Includes a 7-night deluxe cruise on the RV Mekong Pandaw

 

 ![](/sites/default/files/2025-07/1%20Meals%20%28red%29_4.png)

 45 Meals 



 ![](/sites/default/files/2025-07/3%20CT%20Ratings%20%28red%29_4.png)

 CT Rating 3.5/5 -   
Challenging 



 ![](/sites/default/files/2025-07/4%20Leader%20%28red%29_3.png)

 Led by Karen Cullen 



 

 

**Pandaw Cruises • RV Mekong Pandaw**

We begin in Hanoi, where buzzing streets and rich history set the tone for our adventure. Then it's off to Ha Long Bay for an unforgettable overnight cruise through its towering limestone islands. In Siem Reap, we explore the majestic temples of Angkor before boarding the charming *RV Mekong Pandaw*. As we cruise the Mekong and Tonle Sap Rivers, we'll pass quiet villages, floating markets, and ancient temples. We pause in Phnom Penh to take in Cambodia's capital, then end our journey in the vibrant energy of Saigon, full of colour, culture, and surprises at every turn.

**This journey is now available on request.**


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[Submit Booking Request](https://enrollment.craigtravel.com/booking?departurecode=CAS071126:20261107) [Download Brochure](https://mkt.craigtravel.com/ct--landing-page--brochure-download?brochure=vietnam-cambodia-nov-2026)



 

[![Indochina 2026 map](/sites/default/files/2025-07/Indochina_2026_new-2nt-Hanoi.jpg)](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/Indochina_2026_new-2nt-Hanoi.jpg)

 

### Tour Highlights

- Hanoi’s vibrant back alley culture
- Cruise amongst UNESCO World Heritage Site Ha Long Bay
- Angkor Wat, one of the most important archaeological sites of Southeast Asia
- Journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests
- Explore riverside villages, markets, and temples by ox-cart, immersing ourselves in the local way of life
- Angkor Thom, last capital of the Khmers
- Ta Prohm, a temple site reclaimed by the jungle
- Explore a vibrant market to gather fresh ingredients for an inspiring Khmer cooking class
- 7-night deluxe cruise on the RV Mekong Pandaw - all cruise meals with beverages and complimentary local beer/spirits, water, tea, juices, and soft drinks (wine at extra cost) while cruising
- 1-night cruise in Ha Long Bay on Paradise Elegance
 
 

### Inclusive Features

- Return economy airfare to Hanoi/ from Ho Chi Minh with EVA Air
- Deluxe hotel stays in Hanoi (2 nights), Siem Reap (3 nights), Ho Chi Minh (2 nights)
- All outside staterooms on RV Mekong Pandaw with private facilities
- Welcome Cocktail and Farewell Reception
- Guided excursions in each port and local guides throughout the cruise
- 45 meals as noted in the itinerary (B - 15 breakfasts, L - 15 lunches, D - 15 dinners)
- Transfers between airports, hotels and the ship
- All sightseeing and entrance fees on tours as mentioned throughout the itinerary
- Bottled water on transfers and sightseeing excursions
- Baggage handling at the hotels and shipside
- Services of your local Cruise Director and our Journey Leader from Canada
- Gratuities for all included services (guides, drivers, hotel and ship staff)
- Visa fees (for Canadian passport holders)
- All taxes and fees including departure and port taxes
- Airport transfers in Canada or equivalent value with purchase of group airfare
 
 

 

 

### Itinerary

Overview

     

Full View

 

DEPART CANADA

November 7, 2026

 

Tour members gather in the evening on November 6 for our just-passed-midnight flight to Hanoi, connecting through Taipei and arriving on Sunday morning.



 

 



ARRIVE HANOI, VIETNAM

November 8, 2026

 

Upon arrival, we’ll gather for lunch at a local restaurant before settling into our hotel. In the evening, we’ll regroup for a warm welcome dinner at the hotel.

**Pan Pacific Hanoi** (2 nights)



 

Lunch, Dinner

 

 



HANOI 

November 9, 2026

 

We’ll dive into the vibrant rhythm of Hanoi’s back alley culture as we explore the storied Ancient Quarter, also known as the 36 Streets District. Wandering through its maze of narrow lanes, we’ll uncover hidden water wells, timeworn staircases, and the quiet secrets tucked behind the city’s bustling facade. We’ll marvel at the fascinating and innovative architecture and refresh with a drink at a ‘locals only’ store. We will see a peaceful series of walled courtyards and graceful gateways, and one of the best serving examples of traditional Vietnamese architecture at the Temple of Literature. After a tasty lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in the city. Take in the beauty of the tree-lined streets, resplendent with French colonial architecture including the restored Opera House. Our day wraps up with the charm and spectacle of a traditional water puppet show!



