Riviera Travel River Cruises, the best-selling river cruise line in the UK, is charting new waters with the launch of an exciting new itinerary along the Mekong River in Southeast Asia. This innovative itinerary marks a significant milestone for Riviera Travel as it expands its portfolio beyond Europe, offering a unique blend of culture, history and natural beauty along the iconic Mekong River.
Set to sail from January 2026 with 19 available dates, Riviera’s 2 new Mekong River cruises will immerse guests in the vibrant landscapes and traditions of Vietnam and Cambodia. The new itinerary offers a fresh departure from Riviera Travel’s classic European routes, catering to the growing demand for more adventurous and culturally enriching experiences for travellers from Australia.
Commenting on the launch of these brand-new itineraries along the Mekong, International Sales Manager at Riviera Travel, Steven Taylor, commented, “This expansion into Southeast Asia aligns with a growing trend among Australian travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations. While Riviera is world-renowned for our European river cruises, we recognise that our guests are on the lookout for new and immersive experiences and our Mekong itineraries allow us to cater to this desire, with the opportunity to explore a completely different culture and scenery but with the same authentic onboard Riviera experience.”
Two new itineraries – a lifetime of memories
Offering two new itineraries with thrilling adventures that combine Southeast Asia’s rich history and majestic landscapes, Australian guests will explore the Mekong from a thrilling vantage point that is anything but ordinary.
12-day Journey on the Mekong
The 12-day Journey on the Mekong itinerary, starting from $5,758 per person, includes 7 nights onboard a four-star ship plus 5 nights in luxurious four-star hotels, with 14 immersive tours and experiences included.
The journey includes exploring the magnificent city and temples of Angkor, one of Asia’s greatest ancient wonders. Once the world’s largest city, Angkor boasted a staggering one million inhabitants and an incredible 200 temples, including the iconic Angkor Wat. Guests will be spellbound by the grandeur of this ancient city, exploring its glorious temples enveloped in jungle vines and timeless mystique. It’s a place where history and legend intertwine, offering a rare glimpse into a lost civilisation’s grandeur.
Continuing onward guests will venture deep into the culturally enriching heart of the region with visits to the golden temples and palaces of Phnom Penh, known as the ‘Paris of the East,’ along with the vibrant waterfront and charming French colonial architecture of Ho Chi Minh city (Saigon), and the fascinating Cu Chi tunnels, a poignant and powerful reminder of the Vietnam War.
This itinerary also provides the opportunity to explore and engage with local communities, enjoy authentic local cuisine and witness ancient traditions unchanged for centuries, making this a bucket list sailing that aligns perfectly with the adventurous Aussie spirit.
12-day Vietnam, Cambodia & Hidden Treasures of the Mekong
The 12-day Vietnam, Cambodia & Hidden Treasures of the Mekong itinerary, starting from $7,294 per person, includes 7 nights on board the four-star Victoria Mekong and 5 nights in five-star handpicked hotels, with 19 included experiences showcasing the dramatic contrasts in the landscape and pace of Vietnam to Cambodia’s serene waters.
On this itinerary, guests will explore the lively Ho Chi Minh City with guided tours of iconic landmarks like the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, Saigon Opera House, and the fascinating Cu Chi tunnels. Here, travellers will discover an eclectic mix of architectural influences left by past rulers, from ancient Chinese pagodas and Khmer temples to the elegant French mansions and neoclassical buildings – a vibrant, bustling city where old and new architecture blend seamlessly.
In Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s enchanting capital, guests can discover the regal beauty of the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda complex, followed by a moving visit to the Killing Fields Memorial, ending with sunset cocktails at the iconic Elephant Bar. Phnom Penh is perfectly nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers. Revered as the most beautiful of Indochina’s French colonial cities, Phnom Penh is a city of contrasts—its tree-lined boulevards and ornate temples are a testament to its storied past, while its lively riverside cafes reflect a vibrant, modern spirit.
The itinerary also includes immersive experiences of local life along the Mekong’s riverbanks, with stops at traditional fishing villages and thriving cottage industries where villagers create intricate pottery, silk, ornamental silver objects and straw hats.
A highlight of the journey is a captivating performance by the Cambodian Phare Circus, blending modern acrobatics, folk storytelling and music. Guests can also enjoy authentic music and dance performances onboard the elegant Victoria Mekong. The adventure culminates with visits to the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and Bayon, leaving a deep appreciation for the region’s culture and landscapes.
Explore the Mekong with Riviera Travel River Cruises
Riviera Travel is expanding its renowned river cruise offerings to Southeast Asia with the Mekong River itineraries, providing a fresh and exotic alternative to its popular European routes, making it an easy choice for Australians to enjoy a Riviera river cruise experience closer to home.
Flowing through lush landscapes and bustling towns, the Mekong is a stunning backdrop for this unforgettable journey. Guests soak in the scenery, experience authentic local culture and enjoy the serenity of river cruising on board a thoughtfully designed and well-appointed Riviera ship.
Blending comfort and elegance while paying tribute to the region, Riviera Travel’s Mekong River cruises will offer a rare opportunity to witness the timeless beauty and vibrant spirit of Southeast Asia, leaving travellers with memories that will last a lifetime.
Guests will enjoy the same high standard of service and comfort that Riviera Travel is known for, now brought to a new destination. The intimate experience includes personalised service, with local guides providing insightful commentary on the rich heritage and customs of each port of call. Riviera’s focus on providing quality experiences at excellent value-for-money pricing will resonate well with Australian traveller preferences.
For any questions or reservation enquiries, call your local travel agent or connect with Riviera Travel River Cruises in Australia on 1300 857 437 or visit www.rivieratravel.com.au.
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