This voyage will take you from some of the most energetic cities in Asia to pristine and beautiful islands, jungle wilderness and one of the world’s great wonders, the awe inspiring temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Sailing between Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City, your cruise vessel will berth at Sihanoukville for access to this World Heritage Listed site. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore the temples in the Angkor Thom complex and then enjoy a traditional Cambodian feast and cultural performance. Your ship then sails on to Vietnam, with its rich legacy of Chinese and French culture. Your cruise vessel is the only foreign-flagged vessel allowed into the Mekong Delta in 2012 and the first with approval to use a Zodiac fleet to explore the famous floating markets of the Mekong for a night time experience that is sure to be a highlight.

Available Cruise Departure Dates (2012):
Mar 5

Bangkok is a frequently chaotic jumble of traffic, temples, savory food and entertainment. Over the last few years, the opening of a slick new elevated tramway that enables visitors to glide over the chaotic scenes below, coupled with the cheap and frequent river boats and the reasonably priced air-conditioned taxis, have made tourism in the city newly appealing. Within the city limits is a wealth of over 300 Buddhist temple and shrines. Most famous are Wat Benchamabophit (Marble Temple), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and Wat Trimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha). One of the largest temple complexes in the country is Wat Pho. Altogether, there are over 30 individual temples scattered here, of which the Temple of the Reclining Buddha is the largest. The Buddha's statue is enormous, an amazing 47.5m (156ft) long and 15m (49ft) high. Wat Phra Kaeo is a temple complex that houses the Emerald Buddha.

A private vehicle with English speaking guide & driver will transfer you between the airport and your hotel.

The Chatrium Hotel Riverside towers above Bangkok's legendary Chao Phraya River, with sweeping cityscapes from its over sized windows, the 5-star Chatrium Suites Bangkok hotel features luxury accommodations designed expressly to meet needs of discerning business and leisure travelers. Its riverside location was carefully chosen to afford ready access to road, SkyTrain and boat transport, assuring that all points of the city are within reach, from the major thoroughfares of Silom, Sathorn and Rama III roads to expressway links that put Suvarnabhumi International Airport a mere 45-minute drive away.

Overnight at Chatrium Hotel Riverside (4*).

One of the most popular tours, bringing you along 3 of the most stunning temples, Bangkok has to offer! It features the “Wat Traimit” with its 5, 5, ton heavy Golden Buddha Image, the Wat Chetuporn (commonly known as the Wat Po), that boasts the over 45-meters long Reclining Buddha. Wat Pho is also regarded as the first centre of public education and is sometimes called ‘Thailand’s first university’. Mural paintings, inscriptions, and statues found in the temple-educated people on varied subjects such as literature, warfare, archaeology, astronomy, geology, meditation and to be considered, home of the Thai traditional massage. We end the tour with a visit to the Wat Benchamaborpit (also known as the Marble Temple): a representation of an outstanding success of marriage between Italian Carrara marble and classical Thai architecture. Especially for those interested to know a bit more about Buddhism and its history, combined with the always-busy city life.

Overnight at Chatrium Hotel Riverside (4*).

This busy full day tour takes you first to the rural yet world-famous floating market of Damnern Saduak, situated around 100 kilometers west of Bangkok. It is generally known as Klong Ton Khem Floating Market or Damnern Saduak Floating Market. Damnern Saduak has officially three floating markets. A narrow canal flanked with food stalls and souvenir shops forms the principal market at Ton Kem. Farther south are the rarely visited markets at Her Kui and Khun Pitak. Photographers at Ton Kem will get their best shots from the bridge, which crosses over the canal, and from the produce shed on the right. Nowadays, the market is bustling with activity from very early in the morning until about 11.00 am. We continue to the world famous bridge on the River Kwai, built during World War II by the prisoners of war. The bridge is located near the town of Kanchanaburi, 130 kilometers west of Bangkok. You will visit the well-kept Wat Cemetery of Allied Prisoners, which contain the graves of an estimated 9,000 Allied soldiers who lost their lives while building the bridge and constructing the notorious  "Death Railway” which the Japanese had hoped to stretch all the way to the Burmese border. This tour will bring you also closer to the past, as paying a visit to the JEATH Museum (the name “JEATH” is derived from Japan, England, America/Australia, Thailand and Holland), where the past has been created and relived with pictures and artifacts out of this time. We will return back to Bangkok in the late afternoon to your booked hotel.  Due to time constraints in relation to the train times, we are unable to include a train ride over the Death Railway in this program.

