The majestic Jayavarman is considered the father in Heritage Line’s “family” of cruise ships. This vessel was named after Angkor’s most venerated king, who ruled from 1181 to 1218, and was a devout Buddhist. King Jayavarman oversaw the construction of some of the most famous temples in Angkor, including Ta Prohm, Preah Khan and the unforgettable Bayon.
Inspired by the serenity and artistry associated with this great Khmer monarch, The Jayavarman’s design was also influenced by the French cruise liner Normandie, which launched in 1935. Travelling the Mekong between My Tho [the commercial port near Ho Chi Minh City] and Siem Reap, Cambodia, the Jayavarman marries the art deco charm of 1930’s France with the romance of Indochina. Measuring 57.8 meters/190 feet from bow to stern, the Jayavarman holds 27 elegantly decorated cabins.
Plying the slow, swirling waters of the Mekong, The Jahan is Heritage Line’s most romantic cruise liner. Considered the brother of The Jayavarman in Heritage Line’s “family” of cruise ships, this magnificent vessel was named after the Indian emperor Shah Jahan, who ruled the Mughal Empire from 1628 to 1658. A great patron of architecture and the arts, Shah Jahan oversaw the construction of many legendary sites, including India’s dazzling Red Fort, and the famed 777 gardens of Kashmir. This cultured monarch is a fitting namesake for The Jahan, which evokes the opulent vessels of British India. No expense has been spared in the interior or exterior decorations, which showcase the talents of local woodworkers, weavers and artists.
Heritage Line extends a heartfelt welcome to our guests in Siem Reap at our welcome lounge. Enjoy a second coffee this morning before the transfer departs to the moored vessel on the Mekong River. Upon boarding, our crew will guide you to your staterooms, providing a short briefing on the cabin’s facilities. After spending some time to settle in, lunch awaits in the ship’s restaurant, followed by a welcome & safety briefing in the lobby by our cruise director.
As the afternoon unfolds, sailing with the flow of the Mekong River, you can enjoy time on the deck. The cruise director invites you to a little sunset event with canapés and prosecco, where one can socialise with other fellow passengers. After officially kicking off your journey, dinner is served. If you like, join the evening cinema in the climatised indoor lounge later.
Early risers may like to join the daily offered Tai Chi session on the sun deck before breakfast. Today’s morning excursion let us explore the village of Angkor Ban.
Default Morning Excursion (any ship): Angkor Ban features a monastery with an adjacent, enchanting local village. You’ll have the chance to meet monks during their morning class and engage in friendly conversations with the villagers. As we stroll through the village, we understand the local way of life in various aspects, collecting wonderful memories of Cambodia’s rustic lifestyle. The village offers great photographic moments whilst interacting with the local community.
OPTIONAL MORNING EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship ‘Jayavarman’ only): In addition to a shorter visit to the Angkor Ban village, the culinary excursion group extends their excursion to pass by the house of Mr B., who used to work as a young chef aboard the ship ‘Jayavarman’. After he got married, he moved to his wife’s home village. Together with his “mom-in-law” and the “chef” in the household (his wife), we prepare and cook a century-old soup recipe called “Samlor Korko”. The soup is kind of a fish soup made with many vegetables, spices, herbs, and roasted rice, accompanied by a duck egg omelette.
Cycling (Ship ‘The Jahan’ only, extra cost): Today’s journey with our cycling tour, starts with a tranquil monk meeting that sets the tone for the day. As you cycle through verdant seasonal vegetable fields, picturesque old local houses dot the landscape, offering glimpses into Cambodia’s heritage. Witness skilled blacksmiths at work to understand the more about traditional craftsmanship. Conclude your adventure with a delightful pause, sipping on ice-cold local beer or indulging in the refreshing taste of freshly pressed sugar cane juice.
With everyone back on board, the ship sails downstream again towards Phnom Penh. Before we arrive at Cambodia’s capital, we halt at a small silk weaving community.
Default Afternoon Excursion (any ship): At the confluence of the Tonle and Mekong Rivers lies the small village of Prek Bangkong, known for its silk weaving community. This village was also the former residence of the Royal family before they moved to the Royal Palace. However, the real stars in this area today are the silk weavers, artisans who craft silk from the very beginning. We will have the opportunity to closely observe and learn about this intricate silk production process. We conclude this excursion by visiting the heritage house of H.E. Sam-El, once a famous architect for the royal family.
OPTIONAL AFTERNOON EXCURSION:
Cycling (Ship ‘The Jahan’ only, extra cost): Our cycling tour today takes us to the wonderful former royal palace of “Lavea Em” (1601-1618). Pedal at ease through picturesque landscapes, punctuated by captivating stops at historic pagodas, vibrant silk weaving workshops, and bustling local markets. Indulge in a delightful tea break at the residence of H.E. Sam-El, adding a touch of elegance to your cycling adventure.
