Cambodia

Set sail on the legendary Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers for a luxurious cruise aboard the Jayavarman vessel, offering several trips between Saigon and Siem Reap. This ship, named after the Khmer royal dynasty, is renowned throughout Southeast Asia for its elegance and charm. It boasts a total of 800 square meters of space, spread across four decks that seamlessly blend French colonial architecture with Khmer art. The boat features two bar lounges, an ingenious dining room, a spa, a library equipped with Wi-Fi, and 27 cabins in four different categories (Superior, Luxury, Junior Royal Suite, and Royal Suite).

A majestic cruise

The cruise can be taken in either direction: from Saigon to Phnom Penh (4 days), Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (5 days), or from Siem Reap to Saigon (8 days). This luxurious and enchanting journey is also educational. Throughout your voyage, you will learn about the history of the Khmer Empire — from its rise on the Phnom Kulen mountain under the leadership of the self-proclaimed God-King Jayavarman II, to its mysterious fall, which is still being diligently studied by a group of esteemed historians and anthropologists. You will also explore the empire’s peak under King Jayavarman VII, the most beloved monarch in Khmer history due to his philanthropy and his close relationship with the people.

This cruise will also offer insight into the pivotal role of religion in the post-Chenla Khmer civilization, initially Hindu and later almost entirely converted to Buddhism. You will have the chance to stop in Kampong Cham to visit the temples of Wat Nokor and Wat Anchey.

Onboard Experience

Onboard, you will enjoy exquisite Khmer cuisine, refined and delicate, while developing a sense of calm through morning Tai Chi lessons available throughout the cruise. The afternoons and evenings will be dedicated to traditional Khmer dance performances, including the famous Apsara dance inspired by the bas-reliefs of Angkor.

You will also have the opportunity to learn about various NGOs working in the floating villages at the heart of Southeast Asia’s largest lake, Tonle Sap, and understand their humanitarian projects and actions.