Southeast Asia Coastlines & Angkor Wat Cruise Tour
This 15-day itinerary immerses guests in a thoughtful journey from Cambodia to Thailand to Vietnam to survey Southeast Asia’s best ports, dramatic coastal sights and ancient temples. The tour begins in Cambodia with a boat tour of the floating village of Chong Khneas, both Vietnamese and Khmer, before receiving a traditional water blessing from the monks at Wat Atvea. Sunrise over Angkor Wat is a universally inspirational experience and the guided walking tour that follows illuminates the stories of the temples and provides context for the Hindu and Buddhist gods. At Ta Prohm (of ‘Tomb Raider’ fame) visitors will see the haunting art as nature has taken back the temple. Throughout this day guests will see the best of Khmer art and culture through sculptures and bas reliefs mingling visions of Vishnu and Buddha.
A quick flight to Bangkok allows guests to take in highlights including Wat Pho and the reclining Golden Buddha, five and a half tons of 83 percent pure gold. The tour departs Bangkok on a 12-day cruise to Vietnam before ending in Hong Kong. The first call is an overnight at Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) where, because of its small size, the ship docks near the city center. Choose between exploring the Mekong Delta and village life in the countryside or visit Vietnam War landmarks. Nha Trang, a lovely seaside city brushed by crystalline water, draws visitors into its open-air markets.
The next overnight call is at Da Nang (Hoi An/Hue) where three UNESCO sites are must-sees. The Cham people were the ancient rulers of Vietnam and My Son Sanctuary is its most important Champa ruin, Hue is the country’s spiritual heart and Hoi An, a tranquil 16th century trading town, together these provide real insight into the country’s history. A day at sea allows time for a spa break, time in the library or learning more on board about the customs and cuisine of the region before arriving for an overnight in Hanoi (Halong Bay) where guests can explore its surreal beauty aboard a traditional junk. Star Legend docks in the center of Hong Kong’s harbor to conclude and guests are free to ascend Victoria Peak or take the fast ferry to Macau as they wish.