Feb 24, 2020
With its vibrant cities, inviting cultures and ancient temples, here are seven reasons to grab your bags and book yourself on Emerald Waterways’ newest Star-Ship, Emerald Harmony.
1. Exclusive local experiences
Immerse yourself in the very heart of Vietnamese and Cambodian culture with our exclusive local cultural experiences. As part of our dedicated EmeraldPLUS program, you can meet the local people and see first-hand the unique traditions and customs of the area, deepening your understanding of the cities and villages that you visit during your Mekong river cruise.
Highlights include a traditional Lion Dance performance on board Emerald Harmony, watching the incredible Phare Circus in Siem Reap and receiving a traditional Buddhist Water Blessing from the temple’s resident monks in Hong Ngu.
2. Taste the local delicacies of South East Asia
One of the attractions to exploring South East Asia is its local delicacies and diverse cuisine. Tantalise your tastebuds with the gastronomic delights of Vietnam and Cambodia from a steaming bowl of Pho to fresh spring rolls. Often reputed as home to some of the world’s most flavoursome and innovative cuisines, our talented chefs ensure the very best fusion of local flavours are brought directly to your plate while on board.
During your Mekong river cruise, you will also have the chance to taste regional specialties, often accompanied by unique local experiences once off the ship as part of EmeraldPLUS. Enjoy a banquet fit for a King in Hue while adorned in period costumes or choose to dine at KOTO restaurant in Hanoi, a unique restaurant that trains disadvantaged youths with hospitality skills.
3. Experience the indulgent Emerald Harmony
Cruise the Mekong River in absolute comfort and style on board Emerald Waterways’ newly built Emerald Harmony Star-Ship. Launching back in August 2019, Emerald Harmony is the most innovative river cruise ship on the Mekong, cruising from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap.
Relax and unwind within the stylish staterooms and suites, take a dip in the refreshing swimming pool, admire the views from the Sun Deck and eat to your heart’s content at the Asian-themed bar and lounge. Discover the sights, sounds and smells of Vietnam and Cambodia on four fabulous itineraries.
4. Enhance your holiday with DiscoverMORE excursions
With more than 40 years’ experience, we aim to go above and beyond your expectations on our Mekong river cruise. Enhance your South East Asia river cruise with our diverse selection of DiscoverMORE options, providing a unique portfolio of excursions, activities and experiences. For an additional fee, you can take part in a hands on Vietnamese cooking class in Hoi An, visit Tonle Sap, the largest lake in South East Asia and embark on an exciting vespa ride tour of Siem Reap. Choose as many DiscoverMORE excursions as you like to tailor your holiday to suit your interests.
5. Visit iconic temples and ancient sites
South East Asia is home to its fair share of ancient and iconic temples and pagodas. Siem Reap, known as the gateway to the magnificent temples of Angkor, will leave you mesmerised. Arrive early to witness the breathtaking sunrise which will leave you spellbound.
Discover Phnom Penh’s incredible history and admire its sacred treasures including the Oudong Temples. No visit to South East Asia is complete without visiting the iconic temples and ancient sites.
6. Mekong River Cruising is an easy way to travel
River cruising is not just limited to Europe. Today, cruising the waterways of South East Asia is just as popular and makes an easy way to travel. Guests only need to unpack once, providing more time to spend sightseeing, making new friends and enjoying the ship’s onboard facilities. With a different port of call visited every day, included transfers and a selection of entertainment specific to each region, there’s plenty to keep you occupied. And with only 42 cabins, you can look forward to a deluxe and boutique river cruising experience on board Emerald Harmony as you cruise along the magnificent Mekong river.
7. Discover destinations off the beaten path
Emerald Harmony has been specifically designed to sail into the heart of Ho Chi Minh City and dock in its vibrant metropolis. Its intimate size also allows cruising along the narrow waterways of the Mekong River, providing visits to remote villages, only accessible by water.
You can discover Vietnam and Cambodia as part of Emerald Waterways' cruising and touring program, with itineraries ranging from 8 to a comprehensive 21 days.
Request a brochure and start planning your Mekong river cruise today.