Overnight at Chatrium Hotel Riverside (4*).

The Gulf of Thailand, also known as the Gulf of Siam, is a shallow arm of the South China Sea. Bordered by Thailand, Cambodia, and the southwestern edge of Vietnam, the gulf harbours many coral reefs, and thus several diving resorts. Due to the tropical warmth of the water, it is popular with tourists. Some of the most important tourist destinations in the Gulf of Thailand are the islands of Ko Samui and Ko Pha Ngan in Surat Thani province, Pattaya in Chonburi province, Cha-am, Hua Hin, Ko Samet and Ko Chang.

A visit to the Royal Grand Palace, the nation’s landmark and most praised royal monument in Thailand is a must. The former royal residence of the Chakri Kings, the palace is the perfect example of an ancient Siamese court. Built in 1782 by King Rama I, it was the centre of power for more than 150 years.  Today, the palace is Bangkok's major landmark and most popular tourist attraction.  Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is located right next to the Grand Palace together form perhaps the greatest spectacle for the visitor to Bangkok. Despite the fact that the whole compound is so full of tourists you spend half the time trying to avoid getting in people’s photos, it’s still pretty amazing place to visit. It consists of over 100 brightly coloured building, golden spires and glittering mosaics, and dates back to 1782, when Bangkok was founded. When you enter the compound, you first of all see Wat Phra Kaew and the nearby attractions, and then move on to the Grand Palace afterwards.  Photography is permitted in the Royal Palace Grounds and in the compounds of the Emerald Buddha Temple, but not inside the buildings. 

Dress Code: Participants on this tour should note that the chapel is a national shrine and you will be required to wear proper attire (no bare shoulders, knees or strapless-heel shoes). Shoes must be removed before entering the temple buildings as a matter of respect.  The Palace may be closed without prior notice during Royal ceremonies and officials/head of state visits. The inner courts of Grand Palace are frequently closed on Sundays; we recommend not to book this excursion on Sundays to avoid disappointment.

Transfer between the Bangkok Railway Station or the Boat Pier and your Bangkok hotel with a private vehicle and English speaking guide.

Welcome aboard your cruise vessel!
After embarkation, meet some of your fellow cruise passengers and get settled in.

Orion II is a private yacht-like expedition cruise ship built by Cantieri Navale Ferrari of Italy. After a number of years as a private yacht, Orion II was relaunched in 2009 following an extensive technical refit. Little expense was spared with this stylish, Italian built, all-suite Mega Yacht. Orion II now offers the finest standards in small-ship cruise travel. She also has an ice-strengthened hull for voyages in the Arctic and Antarctic and is fitted with stabilisers. The expedition equipment includes Zodiacs and fast tender to deliver the Orion expedition experience. Combining luxury and service will require staffing by 68 offices and crew to serve Orion II’s capacity of 100 guests. Excellence of design, craftsmanship and quality materials combined with Orion II’s spaciousness and intimate ambience make her ideal for distinctive cultural and expedition voyages.

Overnight at M/V Orion II (6N) Thailand Temples & Mekong.

This morning, you will visit the Grand Palace, an architectural wonder of golden stupas, walls and pillars encrusted in shining and colourful mosaics, all gleaming under the tropical sun. Previously the residence of the Kings of Thailand, here you will see Palaces which were used for different occasions; the Reception Hall, the Throne Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Royal Guest House and the beautiful Wat Phra Kaew which houses the Emerald Buddha. No trip to Bangkok is complete without exploring the wonders of the famous and highly revered Grand Palace. Then you will travel by long-tailed boat through the klongs to see the family homes, temples and way of life, which gives this city the name “Venice of the East”. Stop at the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) whose 79m spire has become a symbol Bangkok. There will be time for taking photos.

