Leading luxury Southeast Asian river cruise company Heritage Line has refreshed its itineraries on the spellbinding Lower Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia, adding unique mooring destinations not visited by any other cruise line, as well as new shore excursions in existing ports, culinary tours and small-group cycling expeditions for an even more immersive and personalised experience.
The Lower Mekong spanning Vietnam and Cambodia is a treasure trove to discover, encompassing four distinct regions – the vibrant Mekong Delta, the rich culture and heritage of Phnom Penh, the biodiversity of the Tonle River region, and the serene banks of the Cambodian Mekong. Exploring its diverse cultures, sights and unique flavours is a bucket list adventure for curious travellers ready to take a front row seat to the rhythms of local life.
“We are constantly looking for new ways to enhance our cruise itineraries to provide different and inspiring experience for our guests, and we are excited to present the most significant improvement in our Lower Mekong offering in many years,” said Heritage Line’s Director of Sales & Marketing, Andreas Schroetter. “The new program operated by our two luxury cruisers includes wonderful local experiences in destinations other cruise lines do not visit. Plus, our new optional tours allow guests to tailor their sailing to their interests by selecting themed cycling or culinary excursions.”
New ports to explore
Heritage Line offers two character-filled vessels, Heritage Line THE JAHAN and Heritage Line JAYAVARMAN, sailing a series of three, four and seven-night itineraries up- and downstream along the mighty Mekong between Saigon, Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
Tan Phong Island (Mekong Delta)
A small island nestled at the heart of one of the expansive Mekong River tributaries near Cai Be, in Tan Phong Island guests can taste unspoiled local life on the river by sampling unusual fruit from the gardens of local families, watching artisans weave water hyacinth plants in a family-run workshop, and taking a buggy ride to watch daily island activities unfold.
Kampong Laeang (Tonle River)
Known for its spectacular rice fields, lotus pond views, handmade pottery and pre-Angkorian temples, guests visiting Kampong Laeang will enjoy an opportunity to experience rural Cambodian village life.
Prek Bangkong (Mekong River)
In Prek Bangkong, renowned for its Cambodian silk weaving community which has been operating for generations, visitors can witness local artisans in action, then enjoy a traditional tea break at the heritage house of famous Royal Palace architect and engineer, H.W. Sam-El.
Heritage Line also has enhanced many of its excursions in the cruise line’s existing ports. These include meeting a local priest at Cao Dai temple in Tan Chau and delving into the details of Caodaism; discovering local artwork and handicraft outlets in the trading hub of Kampong Cham; visiting Koh Chen’s silversmith community (upstream cruises only); and a walking tour of the colonial French Quarter and Sosoro Museum of Cambodia in historic Phnom Penh.
The icing on the cake – new optional shore excursions
Heritage Line’s optional new ‘themed’ shore excursions cater to demand from travelling foodies and cycling enthusiasts.
Culinary excursions for gourmet travellers
Guests sailing on the newly refurbished Heritage Line JAYAVARMAN can now choose from a collection of complimentary culinary-themed excursions in selected destinations to explore famous local dishes and prepare traditional delicacies together with local people on the ground – it does not get more authentic!
Active exploration of rural treasures
Cycling is an idyllic way to explore the waterfront villages and rural landscapes along the Lower Mekong River. Heritage Line THE JAHAN conducts small group excursions for between two and six guests. These guided tours on professional bicycles include sightseeing and entry fees and must be pre-booked as a package. For instance, a 7-night cycling excursion program includes eight excursions for a surcharge of USD490 per person.
Two designer vessels to discover
Named after the legendary Angkorian monarch, the recently refurbished Heritage Line JAYAVARMAN combines French-Colonial ambience with Khmer art throughout its interiors. Featuring 27 elegant staterooms and suites across two decks, all with private balconies, the ship’s luxury facilities include the Club 1930 Funnel Bar and an elevated sun deck with a pool – both prime open-air venues to kick back and interact with sublime river views. The newly re-designed restaurant features a lively open kitchen which enhances the onboard experience and complements the new culinary excursion program.
Evoking the glory of former British-India, Heritage Line THE JAHAN offers 20 designer staterooms and six exquisite suites, all with generous balconies. The ship offers all the luxurious facilities of a fine five-star resort throughout its three lavish passenger decks, with the pool, shaded sun lounger areas, open-air bar and lounge, a compact gym, steam bath, an Apsara spa, and an observatory lounge and elegant dining room located on the outdoor terrace.
Guests sailing on both vessels can enjoy social activities and entertainment including morning tai chi, traditional Khmer music and dance performances, historic film presentations, cooking classes, insightful expert lectures and open-air gala barbecue dinners.
Please see link here for further details. To book, contact [email protected] or your local travel agent.
