fbpx

Peregrine Travel Centre

The Full Mekong, Four Country 21 Night Combo Cruise

The Full Mekong, Four Country 21 Night Combo Cruise

From AUD $17,764

Book Now Request a callback
Email Us Print

Description

For the first time, join Pandaw on an in-depth exploration of the Mekong River from South to North. Combining our two 10 night Mekong expeditions through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam in this special four country expedition. Sailing all of the navigable stretches of this mighty river, you will learn about how one river can support a vast and diverse group of peoples and cultures, all from the comfort of our locally crafted Pandaw vessels.
This combo cruise includes flight from Saigon to Vientiane and one night accommodation in Vientiane between cruises within the price of your ticket.

Trip Name
The Full Mekong, Four Country 21 Night Combo Cruise
Days
22
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury River Cruising Length: 60m Passenger Capacity: 48 pax Built: 2002 / Refurbished: 2013 The RV Mekong Pandaw, affectionately known as the MP, is the most spacious ship in the Pandaw fleet and a true icon of river cruising. Purpose-built for the Mekong, she boasts generous promenades, an expansive dining hall, and an impressive 750-square-metre teak deck complete with a full-size billiard table. With 24 beautifully appointed staterooms featuring panoramic French windows, imported linens, and thoughtful touches such as Nespresso machines, complimentary minibars, and spa-branded amenities, she offers unmatched comfort and elegance on the river. Guests also enjoy yoga mats in every cabin, evening canapés, and attentive service including daily turndown and 24-hour laundry. Onboard, the experience is enriched by exceptional dining led by a local master chef, with semi-buffet breakfasts and lunches, themed seated dinners, and a wide selection of fine wines. A welcoming atmosphere is complemented by cultural performances, cooking classes, and fascinating talks, while the saloon and sundeck bars provide social spaces with complimentary treats and nightly entertainment. Excursions are thoughtfully organised with deluxe sampans, comfort services, and expert local guides, while safety and service standards remain uncompromisingly high. With its refined facilities including a spa, gym, library, and art gallery, the Mekong Pandaw is quite justifiably regarded as the most splendid ship on the Mekong.

