Destination: Hanoi
Tour Duration: Within 8 hours (08:00 – 18:00)
Tour Description:
Meet with guide at the ship docking and transfer to town. Car and guide is at disposal.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Destination: Hanoi
Tour Duration: 10 hours
Tour Description:
On arrival to the port (Cai Lan /Hon Gai/ Halong port) disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then take 4 hours’ drive to Hanoi for an informative city tour.
With ochre-colored colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes, Hanoi is full of charm. Start the tour at the Temple of Literature, the first University for the sons of mandarins, for an overview about Hanoian culture and appreciation for ancient Vietnamese architecture. Then head to the Vietnamese Women’s Museum that offers a broad insight into Vietnam’s people including its 54 ethnic groups through a lens of women’s topics. Walk through diverse exhibitions from street vendors to marriage to family life to traditional fashion.
Lunch is on your own.
End the trip with a cyclo tour from the museum to the Old Quarter. Ride through its narrow streets to indulge yourself in the bustle and hustle of the local daily life. Later, drive back to Halong to embark the ship.
Notes:
• Availability: Morning
• There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Destination: Ha Noi
Tour Duration: 7 hours
Code: MDHANSE001
Tour Description:
On arrival in Danang (Tien Sa port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Transfer 1.5 hour to My Son was an important religious site and place of worship. The 20 temples are set in a verdant valley surrounded by hills and overlooked by the impressive Cat Tooth Mountain. Stroll around this UNESCO listed temple complex to learn about the Cham culture, architecture and civilization. Later, head back to Danang (Tien Sa port), and embark the ship.
Notes:
Inclusions:
Destination: Ha Noi
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Code: MDHANSE004
Tour Description:
Disembark at the Port of Cai Lan where your guide will be waiting to take you on a 3.5hr drive into Hanoi to explore this charming capital city, often referred to as the ‘Paris of the East’, with its yellow ochre colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes. Begin your tour of the highlights of Hanoi with a visit to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university built in the late 11th century. The picturesque temple is an example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture and is featured on the back of the 100,000 Vietnamese dong banknote. Continue to the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, offering broad insights into the people of Vietnam, including its 54 ethnic groups, through the lens of women’s topics. Walk through diverse exhibitions showcasing everything from street vendors and marriage to family life and traditional fashion. Enjoy lunch at Cau Go Vietnamese cuisine restaurant - located on the top floor of old building which was built 90s with amazing view overlook to Hoan Kiem lake. Conclude with a cyclo tour through the famed Old Quarter known for its ‘36 streets of 36 wares’ named after the original 36 artisan guilds that date as far back as the 13th century. Explore the fascinating maze of back streets, fronted by narrow houses known as “tunnel” or “tube houses”, built to avoid taxes based on the width of their frontage onto the street, a wonderfully eclectic glimpse into Hanoi street life. Drive back to the Port of Cai Lan and board the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Hanoi
Tour Duration: Within 8 hours (08:00 – 18:00)
Tour Description:
Meet with guide at the ship docking and transfer to town. Car and guide is at disposal.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Destination: Hanoi
Tour Duration: 10 hours
Tour Description:
On arrival to the port (Cai Lan /Hon Gai/ Halong port) disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then take 4 hours’ drive to Hanoi for an informative city tour.
With ochre-colored colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes, Hanoi is full of charm. Start the tour at the Temple of Literature, the first University for the sons of mandarins, for an overview about Hanoian culture and appreciation for ancient Vietnamese architecture. Then head to the Vietnamese Women’s Museum that offers a broad insight into Vietnam’s people including its 54 ethnic groups through a lens of women’s topics. Walk through diverse exhibitions from street vendors to marriage to family life to traditional fashion.
Lunch is on your own.
End the trip with a cyclo tour from the museum to the Old Quarter. Ride through its narrow streets to indulge yourself in the bustle and hustle of the local daily life. Later, drive back to Halong to embark the ship.
Notes:
• Availability: Morning
• There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Destination: Ha Noi
Tour Duration: 7 hours
Code: MDHANSE001
Tour Description:
On arrival in Danang (Tien Sa port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Transfer 1.5 hour to My Son was an important religious site and place of worship. The 20 temples are set in a verdant valley surrounded by hills and overlooked by the impressive Cat Tooth Mountain. Stroll around this UNESCO listed temple complex to learn about the Cham culture, architecture and civilization. Later, head back to Danang (Tien Sa port), and embark the ship.
Notes:
Inclusions:
Destination: Ha Noi
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Code: MDHANSE004
Tour Description:
Disembark at the Port of Cai Lan where your guide will be waiting to take you on a 3.5hr drive into Hanoi to explore this charming capital city, often referred to as the ‘Paris of the East’, with its yellow ochre colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes. Begin your tour of the highlights of Hanoi with a visit to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university built in the late 11th century. The picturesque temple is an example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture and is featured on the back of the 100,000 Vietnamese dong banknote. Continue to the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, offering broad insights into the people of Vietnam, including its 54 ethnic groups, through the lens of women’s topics. Walk through diverse exhibitions showcasing everything from street vendors and marriage to family life and traditional fashion. Enjoy lunch at Cau Go Vietnamese cuisine restaurant - located on the top floor of old building which was built 90s with amazing view overlook to Hoan Kiem lake. Conclude with a cyclo tour through the famed Old Quarter known for its ‘36 streets of 36 wares’ named after the original 36 artisan guilds that date as far back as the 13th century. Explore the fascinating maze of back streets, fronted by narrow houses known as “tunnel” or “tube houses”, built to avoid taxes based on the width of their frontage onto the street, a wonderfully eclectic glimpse into Hanoi street life. Drive back to the Port of Cai Lan and board the ship.
Notes:
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
Not Included:
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
Not Included:
Tour Duration: 10 hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
Not Included:
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
Not Included:
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
Not Included:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: Within 4 hours or 8 hours
Tour Description:
Meet with guide at the ship docking and transfer to town. Car and guide is at disposal.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 8-9 hours
Code: MDSGNSE002
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong Port or Hiep Phuoc Port), drive to the city centre for a tour of some of Saigon’s historic landmarks reflecting its French and Chinese influences. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires constructed from materials imported from France (entrance is only permitted when no services are being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, completed in 1891. Appreciate the restored exteriors of the Saigon Opera House and the elegant City Hall (the former Hotel de Ville), two of Saigon’s most stunning colonial monuments. If time permits, we will visit the iconic Ben Thanh Market, one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular wholesale market for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs and street food. After lunch, we drive to Saigon’s Chinatown to visit the beautiful Thien Hau Pagoda, built by the Cantonese community in the early 19th century to honour the Goddess of the Sea. Take time to make a wish, write it on a small card and attach it to one of the incense coils according to local custom. Continue your visit to FITO, the first museum of traditional medicine in Vietnam, offering insight into the history and application of traditional medicine in everyday life before taking the scenic route through the city back to the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 04 hours
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong Port), drive 20mins to the city center for a tour of some of Saigon’s historic landmarks reflecting its French and Chinese influences. Meet with a local cultural and history researcher at your hotel lobby and take a short trip to local coffee shop for an overview of the impressive history of the city once known as “The Pearl of the Orient”. Then take a step back in time to visit several of the very best examples of “storytelling” architecture. Start at Jade pagoda established in the early 1900s to get a glimpse of ancient history when a group of Chinese fled the new regime to Saigon around the end of 17th century under the reign of Lord Nguyen.