Optional:
On the river opposite the Oriental hotel The Sala Rim Nam is the most famous venue for traditional Thai Dinner, stated at low tables, with performances of classical dances. The Sala Rim Nam is sumptuously decorated with teak marble and bronze. The floor to the ceiling glass windows allows you to enjoy views of the river by night. Serving dishes and plates are traditional Thai style. Dinner includes dishes from all over Thailand - rice curries, delicious soups flavored with lime juice and pepper, tasty freshwater fish, crisp fried vegetable and exotic Thai dessert. Classical dances from the ancient Royal Courts of Sukhothai and Ayuthaya are performed, along with folk dances celebrating the unique cultures of ancient and modern Siam.

To participate in an optional activity, please contact your travel consultant.

Overnight at M/V Orion II (6N) Thailand Temples & Mekong.

Today the Zodiacs will take you on an exploration into the interior of Ko Kut, following a meandering mangrove river all the way to a small waterfall. Some walking is required to get to the base of the falls over potentially slippery ground. After returning from the falls the ship will relocate to a small offshore coral island, just of the coast of Ko Kut, where a beach BBQ is planned. Snorkelling and swimming over the fringing reef is possible here. The expedition team will conduct snorkelling tours here this afternoon (weather/conditions permitting).

Overnight at M/V Orion II (6N) Thailand Temples & Mekong.

Siem Reap is famous for the magnificent temples at Angkor. This ancient and astounding temple complex is what remains of the capital of the once mighty Khmer civilization. Angkor Wat itself, built AD 879-1191 to honor the Hindu god Vishnu, is often hailed as one of the most extraordinary architectural creations ever built, with its intricate bas reliefs, strange acoustics and magnificent soaring towers.

A two day package including overnight accommodation in Siem Reap is available for guests wishing to visit the world renowned temples at Angkor Wat. Undertaking the Angkor Wat component will take up all the available time stretching over the two days your cruise vessel is berthed in Sihanoukville.

This morning disembark Orion II to begin your coach journey to Phnom Penh where you will board your plane for the short flight to Siem Reap and the amazing Angkor Wat. Upon arrival in the afternoon guests wishing to undertake their own separate program can depart and meet up with the group again at any point during the day. Partake of lunch at the Angkor Café right next to the main temple area. It has interesting artefacts and quality handcrafts for sale. Guests who have pre-booked the optional Angkor Wat Scenic Flight will be transferred to the flight and returned to rejoin the group prior to viewing the temples.

Spend the afternoon until sunset touring the awe inspiring temples of Angkor Wat. After which you will be transferred to your hotel, Le Méridien. Enjoy traditional Cambodian fare at dinner this evening followed by a cultural performance.

For guests who do not wish to take up the two day excursion to Angkor Wat - a shuttle bus is available in Sihanoukville to visit the town markets and one of the more remote beaches as well as the main town beach, which is generally a very lively spot.

You could also join the complimentary half day Sihanoukville Highlights Tour and board your coach for a scenic overview of Sihanoukville. You will stop at the most prominent religious site in the area at Intra Ngean pagoda. You will be driven through the outskirts of town along hidden coves and headlands to Independence Beach. A short drive further takes you to one of the areas prettiest beaches at Ochheuteal - a long sweep of snow white sand facing the typically calm waters of the Gulf of Thailand. You'll break here for a short stroll along the beach under the shade of the pine trees. A stop will also be made at the local marketplace to see Khmer commerce first hand. Prior to your return to Orion, visit the nearby fishing village of Tumnuk Rolok.

A full day tour to Phnom Penh and the Killing Fields is also offered for those who do not take the inclusive package to Angkor Wat. Drive by coach from the coast of Sihanoukville inland to the capital, Phnom Penh. During the drive you will pass through numerous rice and sugar palm plantations which so typically distinguish rural Cambodia. A sumptuous buffet lunch will be served in the Hotel in Phnom Penh. After lunch visit the restored National Museum which represents the finest of Phnom Penh’s architecture. On display inside is a selection of more than 5,000 works of art, ranging from the 6th to the 13th Century. Treasures include sculptures, dance costumes, royal barges and palanquins. You will continue to the Royal Palace. Built in 1866 by King Norodom, the Royal Palace is now home to King Sihamoni. Some of the buildings inside the palace walls are closed to the public except on special occasions.

