Combine the ancient temples of Angkor in Siem Reap with Cambodia’s bustling capital city Phnom Penh with this expeditions on the Tonle and Mekong Rivers.
There can be no tapestry of river life as fascinating and varied as the River Mekong. Indeed there can be no more striking a cultural contrast as that between the bustling Vietnam delta and the tranquility of Cambodia. We pass from the vibrant French colonial port of Saigon, through the vast delta so rich in human life and endeavour, to travel along the main channel into the rich countryside of Cambodia. With a full day in charming Phnom Penh we then explore remoter waterways as we progress to the great monuments of Angkor.
HIGH WATER NOTICE: During the months September to November, water levels may rise significantly leading to issues accessing the Tonle Sap River. During this time, we may replace itinerary points on the Tonle Sap with sailing north to Kratie and excursions at the dolphin grounds.
- Sunset Cruise and Crew Introduction: Depart Siem Reap, board the cruise in Kampong Cham, enjoy a Mekong River sunset cruise, and meet the crew for the upcoming week.
- Village Visit and Silk Learning: Explore Angkor Ban village and a local school, donate books, then discover the silk-making process on 'Silk Island'. Experience Bokator, an ancient Khmer martial art.
- Oudong Discovery: Journey to Oudong, Cambodia's old capital. Visit a meditation center, explore the city, and take an ox-cart ride through riverside locales. Evening showcases Khmer culture.
- Phnom Penh Arrival: Disembark in Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital, after breakfast.
There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.
Bassac Pandaw
Vessel Type: River Boat
Length: 167ft / 50.9m
Passenger Capacity: 60
Built: 2012
The third of these rather grand Vietnamese sisters, along with the Orient and Indochina. She is a good looker, and turns many a head as she ploughs in state across the Delta or into the bustling hub of the Phnom Penh port.
ACCOMMODATION
• 20 upper deck staterooms and 10 main deck staterooms
• 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass
• Panoramic French window, leading to personal deck space
• Kimonos and slippers
• Spa-branded amenities
• Unlimited mineral water
• Electric mini safe
• Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows
• Premium mattresses
• Convertible bed configuration
• Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift
• Make-up mirror
• Multi-configuration plugs
• Generous closet space and under-bed storage
• Hair dryer
• Nightly turndown service
• 24h laundry service
• Complimentary evening canapés
WINING & DINING
• Local master chef heading an experienced international culinary team
• Semi-buffet breakfast, Semi-buffet lunch, and seated theme dinners
• Daily lean & light menu options
• Complimentary local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes
• Extensive wine list with premium wines
• Series of cultural performances, educational talks, cooking classes, and ship tour
• Welcome drink on arrival
• Welcome cocktail
• Farewell reception
• Theme dinners
• Spacious, air-conditioned saloon bar with nightly entertainment
• Sundeck bar with complimentary ice cream from sunrise to sunset
• 24hrs hospitality bar
• Onboard bakery with daily freshly baked breads and rolls
ON EXCURSIONS
• Admissions
• Shoe cleaning after excursions
• Bottled drinking water
• We give away aluminium water bottles
• Cold towel service after excursions
• Refreshing drink following excursions
• Full-size motor coach on all excursions
• Deluxe sampans with cold towel service, fresh fruit, and tea/coffee
• Comfortable "Pandaw Explorer" excursion boat
• 1st aid trained assistant guide to follow all tours and excursions
SAFETY & SECURITY
• All onboard crew is trained and certified as per international marine standards (VIRES)
• Fire alarm system in all cabins, public areas and back areas
• Fire fighting system in all ship areas
• Expert marine superintendant
• 24 hrs watch on duty
• Certified hygiene standards for all areas (Johnson & Diversey)
ONBOARD STAFF
• Captain
• River Pilot
• First Officer
• Chief Engineer
• 1st Engineer
• Electrician
• Bosun & nautical crew
• Ship manager
• Housekeeping
• Dining
• Bar keeper
• Chefs
• Spa therapist
• Local tour guides
PUBLIC SPACES
• Guest relation desk
• Fair-trade shop
• Lecture and meeting room with oversized flat screen TV, LSD projector and sound system
• Art gallery featuring local art and artists
• Library with contemporary and classic literature
• Wireless internet in all public areas