Then wind your way to Archbishop's Palace – with a prayer house more than two hundred-years old (outside visit) as the home for the first French Catholic missionary. Gain an overview about the first approach of the French during the Cochinchina period in the early 18th century. Stroll around the University of Social Sciences & Humanities which used to be the 11th infantry regiment colonial military barracks for an insight into French campaigns against Viet Minh at the time. Your stop will be at the former residence of the US Ambassador, Henry C. Lodge in the 1960s for a drink and watch 10-min movie about Saigon back in the day.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE015
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. The Vietnamese cooking class commences with a visit to Ben Thanh market to buy all the fresh ingredients before continuing to this historic home for a private hands-on cooking demonstration. The guide will provide an orientation tour of the house while the chef prepares the ingredients. Learn typical Southern style dishes such as Fresh Spring Roll, Pan Cake, and Fish in clay pot. The chef will show you how to serve each dish before the meal, and you will need to master the chopsticks before you can savor your own culinary creations in the old-world ambiance of the villa. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Cu Chi Tunnels
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE009
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Commence with a visit of the shrine outside of the US Consulate then continue to the former CIA building (outside visit only), where helicopters evacuated the remaining US citizens in 1975. Head to the rooftop café of the Rex hotel, a familiar landmark for Americans during the Vietnam War. Sit down for a drink, enjoy the view and this piece of history which your guide will help to explain. Then visit the Reunification Palace for a guided tour of the former headquarters of the South Vietnamese Government and residence of the presidents. Drive to the former residence of the US Ambassador of South Vietnam in the early 1960s, Mr. Henry C. Lodge, who conducted a mission to overthrow the South Vietnamese Government. Watch a 10 minutes documentary film about Saigon during that time while enjoying a cold drink. Then drive to a secret weapon chamber which VC used as a place to hide and store weapons during Vietnam War. Then weave through tiny back alleys and meet and chat with the locals who are living in tiny houses. Head to a historic venue for a late lunch of “pho” (noodle soup). The house number 07 on Ly Chinh Thang Street (former Yen Do street) is now known as Pho Binh restaurant which used to be the headquarters of Viet Cong Commanders where they gathered to plan for the 1968 Tet Offensive. Take a walk upstairs to learn more about the history through the family’s photo collection. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Code: MDSGNSE011
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Saigon is the country’s commercial center and, with over eight million inhabitants and four million motorbikes, a city that never sleeps. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Driven in a charming vintage car to visit the city’s highlights is one of the most wonderful & lavish way. Sit back and enjoy a city tour to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks including the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (Outside visit only due the renovation at Notre Dame Cathedral until 2027). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustave Eiffel. Continue your visit with the former Presidential Palace, the headquarters of the Saigon Government during the American war, revealing the history of Saigon during its turbulent recent past. Further, head to the War Remnants Museum for a vivid insight of the American war through the local’s eyes (Please note that some of the photos are very graphic). Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Inclusions:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE014
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris. Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then visit a local family of musicians. Learn about traditional musical instruments through conversations with the artists and listen to the performances from each family member (3-generations). You then have the chance to try the instruments yourself - a memorable if somewhat noisy experience! Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE016
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to Bung Sang, a small private home and school for over a hundred blind orphans in Saigon. The school was founded by a blind musician - Mr. Dao Khanh Truong. With the love and care for unlucky children, he spent most of his life teaching the children and gathering support from the benefactors. After he passed away few years ago, Bung Sang was given to the Lovers of the Holy Cross Sisters to take care of. This afternoon, visit the school, talk with the manager for a thorough understanding of their lives here, meet the children and listen to them singing, playing music. Afterwards transfer to Noir restaurant for a special culinary journey - dining in the dark. The concept is to imitate the experience of having meals like a blind person, which is a unique mind-altering experience. Leave behind the sight and let your other senses lead your mind to feel the taste of food. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE019
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (It is only possible to visit inside when no service is being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. Meet with the present host for an introduction of the house before enjoying a home-hosted lunch in the historic setting. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Tour Duration: 10 hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
Not Included:
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
Not Included:
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
Not Included:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: Within 4 hours or 8 hours
Tour Description:
Meet with guide at the ship docking and transfer to town. Car and guide is at disposal.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 8-9 hours
Code: MDSGNSE002
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong Port or Hiep Phuoc Port), drive to the city centre for a tour of some of Saigon’s historic landmarks reflecting its French and Chinese influences. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires constructed from materials imported from France (entrance is only permitted when no services are being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, completed in 1891. Appreciate the restored exteriors of the Saigon Opera House and the elegant City Hall (the former Hotel de Ville), two of Saigon’s most stunning colonial monuments. If time permits, we will visit the iconic Ben Thanh Market, one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular wholesale market for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs and street food. After lunch, we drive to Saigon’s Chinatown to visit the beautiful Thien Hau Pagoda, built by the Cantonese community in the early 19th century to honour the Goddess of the Sea. Take time to make a wish, write it on a small card and attach it to one of the incense coils according to local custom. Continue your visit to FITO, the first museum of traditional medicine in Vietnam, offering insight into the history and application of traditional medicine in everyday life before taking the scenic route through the city back to the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 04 hours
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong Port), drive 20mins to the city center for a tour of some of Saigon’s historic landmarks reflecting its French and Chinese influences. Meet with a local cultural and history researcher at your hotel lobby and take a short trip to local coffee shop for an overview of the impressive history of the city once known as “The Pearl of the Orient”. Then take a step back in time to visit several of the very best examples of “storytelling” architecture. Start at Jade pagoda established in the early 1900s to get a glimpse of ancient history when a group of Chinese fled the new regime to Saigon around the end of 17th century under the reign of Lord Nguyen.
Then wind your way to Archbishop's Palace – with a prayer house more than two hundred-years old (outside visit) as the home for the first French Catholic missionary. Gain an overview about the first approach of the French during the Cochinchina period in the early 18th century. Stroll around the University of Social Sciences & Humanities which used to be the 11th infantry regiment colonial military barracks for an insight into French campaigns against Viet Minh at the time. Your stop will be at the former residence of the US Ambassador, Henry C. Lodge in the 1960s for a drink and watch 10-min movie about Saigon back in the day.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE015
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. The Vietnamese cooking class commences with a visit to Ben Thanh market to buy all the fresh ingredients before continuing to this historic home for a private hands-on cooking demonstration. The guide will provide an orientation tour of the house while the chef prepares the ingredients. Learn typical Southern style dishes such as Fresh Spring Roll, Pan Cake, and Fish in clay pot. The chef will show you how to serve each dish before the meal, and you will need to master the chopsticks before you can savor your own culinary creations in the old-world ambiance of the villa. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Cu Chi Tunnels
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE009
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Commence with a visit of the shrine outside of the US Consulate then continue to the former CIA building (outside visit only), where helicopters evacuated the remaining US citizens in 1975. Head to the rooftop café of the Rex hotel, a familiar landmark for Americans during the Vietnam War. Sit down for a drink, enjoy the view and this piece of history which your guide will help to explain. Then visit the Reunification Palace for a guided tour of the former headquarters of the South Vietnamese Government and residence of the presidents. Drive to the former residence of the US Ambassador of South Vietnam in the early 1960s, Mr. Henry C. Lodge, who conducted a mission to overthrow the South Vietnamese Government. Watch a 10 minutes documentary film about Saigon during that time while enjoying a cold drink. Then drive to a secret weapon chamber which VC used as a place to hide and store weapons during Vietnam War. Then weave through tiny back alleys and meet and chat with the locals who are living in tiny houses. Head to a historic venue for a late lunch of “pho” (noodle soup). The house number 07 on Ly Chinh Thang Street (former Yen Do street) is now known as Pho Binh restaurant which used to be the headquarters of Viet Cong Commanders where they gathered to plan for the 1968 Tet Offensive. Take a walk upstairs to learn more about the history through the family’s photo collection. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Code: MDSGNSE011
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Saigon is the country’s commercial center and, with over eight million inhabitants and four million motorbikes, a city that never sleeps. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Driven in a charming vintage car to visit the city’s highlights is one of the most wonderful & lavish way. Sit back and enjoy a city tour to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks including the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (Outside visit only due the renovation at Notre Dame Cathedral until 2027). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustave Eiffel. Continue your visit with the former Presidential Palace, the headquarters of the Saigon Government during the American war, revealing the history of Saigon during its turbulent recent past. Further, head to the War Remnants Museum for a vivid insight of the American war through the local’s eyes (Please note that some of the photos are very graphic). Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Inclusions:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE014
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris. Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then visit a local family of musicians. Learn about traditional musical instruments through conversations with the artists and listen to the performances from each family member (3-generations). You then have the chance to try the instruments yourself - a memorable if somewhat noisy experience! Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE016
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to Bung Sang, a small private home and school for over a hundred blind orphans in Saigon. The school was founded by a blind musician - Mr. Dao Khanh Truong. With the love and care for unlucky children, he spent most of his life teaching the children and gathering support from the benefactors. After he passed away few years ago, Bung Sang was given to the Lovers of the Holy Cross Sisters to take care of. This afternoon, visit the school, talk with the manager for a thorough understanding of their lives here, meet the children and listen to them singing, playing music. Afterwards transfer to Noir restaurant for a special culinary journey - dining in the dark. The concept is to imitate the experience of having meals like a blind person, which is a unique mind-altering experience. Leave behind the sight and let your other senses lead your mind to feel the taste of food. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE019
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (It is only possible to visit inside when no service is being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. Meet with the present host for an introduction of the house before enjoying a home-hosted lunch in the historic setting. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Tour Duration: 10 hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
Not Included:
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
Not Included:
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
Not Included:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: Within 4 hours or 8 hours
Tour Description:
Meet with guide at the ship docking and transfer to town. Car and guide is at disposal.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 8-9 hours
Code: MDSGNSE002
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong Port or Hiep Phuoc Port), drive to the city centre for a tour of some of Saigon’s historic landmarks reflecting its French and Chinese influences. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires constructed from materials imported from France (entrance is only permitted when no services are being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, completed in 1891. Appreciate the restored exteriors of the Saigon Opera House and the elegant City Hall (the former Hotel de Ville), two of Saigon’s most stunning colonial monuments. If time permits, we will visit the iconic Ben Thanh Market, one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular wholesale market for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs and street food. After lunch, we drive to Saigon’s Chinatown to visit the beautiful Thien Hau Pagoda, built by the Cantonese community in the early 19th century to honour the Goddess of the Sea. Take time to make a wish, write it on a small card and attach it to one of the incense coils according to local custom. Continue your visit to FITO, the first museum of traditional medicine in Vietnam, offering insight into the history and application of traditional medicine in everyday life before taking the scenic route through the city back to the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 04 hours
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong Port), drive 20mins to the city center for a tour of some of Saigon’s historic landmarks reflecting its French and Chinese influences. Meet with a local cultural and history researcher at your hotel lobby and take a short trip to local coffee shop for an overview of the impressive history of the city once known as “The Pearl of the Orient”. Then take a step back in time to visit several of the very best examples of “storytelling” architecture. Start at Jade pagoda established in the early 1900s to get a glimpse of ancient history when a group of Chinese fled the new regime to Saigon around the end of 17th century under the reign of Lord Nguyen.