 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 



HANOI / HA LONG BAY 

November 10, 2026

 

We drive to Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay and board Paradise Elegance for a cruise amongst this UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its magnificent natural beauty. On board, we will enjoy a seafood lunch and cruise through the islands as we explore a series of breathtaking caves and grottoes.

**Paradise Elegance** (1 night)



 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 



HA LONG BAY / HANOI / SIEM REAP, Cambodia 

November 11, 2026

 

We disembark and return to Hanoi, stopping for lunch at a local restaurant along the way, before boarding our flight to Seam Reap. Upon arrival we transfer to our hotel.

**Borei Angkor Resort and Spa** (3 nights)



 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 



SIEM REAP

November 12, 2026

 

We visit Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmers. We shall see the Elephant and Leper King Terraces together with the stunning Bayon Temple, with its extensive and detailed relief carvings, and the Baphuon Temple. Our next stop is Ta Prohm, a temple site reclaimed by the jungle and only recently rediscovered. This afternoon, explore the world’s largest temple, Angkor Wat. With the volume of stone equaling that of the pyramids in Egypt, this temple took thirty years to complete and has been occupied by Buddhist monks ever since. Of special note are the bas-reliefs on the exterior walls. Then, we visit a school dedicated to teaching traditional arts, stone and wood carving, lacquerware and more.



 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 



SIEM REAP

November 13, 2026

 

This morning we have a special treat: a Khmer cooking class at a local restaurant. Following a briefing we will visit the morning market to purchase the ingredients that we will need. Back at the restaurant, we will help prepare a three-course meal of local delicacies, then savour our creations over lunch. This afternoon, we visit the Banteay Srei, the “Citadel of Women”. This tiny enchanting temple is a true jewel of Khmer architecture. Built with red sandstone in the 10th century and dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva, this is the most Indian of all Angkor temples. Finally, we visit Banteay Samre, dating from the early 12th century.



 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 



SIEM REAP / EMBARK

November 14, 2026

 

We transfer by coach to Steung Trang to embark on our ship and new home for the next week. Enjoy lunch onboard, and set sail this evening on the Mekong River.

**RV Mekong Pandaw** (7 nights)



 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 



CAMBODIAN CRAFTS

November 15, 2026

 

Relax on board with some Tai Chi or a cup of coffee as we cruise to Peam Chi Korng, a local hub for pottery. A short tuk tuk ride from the shore brings us to see the potters in action, before we explore the village and market. Later, we’ll step ashore at the remote village of Pak Russei, where local artisans weave silk and craft handmade noodles using time-honoured techniques. Before returning to the ship, we’ll witness a private performance of a traditional Cambodian martial art - an intimate glimpse into the cultural spirit of the village.



 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 



OUDONG / KAMPONG TRALACH

November 16, 2026

 

In the ancient capital of Cambodia, Oudong, we’ll pause at the Vipassana Dhura Meditation Centre for a brief meditation class. Admire its impressive Khmer architecture before we rejoin our ship in Kampong Tralach. This afternoon travel by ox-cart around the river side villages to get a sense of rural life. This evening locals share their culture with us, featuring a traditional dance performance and cocktails around a village fire pit.



 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 



PHNOM PENH 

November 17, 2026

 

This morning we are in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, famous for its French colonial architecture, busy cafes, vibrant nightlife and scenic riverfront. Our morning visit will be by private cyclo, a style of transport unique to Southeast Asia which provides an excellent way to experience the hustle and bustle of the city. Visit the Royal Palace, the spectacular Silver Pagoda and the National Museum displaying Angkorian statuary. After lunch, we visit the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum. We will spend the night in port.



 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 



VIETNAM BORDER 

November 18, 2026

 

Say farewell to Cambodia as we make our way down river towards the border. We sail towards Chau Doc where we can unwind on an evening stroll before dinner.



 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 



CHAU DOC

November 19, 2026

 

A short drive takes us to Sam Mountain, where we climb the 400 steps to visit the Hang Pagoda with stunning views of the Mekong River. We visit the floating fish farms by sampan before being treated to a private lion dance performance at a local village.



 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 



BEN TRE / HO CHI MINH

November 20, 2026

 

Journey by sampans through mangroves and bamboo forests to the fruit orchards of Ben Tre. This is fertile farming land that is home to half of Vietnam’s rice production. Savour lunch onboard as we sail the Cho Gao Canal toward Saigon. As night falls, we drift into central Saigon, where dinner is served with sweeping views of the skyline.



 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 



DISEMBARKATION / HO CHI MINH

November 21, 2026

 

We say farewell to our ship this morning as we disembark at in the southern city of Ho Chi Minh, formerly known as Saigon. We’ll explore the city’s layers of history, beginning at the stately Presidential Palace and continuing through the exhibits of the History Museum. The stunning Notre Dame Cathedral offers a moment of quiet awe before we face the powerful stories told at the War Remnants Museum, ending in the colour and energy of Ben Thanh Market.

