Highlights of Southeast Asia by land & sea

Rise early this morning and travel to the magical temple of Angkor Wat in time for sunrise. Explore this incredible site in the early morning light, before enjoying a hearty breakfast at Sala Kdei, set in a beautiful location overlooking the royal bathing pond. Later, travel out to the floating village of Kompong Khleang, a fascinating trip which offers a chance to see life unfold on the great Tonle Sap Lake.

Today you will explore Angkor's lesser-known temples, including the jungle temple Ta Prohm. You navigate the area by electric bicycle, taking quiet roads and hidden jungle pathways.

You will be transferred to Siem Reap Airport for your morning flight. Upon arrival at Hong Kong Airport, you'll be met and directed to your waiting private transfer which will take you directly to your hotel in the bustling city. Enjoy the lively nightlife and street food in the streets surrounding your hotel.

A full day to explore Hong Kong. Wander the markets which operate day and night, and take the famous tram up the 'Peak' for beautiful views and some natural scenery. In the evening be sure to catch the urban light show.

You’ll have the morning free to see any final sights in Hong Kong — we suggest taking a ride on the Peak Tram and enjoying the shopping opportunities. This afternoon, we’ll arrange a private transfer from your hotel to the Cruise Terminal, where you’ll board your ship, ready for an early evening departure. You’ll be able to settle into your suite, explore the ship’s decks, and watch the skyscrapers of Hong Kong disappear as you head out to sea.

Your first full day at sea is a chance to settle into the ship. You could pay the supplement for a behind-the-scenes ship tour, giving you the inside take from the Galley to the Bridge. You may want to walk on the decks, find a quiet corner to stare out to sea and spot wildlife, picnic or play games — such as croquet — on the grassed top deck, try your luck in the casino, or toast your travels in one of the glamorous lounges.

Today you’ll dock in Hanoi. You’ll have an overnight stay here to explore at your own leisure, or our specialist can help you to choose from a myriad of additional-cost excursions off the boat. You may choose to add an overnight small–boat–based cruise around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay, including visits to Viet Hai fishing village, a bamboo boat trip to Dark and Bright Cave, traditional cookery demonstrations, and a t’ai chi lesson.

This morning you may choose to supplement your trip with a guided cultural walking tour of Hanoi, or take a seaplane flight over Halong Bay for a bird's-eye-view of this natural phenomenon. Perhaps you’ll want to get close to the majestic limestone karsts via kayak or take a water taxi out to one of the bay’s floating restaurants. After lunch, your ship will depart for the open sea once more, sailing through the night to Hue.

Today you’ll have a full day to explore the former capital of Vietnam, Hue. The city’s temples, palaces and tombs are a sprawling museum to the Nguyen Dynasty who founded this city in the 17th century. You can explore independently or choose from additional-cost excursions including a guided trip up the cable car to the Ba Na Hills with their striking Cau Vang Golden Bridge, or a cultural visit to Hoi An including the architectural delights of Danang.

After the sight-seeing of Hue, you’ll have a day at sea today, perhaps indulging in some of the onboard gastronomic options. From the ever-changing contemporary menu of the main Gran Epernay Restaurant, to the AquaClass Blu, or the world cuisine offerings at The Retreat guests’ Luminae, there is plenty to choose between. In addition, there are a plethora of drink choices at the onboard bars, including the vodka collection at the Martini Bar and cocktails of the Sky Observation Lounge.

This Vietnamese city buzzes with scooters and street markets, giving you a glimpse into the culture of this historical metropolis. You can simply wander the streets and soak up the atmosphere, or visit the History Museum for an introduction to its 2,000 years of history. Alternatively, you could opt to invest in a guided excursion here — options include a city tour, cycling circuit, luxury Saigon River boat trip and visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Today is a sea day and could be an opportunity to indulge in the health and wellness benefits on board. You might opt to join a class in the gym, jog the deck track, work out in the weights room, lounge by the pool, or practice your putting stroke on the on-board golf green. If you’re seeking a wellness retreat, the spa has more than 120 treatments on offer, including specialities themed on the destinations of your cruise.

On arrival in Thailand, you have two full days to explore Bangkok. One of the most effervescent and ancient of Asian cities, it blends modern architecture and a vibrant nightlife with traditional markets and ancient temples. You can work your way through the city’s main sites independently — we advise starting with the historical insights of The National Museum. Or, bolster your trip with add-ons such as a tuk-tuk tour or guided excursions to highlights such as the Grand Palace.

For your second day in Bangkok, you may want to focus on the temples by adding a guided tour of old Bangkok to your itinerary. This includes stops at Temple Wat Ratchanadda, the iconic Big Buddha at Wat Suthat, and the reclining Buddha of Wat Po. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the Pratunam Market, the city’s largest clothing market, or indulge in the plethora of street food options before heading back to your ship for an early evening departure.

Going from the bazaars to the beach, your ship will dock today at the tropical island of Koh Samui. With its talc-white sandy bays, warm iridescent sea and tumbling jungle waterfalls, this island captures the heart of many. It is the perfect place to simply relax on the beach, but if you want to add to your experience here, you may choose to zip around the Angthong National Marine Park by speedboat or take a 4x4 tour into the island’s heart.

Your final day at sea could be spent exploring the entertainment options on board. From wandering one of the world’s largest collections of contemporary art at the on-board gallery to shopping the carefully curated range of boutiques in the Galleria. At an additional cost, there are options to enjoy tastings from mini martinis to world wine tours, or perhaps you’d like to perfect your gastronomic skills with a culinary masterclass.

The disembarkation point for this cruise is the island of Singapore. You may wish to spend the morning exploring the city before your private driver transfers you to the airport for your onward flight. Your return flight will arrive the same day.