Then wind your way to Archbishop's Palace – with a prayer house more than two hundred-years old (outside visit) as the home for the first French Catholic missionary. Gain an overview about the first approach of the French during the Cochinchina period in the early 18th century. Stroll around the University of Social Sciences & Humanities which used to be the 11th infantry regiment colonial military barracks for an insight into French campaigns against Viet Minh at the time. Your stop will be at the former residence of the US Ambassador, Henry C. Lodge in the 1960s for a drink and watch 10-min movie about Saigon back in the day.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE015
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. The Vietnamese cooking class commences with a visit to Ben Thanh market to buy all the fresh ingredients before continuing to this historic home for a private hands-on cooking demonstration. The guide will provide an orientation tour of the house while the chef prepares the ingredients. Learn typical Southern style dishes such as Fresh Spring Roll, Pan Cake, and Fish in clay pot. The chef will show you how to serve each dish before the meal, and you will need to master the chopsticks before you can savor your own culinary creations in the old-world ambiance of the villa. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Cu Chi Tunnels
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE009
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Commence with a visit of the shrine outside of the US Consulate then continue to the former CIA building (outside visit only), where helicopters evacuated the remaining US citizens in 1975. Head to the rooftop café of the Rex hotel, a familiar landmark for Americans during the Vietnam War. Sit down for a drink, enjoy the view and this piece of history which your guide will help to explain. Then visit the Reunification Palace for a guided tour of the former headquarters of the South Vietnamese Government and residence of the presidents. Drive to the former residence of the US Ambassador of South Vietnam in the early 1960s, Mr. Henry C. Lodge, who conducted a mission to overthrow the South Vietnamese Government. Watch a 10 minutes documentary film about Saigon during that time while enjoying a cold drink. Then drive to a secret weapon chamber which VC used as a place to hide and store weapons during Vietnam War. Then weave through tiny back alleys and meet and chat with the locals who are living in tiny houses. Head to a historic venue for a late lunch of “pho” (noodle soup). The house number 07 on Ly Chinh Thang Street (former Yen Do street) is now known as Pho Binh restaurant which used to be the headquarters of Viet Cong Commanders where they gathered to plan for the 1968 Tet Offensive. Take a walk upstairs to learn more about the history through the family’s photo collection. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Code: MDSGNSE011
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Saigon is the country’s commercial center and, with over eight million inhabitants and four million motorbikes, a city that never sleeps. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Driven in a charming vintage car to visit the city’s highlights is one of the most wonderful & lavish way. Sit back and enjoy a city tour to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks including the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (Outside visit only due the renovation at Notre Dame Cathedral until 2027). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustave Eiffel. Continue your visit with the former Presidential Palace, the headquarters of the Saigon Government during the American war, revealing the history of Saigon during its turbulent recent past. Further, head to the War Remnants Museum for a vivid insight of the American war through the local’s eyes (Please note that some of the photos are very graphic). Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Inclusions:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE014
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris. Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then visit a local family of musicians. Learn about traditional musical instruments through conversations with the artists and listen to the performances from each family member (3-generations). You then have the chance to try the instruments yourself - a memorable if somewhat noisy experience! Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE016
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to Bung Sang, a small private home and school for over a hundred blind orphans in Saigon. The school was founded by a blind musician - Mr. Dao Khanh Truong. With the love and care for unlucky children, he spent most of his life teaching the children and gathering support from the benefactors. After he passed away few years ago, Bung Sang was given to the Lovers of the Holy Cross Sisters to take care of. This afternoon, visit the school, talk with the manager for a thorough understanding of their lives here, meet the children and listen to them singing, playing music. Afterwards transfer to Noir restaurant for a special culinary journey - dining in the dark. The concept is to imitate the experience of having meals like a blind person, which is a unique mind-altering experience. Leave behind the sight and let your other senses lead your mind to feel the taste of food. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE019
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (It is only possible to visit inside when no service is being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. Meet with the present host for an introduction of the house before enjoying a home-hosted lunch in the historic setting. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
All prices per person and in USD unless otherwise stated.
14-night Magnificent Mekong Cruise/Land Package
OFFER ID 1499130
Cruise Line
Viking
Ship
Destination
Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Departure Date
Mar 14, 2025
Length
14
from $8,999
Ship Info | Viking Saigon
ITINERARY
Private Car & Driver
Optional Private Excursion
Destination Guide
Hanoi - Hon Gai / Hai Phong Port
Hanoi - Hon Gai / Hai Phong Port
HON GAI / HAI PHONG PORT
Destination: Hanoi
Tour Duration: Within 8 hours (08:00 – 18:00)
Tour Description:
Meet with guide at the ship docking and transfer to town. Car and guide is at disposal.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Hanoi Full Day Tour (10 Hours)
Hanoi Full Day Tour (10 Hours)
HANOI FULL DAY TOUR
Destination: Hanoi
Tour Duration: 10 hours
Tour Description:
On arrival to the port (Cai Lan /Hon Gai/ Halong port) disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then take 4 hours’ drive to Hanoi for an informative city tour.
With ochre-colored colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes, Hanoi is full of charm. Start the tour at the Temple of Literature, the first University for the sons of mandarins, for an overview about Hanoian culture and appreciation for ancient Vietnamese architecture. Then head to the Vietnamese Women’s Museum that offers a broad insight into Vietnam’s people including its 54 ethnic groups through a lens of women’s topics. Walk through diverse exhibitions from street vendors to marriage to family life to traditional fashion.
Lunch is on your own.
End the trip with a cyclo tour from the museum to the Old Quarter. Ride through its narrow streets to indulge yourself in the bustle and hustle of the local daily life. Later, drive back to Halong to embark the ship.
Notes:
• Availability: Morning
• There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Shore Excursion Hai Phong - Hanoi
Shore Excursion Hai Phong - Hanoi
SHORE EXCURSION HAI PHONG – HANOI
Destination: Ha Noi
Tour Duration: 7 hours
Code: MDHANSE001
Tour Description:
On arrival in Danang (Tien Sa port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Transfer 1.5 hour to My Son was an important religious site and place of worship. The 20 temples are set in a verdant valley surrounded by hills and overlooked by the impressive Cat Tooth Mountain. Stroll around this UNESCO listed temple complex to learn about the Cham culture, architecture and civilization. Later, head back to Danang (Tien Sa port), and embark the ship.