**Lotte Hotel Saigon** (2 nights)



 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 



HO CHI MINH 

November 22, 2026

 

Saigon, once the capital of the French colony of Cochinchina and the “Paris of the Orient” is now Vietnam’s largest city. This industrial, cultural and educational hub still retains vestiges of its colonial past. We will tour the incredible underground network at Cu Chi Tunnels, followed by Chinatown and the impressive Thien Hau Temple. Time permitting, we will visit the Binh Tay market. Tonight enjoy our farewell dinner at a local restaurant.



 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 



HO CHI MINH / TAIPEI / CANADA 

November 23, 2026

 

After breakfast we transfer to the airport for our journey back to Canada.



 

Breakfast

 

 



 

 

[Download Brochure](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-06/brx_CAS071126%20Vietnam%20and%20Cambodia%20REV24JUN26_0.pdf)

 

[![The faces of the Bayon Temple, Siem Reap](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-07/Cambodia-The%20Faces%20of%20the%20Bayon%20Temple%20in%20Siem%20Reap.jpg?h=a66ba266&itok=e5sZD7Oy "The faces of the Bayon Temple, Siem Reap")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/Cambodia-The%20Faces%20of%20the%20Bayon%20Temple%20in%20Siem%20Reap.jpg)

[![A fruit seller in Hanoi](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-07/Fruit%20seller%20in%20Hanoi.jpg?h=6f169da1&itok=rq3YviTh "A fruit seller in Hanoi")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/Fruit%20seller%20in%20Hanoi.jpg)

[![Hanoi's Temple of Literature](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-07/Hanoi-Temple-of-Literature.jpg?h=a66ba266&itok=3oOltiTR "Hanoi's Temple of Literature")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/Hanoi-Temple-of-Literature.jpg)

[![Vietnam-Glowing lanterns light the way in Vietnam, symbolizing hope, luck, and celebration](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-07/Vietnam-Glowing%20lanterns%20light%20the%20way%20in%20Vietnam%2C%20symbolizing%20hope%2C%20luck%2C%20and%20celebration.jpg?h=a66ba266&itok=gT4Eb0AU "Vietnam-Glowing lanterns light the way in Vietnam, symbolizing hope, luck, and celebration")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/Vietnam-Glowing%20lanterns%20light%20the%20way%20in%20Vietnam%2C%20symbolizing%20hope%2C%20luck%2C%20and%20celebration.jpg)

[![Angkor Wat](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-07/Angkor%20Wat.jpg?h=d041c3b8&itok=mNcNnHhQ "Angkor Wat")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/Angkor%20Wat.jpg)

[![Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-07/Cambodia-Phnom-Penh-Royal-Palace-cnva.jpg?h=a66ba266&itok=27uuZcG8 "Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/Cambodia-Phnom-Penh-Royal-Palace-cnva.jpg)

[![A street vendor in Hanoi](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-07/Hanoi%20street%20vendor.jpg?h=a66ba266&itok=ERGkCwAo "A street vendor in Hanoi")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/Hanoi%20street%20vendor.jpg)

 

 

### Have any questions?

Contact Sharon at sbahadur \[at\] craigtravel.com or call  
 [1-800-387-8890](tel:1-800-387-8890)

 

 

RV Mekong Pandaw

The beautiful RV Mekong Pandaw was designed to provide luxurious cruising on Asia’s legendary Mekong River. It carries a maximum of just 48 guests and has three decks. All staterooms are 170 sq. ft. or larger, ensuring that all of our creature comforts are exceeded. Public areas include a main restaurant serving Asian and Western specialties; a small gift shop; lounge and bar; library, spa, plus a pool table on the Sun Deck. All staterooms feature twin beds (that can be converted into one large bed), a comfortable sitting area, safe, private bathroom with shower, bathrobe, slippers, hairdryer and more. All staterooms are outside, with panoramic French windows leading to personal deck space, and individually controlled air conditioning. Smoking is not allowed anywhere within the ship and the ship does not have an elevator. Most of the ship’s staff speak English.

**Sun Deck**: bar with complimentary ice cream from sunrise to sunset.   
**Upper Deck**: saloon bar and staterooms.  
**Main Deck**: gallery, store, dining hall, and staterooms.  
**Lower Deck**: gym, library, front desk, spa, and gift shop.