Itinerary



Day 1 - DAY 1 SIEM REAP TO THE TONLE SAP
After a short 45 minute drive to Siem Reap inland port, we embark and set sail into the Tonle Sap lake. This is the perfect chance to spot the various bird life along the lake’s edges as well as crocodiles and snakes that are abundant in these shallow waters. Not to forget also the giant Mekong catfish, the largest ever caught being 648 pounds in May 2004. There are 148 other species of fish in the lake which provide the main source of protein for the entire Cambodian population. In the afternoon we visit a floating village where houses, schools and restaurants are all accessed only by boat. Learn more about how these communities survive on the water and how their lives are changing with the development of Cambodia.
Day 2 - DAY 2 THE TONLE SAP LAKE AND KAMPONG CHHNANG
Wake up on the open waters savoring the peace and tranquility of this lake that in high water covers 6,200 miles and in low water shrinks to 1,000 square miles. We continue sailing before reaching Kampong Chhnang, an important trading town that focusses on fishing and creating local pottery. We explore the back waters by local boat before sailing downstream to moor alongside a remote fishing village. Enjoy evening cocktails around a fire pit in the village where we will be joined by village folk keen to share tales and show us their traditional dancing.
Day 3 - DAY 3 LIFE ON THE TONLE SAP RIVER
We sail early morning along the winding channels of the Tonle Sap River to Kampong Tralach. We travel by ox-cart around the river-side villages, markets and temples to get a sense of life in rural Cambodia. Over lunch we sail past Phnom Penh and onto the Mekong River. In the afternoon we step ashore at Pak Russei, a small and remote village on the banks of the Mekong. We will explore on foot and visit local craftspeople weaving silk and producing handmade noodles. Before returning to the ship, we learn about the ancient art of Bokator, a traditional form of martial art with a private performance in the village. 
Day 4 - DAY 4 PEAM CHI KORNG POTTERY VILLAGE
Enjoy morning Tai Chi or just a coffee on deck as we take a sunrise cruise to Peam Chi Korng, an untouched gem that is a hub of pottery in Cambodia. After a short tuk tuk ride from the banks of the Mekong, we witness the local potters in action before continuing to explore the village and local fresh market where you can test your language skills. In the afternoon we continue sailing along the mighty Mekong.
Day 5 - DAY 5 KOH TRONG ISLAND TREE PLANTING
Visit Koh Trong Island, a community-based tourism site since 2008. We explore the island’s fruit orchards by local transportation or bicycle and sample the local delicacies before we head to a community reforestation project and plant trees to support the island.
Day 6 - DAY 6 KRATIE AND THE DOLPHIN GROUNDS
After breakfast we head to Kampi by coach to spot the Irrawaddy dolphins abundant in the waters below Stung Trang. We board small fishing vessels now used to monitor the dolphin populations and provide dolphin spotting for tourists to raise awareness of their plight. Whilst numbers have increased in recent years, they remain endangered and we learn more about the work of locals to support dolphin numbers and how Pandaw is supporting. This is a real highlight of the expedition. In the afternoon, we set sail downstream along the Mekong back toward Phnom Penh.
Day 7 - DAY 7 PHNOM PENH
Morning orientation of Phnom Penh by cyclo visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda followed by the National Museum with its marvellous collection of Angkorian statuary. In the afternoon we visit the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum to learn more about the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. We dock overnight in Phnom Penh city port with its lively bars, restaurants and nightlife. Feel free to explore the city before returning to your hotel on the water.
Day 8 - DAY 8 INTO VIETNAM
We up anchor early in the morning and cruise downstream along the Mekong River to the Vietnam border for immigration formalities. The ship sails toward Chau Doc where we talk an evening stroll along the river before dinner aboard.
Day 9 - DAY 9 CHAU DOC AND THE FERTILE WATERWAYS
In the morning, we take minivans for a short drive to Sam Mountain, the location of Phuoc Dien Tu or the Hang Pagoda. After climbing the steps we are greeted with stunning views across the Mekong. For those not keen on the stairs, explore the local market instead. Afterwards, we visit the nearby floating fish farms by Sampan before being treated to a private Lion dance performance at a local Village. After lunch aboard we continue sailing into the heart of the Mekong delta and enjoy on-deck entertainment from your crew.
Day 10 - DAY 10 BEN TRE AND SAILING INTO SAIGON
In the morning, we journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards of Ben Tre. This is a fertile farming region with half of Vietnam's rice production coming from the Mekong Delta. It also hosts a rich artisanal culture which we will witness at a local village specialising in handicrafts. After returning to the ship enjoy lunch onboard as we sail through the Cho Gao Canal toward Saigon. The Cho Gao Canal is a vital waterway link for the transportation of goods to and from the city which was constructed in 1876 by the French and offers a fascinating insight to life along the water. In the evening we sail into central Saigon and enjoy the stunning skyline over dinner.
Day 11 - DAY 11 DISEMBARK SAIGON
After breakfast, disembark in the heart of Saigon and head to the airport for your flight to Vientiane. Upon arrival our guide will be waiting to take you to your hotel for the evening.