Notes:
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Shore Excursion Halong - Hanoi
Shore Excursion Halong - Hanoi
SHORE EXCURSION HALONG - HANOI
Destination: Ha Noi
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Code: MDHANSE004
Tour Description:
Disembark at the Port of Cai Lan where your guide will be waiting to take you on a 3.5hr drive into Hanoi to explore this charming capital city, often referred to as the ‘Paris of the East’, with its yellow ochre colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes. Begin your tour of the highlights of Hanoi with a visit to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university built in the late 11th century. The picturesque temple is an example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture and is featured on the back of the 100,000 Vietnamese dong banknote. Continue to the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, offering broad insights into the people of Vietnam, including its 54 ethnic groups, through the lens of women’s topics. Walk through diverse exhibitions showcasing everything from street vendors and marriage to family life and traditional fashion. Enjoy lunch at Cau Go Vietnamese cuisine restaurant - located on the top floor of old building which was built 90s with amazing view overlook to Hoan Kiem lake. Conclude with a cyclo tour through the famed Old Quarter known for its ‘36 streets of 36 wares’ named after the original 36 artisan guilds that date as far back as the 13th century. Explore the fascinating maze of back streets, fronted by narrow houses known as “tunnel” or “tube houses”, built to avoid taxes based on the width of their frontage onto the street, a wonderfully eclectic glimpse into Hanoi street life. Drive back to the Port of Cai Lan and board the ship.
Notes:
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Hanoi - Hon Gai / Hai Phong Port
Hanoi - Hon Gai / Hai Phong Port
HON GAI / HAI PHONG PORT
Destination: Hanoi
Tour Duration: Within 8 hours (08:00 – 18:00)
Tour Description:
Meet with guide at the ship docking and transfer to town. Car and guide is at disposal.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Hanoi Full Day Tour (10 Hours)
Hanoi Full Day Tour (10 Hours)
HANOI FULL DAY TOUR
Destination: Hanoi
Tour Duration: 10 hours
Tour Description:
On arrival to the port (Cai Lan /Hon Gai/ Halong port) disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then take 4 hours’ drive to Hanoi for an informative city tour.
With ochre-colored colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes, Hanoi is full of charm. Start the tour at the Temple of Literature, the first University for the sons of mandarins, for an overview about Hanoian culture and appreciation for ancient Vietnamese architecture. Then head to the Vietnamese Women’s Museum that offers a broad insight into Vietnam’s people including its 54 ethnic groups through a lens of women’s topics. Walk through diverse exhibitions from street vendors to marriage to family life to traditional fashion.
Lunch is on your own.
End the trip with a cyclo tour from the museum to the Old Quarter. Ride through its narrow streets to indulge yourself in the bustle and hustle of the local daily life. Later, drive back to Halong to embark the ship.
Notes:
• Availability: Morning
• There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Shore Excursion Hai Phong - Hanoi
Shore Excursion Hai Phong - Hanoi
SHORE EXCURSION HAI PHONG – HANOI
Destination: Ha Noi
Tour Duration: 7 hours
Code: MDHANSE001
Tour Description:
On arrival in Danang (Tien Sa port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Transfer 1.5 hour to My Son was an important religious site and place of worship. The 20 temples are set in a verdant valley surrounded by hills and overlooked by the impressive Cat Tooth Mountain. Stroll around this UNESCO listed temple complex to learn about the Cham culture, architecture and civilization. Later, head back to Danang (Tien Sa port), and embark the ship.
Notes:
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Shore Excursion Halong - Hanoi
Shore Excursion Halong - Hanoi
SHORE EXCURSION HALONG - HANOI
Destination: Ha Noi
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Code: MDHANSE004
Tour Description:
Disembark at the Port of Cai Lan where your guide will be waiting to take you on a 3.5hr drive into Hanoi to explore this charming capital city, often referred to as the ‘Paris of the East’, with its yellow ochre colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and scenic lakes. Begin your tour of the highlights of Hanoi with a visit to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university built in the late 11th century. The picturesque temple is an example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture and is featured on the back of the 100,000 Vietnamese dong banknote. Continue to the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, offering broad insights into the people of Vietnam, including its 54 ethnic groups, through the lens of women’s topics. Walk through diverse exhibitions showcasing everything from street vendors and marriage to family life and traditional fashion. Enjoy lunch at Cau Go Vietnamese cuisine restaurant - located on the top floor of old building which was built 90s with amazing view overlook to Hoan Kiem lake. Conclude with a cyclo tour through the famed Old Quarter known for its ‘36 streets of 36 wares’ named after the original 36 artisan guilds that date as far back as the 13th century. Explore the fascinating maze of back streets, fronted by narrow houses known as “tunnel” or “tube houses”, built to avoid taxes based on the width of their frontage onto the street, a wonderfully eclectic glimpse into Hanoi street life. Drive back to the Port of Cai Lan and board the ship.
Notes:
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Phnom Penh Sightseeing Tour – 9 hours - Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh Sightseeing Tour – 9 hours - Phnom Penh
Highlights:
- Royal Palace/Silver Pagoda
- National Museum
- Central Market (Traditional Market)
- Khmer set menu lunch at a local restaurant
- Toul Sleng Genocide Museum (S 21)
- Chheong Ek (Killing Field)
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Cold towel service onboard
- Bottle of water onboard
- Local English speaking guide
- All sightseeing with entrance fees as per your program
- Meals: Khmer set menu lunch at local restaurant
Not Included:
- Beverages or meals not mentioned
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities to your guide and driver
Phnom Penh Sightseeing Tour – 9 hours - Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh Sightseeing Tour – 9 hours - Phnom Penh
Highlights:
- Royal Palace/Silver Pagoda
- National Museum
- Central Market (Traditional Market)
- Khmer set menu lunch at a local restaurant
- Toul Sleng Genocide Museum (S 21)
- Chheong Ek (Killing Field)
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Cold towel service onboard
- Bottle of water onboard
- Local English speaking guide
- All sightseeing with entrance fees as per your program
- Meals: Khmer set menu lunch at local restaurant
Not Included:
- Beverages or meals not mentioned
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities to your guide and driver
No information currently available.
No information currently available.
No information currently available.
Cu Chi Tunnels & Sai Gon Highlights Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Cu Chi Tunnels & Sai Gon Highlights Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Highlights:
- Visit Cu Chi Tunnels
- Visit Reunification Palace
- Stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Post Office
- Visit Jade Emperor Pagoda
- Shopping at the Central Ben Thanh Market
Tour Duration: 10 hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Phu My Port
- Tours and transfers as specified including entry fees, on a private basis in modern air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service of English Speaking Local Guides.
- Ports permit arranged
- Meals (food only) as stated in the above itinerary
- One 0.5 litre of bottled water and cold towel in vehicle during sightseeing
- Vietnam Government tax and services charge
Not Included:
- All international and domestic air tickets
- Accommodation
- Vietnamese visa arrival
- Other meals than those specified
- Travel insurance
- Tips for tour guides, drivers, waiters at included meals, local assistants
Highlights of Ho Chi Minh City Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Highlights of Ho Chi Minh City Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Highlights:
- Visit Reunification Palace
- Photo stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Post Office
- Visit History Museum & Jade Emperor Pagoda
- Visit China Town & Cao Dai Temple en-route
- Shopping at the Central Ben Thanh Market
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Phu My Port
- Tours and transfers as specified including entry fees, on a private basis in modern air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service of English-speaking local guides
- Ports permit arranged
- Meals (food only) as stated in the above itinerary
- One 0.5 litre bottled water and cold towel in the vehicle during sightseeing
- Vietnam Government tax and services charge
Not Included:
- All international and domestic air tickets
- Accommodation
- Vietnamese visa on arrival
- Other meals than those specified.
- Travel Insurance.
- Tips for tour guides, drivers, waiters at included meals, local assistants, etc.
