After breakfast, meet your tour director for a full-day exploration that delves into the heart of Vietnam’s history and culture. Your journey begins at the Ho Chi Minh Complex, a site of immense national importance. Here, you’ll visit the grounds of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and view the preserved body of Ho Chi Minh in its glass case (excluding Mondays, Fridays and afternoons when the Mausoleum is closed). Then, wander through the park to see the elegant Presidential Palace and the humble, traditional Stilt House where the revered leader once lived.
Next, find a moment of peace at the Temple of Literature, a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and the country’s first university, founded in the 11th century. Continue your discovery at the fascinating Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the country’s diverse ethnic groups. The tour then moves to the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, where you’ll cross the iconic red Huc Bridge to visit the 18th-century Ngoc Son Temple, a sanctuary perched on a small island.
Tonight, you will be formally welcomed to Vietnam with a special dinner at a local restaurant. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with your fellow travellers and share the excitement of the journey ahead while enjoying authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 75 minutes
Today marks a highlight of your Vietnamese adventure as you journey from the city to the coast for an unforgettable overnight cruise on the spectacular, UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ha Long Bay. Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Marina, you’ll step aboard the magnificent Capella Cruise, your luxurious floating hotel for the night. After a welcome drink and a briefing from the cruise manager, you’ll settle in and discover the ship’s incredible facilities, including six decks, a pool, and a jacuzzi.
Enjoy a delicious lunch in the restaurant as you begin to glide out into the bay, watching as hundreds of jungle-topped limestone karsts rise majestically from the tranquil, emerald waters. The afternoon is yours to indulge; take a dip in the pool, make a splash on the thrilling waterslide, or find a spot on the expansive sundeck to watch a dazzling sunset over the bay. For those who have booked the Superior Upgrade, this moment is made even more special with an included hour of free-flow drinks. Your day culminates with dinner onboard before the vessel anchors for a magical night spent floating in a quiet cove, surrounded by the bay’s dramatic limestone peaks
Travel time: Driving – approx. 2.5 hours
Ha Long Bay overnight cruise on Capella
Start your morning on the expansive and luxurious Capella I cruise sundeck with fresh tea and coffee, enjoying the dawn on the bay. Energise your body and soul during a tranquil Tai Chi class, watching the sun rise over the bay.
Continue your morning cruising among the tree-trimmed cliffs of Ha Long Bay’s Natural Preservation Zone. Admire your surroundings with premium amenities as you sail through this pristine environment, before packing up your things and preparing to disembark. Once the vessel arrives back at Tuan Chau Marina, rejoin your coach for the ride from Ha Long back to Hanoi to embark on your flight from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) to Da Nang International Airport (DAD).
Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in the coastal city of Hoi An for an evening at leisure.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 3 hours / Flight – approx. 1.5 hours
This morning, your guide will lead you on a walking tour through Hoi An’s enchanting ancient town. You’ll visit the iconic 16th-century Japanese Covered Bridge , the Museum of Sa Huynh Culture where you can unearth the region’s Iron Age history , the 200-year-old Tran Family Chapel , and the traditional Fujian Assembly Hall, a 17th-century structure later repurposed as a temple for the sea goddess Thien Hau.
The afternoon is yours to relax and explore at your own pace. You may wish to indulge in your included spa treatment at Ginger Wellness today (available from 2:00 PM), or save this rejuvenating experience for tomorrow. For your evening, you could choose to join an optional street food tour to sample local specialties (surcharge applies) , or perhaps a half-day tour to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed My Son Sanctuary, a religious complex of ancient temples.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 15 minutes
Enjoy a full day at leisure to soak up the unique atmosphere of Hoi An and create your own adventure. This is another opportunity to use your included spa treatment if you haven’t already. You could also choose from several exciting optional excursions to enhance your day (surcharges apply).
Embark on a full-day trip to Ba Na Hills to see its spectacular landmarks, including the famous Golden Bridge held aloft by giant stone hands. Alternatively, immerse yourself in Vietnamese cuisine with a half-day Cooking Class & Biking Tour, or explore the peaceful countryside by eco-friendly buggy on a Hoi An Craft and Countryside tour, visiting traditional carpentry and pottery villages. The day is yours to design before your journey continues south tomorrow.
After breakfast, enjoy a final morning exploring the charming streets of Hoi An before being transferred to Da Nang International Airport (DAD) for your onward flight to Ho Chi Minh City, historically known as Saigon. Upon arrival, you will check into your five-star accommodation.
The evening is at your leisure to explore the city’s incredible dining scene on your own.
Travellers who have booked a Superior Upgrade will enjoy a special included dinner tonight at ST25 by KOTO, a unique restaurant that supports disadvantaged youth by providing culinary training, where locally sourced ingredients are transformed into a flavourful feast.
