aboard Aqua Mekong, and step into your floating sanctuary where floor-to-ceiling windows reveal panoramic riverscapes. Unwind in the privacy of your design suite—whether from the comfort of your California King bed, private terrace, or daybed—as the Mekong quietly unveils its magic. Together we celebrate the onward journey towards the heart of this mighty river with a Khmer Apsara performance, an indigenous tradition memorialized on the temple walls of Angkor Wat.​

Travel by skiff along the mighty Mekong to the Kampi River, a lush and biodiverse haven that serves as Southeast Asia’s exclusive habitat of the Irrawaddy dolphin. Those seeking a more active excursion may cycle through the lush Cambodian landscapes before setting off by skiff to spot these extraordinary dolphins in their natural habitats. In the afternoon, explore Koh Trong Island by foot and tuk-tuk, visiting a community-led village to learn about the locals’ unique ways of life and their efforts to conserve biodiversity in the area. Stroll through fruit orchards famed for their sweet pomelos and admire traditional Khmer stilt houses, or cycle through Kratie town to visit a remarkable 200‑year‑old wooden structure of significant historical and cultural value. ​

In the cool hours of the morning, we set off by skiff to a charming riverside town known for its unique blend of Khmer and French architecture. Afterwards, we visit Nokor Bachey, a late 12th century Angkorian temple built during the height of the ancient Khmer civilization. We then explore the legendary twin hills of Phnom Bros and Phnom Srei, steeped in Khmer folklore and spiritual significance. There’ll be a chance to explore while riding mountain bikes or chauffeured by tuk-tuks. After lunch, we sail to Peam Chikang, renowned for its traditional Cambodian aluminum cooking pot craftsmanship. Alternatively, pedal through quaint Khmer and Cham villages, keeping an eye out for birds nesting among century old trees along the way.​

We introduce guests to the vibrant Cambodian capital by motorized tuktuk, with stops at the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. For those interested, visit the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide, the National Museum of Cambodia, the Sosoro Museum of Money and Economy, the serene Wat Phnom hill, or the bustling Russian Market. We bid farewell to 4-night guests who are disembarking in Phnom Penh. Guests wishing to continue their Cambodian journey to Siem Reap and the ancient lost city of Angkor Wat enjoy a complimentary flight extension, including a shared transfer to Phnom Penh Airport. Return to welcome our 3-night guests over custom sundowners like the Salted Watermelon Crush with Thai basil. Together we celebrate the onward journey towards the heart of the mighty Mekong River with a Khmer Apsara performance, an indigenous tradition memorialized on the temple walls at Angkor Wat.​

Say ‘Good Morning, Vietnam’ while we cross the border and sail towards Tan Chau. Here, we’ll visit the vibrant border town of Chau Doc to take the local rickshaw, called xe loi, for a trip around the town and market. We head off by van to Long Son Pagoda for a panoramic view atop Sam Mountain. Ask the monks about their age-old Mahayana Buddhist practices before returning via the bustling morning market. Optional 18-kilometer bike ride on Long Khanh​.​In the afternoon, we visit a typical Mekong Delta village called My An Hung where we will walk through verdant plantations. We will be invited to a local’s home to taste local fruits while hearing traditional folk songs performed by villagers, followed by a unique Unicorn dance. A 17-kilometer biking option is also available for those who wish to explore the countryside on wheels.​

Begin the day at Binh Thanh mat weaving village to bike through local markets, fruit plantations, and fish farms. Guests can also take it slow and opt to visit Sa Dec where we will peruse the vibrant markets with our chef, along with a visit to the Lover House and Kien An Cung. Onboard, a cooking demonstration followed by a scrumptious lunch awaits.​​We continue downstream to Cai Be and board a local sampan to Tan Phong Island, where we’ll visit a fruit garden, savoring local fruits along the way. Here, guests can pick their mode of adventure from a short 8-kilometer trail around the island, to a kayak through a small canal, or a relaxing walk through the community for a closer look at local life.​

After a hearty breakfast, we bid farewell to Aqua Mekong. En route to Ho Chi Minh, we stop at Vinh Trang Pagoda, one of the largest Mahayana Buddhist temples in the region. You will notice the mixed architectural style and see three large buddha statues, as well as an impressive collection of bonsai trees​.