Mekong Delta Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Mekong Delta Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Highlights:
- Get on a motorized sampan to experience the life of local people, visit local brickwork, local fruit farms, family workshops Photo stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Post Office
- Take rowing-boat along water palm creek and cruise back to the Pier
- If time permits, have a quick visit of Sai Gon or shopping at Ben Thanh Market
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Phu My Port
- Tours and transfers as specified including entry fees, on a private basis in modern air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service of English-speaking local guides
- Private boat cruise on Mekong River
- Ports permit arranged
- Meals (food only) as stated in the above itinerary
- One 0.5 litre of bottled water and cold towel in the vehicle during sightseeing
- Vietnam Government tax and services charge
Not Included:
- All international and domestic air tickets
- Accommodation
- Vietnamese visa on arrival
- Other meals than those specified.
- Travel insurance
- Tips for tour guides, drivers, waiters at included meals, local assistants, etc.
Saigon Port
SAIGON PORT
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: Within 4 hours or 8 hours
Tour Description:
Meet with guide at the ship docking and transfer to town. Car and guide is at disposal.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Saigon City Highlights
SAIGON CITY HIGHLIGHTS
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 8-9 hours
Code: MDSGNSE002
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong Port or Hiep Phuoc Port), drive to the city centre for a tour of some of Saigon’s historic landmarks reflecting its French and Chinese influences. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires constructed from materials imported from France (entrance is only permitted when no services are being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, completed in 1891. Appreciate the restored exteriors of the Saigon Opera House and the elegant City Hall (the former Hotel de Ville), two of Saigon’s most stunning colonial monuments. If time permits, we will visit the iconic Ben Thanh Market, one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular wholesale market for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs and street food. After lunch, we drive to Saigon’s Chinatown to visit the beautiful Thien Hau Pagoda, built by the Cantonese community in the early 19th century to honour the Goddess of the Sea. Take time to make a wish, write it on a small card and attach it to one of the incense coils according to local custom. Continue your visit to FITO, the first museum of traditional medicine in Vietnam, offering insight into the history and application of traditional medicine in everyday life before taking the scenic route through the city back to the ship.
Notes:
- Availability: Morning, Afternoon.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Due to the anticipated completion of the renovation project for Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2027, we are limited to exploring its exterior for the time being.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - History of Architecture with History Researcher
Saigon - History of Architecture with History Researcher
HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE WITH HISTORY RESEARCHER
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 04 hours
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong Port), drive 20mins to the city center for a tour of some of Saigon’s historic landmarks reflecting its French and Chinese influences. Meet with a local cultural and history researcher at your hotel lobby and take a short trip to local coffee shop for an overview of the impressive history of the city once known as “The Pearl of the Orient”. Then take a step back in time to visit several of the very best examples of “storytelling” architecture. Start at Jade pagoda established in the early 1900s to get a glimpse of ancient history when a group of Chinese fled the new regime to Saigon around the end of 17th century under the reign of Lord Nguyen.
Then wind your way to Archbishop's Palace – with a prayer house more than two hundred-years old (outside visit) as the home for the first French Catholic missionary. Gain an overview about the first approach of the French during the Cochinchina period in the early 18th century. Stroll around the University of Social Sciences & Humanities which used to be the 11th infantry regiment colonial military barracks for an insight into French campaigns against Viet Minh at the time. Your stop will be at the former residence of the US Ambassador, Henry C. Lodge in the 1960s for a drink and watch 10-min movie about Saigon back in the day.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Saigon - Cooking Class at Ambassador's Former Residence
Saigon - Cooking Class at Ambassador's Former Residence
COOKING CLASS AT AMBASSADOR'S FORMER RESIDENCE
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE015
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. The Vietnamese cooking class commences with a visit to Ben Thanh market to buy all the fresh ingredients before continuing to this historic home for a private hands-on cooking demonstration. The guide will provide an orientation tour of the house while the chef prepares the ingredients. Learn typical Southern style dishes such as Fresh Spring Roll, Pan Cake, and Fish in clay pot. The chef will show you how to serve each dish before the meal, and you will need to master the chopsticks before you can savor your own culinary creations in the old-world ambiance of the villa. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusions: Lunch with the foods prepared during the cooking class.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Age restrictions: Children from 12 years old onward are allowed by joining the cooking station with their parents.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - Retracing The Past
RETRACING THE PAST
Destination: Cu Chi Tunnels
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE009
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Commence with a visit of the shrine outside of the US Consulate then continue to the former CIA building (outside visit only), where helicopters evacuated the remaining US citizens in 1975. Head to the rooftop café of the Rex hotel, a familiar landmark for Americans during the Vietnam War. Sit down for a drink, enjoy the view and this piece of history which your guide will help to explain. Then visit the Reunification Palace for a guided tour of the former headquarters of the South Vietnamese Government and residence of the presidents. Drive to the former residence of the US Ambassador of South Vietnam in the early 1960s, Mr. Henry C. Lodge, who conducted a mission to overthrow the South Vietnamese Government. Watch a 10 minutes documentary film about Saigon during that time while enjoying a cold drink. Then drive to a secret weapon chamber which VC used as a place to hide and store weapons during Vietnam War. Then weave through tiny back alleys and meet and chat with the locals who are living in tiny houses. Head to a historic venue for a late lunch of “pho” (noodle soup). The house number 07 on Ly Chinh Thang Street (former Yen Do street) is now known as Pho Binh restaurant which used to be the headquarters of Viet Cong Commanders where they gathered to plan for the 1968 Tet Offensive. Take a walk upstairs to learn more about the history through the family’s photo collection. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusion: Simple pho at Pho Binh is included
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon City Tour on Vintage Car
Saigon City Tour on Vintage Car
SAIGON CITY TOUR ON VINTAGE CAR
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Code: MDSGNSE011
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Saigon is the country’s commercial center and, with over eight million inhabitants and four million motorbikes, a city that never sleeps. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Driven in a charming vintage car to visit the city’s highlights is one of the most wonderful & lavish way. Sit back and enjoy a city tour to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks including the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (Outside visit only due the renovation at Notre Dame Cathedral until 2027). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustave Eiffel. Continue your visit with the former Presidential Palace, the headquarters of the Saigon Government during the American war, revealing the history of Saigon during its turbulent recent past. Further, head to the War Remnants Museum for a vivid insight of the American war through the local’s eyes (Please note that some of the photos are very graphic). Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusion: No meal included
- This excursion is only available for any guests arriving to Saigon via Nha Rong port.
- Due to the anticipated completion of the renovation project for Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2027, we are limited to exploring its exterior for the time being.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - City Highlights & Musician Family Visit
Saigon - City Highlights & Musician Family Visit
CITY HIGHLIGHTS & MUSICIAN FAMILY VISIT
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE014
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris. Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then visit a local family of musicians. Learn about traditional musical instruments through conversations with the artists and listen to the performances from each family member (3-generations). You then have the chance to try the instruments yourself - a memorable if somewhat noisy experience! Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusion: No meal included
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Due to the anticipated completion of the renovation project for Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2027, we are limited to exploring its exterior for the time being.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - In The Dark: A Blind Experience
Saigon - In The Dark: A Blind Experience
IN THE DARK - A BLIND EXPERIENCE
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE016
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to Bung Sang, a small private home and school for over a hundred blind orphans in Saigon. The school was founded by a blind musician - Mr. Dao Khanh Truong. With the love and care for unlucky children, he spent most of his life teaching the children and gathering support from the benefactors. After he passed away few years ago, Bung Sang was given to the Lovers of the Holy Cross Sisters to take care of. This afternoon, visit the school, talk with the manager for a thorough understanding of their lives here, meet the children and listen to them singing, playing music. Afterwards transfer to Noir restaurant for a special culinary journey - dining in the dark. The concept is to imitate the experience of having meals like a blind person, which is a unique mind-altering experience. Leave behind the sight and let your other senses lead your mind to feel the taste of food. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Pick up time: 16:30
- Inclusions: Set menu at Noir restaurant.
- Capacity: Maximum 10 pax due to the limited space of Bung Sang Home.