Please note: Travellers who book the Superior Upgrade will attend the included dinner at ST25 by KOTO, and as such will not be able to book optional experiences during the evening.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 2 hours / Flight: – approx. 1.5 hours
Your day of discovery begins with a morning journey to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels , located 60 kilometres from Ho Chi Minh City. Considered a powerful remnant of the Vietnam War, this legendary city beneath a city is an extraordinary testament to the ingenuity of the Viet Cong. You’ll have a fascinating opportunity to explore the vast underground network and learn about its crucial role in the country’s history.
After returning to Ho Chi Minh City, you will embark on a guided tour of the city’s most important landmarks. You’ll see a fantastic blend of history and architecture, from the soaring Notre Dame Cathedral and the intricate detail of the historic Saigon Central Post Office to the grand Ho Chi Minh City Opera House and City Hall. The tour also includes a visit to the poignant War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace, where the war famously ended with the fall of Saigon in 1975. After a comprehensive day of sightseeing, the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.
Travel time: Driving – approx. one hour
Enjoy your final full day in Vietnam with a day of leisure to explore Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace. You can spend the day shopping for souvenirs, revisiting a favourite landmark, or choosing from one of the exciting optional experiences available.
You could embark on a full-day optional excursion to the lush, watery world of the Mekong Delta, where you’ll cruise along canals, visit local workshops, and cycle through village paths to see a different side of Vietnamese life (surcharge applies). Alternatively, coffee lovers can immerse themselves in the city’s renowned cafe culture on a half-day ‘Vietnamese Coffee Culture Unveiled’ tour, sampling everything from traditional filter coffee to the famous local egg coffee (surcharge applies).
Tonight, your incredible journey through Vietnam concludes with a memorable farewell dinner. You and your fellow travellers will share stories, reflect on the highlights of your adventure, and toast to the experiences you’ve shared.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 1.5 hours
After an early breakfast, you’ll be transferred from your hotel to Caravelle Hotel Saigon, not too far from your hotel. There will be signage at reception directing you to the meeting point where your Scenic Tour Director will welcome the group at 12pm. From here, enjoy a nearby welcome lunch to get acquainted with your new fellow travellers.
After lunch, a coach transfer will take you to My Tho, where the Scenic Spirit awaits. Begin with a welcome cocktail, meet your Cruise Director, and explore the ship’s facilities.
After your welcome dinner, retire to your private suite and take advantage of your dedicated butler, who can bring nightcaps and your preferred pillows on request. A gentle four-hour sail then carries you to Cai Be, where the ship will anchor overnight.
Your Scenic Spirit Cruise inclusions:
- Nine nights sailing aboard a five-star Scenic Spirit ship in a luxurious one-bedroom balcony suite (Deluxe Suite)
- All-inclusive meals and unlimited free-flow drinks throughout your nine-night cruise
- Explore Phnom Penh with an included tour of the Royal Palace
- Take part in a Buddhist monk blessing and alms giving at a local temple
- Evening tuk-tuk ride with a visit to a local distillery
- Choose from a selection of included shore excursions
- Guidance of the same Scenic Tour Director from start to finish
- Up to four onboard dining options, from casual to fine dining
- Personalised butler service throughout your cruise
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- All tipping and gratuities while aboard
Please Note: Cabin upgrades are available as Optional Experiences. They are non-refundable and must be purchased at time of purchase.
Travel time: Driving – approx. two hours
Mekong River cruise
Begin with a champagne breakfast before selecting your Cai Be adventure.
This morning, choose one of the following experiences:
- Visit Tan Phong Island: Journey by sampan to this fertile island spanning over 1,000 hectares. Try your hand at water hyacinth weaving, ride motorised buggies through tropical fruit orchards, and explore local cottage industries producing rice paper and coconut sweets.
- Morning Tea at Le Longanier: Enjoy tea, coffee, local fruit and an assortment of snacks at Le Longanier, a French colonial house restaurant, while a live band plays traditional Vietnamese music.
- Onboard Mixology: Join the skilled bar team for hands-on cocktail and mocktail classes, featuring fresh local ingredients.
Return to the ship for lunch whilst sailing towards Sa Dec. Unwind in the Scenic Spirit lounge with fellow guests over a drink or simply take in the spectacular scenery.
After breakfast, board a sampan for a two-hour exploration of Sa Dec’s wet market – encounter live fish, frogs and snakes. Visit the grand home of Mr Huynh Thuy Le, the Chinese merchant who inspired Marguerite Duras’ novel L’Amant (or The Lover). Your expert guide reveals the secrets behind this tale of tragic love.
Return to the ship for an evening dip in the pool, overlooking the sparkling Mekong River at sunset. Before dinner, enjoy a themed banquet accompanied by a lion dance performed by locals on the sprawling sundeck. The ship departs overnight for the journey to Tan Chau.
Start with morning yoga, gym sessions or sauna relaxation before exploring Tan Chau.
