Beginning September 17, experience the rich cultural traditions of Vietnam and Cambodia while sailing ancient river tributaries little-known to Western travelers accompanied by expert Southeast Asian spa therapists and a bounty of fresh, healthy culinary options aboard the new 12-suite RV Mekong Princess.
The carefully curated guided excursions range from meeting the coconut candy-making families of Ben Tre, seeing the floating market of Can Tho and visiting the bird sanctuary near Thot Not to experiencing the floating river village of Kampong Chhnang that was once a coastal city on the ancient trading route between China and India. Guests will travel via sampans, horse carts, two-person small boats and motorized Vietnamese xo loi to many of these fascinatingly remote locations.
Haimark is the first luxury line to operate this unique itinerary that visits some of the most fascinating, never-before-seen areas of the Mekong Delta. By touching on tiny village outposts, adding exotic bird species sightings and navigating along the Bassac River – aspects that are seemingly overlooked by others plying the Mekong – Haimark has brought an entirely new perspective to this mighty, life-giving waterway.
The heart of Mekong Princess is the Princess Spa and its unprecedented spa menu, the most extensive of any ship on the Mekong River, with a wide array of Southeast Asian inspired treatments. Here, guests can rejuvenate mind, body and spirit during the seven-night journey. The skilled spa therapists offer a variety of massages, facials, scrubs, and body wraps and will customize a program to fit each guest’s specific needs using all natural products native to the area. Every guest receives one complimentary one-hour Princess Spa treatment of personal choice during the sailing. Guests also have access to the Princess Fitness Center featuring state-of-the-art equipment and floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning river views. Daily yoga, Tai Chi and meditation classes are offered either in the fitness center or on the open-air Bassac Deck Observation Area.
Mekong Princess is home to 12 inviting suites in four categories that accommodate a maximum of 24 guests. All guests enjoy elegant French colonial décor, floor to ceiling windows, glass doors to private balconies, and marble baths with glass rain shower and spa bath amenities. Additional amenities include daily butler service and nightly turndown as well as flowers and fresh fruit upon arrival. The two largest and most luxurious suites are the Angkor Suites located in the bow of the upper deck. These 496-square-foot suites offer panoramic views, including private outdoor verandas, and spacious baths with marble tubs and separate rain showers. Exclusive Angkor Suite amenities include complimentary laundry, evening canapés and special fragrant spa bath preparation.
Guests may take advantage of the ship’s welcoming public areas. The intimate Indochine Dining Room captures the elegant French Colonial spirit of the historic mansions that once lined Saigon’s streets. Amidst tropical florals, warm woods, soft lighting and rich fabrics, guests enjoy daily breakfast, lunch and a multi-course ala carte dinner with wine pairings that accompany Southeast Asian and Western fare. Extensive spa cuisine options have also been crafted utilizing the freshest herbs and vegetables offered in the fertile Delta region.
Local entertainment is offered in the indoor air-conditioned Ramvong Lounge, while the outdoor Observation Deck with its inviting furnishings is ideal for relaxing and enjoying the breeze while watching life on the passing riverbanks. The Princess Library and Internet Lounge are available for those interested in learning more about the Mekong River basin, its traditions and surrounding countries.
Two- and three-night optional pre-and post-cruise extensions, with luxury hotel accommodations, guided excursions and more, offer additional experiences in Hanoi/Ha Long Bay, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok and Siem Reap/Angkor Wat.
Rates start at $3,499 per person based on double occupancy.
Haimark, www.haimarktravel.com