Mekong River Cruise with Lou Tandy
Luxury cruising on the Mekong
Lou Tandy (nee McGeary), APT’s Co Owner and Director, recently returned from our Mekong river cruise through Southeast Asia with a newfound appreciation for the art of effortless travel.
“Enlightening and rejuvenating” is how Lou Tandy describes her luxury river cruise through the Mekong. “It was the perfect balance of cultural immersion and relaxation,” Tandy shares. “A big part of APT’s ethos is ease, and our Vietnam and Cambodia cruise certainly delivers this.”
The spirit of discovery and relaxed travel is ideally captured in our Vietnam and Cambodia river cruise. Setting off on a scenic Mekong River cruise, be immersed in the vibrant cultural and scenic tapestries of each country. From the moment you step aboard the bespoke Mekong Serenity, the Mekong River’s most luxurious ship, you’ll be transported to a floating paradise, where both the journey and destinations become equally enriching.
Be greeted by the sweet aroma of tropical blooms as you enter the ship’s plush, elegantly designed interiors. Every detail of this spacious boutique vessel has been masterfully crafted, fusing the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia and Vietnam with the timeless sophistication of French colonial influences. With just 44 suites — all featuring private balconies — the Mekong Serenity promises an intimate and tranquil journey.
Dining on board is an experience to savour, with a range of culinary delights that pay homage to the region’s rich flavours. “All our guests love breakfast on board," Tandy reflects. "There is so much choice and everyone is catered for. Stand-outs are the made-to-order omelette station and traditional phở served with basil and chilli. By the third day, expect the waiting team to have learnt your coffee order — I recommend the Vietnamese Coffee.” For an unforgettable evening, relish a six-course Southeast Asian degustation at Indochine Private Dining.
Beyond the Mekong Serenity
Beyond onboard luxury and fine dining, Tandy affirms APT meticulously curates itineraries that offer authentic and immersive experiences. “Being able to talk to locals, navigate the produce markets and visit small communities along the river gave us a real understanding of what life is like on the Mekong. We truly got to see, taste and feel what each country is all about.” Each destination on your journey through Vietnam and Cambodia offers a new opportunity for discovery.
At Oudong, a revered pilgrimage site, take part in a traditional Buddhist blessing ceremony, where fragrant incense and the gentle chants of monks fill the air. At World Heritage-listed Angkor Archaeological Park, witness the iconic temple complex shimmer in the reflective ponds at sunrise. For Tandy, this experience was nothing short of extraordinary, “One glance at this architectural marvel and you completely understand why it is regarded as the Eighth Wonder of the World. As the sky turns from purple to pink and a blazing orange, the monument’s incredible detail and scale reveals itself.”
Experience a transformative adventure that beautifully blends cultural immersion, relaxation, and exquisite dining amid the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Southeast Asia on the best Mekong river cruise.
What's On Board
Embark on a voyage along Southeast Asia's Mekong River aboard the boutique Mekong Serenity, the epitome of five-star luxury. Discover charming riverside villages, meet traditional famers and artisans, and soak in the stunning scenery in unmatched elegance and style
Our butler services take personalisation to the next level. Standard Butler Service: Includes daily garment pressing for two items per person. Silver Butler Service: Available in the Bayon Suite, offering spa treatments, shoe shining, and daily fresh fruit platters. Gold Butler Service: Reserved for the Angkor Suites, this service includes all Silver benefits, plus packing and unpacking, a bottle of French Champagne, canapés, and in-suite coffee service.
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