With slow travel becoming increasingly popular, cruise trips have undeniably been what many look into. And while traversing down the Mekong River may not be the first thing that comes to mind, one cruise down Southeast Asia’s longest waterway may be enough to change that very opinion. But what makes cruising through the Mekong River a trip to remember, and how should you go about planning an adventure of this manner on the water?
Well, come with us as we take you on an 8-day, 7-night journey on the Avalon Saigon by Avalon Waterways®. Voyaging through Cambodia and Vietnam, you’ll get to see and experience how the culture and tradition of everyday local life can be, all while cruising through the historic Mekong River in the comfort of your Panorama Suites.
A look at Southeast Asia’s longest waterway, the Mekong River
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Measuring approximately 4,900 kilometres long, the Mekong River is the twelfth-longest river in the world and the third-longest in Asia. A key waterway for regional connectivity, the Mekong River flows through major areas such as Southwest China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and finally to an extensive delta in southern Vietnam through the South China Sea.
Home to agricultural trades and more, you’ll often find a diverse blend of views along the Mekong River. From lush jungle views to stunning limestone mountains and vibrant communities from all walks of life, the captivating experiences on the Mekong River are hard to describe unless you’ve seen and felt it yourself. And of course, the best way to take it all in is to embark on a river cruise.
However, the tight waterways in certain areas of the Mekong River make cruising a task that’s easier imagined than done – a feat that’s now possible with Avalon Saigon.
Why sail through the Mekong River with Avalon Saigon?
Launched in 2018, Avalon Saigon is an intimate cruise experience that takes travellers through the highlights of the Mekong River in an 8-day, 7-night Mekong Discovery adventure. Open to just 36 guests per voyage, the high-end ship features 18 suites with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, offering guests unobstructed views of the Mekong River and its surroundings from the comforts of their bed.
Guests who prefer to spend time outside their private suites can also make their way to Avalon Saigon’s air-conditioned Panorama Lounge or pop by the open-air observation lounge, both of which are perfect for taking in the beauty of the Mekong River alongside other travellers. A complimentary bar service on board also means guests can sip on their favourite drinks as the ship traverses through the waters, with its extensive menu of coffee, tea, soft drinks, and local beer or spirits available throughout the day. Onboard meals are also included in your voyage, creating a hassle-free holiday experience from the moment you set foot on the ship.
What’s more, Avalon Saigon’s unique ship design allows the voyage to explore areas that other cruise ships cannot, while still not sacrificing onboard space. In fact, the ship measures just as wide and long as other ships carrying twice the number of guests onboard, yet it still manages to offer experiences that are exclusive to Avalon Saigon.
To further expand your horizons across the highlights of the Mekong River, every journey with Avalon Saigon includes shore excursions with an expert guide each day. This allows guests to explore deeper into the lifestyles of the communities at the highlighted destination while learning about the traditions and cultures of the locals. So, whether you’re choosing to embark on a classic trip, an active adventure or simply want to enjoy a discovery excursion, Avalon Saigon gives you the chance to craft your cruise experience just the way you like it.
6 sights you can’t miss when cruising with Avalon Saigon
As the cruise sets off and your journey begins, the stunning views of the Mekong River that pass you by while onboard Avalon Saigon never stop. However, here are 6 sights that you simply can’t miss as you’re cruising through Cambodia and Vietnam.
Wat Hanchey, Cambodia
Set atop the hill of Kampong Cham in Cambodia, the historical temple of Wat Hanchey is arguably one of the country’s greatest gems. The red-bricked stupa located within the temple grounds is said to date back to the 8th century, surviving both the American bombs and the Khmer Rouge incidents of the past. Though ruined and weathered, its stark contrast to the newer temple is a marvel to all who visit Wat Hanchey, with many praising the well-preserved Sanskrit writings on the lintel.
Although guests must first climb approximately 300 steps to reach the top from Kampong Cham, the views that await at the end make every movement worth it. This is because you’re presented with an unobstructed view of the Mekong River, while the gentle breeze from the hilltop brings forth a gentle alluvium smell arising from the river. Guests with mobility difficulties can also opt to be driven to the top by the local guides from Avalon Saigon, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the same experience at Wat Hanchey.
Before leaving the temple to return to the ship, why not partake in a traditional water blessing ceremony held by the young Cambodian monks who call Wat Hanchey home? Mostly sent to the temple by families living around the surrounding villages, these young local monks, clad in vibrant saffron robes, are always happy to meet visitors, and their jovial energy that fills the temple is one that’s hard to miss.
Kampong Tralach, Cambodia
Being city dwellers, we’re constantly surrounded by concrete skyscrapers and hectic lifestyles that make downtimes a rare find. So, imagine being able to kick it back and relax by experiencing the beauty of the Cambodian countryside, all while riding an ox-cart. Taking place in the small town of Kampong Tralach in Cambodia, this Discovery Excursion by Avalon Saigon offers guests the opportunity to slow down and enjoy the Cambodian scenery at their own pace. Along the way, you’ll meet locals and rice paddy farmers tending to their lands and perhaps even share a conversation to learn more about life away from the bustling cities.