The tragic history of Cambodia can sadly be exemplified by Pol Pot’s legacy in the Killing Fields. Brought to the world’s attention by the movie of the same name, this silent monument to the thousands who lost their lives during the reign of the Khmer Rouge will remain with you for a long time after your visit.

This tour is not suitable for people with limited mobility as there is significant walking at each location and with the coach transport it will be a very long day ashore.

Le Meridien Angkor is conveniently located close to the legendary temples of Angkor Wat. Discover Siem Reap’s magnificent past as you stroll through ancient Khmer, marveling at the intricate detail of stone relief carvings. The hotel’s 223 well-appointed rooms have been elegantly furnished with an array of in-room amenities and offer spectacular views of the lush garden. The Angkor Royale Cafe serves delicious international cuisine in a comfortable and relaxing ambience while L'Angelo Restaurant serves delectable northern Italian dishes with an Asian touch. During down time, take advantage of the recreational facilities such as the gymnasium and spa.

Overnight at Le Meridien Angkor (4*).

The Gulf of Thailand, also known as the Gulf of Siam, is a shallow arm of the South China Sea. Bordered by Thailand, Cambodia, and the southwestern edge of Vietnam, the gulf harbours many coral reefs, and thus several diving resorts. Due to the tropical warmth of the water, it is popular with tourists. Some of the most important tourist destinations in the Gulf of Thailand are the islands of Ko Samui and Ko Pha Ngan in Surat Thani province, Pattaya in Chonburi province, Cha-am, Hua Hin, Ko Samet and Ko Chang.

Early this morning, guests who have pre-booked the Early Morning Elephant Ride will depart and rejoin the group for breakfast. After breakfast your experience continues - exploring the nearby temples in and around the Angkor Thom complex. If you have pre-booked the Ton Le Sap Floating Village half day optional tour you will rejoin the group after their temple tour today.

The group will split for the flight back to Phnom Penh and one group will have lunch on arrival at the Sunway Hotel and the other in Siem Reap before departure at the Sugar Palm. Your coach will be waiting to transfer you back to Sihanoukville to embark Orion II once again.

Optional:
Enjoy a scenic flyover of Angkor Wat and the nearby Temples on a spectacular helicopter journey to experience the vastness of this once great kingdom. Due to flight restrictions emplaced by the World Heritage Body the helicopter is not allowed to fly over the temples directly but rather passes along their perimeters. The views are magnificent from all angles. All Helicopters operated are Australian registered and flown by New Zealand or Australian Pilots under Australian and Cambodian regulations. Duration: Flight approximately 12 minutes.

To participate in an optional activity, please contact your travel consultant.

Optional:
Rise earlier than the main group and take an elephant ride amongst the Angkor Wat temples during sunrise. Any time amongst the temples is special but in the early morning adds that extra magical touch and from the back of an elephant what more could you ask for?

To participate in an optional activity, please contact your travel consultant.

Optional:
In the early morning venture to Lake Ton Le Sap, the largest fresh water lake in South East Asia which is the lifeblood of the Cambodian fishing industry. Interestingly, the Mekong River, from as a far away as Phnom Penh, reverses the direction of the Ton Le Sap River to bring an overflow of water which carries the silt to support both rice growing and the breeding of many sizes and varieties of fish. Relax and experience close up the daily lake lifestyle while moving between the floating homes and small fish farms.

Continue to Artisans d'Angkor Craft College, which was originally established by the European Union to teach young adults in the art of Sandstone and Woodcarving, lacquer ware of ceremonial artefacts & silk painting. There is a display centre with items for sale.

Visit a local market in the centre of town, Psar Cha, where you will enjoy the sites, sounds and wares of everyday life. The market sells hand woven silks, silver and wooden carved products and jewellery.

To participate in an optional activity, please contact your travel consultant.

Overnight at M/V Orion II (6N) Thailand Temples & Mekong.