- Age restrictions: Children from 10 years old onward are allowed to enjoy the dining experience. For younger children, this experience may be a little frightening and informing in advance is highly recommended.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Dress code: Smart casual is highly recommended. Shorts and slippers are fine, however no tank tops and no glowing shoes, clothing or accessories.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - City Highlights & Lunch at Ambassador's Home
Saigon - City Highlights & Lunch at Ambassador's Home
CITY HIGHLIGHTS & LUNCH AT AMBASSADOR'S HOME
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE019
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (It is only possible to visit inside when no service is being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. Meet with the present host for an introduction of the house before enjoying a home-hosted lunch in the historic setting. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Pick up time: TBA. In the morning and is subject to cruise docking time.
- Inclusions: home hosted lunch
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Cu Chi Tunnels & Sai Gon Highlights Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Cu Chi Tunnels & Sai Gon Highlights Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Highlights:
- Visit Cu Chi Tunnels
- Visit Reunification Palace
- Stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Post Office
- Visit Jade Emperor Pagoda
- Shopping at the Central Ben Thanh Market
Tour Duration: 10 hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Phu My Port
- Tours and transfers as specified including entry fees, on a private basis in modern air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service of English Speaking Local Guides.
- Ports permit arranged
- Meals (food only) as stated in the above itinerary
- One 0.5 litre of bottled water and cold towel in vehicle during sightseeing
- Vietnam Government tax and services charge
Not Included:
- All international and domestic air tickets
- Accommodation
- Vietnamese visa arrival
- Other meals than those specified
- Travel insurance
- Tips for tour guides, drivers, waiters at included meals, local assistants
Highlights of Ho Chi Minh City Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Highlights of Ho Chi Minh City Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Highlights:
- Visit Reunification Palace
- Photo stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Post Office
- Visit History Museum & Jade Emperor Pagoda
- Visit China Town & Cao Dai Temple en-route
- Shopping at the Central Ben Thanh Market
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Phu My Port
- Tours and transfers as specified including entry fees, on a private basis in modern air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service of English-speaking local guides
- Ports permit arranged
- Meals (food only) as stated in the above itinerary
- One 0.5 litre bottled water and cold towel in the vehicle during sightseeing
- Vietnam Government tax and services charge
Not Included:
- All international and domestic air tickets
- Accommodation
- Vietnamese visa on arrival
- Other meals than those specified.
- Travel Insurance.
- Tips for tour guides, drivers, waiters at included meals, local assistants, etc.
Mekong Delta Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Mekong Delta Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Highlights:
- Get on a motorized sampan to experience the life of local people, visit local brickwork, local fruit farms, family workshops Photo stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Post Office
- Take rowing-boat along water palm creek and cruise back to the Pier
- If time permits, have a quick visit of Sai Gon or shopping at Ben Thanh Market
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Phu My Port
- Tours and transfers as specified including entry fees, on a private basis in modern air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service of English-speaking local guides
- Private boat cruise on Mekong River
- Ports permit arranged
- Meals (food only) as stated in the above itinerary
- One 0.5 litre of bottled water and cold towel in the vehicle during sightseeing
- Vietnam Government tax and services charge
Not Included:
- All international and domestic air tickets
- Accommodation
- Vietnamese visa on arrival
- Other meals than those specified.
- Travel insurance
- Tips for tour guides, drivers, waiters at included meals, local assistants, etc.
Saigon Port
SAIGON PORT
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: Within 4 hours or 8 hours
Tour Description:
Meet with guide at the ship docking and transfer to town. Car and guide is at disposal.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Saigon City Highlights
SAIGON CITY HIGHLIGHTS
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 8-9 hours
Code: MDSGNSE002
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong Port or Hiep Phuoc Port), drive to the city centre for a tour of some of Saigon’s historic landmarks reflecting its French and Chinese influences. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires constructed from materials imported from France (entrance is only permitted when no services are being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, completed in 1891. Appreciate the restored exteriors of the Saigon Opera House and the elegant City Hall (the former Hotel de Ville), two of Saigon’s most stunning colonial monuments. If time permits, we will visit the iconic Ben Thanh Market, one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular wholesale market for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs and street food. After lunch, we drive to Saigon’s Chinatown to visit the beautiful Thien Hau Pagoda, built by the Cantonese community in the early 19th century to honour the Goddess of the Sea. Take time to make a wish, write it on a small card and attach it to one of the incense coils according to local custom. Continue your visit to FITO, the first museum of traditional medicine in Vietnam, offering insight into the history and application of traditional medicine in everyday life before taking the scenic route through the city back to the ship.
Notes:
- Availability: Morning, Afternoon.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Due to the anticipated completion of the renovation project for Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2027, we are limited to exploring its exterior for the time being.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - History of Architecture with History Researcher
Saigon - History of Architecture with History Researcher
HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE WITH HISTORY RESEARCHER
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 04 hours
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong Port), drive 20mins to the city center for a tour of some of Saigon’s historic landmarks reflecting its French and Chinese influences. Meet with a local cultural and history researcher at your hotel lobby and take a short trip to local coffee shop for an overview of the impressive history of the city once known as “The Pearl of the Orient”. Then take a step back in time to visit several of the very best examples of “storytelling” architecture. Start at Jade pagoda established in the early 1900s to get a glimpse of ancient history when a group of Chinese fled the new regime to Saigon around the end of 17th century under the reign of Lord Nguyen.
Then wind your way to Archbishop's Palace – with a prayer house more than two hundred-years old (outside visit) as the home for the first French Catholic missionary. Gain an overview about the first approach of the French during the Cochinchina period in the early 18th century. Stroll around the University of Social Sciences & Humanities which used to be the 11th infantry regiment colonial military barracks for an insight into French campaigns against Viet Minh at the time. Your stop will be at the former residence of the US Ambassador, Henry C. Lodge in the 1960s for a drink and watch 10-min movie about Saigon back in the day.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Saigon - Cooking Class at Ambassador's Former Residence
Saigon - Cooking Class at Ambassador's Former Residence
COOKING CLASS AT AMBASSADOR'S FORMER RESIDENCE
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE015
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. The Vietnamese cooking class commences with a visit to Ben Thanh market to buy all the fresh ingredients before continuing to this historic home for a private hands-on cooking demonstration. The guide will provide an orientation tour of the house while the chef prepares the ingredients. Learn typical Southern style dishes such as Fresh Spring Roll, Pan Cake, and Fish in clay pot. The chef will show you how to serve each dish before the meal, and you will need to master the chopsticks before you can savor your own culinary creations in the old-world ambiance of the villa. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusions: Lunch with the foods prepared during the cooking class.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Age restrictions: Children from 12 years old onward are allowed by joining the cooking station with their parents.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - Retracing The Past
RETRACING THE PAST
Destination: Cu Chi Tunnels
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE009
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Commence with a visit of the shrine outside of the US Consulate then continue to the former CIA building (outside visit only), where helicopters evacuated the remaining US citizens in 1975. Head to the rooftop café of the Rex hotel, a familiar landmark for Americans during the Vietnam War. Sit down for a drink, enjoy the view and this piece of history which your guide will help to explain. Then visit the Reunification Palace for a guided tour of the former headquarters of the South Vietnamese Government and residence of the presidents. Drive to the former residence of the US Ambassador of South Vietnam in the early 1960s, Mr. Henry C. Lodge, who conducted a mission to overthrow the South Vietnamese Government. Watch a 10 minutes documentary film about Saigon during that time while enjoying a cold drink. Then drive to a secret weapon chamber which VC used as a place to hide and store weapons during Vietnam War. Then weave through tiny back alleys and meet and chat with the locals who are living in tiny houses. Head to a historic venue for a late lunch of “pho” (noodle soup). The house number 07 on Ly Chinh Thang Street (former Yen Do street) is now known as Pho Binh restaurant which used to be the headquarters of Viet Cong Commanders where they gathered to plan for the 1968 Tet Offensive. Take a walk upstairs to learn more about the history through the family’s photo collection. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusion: Simple pho at Pho Binh is included
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon City Tour on Vintage Car
Saigon City Tour on Vintage Car
SAIGON CITY TOUR ON VINTAGE CAR
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Code: MDSGNSE011
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Saigon is the country’s commercial center and, with over eight million inhabitants and four million motorbikes, a city that never sleeps. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Driven in a charming vintage car to visit the city’s highlights is one of the most wonderful & lavish way. Sit back and enjoy a city tour to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks including the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (Outside visit only due the renovation at Notre Dame Cathedral until 2027). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustave Eiffel. Continue your visit with the former Presidential Palace, the headquarters of the Saigon Government during the American war, revealing the history of Saigon during its turbulent recent past. Further, head to the War Remnants Museum for a vivid insight of the American war through the local’s eyes (Please note that some of the photos are very graphic). Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusion: No meal included
- This excursion is only available for any guests arriving to Saigon via Nha Rong port.