[RV Mekong Pandaw Deck Plan](/sites/default/files/2025-07/RV%20Mekong%20Pandaw.pdf "RV Mekong Pandaw.pdf") (227.24 KB)

 

 ![Book early and save](/sites/default/files/2025-07/2026_NEW_EBB_Banner_800x753_Indochina.jpg)

### Tour Cost in Canadian Dollars Per Person

 

Land / Cruise Only* (Join / leave at hotel)

$10,545

 



Vancouver

$12,665

 



Victoria

$12,765

 



Calgary / Edmonton

$12,815

 



Winnipeg / Regina / Saskatoon

$13,035

 



Toronto

$12,935

 



Ottawa / Montreal

$13,085

 



Halifax / St. John’s / Fredericton

$13,215

 



Cabin Supplement Upper Deck (pp twin)

$1,225

 



Single Supplement (Land w/ Main Deck)

$2,545

 



Single Supplement (Land w/ Upper Deck)

On request only

 



 

[Submit Booking Request](mailto:sbahadur@craigtravel.com?cc=sales@craigtravel.com&subject=Vietnam%20%26%20Cambodia%20September%202026%E2%80%93ON%20REQUEST&body=Dear%20Craig%20Travel%20team%2CI%20would%20like%20to%20submit%20an%20online%20booking%20request%20for%20the%20**Northern%20Spain%20journey**%20departing%20in%20**September%202026.**I%20understand%20that%20this%20departure%20is%20not%20currently%20available%20for%20immediate%20confirmation%20and%20that%20availability%20must%20be%20requested%20with%20your%20local%20suppliers%2Fground%20partners.%20I%20realize%20it%20can%20take%20approximately%20**5%E2%80%937%20business%20days**%20(sometimes%20longer)%20to%20receive%20confirmation%20or%20an%20update%20from%20the%20suppliers.I%20give%20permission%20for%20a%20sales%20agent%20to%20contact%20me%20by%20phone%20or%20email%20to%20discuss%20availability%2C%20pricing%2C%20accommodation%2C%20any%20waitlist%20possibilities%2C%20or%20alternative%20departures%2Foptions%20if%20this%20journey%20cannot%20be%20confirmed.**My%20contact%20details%3A**First%20name%3ALast%20name%3APhone%20number%3AEmail%20address%3APlease%20indicate%20whether%20you%20would%20like%20a%20double%2Ftwin%20accommodation%20or%20a%20single%20room%20(single%20supplement%20applies).Thank%20you%20for%20submitting%20my%20online%20booking%20request.I%20look%20forward%20to%20hearing%20back%20once%20you%20have%20an%20update%20from%20the%20suppliers.)

### Payment and Booking Terms

1st Deposit is **$500 per person**, due at time of booking.  
2nd Deposit is **$1000 per person**, due March 17, 2026.

Final payment is due **July 28, 2026**.



Singles are very limited.

\*Land / Cruise Only price is based on joining and leaving the group at the first/last hotel in destination, and excludes international flights.

Cruise rates are per person based on sharing a Main Deck Outside Twin cabin. Airfares from other gateways are available on request. Airfares and air carriers are subject to change and will be confirmed prior to final payment. Refer to inclusive features. Prices are based on a minimum of 20 members and on rates, taxes, and fees effective July 2025 and are subject to change due to factors beyond our control. Visa fees are included for Cambodia and Vietnam for Canadian passport holders.

Insurance is NOT INCLUDED but is highly recommended. Premiums are calculated based on the individual’s age, destination (country), trip length, and trip booking window – please contact our staff to receive a quote. Your coverage starts on the effective date of your confirmation of coverage. Please discuss your insurance coverage prior to booking. Check our website for the most current information. Refer to our [terms ](http://www.craigtravel.com/terms-conditions)and conditions for more details.



 

#### CT Rating

 **3.5/5 - CHALLENGING** Members can expect a busy itinerary in a region known for hot and humid conditions - daytime temperatures will exceed 30°C. The visits to Angkor involve long walks with many steps and over rough terrain. The riverboat does not have an elevator. Members must be fully mobile and physically active to fully enjoy this journey.   
   
 Do you have any questions about this journey?

[Email Us](mailto:sales@craigtravel.com?subject=Indochina%202025)

 

#### Journey Leader

 ![Profile picture for user Karen Cullen](/sites/default/files/styles/user/public/pictures/2025-03/Picture6.jpg?h=b52cb9c3&itok=qKb2bR6M)

Karen Cullen

 - retired after 30 years in the travel industry. Her journeys have taken her across Europe, including Italy, Ireland, Greece, Portugal, and Great Britain. She has hiked glaciers in Iceland, kayaked off Newfoundland and British Columbia, and skied in the Rocky Mountains. One of her most memorable experiences was joining the Junkanoo festival in the Bahamas. Karen is passionate about learning about different cultures and histories. She values giving back and counts her volunteer work in Malawi, where she helped Women for Fair Development, among her most rewarding experiences.



 

 

 

 

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