This morning, choose one of the following experiences:
- Tra Su Bird Sanctuary: Journey through 850 hectares of ecological paradise by sampan, navigating tranquil waterways flanked by mangroves. This haven hosts over 100 waterbird species.
- Evergreen Island: Experience traditional farming life on Evergreen Island, then explore Tan Chau by xe loi (three-wheeled bicycle rickshaw). Visit the colourful Cao Dai temple, learning about this fascinating 1926 religion blending Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism and Confucianism.
- Chau Doc Expedition: Speed boat to this Mekong Delta city and see the Tay An temple at the foot of Sam Mountain, showcasing Indian and Islamic architecture. Continue by sampan along Vinh Te canal, visiting a family-operated fish farm.
After lunch, sail towards the Vietnamese-Cambodian border. You might like to unwind in the ship’s Wellness Area, with luxurious spa treatments (at your own expense), a steam room, sauna and fitness centre.
This morning, you’ll be crossing the border into Cambodia.
After border procedures, enjoy time at leisure aboard whilst sailing upstream to Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh.
A storied metropolis, Phnom Penh is a bustling network of streets where traffic runs loud and fast. Life here revolves around the Mekong River, with markets, restaurants and endless adventures along its banks.
This afternoon, explore Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Cambodia, and its renowned Silver Pagoda, offering a glimpse into the country’s regal heritage.
Tonight, experience the city on the ‘Phnom Penh by City Lights’ tour, taking in the capital’s dazzling nightlife before visiting a local rum distillery for an exclusive tasting and private tour.
After breakfast on board, set out to explore this fascinating city.
Choose from one of the following experiences:
- Historical Tour: Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former school converted into a prison under the Khmer Rouge regime, offering a stark insight into Cambodia’s tragic past. Just outside the city, the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek stand as a sobering reminder of the thousands who lost their lives. Though deeply affecting, these sites are essential to understanding Cambodia’s resilience.
- Culinary Tour: Join a local chef at bustling markets to source ingredients, then cook your own lunch while mastering Cambodian cuisine styles and flavours.
- Architectural Tour: Travel by remork (local tuk-tuk) through French colonial architecture, concluding with shopping at the Central Market – famous for its Art Deco design and bright yellow facade.
Return for lunch aboard the Scenic Spirit and spend the afternoon however you please.
Tonight, settle in for a cultural performance by the Cambodian Student and Children’s Organisation before dinner.
After breakfast onboard, drive to Cambodia’s ancient capital, Oudong, and experience monastic life at the peaceful monastery. You might even see one of the region’s traditional festivals or rituals during your visit.
Return for lunch before sailing to Oknha Tey, also known as ‘Silk Island’, famed for its silk-weaving traditions. Take a tuk-tuk to a local farm, where you’ll discover the intricate processes behind silk production.
This afternoon, unwind with sunset cocktails on the ship’s sundeck, as Phnom Penh’s skyline and river views set the scene for your journey to Angkor Ban.
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning as you sail towards Angkor Ban. Beat the tropical heat with poolside cocktails aboard your luxury ship.
After lunch, it’s time to explore Angkor Ban – a small settlement where time stands still on the edge of the Mekong River. Discover historic wooden houses over 100 years old, having survived through the Khmer Rouge regime. Visit a school teaching for a glimpse into local life.
Return to the ship to and learn about krama traditions – a traditional Cambodian scarf – as you sail towards Kampong Cham and Wat Hanchey.
After breakfast, visit Wat Hanchey, an ancient hilltop pagoda offering spectacular river views, and meet novice monks. Observe life at the monastery as they train to dedicate their lives to Buddhism. Receive traditional monk blessings and learn Buddhist prayer practices before participating in an alms ceremony, contributing to the resident monks’ daily meals.
Return to the ship and sail towards Krong Kampong Cham, a charming city on the Mekong River, known for its French colonial buildings.
This afternoon, choose one of the following experiences:
- Visit Phnom Pros: Explore local folklore at this mountaintop pagoda steeped in traditional legends, now featuring a Buddha Garden and resident monkeys.
- Colonial Heritage tour: Drive past French colonial-era shop houses, the large Central Market and visit a rubber plantation.
- Kho Penh Village: Visit Pen (Bamboo) Island, a remote village reached by remork (local tuk tuk) after crossing a bamboo bridge or taking the ferry from Kampong Cham. It offers a glimpse into the traditional rural lifestyle of Cambodian farmers.
Afterwards, unwind on board before tonight’s farewell dinner. Raise a glass to the Cambodian sunset with your fellow travellers as you reminisce about this extraordinary adventure.
Journey to Siem Reap via Kampong Tom and the historic Angkorian bridge at Kampong Kdei. Bid farewell to your fellow travellers and the ship’s crew as you make your way to Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport (SAI) for your onwards journey.