- Due to the anticipated completion of the renovation project for Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2027, we are limited to exploring its exterior for the time being.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - City Highlights & Musician Family Visit
Saigon - City Highlights & Musician Family Visit
CITY HIGHLIGHTS & MUSICIAN FAMILY VISIT
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE014
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris. Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then visit a local family of musicians. Learn about traditional musical instruments through conversations with the artists and listen to the performances from each family member (3-generations). You then have the chance to try the instruments yourself - a memorable if somewhat noisy experience! Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusion: No meal included
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Due to the anticipated completion of the renovation project for Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2027, we are limited to exploring its exterior for the time being.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - In The Dark: A Blind Experience
Saigon - In The Dark: A Blind Experience
IN THE DARK - A BLIND EXPERIENCE
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE016
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to Bung Sang, a small private home and school for over a hundred blind orphans in Saigon. The school was founded by a blind musician - Mr. Dao Khanh Truong. With the love and care for unlucky children, he spent most of his life teaching the children and gathering support from the benefactors. After he passed away few years ago, Bung Sang was given to the Lovers of the Holy Cross Sisters to take care of. This afternoon, visit the school, talk with the manager for a thorough understanding of their lives here, meet the children and listen to them singing, playing music. Afterwards transfer to Noir restaurant for a special culinary journey - dining in the dark. The concept is to imitate the experience of having meals like a blind person, which is a unique mind-altering experience. Leave behind the sight and let your other senses lead your mind to feel the taste of food. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Pick up time: 16:30
- Inclusions: Set menu at Noir restaurant.
- Capacity: Maximum 10 pax due to the limited space of Bung Sang Home.
- Age restrictions: Children from 10 years old onward are allowed to enjoy the dining experience. For younger children, this experience may be a little frightening and informing in advance is highly recommended.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Dress code: Smart casual is highly recommended. Shorts and slippers are fine, however no tank tops and no glowing shoes, clothing or accessories.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - City Highlights & Lunch at Ambassador's Home
Saigon - City Highlights & Lunch at Ambassador's Home
CITY HIGHLIGHTS & LUNCH AT AMBASSADOR'S HOME
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE019
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (It is only possible to visit inside when no service is being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. Meet with the present host for an introduction of the house before enjoying a home-hosted lunch in the historic setting. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Pick up time: TBA. In the morning and is subject to cruise docking time.
- Inclusions: home hosted lunch
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Cu Chi Tunnels & Sai Gon Highlights Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Cu Chi Tunnels & Sai Gon Highlights Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Highlights:
- Visit Cu Chi Tunnels
- Visit Reunification Palace
- Stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Post Office
- Visit Jade Emperor Pagoda
- Shopping at the Central Ben Thanh Market
Tour Duration: 10 hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Phu My Port
- Tours and transfers as specified including entry fees, on a private basis in modern air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service of English Speaking Local Guides.
- Ports permit arranged
- Meals (food only) as stated in the above itinerary
- One 0.5 litre of bottled water and cold towel in vehicle during sightseeing
- Vietnam Government tax and services charge
Not Included:
- All international and domestic air tickets
- Accommodation
- Vietnamese visa arrival
- Other meals than those specified
- Travel insurance
- Tips for tour guides, drivers, waiters at included meals, local assistants
Highlights of Ho Chi Minh City Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Highlights of Ho Chi Minh City Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Highlights:
- Visit Reunification Palace
- Photo stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Post Office
- Visit History Museum & Jade Emperor Pagoda
- Visit China Town & Cao Dai Temple en-route
- Shopping at the Central Ben Thanh Market
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Phu My Port
- Tours and transfers as specified including entry fees, on a private basis in modern air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service of English-speaking local guides
- Ports permit arranged
- Meals (food only) as stated in the above itinerary
- One 0.5 litre bottled water and cold towel in the vehicle during sightseeing
- Vietnam Government tax and services charge
Not Included:
- All international and domestic air tickets
- Accommodation
- Vietnamese visa on arrival
- Other meals than those specified.
- Travel Insurance.
- Tips for tour guides, drivers, waiters at included meals, local assistants, etc.
Mekong Delta Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Mekong Delta Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
Highlights:
- Get on a motorized sampan to experience the life of local people, visit local brickwork, local fruit farms, family workshops Photo stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Post Office
- Take rowing-boat along water palm creek and cruise back to the Pier
- If time permits, have a quick visit of Sai Gon or shopping at Ben Thanh Market
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Phu My Port
- Tours and transfers as specified including entry fees, on a private basis in modern air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service of English-speaking local guides
- Private boat cruise on Mekong River
- Ports permit arranged
- Meals (food only) as stated in the above itinerary
- One 0.5 litre of bottled water and cold towel in the vehicle during sightseeing
- Vietnam Government tax and services charge
Not Included:
- All international and domestic air tickets
- Accommodation
- Vietnamese visa on arrival
- Other meals than those specified.
- Travel insurance
- Tips for tour guides, drivers, waiters at included meals, local assistants, etc.
Saigon Port
SAIGON PORT
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: Within 4 hours or 8 hours
Tour Description:
Meet with guide at the ship docking and transfer to town. Car and guide is at disposal.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Saigon City Highlights
SAIGON CITY HIGHLIGHTS
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 8-9 hours
Code: MDSGNSE002
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong Port or Hiep Phuoc Port), drive to the city centre for a tour of some of Saigon’s historic landmarks reflecting its French and Chinese influences. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires constructed from materials imported from France (entrance is only permitted when no services are being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, completed in 1891. Appreciate the restored exteriors of the Saigon Opera House and the elegant City Hall (the former Hotel de Ville), two of Saigon’s most stunning colonial monuments. If time permits, we will visit the iconic Ben Thanh Market, one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular wholesale market for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs and street food. After lunch, we drive to Saigon’s Chinatown to visit the beautiful Thien Hau Pagoda, built by the Cantonese community in the early 19th century to honour the Goddess of the Sea. Take time to make a wish, write it on a small card and attach it to one of the incense coils according to local custom. Continue your visit to FITO, the first museum of traditional medicine in Vietnam, offering insight into the history and application of traditional medicine in everyday life before taking the scenic route through the city back to the ship.
Notes:
- Availability: Morning, Afternoon.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Due to the anticipated completion of the renovation project for Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2027, we are limited to exploring its exterior for the time being.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - History of Architecture with History Researcher
Saigon - History of Architecture with History Researcher
HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE WITH HISTORY RESEARCHER
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 04 hours
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong Port), drive 20mins to the city center for a tour of some of Saigon’s historic landmarks reflecting its French and Chinese influences. Meet with a local cultural and history researcher at your hotel lobby and take a short trip to local coffee shop for an overview of the impressive history of the city once known as “The Pearl of the Orient”. Then take a step back in time to visit several of the very best examples of “storytelling” architecture. Start at Jade pagoda established in the early 1900s to get a glimpse of ancient history when a group of Chinese fled the new regime to Saigon around the end of 17th century under the reign of Lord Nguyen.