On the other hand, Kampong Tralach itself is a beautiful blend of all things old and new, with its strategic location between the Tonle Sap River and the Mekong River being a contributing factor to its importance in history. Perfect for anyone looking to escape the typical holiday experiences, Kampong Tralach’s peaceful atmosphere is a far cry from any other destinations imaginable.
Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, Cambodia
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As the Avalon Saigon cruise travels further south, guests will quickly arrive in Cambodia’s capital city, Phnom Penh. A vibrant destination with a modern outlook across the city, this is where you’ll get to enjoy the royal treatment as you visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Nestled behind the iconic yellow walls, the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are not only the most popular tourist attractions in Phnom Penh, but are also where Cambodia’s royal family still resides.
While this means royal protocols and security are in place around selected areas, it doesn’t stop locals from flocking to the grassy spot next to the palace’s Moonlight Pavilion on a good day. For a true experience like a Cambodian, we recommend grabbing a snack and spending some time feeding the birds here, just as the locals do.
Meanwhile, a variety of surprises await as you step into the palace grounds from the main entrance. This includes the royal throne hall, or Preah Tineang Chanchhaya, which was built in 1917. It’s primarily used during coronation ceremonies and to host foreign dignitaries during their visits to Cambodia. Unfortunately, guests are not permitted in the building, though you can see most of the throne rooms and the gorgeous chandeliers within the building through the open windows.
The Silver Pagoda, on the other hand, sits apart from the royal throne hall. Known to the locals as the Wat Preah Keo, the Silver Pagoda doubles as a Buddhist temple within the Royal Palace grounds and is home to gold and jewelled Buddha statues. But what makes this attraction unique is the use of the 5,000 silver tiles that cover the floor, so it’s no surprise that visitors are asked to remove their shoes before entering. Also, don’t forget to catch a glimpse of the small Emerald Buddha statue that’s rumoured to be made with Baccarat Crystals in the 19th century or of a different material from the 17th century.
Chau Doc Market, Vietnam
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After crossing the border into Vietnam on the Avalon Saigon, you’ll come across the Chau Doc Market in An Giang. On this day, guests can join the local guide for a village walk excursion that takes them through the market. It’s here that you can embrace the buzzing atmosphere from the locals who are haggling for the best prices on the fresh produce of seafood, meats, and vegetables of the day.
After lunch around the market, the local guides will then take you to the backwaters of the Mekong River as part of the Discovery Excursion. Through this experience, you’ll get to see the traditional floating houses of locals who call the Mekong River home while speedboat merchants whizz by with their goods for sale. A host of religious sites and a market selling dried goods can also be found during this trip, making it interesting for those who enjoy a local shopping experience.
Cu Lao Gieng Island, Vietnam
A small but interesting island, Cu Lao Gieng Island in Vietnam is a well-known spot for anyone cruising down the Mekong River. Measuring just 12 kilometres long, this little oasis highlights much of Vietnam’s idyllic beauty while playing host to its rich history – including magnificent French-style architecture that’s believed to have been left behind after the French colonial period.
Perhaps the most popular attraction on the island is what’s believed to be the oldest church in the southern region, simply known as the Cu Lao Gieng Church. Said to have been built between 1875 and 1887 by the French nuns, the church served as a bridge between the missionaries of Cambodia and Vietnam.
On your excursion with Avalon Saigon, however, you’ll not only get to catch the best of Cu Lao Gieng Island’s views but also visit the home of a local family who produces the iconic Vietnamese conical hats. Traditionally used to protect the wearer from sun and rain, these handmade hats are typically made with palm leaves and bamboo, and occasionally double as a basket for post-market trips. For tourists, watching the production of these Vietnamese conical hats known as the “nón lá” is an extraordinary experience, and makes for a fantastic memory to take home.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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Historically known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is now Vietnam’s most populous city and holds the position of being the nation’s financial powerhouse. Home to over 14 million locals and expats alike, this melting pot of cultures is a fantastic way to end your Avalon Saigon adventure should you opt for the southbound itinerary – while guests on the northbound itinerary will begin their journey here.
Offering blends of traditional and modern, Ho Chi Minh City is a true gem for architectural buffs, with iconic buildings such as the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon being one of the must-visit spots. If you’d like to send a piece of Vietnam home, the Saigon Central Post Office is the perfect place to be. This is because you’ll not only get to marvel at the colonial-era architecture while you’re there, but also get your stamps and postage done at one of the oldest functioning post offices of Southeast Asia today.
Finally, coffee lovers must pop by The Coffee Apartments – a unique 1960s apartment building turned attraction nestled in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1. But don’t be fooled by its name, as this 9-storey tall building hosts more than hip cafes for your daily caffeine fix. Instead, you’ll also find a variety of cosy restaurants, homegrown boutiques, and shops filled with handmade trinkets here.
Travellers are welcome to explore each floor on foot or opt to ride the elevator for a small fee. Most shops are happy to make a refund for this fee when you make a purchase, but it is otherwise used for the upkeep of the building. And while the morning crowds are when The Coffee Apartments offer a slow-paced lifestyle, it’s the sunset views from the higher floors that many come to enjoy.
With just 36 guests onboard each Avalon Saigon voyage, the time is now to book your spot and enjoy up to 40% per person, exclusively with Holiday Tours.