Day 12 - DAY 12 VIENTIANE
Pick up from your hotel in Vientiane at 08.00am, followed by a local long-tail boat expedition to your Pandaw vessel upstream. Lunch and drinks will be provided on the local boat by your Pandaw chef and bar staff. Embark your Pandaw in the afternoon for a welcome briefing and welcome drinks. We moor overnight at Pak Lay.
Day 13 - DAY 13 CRUISING THE MEKONG
Cruise upstream on the Mekong, passing lush jungle scenery and tiny riverside villages. Morning presentation on the Lao language after a short walk at Pha Laeb village. If time permits, we will also enjoy an afternoon walk at Ban Khok Fark.
Day 14 - DAY 14 XAYABOURI DAM
Morning walk at Ban Pak Bor Khummu village before passing through Xayabouri Hydroelectric Dam, taking an inside look of the workings of this somewhat controversial attraction as we navigate the locks. Afternoon visit to Ban Na San village, a Hmong minority village.
Day 15 - DAY 15 KUANG SI WATERFALLS
In the morning we moor at the village of Ban Mouang Khai and visit the dramatic Kaung Si waterfall. On the way back to the ship, we stop at the Laos Buffalo Farm, a social enterprise utilizing the abundant buffalo in Laos. Arrive in the heart of the temple city of Luang Prabang mid-afternoon where there is a buzzing night market and many great cafes and local restaurants. Traditional Laos Bacci ceremony and dancing on the upper deck during happy hour. Moor overnight in central Luang Prabang.
Day 16 - DAY 16 LUANG PRABANG CRAFTS & CULTURE
Today we explore the various handicrafts of Laos in more detail. We start with Ock Pop Tok, a social enterprise providing sustainable employment and training for the women of local weaving villages. We then head to TAEC (Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre) to understand more about Laos musical instruments. After lunch aboard the ship, we sail toward Ban Chan and take part in a pottery demonstration at the local pottery workshop. We finish the day with a sunset cruise on the Mekong alongside Luang Prabang, returning to moor overnight in the centre of town.
Day 17 - DAY 17 LUANG PRABANG
Early morning walking tour to observe the alms offerings to the hundreds of monks who walk around the city every morning. We continue after breakfast to the morning market before taking tuktuks for a city tour of this well preserved and unique world heritage site with its many Buddhist temples, libraries and royal palace. The afternoon is free to explore the beauty and unique atmosphere of Luang Prabang.
Day 18 - DAY 18 PAK OU CAVES
Morning at leisure in Luang Prabang before setting sail at midday upstream. Afternoon sightseeing by local boat exploring the unique Pak Ou Caves, a Buddhist sanctuary with spectacular limestone cliff faces. See the production of local Laos whisky at the Whisky village and shop for locally produced handicrafts.
Day 19 - DAY 19 BAN TON AND SANDBANK BBQ
Day of sailing upstream along the Mekong with morning walk through Ban Ton village. In the evening, we moor alongside a sandbank for a special riverside barbecue and cocktail party. Light paper lanterns with the crew and enjoy a dance in remote Laos.
Day 20 - DAY 20 PAK BENG ELEPHANT SANCTUARY
Laos is known as ‘The land of a million elephants’ and today we will visit a rescue sanctuary that is helping to preserve the elephants of Laos and provide sustainable alternative employment for Mahouts who once trained and rode these beautiful creatures. Afternoon walk at Ban Pak Sith Khummu village.
Day 21 - DAY 21 PAK SITH - CHIANG KHONG
Today we sail the final leg of our journey upstream toward Huayxay. Cross over into Thailand via the Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge before rejoining your ship in Chiang Khong. Enjoy a ship tour of your Pandaw vessel and fruit carving demonstration from your Pandaw Chef. Farewell cocktails and Thai traditional dance on board for your last evening.
Day 22 - DAY 22 CHIANG KHONG
Disembark by 8.30 in Chiang Khong and group transfer to hotel/airport. En route, explore the Golden Triangle including a visit to the opium museum. Continue to airports or city hotels in Chiang Rai (2 hours) and Chiang Mai (6 hours).
Day 23 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
01-10-202622-10-2026AUD $17,764Main Deck Twin Sharing
01-10-202622-10-2026AUD $19,654Upper Deck Twin Sharing
01-10-202622-10-2026AUD $21,318Main Deck Twin Single Use
01-10-202622-10-2026AUD $23,586Upper Deck Twin Single Use

Inclusions

    • Wat Hanchey (Siem Reap
    • Kampong Cham, Cambodia): This ancient center of worship perched on a hill above the Mekong offers stunning river panoramas. The site features Chenla Period temples dating back to the 8th century, some of which were damaged during the Vietnam War by American bombing.
    • Koh Trong Island (Kampong Cham, Cambodia): Explore this former French provincial center with its splendid belle epoch mansions and lively market. Passengers have the opportunity to plant their own trees on the delightful Koh Trong island and enjoy a sandbank dinner.
    • Kratie and the Dolphins (Kratie, Cambodia): Depending on seasonal water levels, this day offers a chance to view dolphins in a national park protected area. Travel further upstream by rustic bus from Kratie to observe the dolphin grounds from local boats.
    • Phnom Penh (Cambodia): Explore the capital city with visits to the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, and poignant tours of the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum, shedding light on the brutal Khmer Rouge regime.

Map

Related products

Recent Blog Posts

Browse Trips in

Trips
More of activity:
Asia Cruises