If you thought river cruises couldn’t possibly be luxurious, think again – the Aqua Mekong shows that exclusivity and authentic experiences go hand-in-hand even when sailing between Cambodia and Vietnam.
Included in your holiday
- Lounge passes and meet & greet service in UK airports
- Transfers to and from your hotel
- All flight luggage allowances
- Personal concierge service
- 24/7 assistance when travelling
- Full ATOL protection
Full accommodation information
Hotel information
Many cruises claim to offer true luxury, but few can compare to the sumptuous Aqua Mekong, a dazzling vessel that strides elegantly through the waters of the Mekong River in both Cambodia and Vietnam.
Aqua Mekong immerses its guests into the untouched landscapes of South-east Asia, a shifting riverscape of floating temples, somnolent villages and tranquil rice paddies. While doing so, it also promises exceptionally comfortable journeys thanks to state-of-the-art systems, oversized suites and stunning views bestowed by floor-to-ceiling windows, not to mention impeccable service thanks to a 1-1 crew to guest ratio.
What’s more, the Aqua Mekong provides an all-inclusive basis that allows you to relax and enjoy the many perks of journeying with this luxe river vessel even more. All meals, excursions and non-alcoholic drinks (certain wines and beer too) are included, which is a real advantage – particularly since the cuisine is dreamt up by Michelin-star chef, David Thompson! So, take your pick from the indoor lounge, outdoor terrace or refined dining room to relish some of the best flavour combinations you’ll experience during your time in South-east Asia.
That’s all before mentioning the onboard spa, plunge pool, movie screening room and of course guided excursions into the surrounding landscape. From adventures by kayak to cycling tours, temple visits to encounters with the local communities, you can decide how many of the twice-daily activities to join, taking place on and around the Mekong River. But don’t forget to lap up the indulgences of Aqua Mekong while on deck – it’s all rather exceptional.
Room Options
There are 20 suites onboard the Aqua Mekong vessel, which are beautifully designed in natural materials and considerably large at 30sq m, providing a spacious, serene and sophisticated sanctuary on the Mekong River. Flashes of silvery blue are complemented with hues of slate and white, while bathrooms couldn’t be more heavenly – particularly since these are cruise cabins, after all! – with their walk-in rain showers, dual vanities and eco-friendly toiletries.
Design Suite
Every cabin onboard is a Design Suite, complete with a super king-size bed or two doubles, a daybed, Nespresso coffee machine and kettle, bottled water and living area. Eight of these suites feature private, furnished balconies, and there’s also the chance to book interconnecting suites for double the space if travelling as a group or family.Facilities/Amenities
For an exclusive river boat, the Aqua Mekong hosts a lot more facilities than you first might expect. As well as a library, games room, observation deck, screening room and Wi-Fi, there’s also a gym, boutique (where you can pick up delicate handicrafts and jewellery), indoor and outdoor lounges, a spa and plunge pool. The spa is an inviting space to relax with a Khmer or Swedish massage, Vietnamese aromatherapy treatment or perhaps a mani-pedi; while the al fresco, heated plunge pool is artfully set on the upper deck with sweeping views of the surrounds.
Restaurants & Bars
Restaurant
Sit down for delectable dining experiences onboard the Aqua Mekong, courtesy of esteemed Michelin-star chef David Thompson, whose Bangkok-based restaurant Nahm is of huge acclaim. He brings his expertise to the Aqua riverboat, promising mouth-watering dishes that fuse culinary traditions of Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand, whipped up using just-caught fish as well as produce from bustling markets set along the banks of the Mekong itself.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Indoor Lounge
Exquisite wines, local beer and exotic cocktails are the order of the day at Aqua Mekong’s indoor bar, where you can sit with a drink in-hand and ponder the shifting scenery beyond those floor-to-ceiling windows. Comfy sofas then tempt you to stay awhile, as you sample an expertly crafted Vietnamese coffee, perhaps.
Outdoor Lounge
Head outside to enjoy some air and far-reaching views of the riverbanks, from the boat’s outdoor lounges – one at the stern end, and the other at the bow. The bar staff are here to mix you up a drink while you recline on a sun lounger, or wallow in the waters of the open-air plunge pool; it’s just too easy.
Activities & Entertainment
Whether you’re one to linger onboard for some entertainment or head off and explore the surrounds on twice-daily excursions, the Aqua Mekong has you covered. There are two-person kayaks available to paddle over the water and immerse yourself in life on the Mekong River, from watching silk-weavers at Oknha Tey to drinking in the evocative scenery of Tonle Sap Lake. You can also go on guided hikes into the rainforest, explore local villages, enjoy birdwatching and marvel at off the beaten path Buddhist monasteries. Bikes are also free to borrow from Aqua Mekong, so get peddling and you’ll be rewarded with extraordinary landscapes, hidden villages, enchanting rice paddies and encounters with local residents. You can also try your hand at fishing, sunrise meditation on the outdoor deck and cookery classes! In the evening, why not settle down for a movie session in the screening room, where classic films and documentaries alike are played to appeal to just about everyone.
Cambodia travel information
When to visit Cambodia
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best time
Good time
Ok time
- Time zone: GMT+7
- Flight time: 17-19 hours
- Recommended airlines: Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific
- Currency: Cambodian Riel
- Tipping guideline: 10% of total bill
- Health considerations: There is a risk of dengue. There is a risk of Zika virus. There is a low risk of malaria in Cambodia. There is no risk of yellow fever in Cambodia, however, yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
- Capital: Phnom Penh
- Population: 17,121,847
- National languages: Khmer
- Electricity and plugs: Type A / C / G, 230V
- Mobile phone coverage: Good
- UK passport visa requirements: You need a visa for Cambodia if you have a British passport - apply online
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