The rest of the day is a joyful sailing, passing the skyline of Phnom Penh and heading into the small Tonle River northbound. Enjoy your multi-course menu and the nightly entertaining evening cinema offered afterwards. We moor midstream in the Tonle River.
Default Morning Excursion (any ship): We are in the midst of the expansive Tonle region, one of Cambodia’s amazing ecosystems. The tour this morning leads to Kampong Laeang, an unknown hamlet situated just across from the famous pottery town of Kampong Chhnang. Once ashore, we embark on tuk-tuks to travel the heart of rural Cambodian life. During this excursion, we’ll explore various locals, discover the art of pottery making, and visit a charming pre-Angkorian temple. From a vantage point, amazing panoramic views of the vast floodplains and lush rice fields (seasonal) can be enjoyed.
OPTIONAL MORNING EXCURSION:
Culinary (Ship ‘Jayavarman’ only): The culinary-themed excursion aboard Heritage line Jayavarman adding a nice and enchanting local encounter to prepare together quite a famous snack. The “Nom Kruak”. “Nom” is a kind of cake made from white or brown rice. Originally cooked only one side only, the Khmer invented Nom Krok and cooked it on both sides, making it like a ball. Nom Krok is also a spiritual dish offered to ghosts during some festivals as food. But above all it is a very tasty pre-dinner snack often consumer by locals.
Cycling (Ship ‘The Jahan’ only, extra cost): Upon disembarking, we hop on our bikes to embark on our local Khmer discovery. Our journey leads us through rice paddy fields and quaint villages where small businesses produce pottery or palm sugar. With flat terrain and mesmerizing rural landscapes, the pedal is easy-going, offering a captivating glimpse into local life unfolding before our eyes.
Back on the ship, lunch can be enjoyed along with spectacular views of the Tonle River region, as the ship sails south to Kampong Tralach. An afternoon tea is served at the bar before we continue with another excursion.
Default Afternoon Excursion (any ship): Embark on an exciting outing to discover another part of the rural Cambodian countryside. Our ox-pulled cart will transport us along the riverside and down winding back roads, flanked by picturesque rice paddies, until we arrive at a small village. Here, we will have the opportunity to learn about a local NGO school and library project. Alternatively, you can choose to visit the nearby ancient 300-year-old temple and Buddha shrine.
OPTIONAL AFTERNOON EXCURSION:
Cycling (Ship ‘The Jahan’ only, extra cost): Experience another day in the heartland of Cambodia with our biking tour through the picturesque Tonle Region. Pedal through captivating landscapes, encountering treasures like the former royal palace of ‘Lungvek’ and the venerable Buddha Jade Temple (1560) and just enjoy the timeless rhythms of local life as you witness skilled fishermen casting their nets in the tranquil waters of the Tonle.
The ship sets sail again for some more miles down the Tonle River before reaching Phnom Penh. We moor mid-stream with views of the skyline of this vibrant city.
Welcome to Phnom Penh, a city once renowned as the “Paris of the East.” Despite its rapid development, it has retained much of its rustic charm and elegance. Phnom Penh is a remarkable city with a history and culture that spans centuries, still palpable at every street corner. Our full-day sightseeing tour begins right after breakfast, allowing us to explore the city’s highlights. We’ll start with a cyclo ride, meandering through the town, and then visit historic places such as the palace and the silver pagoda. Our journey takes us to the “S21” prison, a poignant and dark chapter in Cambodia’s history during the Khmer Rouge regime of the 1970s. Afterward, we’ll pause for a delightful lunch in town before continuing to immerse in the Khmer culture. This afternoon starts with the visit to the Champey academy of arts, a school dedicated to preserve traditional arts. Observe young dancers training in the intricate Apsara dance and take the opportunity to learn basic “Kbach” techniques under their guidance. Alternatively, you can interact with students or simply witness traditional paintings and drawings created by local youth. Conclude the day with a leisurely stroll through the city’s French Quarter, including the iconic Wat Phnom temple.
Back on board, and to cap off this eventful day, guests can indulge in a delightful open-air barbecue and gala dinner accompanied by a classic Apsara dance performance. Afterward, feel free to explore the city and its nightife on your own, with its lively river promenade and colourful bars and cafes.
Enjoy your last breakfast aboard your floating home before disembarking the ship. We hope you enjoyed this fascinating river cruise, just as our crew does every single time. Moreover, take the enchanting memories and friendships along with you and share the stories of this amazing river – the Mighty Mekong.
Prices are in USD, per person.
This tour can be customized to fit your own demands. Best price and value guaranteed!
| Hotel / Group | 2 guests |
|---|---|
| 769 |
– There may be cancellation fees charged by suppliers (hotels, airlines…) once these bookings are made and paid. These fee shall by paid by travelers.
– These are maximum cancellation fees to be flexible applied:
Are you interested in this tour or would you like to customize your own trip?
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