New Excursion on Lower Mekong Programs
The most compelling & authentic Mekong cruise experience
Heritage Line’s commitment to creating the most authentic journeys extends beyond the river itself; it’s about designing shore experiences that let our guests dive into the very soul of a destination. Sail Boutique – Sail Authentic – both, as much as possible.
This summer, Heritage Line has reviewed the Lower Mekong cruise itinerary and program to now launch exciting updates featuring new and exclusive location and activities, providing a fantastic competitive edge. The new cruise program applies to all sailings commencing from August 2025 onwards. Allowing guests to gain a deeper understanding of local life and livelihoods, as well as firsthand insight into cultural traditions, the new program along the Lower Mekong River between Siem Reap and Saigon (vice versa) is probably one of the most enriching ways to travel between these two countries. Both of Heritage Line’s luxury ships, Heritage Line ‘Jayavarman’ and Heritage Line ‘The Jahan’, will operate these new itineraries, each offering extra (add-on) themed components such as cycling or culinary shore excursions.
New Cruise Experience Highlights
Fresh perspectives all along the journey
A journey on the Lower Mekong is a treasure trove of discovery, encompassing four distinct regions: the vibrant Mekong Delta, the cultural hub of Phnom Penh, the biodiverse Tonle River area, and the peaceful Cambodian Mekong countryside.
Heritage Line has updated the program in the Mekong Delta with two exclusive stops, added exciting new on- and off-shore activities in Phnom Penh, and slightly adjusted the sailing experience for low-water cruising on the first and last day on the Cambodian side.
Mekong Delta
Replacing one destination – Tan Chau – with two new ones – Gieng Island and Evergreen Island to offer greater emphasis on the authentic local life of the Mekong Delta. Also known as ‘Mango Island’, Gieng Island features visits to a traditional sampan boatyard, a handmade incense workshop, and personal encounters with locals over tea in their century-old homes. On Evergreen Island, guests can observe and learn about the daily work cycle of Delta farmers, with the chance to get hands-on in the fields—planting or harvesting seasonal fruits and vegetables. Note: Upstream and downstream excursions may differ slightly.
Phnom Penh
While the classics of Phnom Penh, such as the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, a leisurely downtown cycling ride, the French Quarter, and the Khmer Rouge S21 prison, remain, the new program now includes a visit to a Khmer arts school to witness the teaching of Apsara Dance. The highlight of this day is the personal encounter onboard with a Khmer Rough S21 survivor – a powerful and personal experience that offers firsthand insight into one of Cambodia’s darkest chapters.
Cambodian Mekong
During low water periods, ships moor on the Mekong River with land transfers required to or from Siem Reap. To harmonise cruising on the first and last days with the high water programs, these start and end days have now become more lifestyle-oriented cruising days—allowing guests to settle in or wind down with relaxing time aboard. Heritage Line further pampers guests with welcome and farewell hospitality events on these occasions.