Then wind your way to Archbishop's Palace – with a prayer house more than two hundred-years old (outside visit) as the home for the first French Catholic missionary. Gain an overview about the first approach of the French during the Cochinchina period in the early 18th century. Stroll around the University of Social Sciences & Humanities which used to be the 11th infantry regiment colonial military barracks for an insight into French campaigns against Viet Minh at the time. Your stop will be at the former residence of the US Ambassador, Henry C. Lodge in the 1960s for a drink and watch 10-min movie about Saigon back in the day.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Saigon - Cooking Class at Ambassador's Former Residence
Saigon - Cooking Class at Ambassador's Former Residence
COOKING CLASS AT AMBASSADOR'S FORMER RESIDENCE
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE015
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. The Vietnamese cooking class commences with a visit to Ben Thanh market to buy all the fresh ingredients before continuing to this historic home for a private hands-on cooking demonstration. The guide will provide an orientation tour of the house while the chef prepares the ingredients. Learn typical Southern style dishes such as Fresh Spring Roll, Pan Cake, and Fish in clay pot. The chef will show you how to serve each dish before the meal, and you will need to master the chopsticks before you can savor your own culinary creations in the old-world ambiance of the villa. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusions: Lunch with the foods prepared during the cooking class.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Age restrictions: Children from 12 years old onward are allowed by joining the cooking station with their parents.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - Retracing The Past
RETRACING THE PAST
Destination: Cu Chi Tunnels
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE009
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Commence with a visit of the shrine outside of the US Consulate then continue to the former CIA building (outside visit only), where helicopters evacuated the remaining US citizens in 1975. Head to the rooftop café of the Rex hotel, a familiar landmark for Americans during the Vietnam War. Sit down for a drink, enjoy the view and this piece of history which your guide will help to explain. Then visit the Reunification Palace for a guided tour of the former headquarters of the South Vietnamese Government and residence of the presidents. Drive to the former residence of the US Ambassador of South Vietnam in the early 1960s, Mr. Henry C. Lodge, who conducted a mission to overthrow the South Vietnamese Government. Watch a 10 minutes documentary film about Saigon during that time while enjoying a cold drink. Then drive to a secret weapon chamber which VC used as a place to hide and store weapons during Vietnam War. Then weave through tiny back alleys and meet and chat with the locals who are living in tiny houses. Head to a historic venue for a late lunch of “pho” (noodle soup). The house number 07 on Ly Chinh Thang Street (former Yen Do street) is now known as Pho Binh restaurant which used to be the headquarters of Viet Cong Commanders where they gathered to plan for the 1968 Tet Offensive. Take a walk upstairs to learn more about the history through the family’s photo collection. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusion: Simple pho at Pho Binh is included
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon City Tour on Vintage Car
Saigon City Tour on Vintage Car
SAIGON CITY TOUR ON VINTAGE CAR
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Code: MDSGNSE011
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Saigon is the country’s commercial center and, with over eight million inhabitants and four million motorbikes, a city that never sleeps. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Driven in a charming vintage car to visit the city’s highlights is one of the most wonderful & lavish way. Sit back and enjoy a city tour to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks including the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (Outside visit only due the renovation at Notre Dame Cathedral until 2027). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustave Eiffel. Continue your visit with the former Presidential Palace, the headquarters of the Saigon Government during the American war, revealing the history of Saigon during its turbulent recent past. Further, head to the War Remnants Museum for a vivid insight of the American war through the local’s eyes (Please note that some of the photos are very graphic). Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusion: No meal included
- This excursion is only available for any guests arriving to Saigon via Nha Rong port.
- Due to the anticipated completion of the renovation project for Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2027, we are limited to exploring its exterior for the time being.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - City Highlights & Musician Family Visit
Saigon - City Highlights & Musician Family Visit
CITY HIGHLIGHTS & MUSICIAN FAMILY VISIT
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE014
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris. Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then visit a local family of musicians. Learn about traditional musical instruments through conversations with the artists and listen to the performances from each family member (3-generations). You then have the chance to try the instruments yourself - a memorable if somewhat noisy experience! Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusion: No meal included
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Due to the anticipated completion of the renovation project for Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2027, we are limited to exploring its exterior for the time being.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - In The Dark: A Blind Experience
Saigon - In The Dark: A Blind Experience
IN THE DARK - A BLIND EXPERIENCE
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE016
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to Bung Sang, a small private home and school for over a hundred blind orphans in Saigon. The school was founded by a blind musician - Mr. Dao Khanh Truong. With the love and care for unlucky children, he spent most of his life teaching the children and gathering support from the benefactors. After he passed away few years ago, Bung Sang was given to the Lovers of the Holy Cross Sisters to take care of. This afternoon, visit the school, talk with the manager for a thorough understanding of their lives here, meet the children and listen to them singing, playing music. Afterwards transfer to Noir restaurant for a special culinary journey - dining in the dark. The concept is to imitate the experience of having meals like a blind person, which is a unique mind-altering experience. Leave behind the sight and let your other senses lead your mind to feel the taste of food. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Pick up time: 16:30
- Inclusions: Set menu at Noir restaurant.
- Capacity: Maximum 10 pax due to the limited space of Bung Sang Home.
- Age restrictions: Children from 10 years old onward are allowed to enjoy the dining experience. For younger children, this experience may be a little frightening and informing in advance is highly recommended.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Dress code: Smart casual is highly recommended. Shorts and slippers are fine, however no tank tops and no glowing shoes, clothing or accessories.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - City Highlights & Lunch at Ambassador's Home
Saigon - City Highlights & Lunch at Ambassador's Home
CITY HIGHLIGHTS & LUNCH AT AMBASSADOR'S HOME
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE019
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (It is only possible to visit inside when no service is being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. Meet with the present host for an introduction of the house before enjoying a home-hosted lunch in the historic setting. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Pick up time: TBA. In the morning and is subject to cruise docking time.
- Inclusions: home hosted lunch
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Itinerary subject to change without notice. Please confirm itinerary at time of booking.
PRICING & STATEROOMS
Balcony
Inclusions
Rates
Cruise Only - Cruise Only
Fares are cruise only, per person, and based on double occupancy
Rules & Restrictions Apply
Fares are cruise only, per person, and based on double occupancy
Rules & Restrictions Apply
$8,999 per person
French Balcony Stateroom [ B ]
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Balcony Stateroom [ A ]
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Suite
Explorer Suite [ ES ]
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Departure Date
Mar 14, 2025
Number of Nights
14
Cruise Inclusions
- One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call
- Unlimited free Wi-Fi
- Visits to UNESCO Sites
- Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances
- Cultural Curriculum
- Meals including regional specialties
- Most alfresco dining on the rivers
- Welcome Cocktails & Farewell Dinner
- Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner
- 24-hour specialty coffees, teas & bottled water
- Walking track & sports deck
- Curated library
- 24-hour guest services
- All port taxes & fees
- Airport transfers on embarkation/disembarkation day with Viking Air purchase
- Viking Service Guarantee
- River-view stateroom Hotel-style bed with optional twin-bed configuration; luxury linens & pillows
- 40" flat-screen LCD TV with complimentary Movies On Demand
- 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports
- Refrigerator; security safe; hair dryer
- Spacious glass-enclosed shower
- Heated bathroom floor & anti-fog mirror
- Premium Freyja® toiletries; plush robes & slippers
- Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
Available Addons
- Optional air add-ons are available from Viking River Cruises' designated gateway cities in the U.S. and Canada, and include all government fees and taxes.
- Pre- or Post- cruise hotel stay
- Optional shore excursions
Remarks
All fares and offers are for new bookings only, as of , are subject to availability, may not be combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Travel Credit and Referral Rewards Credit, are capacity-controlled and may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice.
Cruise fares listed are cruise only in U.S. dollars, per person, based on double occupancy. Cruise fares listed are valid for U.S. and Canadian residents only. Cruise ship fuel surcharge may apply. 2-for-1 fares are based upon published full brochure fares; cruise fares do not include pre-paid charges, optional facilities and service fees, and personal charges, as defined in the terms and conditions of the Passenger Ticket Contract. Full brochure fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares, fees and surcharges at any time. Please call for the most up-to-date prices, as pricing and availability may change at any time. The cruise ship fuel surcharge is additional revenue to Viking River Cruises, as are any additional charges relating to currency fluctuation other than for fully paid cruise fares and full fares, which fluctuations are beyond our control. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete terms and conditions may be found in the Passenger Ticket Contract.
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.
All prices per person and in USD unless otherwise stated.
Offer ID
1499130
Reference this number when contacting our agency so we may better serve you. Also keeping this number handy will allow you to locate this document again quickly.
Reference this number when contacting our agency so we may better serve you. Also keeping this number handy will allow you to locate this document again quickly.
Information and pricing is subject to change without notice. While we do our very best to ensure that information and pricing appearing in this website is complete and accurate, we cannot be responsible for incomplete and inaccurate representations, which may or may not be under our control. In the event of a pricing error, misrepresentation or omission, we reserve the right to adjust the pricing or make any other corrections.
Company Info
Lindstrom Travel
5970 Guilford Road
Rockford, IL 61107
United States
800-824-3164