Today the Zodiacs will bring you ashore on beautiful Sao Beach. Here you can swim in the warm tropical waters of the Gulf of Siam, wander the expansive white sand beach or take our complimentary shuttle bus into the nearby fishing port where you can try a local Vietnamese coffee in one of the coffee shops, or wander down to the waterfront and check out the colourful fishing fleet.

Optional:
You have the opportunity to join a locally run snorkel tour boat to the outer reefs off the tip of Phu Quoc. Your cruise ship will provide you with your own quality snorkelling equipment and the locals will provide the boat and local guides. This half day experience will take you to a snorkelling location located next to several small islands offshore from Phu Quoc. Snorkelling will be from the local boat, accessing the water by a set of wooden stairs off the side of the vessel.

To participate in an optional activity, please contact your travel consultant.

Optional:
Phu Quoc was once home to the infamous "Coconut Prison". Referred to as a reprogramming camp, the South Vietnamese Government during the Diem regime sent political prisoners to the island to "teach them the errors of their ways." As recently as the 1990's mass graves were still being discovered on the site. Today the former prison is set up as a museum and gives an interesting insight to the troubled times that shaped modern Vietnam today.

The two major industries on Phu Quoc today are pearling and fish sauce production. This tour includes a visit to a simple pearl farm, with attached show room and also to one of the many fish sauce factories on the island. This pungent, strong sauce is a staple throughout the region and Phu Quoc's variety is considered to be the best in Vietnam.

This is a simple little tour highlighting the history and modern produce of the island. Local guides will accompany the tour however interpretation is limited, whilst still providing a fascinating insight to this remote island.

To participate in an optional activity, please contact your travel consultant.

Overnight at M/V Orion II (6N) Thailand Temples & Mekong.

Your cruise ship is proud to be the first foreign flagged vessel in Vietnam to be given permission to use a Zodiac fleet in the delta. This will allow you to independently visit the floating markets of Cai Rang and explore the reaches of the Delta directly from Orion II's anchorage just outside Can Tho. This unprecedented access gives you an exciting and dramatic way to get in amongst the action of the floating markets and the general hustle and bustle. There is no doubt you will feel part of all the action in our comfortable Zodiacs, weaving amongst the buyers and sellers of one of the regions finest floating markets.

Overnight at M/V Orion II (6N) Thailand Temples & Mekong.

Today you'll arrive at the port of Ho Chi Minh City, where you will disembark from your ship, and say farewell to your fellow cruisemates.

Transfer by private car and English speaking guide between Ho Chi Minh City pier and your hotel.

Visit to Cu Chi tunnels ( 70 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh city ) an amazing complex of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam war. The residents of Cu Chi took their war underground, literally, developing a network of tunnels that, at its height, stretched as far as Cambodia and included meeting rooms, kitchens, and triage area. In the afternoon, return to the city for a tour visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral, Post Office and the former Presidential Palace. Continue to visit the War Museum. After a Vietnamese lunch at local restaurant (is in the price included), explore the China Town area and visit Thien Mu pagoda. Finish your tour off with a visit to Ben Thanh market.

Opened in 1925 as the city’s finest abode, the Majestic has gone through several reincarnations over the years, changes that reflect the tumultuous history of Vietnam. During World War II, the Japanese Imperial Army used this French colonial structure as a military barracks. During the Vietnam War, it was frequented by foreign correspondents and espionage agents. A Hotel of Tradition - Hospitality - Elegance.

Overnight at Majestic Hotel (4*).

You will be picked up by private car and English speaking driver for a visit to Jade Emperor Pagoda that is a lovely and quiet place of worship. The temple was filled with elaborate wooden carvings on tablets and towering papier-mâché statues. Continue on to visit some more major temples: Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda (for the Chinese God "Guan Gong"), and Quan Am Pagoda (for the Budhhist Bodhisattva of "Guan Yin"). Enjoy a cyclo tour around the city centre and make a stop at Ben Thanh market - the biggest market in Ho Chi Minh City for shopping. You can buy fresh tropical fruits and local products.

Overnight at Majestic Hotel (4*).

Enjoy a private transfer with English Speaking Driver between Ho Chi Minh City airport and your hotel.

Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart (Int`l Airport).