Welcome to Cambodia and the regional city of Siem Reap. Your hotel, is a step back in time in the definition of luxury and will be your historical home for the next three nights in Siem Reap. This brilliantly appointed accommodation is styled with a mix of French inspired architecture, local interior furnishings and amenities fit for royalty with the attentive staff providing a service beyond expectations.

Enjoy the day at leisure until tonight when you meet your Scenic Tour Director and fellow travelling companions at your welcome briefing and dinner.

Your Siem Reap exploration starts with a delicious champagne buffet breakfast at the hotel.

Freechoice: As part of Scenic’s Freechoice you have multiple options to choose from.

Explore the 10th-century Banteay Srei Temple, a temple commonly referred to as the Ladies Temple because of its pinkish sandstone and dedication to the Hindu god Shiva. Afterwards visit the Landmine Museum, founded in 1997 with the aim to make the country safe through the removal of mines.

On another option visit Satcha Cambodian Handicraft Incubation Centre. The aim of Satcha is to create the first Cambodian handicraft centre that incubates local artisans, mixing traditional knowledge with contemporary design to showcase Cambodian talents.

Alternatively, if you have enjoyed being on the water, sail on Tonle Sap Lake (July to February), a picturesque UNESCO biosphere reserve and dive deep into discovery when visiting and experiencing the life of a floating village.

Or take flight in a tethered balloon to discover the aerial beauties of the combination between traditional and modern Siem Reap. Enjoy the fresh air and take some remarkable photographs of the skyline as you lift into the skies of Siem Reap overlooking Angkor Wat below before visiting a Lotus Flower workshop. (Not available in November and December 2024).

Alternatively choose the Market Shopping Excursion, transfer to the central market by tuk tuk and shop independently.

Later this afternoon explore Angkor Wat itself, the largest religious monument in the world.  Originally constructed as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu for the Khmer Empire, it was gradually transformed into a Buddhist temple towards the end of the 12th century. An afternoon visit provides the perfect light for those idealic pictures of this colossal structure.

This evening head to the colourful Cambodian Phare Circus where your VIP premium reserved seating awaits you. Beautifully dressed performers style a stunning show that is more than just a circus.  The performers use theatre, music, dance and modern circus arts to tell uniquely Cambodian stories; historical, folk and modern.

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Marvel at the sunrise over the magnificent Angkor Wat before moving to a special location near a temple for a scrumptious champagne breakfast with food prepared by an NGO supported local bakery school which also Scenic sponsors.  

After breakfast, visit the atmospheric, jungle covered Ta Prohm Temple, before stopping at Angkor Thom and the multi-faced Bayon Temple. Fortunately, you have the remainder of the afternoon to discover more of the Siem Reap markets or relax at your luxury hotel after your early morning start.

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Tonight is truly a special and exclusive one, one that is best experienced first hand to fully appreciate it’s scale. Your tour directors and Scenic team will leave you in awe as you enter a private magical gala themed dinner at Prasat Kravan, a small 10th-century temple consisting of five reddish brick towers on a common terrace. Including free flow drinks and a show featuring Apsara dancers in front of the candle lit temple ruins, this evening brings a most incredible end to your time in Siem Reap. 

Discover the rural side of Cambodia as your coach will transfer you to Kampong Cham where the breathtaking Scenic Spirit awaits. Before arriving, you will be visiting the stunning Khmer bridge at Kampong Kdei, Kampong Thom and a stone cutters village.

After boarding, begin your cruise in style with a cocktail reception hosted by your Cruise Director. Take a stroll around the decks to orientate yourself as to where all the amenities are. After your welcome dinner, settle into your private suite. At any time, your dedicated personal butler is available to assist with a nightcap and delivery of your preferred pillows.

Awake as you approach Wat Hanchey, an ancient hilltop pagoda and monastery. After learning about life as a novice monk from one of the locals, wander around the complex and admire the view over the Mekong River and surrounding countryside.  Sail back to Kampong Cham.

Freechoice: Back in Kampong Cham, your Scenic Freechoice excursions this afternoon provides the chance to learn about the history and industries of the area.  Your first option is to learn about the local folklore with stops at Phnom Pros (Man Hill and Wat Nokor). Phnom Pros was part of a traditional local legend but more recently was used as a Killing Field during the Khmer Rouge era. The temple now features a Buddha garden and is home to a local troop of monkeys. Wat Nokor Bachey is a unique architectural experiment blending an Angkorian era temple with a new temple built inside it.   Alternatively you can explore Kampong Cham’s history and industry with a drive past shop houses, remnants of the French colonial era and the large Central Market. Visit a local rubber plantation established by the French, followed by a tour to view the processing of the raw rubber at a rubber factory before stopping at a village known for growing betel nut, a popular item in Cambodian culture.

Cambodia is known for its villages, so your third option is to visit Kho Penh Village. Only accessible by local remork and located on Pen (Bamboo) Island, across the bamboo bridge / ferry from Kampong Cham, this remote village gives a good insight into the simple rural lifestyle of farmers in Cambodia.

Once back on board Scenic Spirit, enjoy some time to unwind in your spectacular suite. Your dedicated butler can arrange for a beautiful meal to be served in your suite as you enjoy the sights and sounds of the Mekong, overlooking the gorgeous sunset of the Cambodian skyline as you sail to Angkor Ban.

Upon arrival in Angkor Ban, explore its historical rural wooden houses, which survived the Khmer Rouge and visit a local pagoda where a private and solemn excursion at a Buddhist pagoda awaits.

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Receive a blessing from a monk and learn how to pray in a Buddhist pagoda before partaking in a ceremony which contributes to the daily meal of the resident monks.

Afterwards return to Scenic Spirit for lunch and sail downstream to the island of Oknha Tey, where residents are dedicated to the art of silk weaving. Travel by tuk tuk to the farm and learn about the process of silk production. Return to Scenic Spirit where you may wish to absorb more about the local culture with our team by learning how to make and wear the Cambodian scarf.

Enjoy the amenities on Scenic Spirit and truly unwind. What better way to do so than by heading to the Wellness Centre or Beauty Salon for a bit of pampering. This evening, you may wish to dress up for the Scenic Sunset Drinks cocktail reception on the Sun Deck against the backdrop of Phnom Penh’s lights and stunning scenery as we approach the capital of Cambodia.

Sunset Drinks
Cocktail reception on the sundeck.

Freechoice: Your Scenic Freechoice excursions provide the option to journey to the Killing Fields and tour Tuol Sleng Prison. These locations are a sobering reminder of the terrors unleashed by the Khmer Rouge regime. Although not a delightful tour, visiting these monuments unlocks the keys to understanding the development of this country. You will then return to Scenic Spirit for lunch.

The second Scenic Freechoice excursion today is a hands-on cooking class. Take a trip to the local market with a local chef to purchase your ingredients. Head back to the kitchen to cook your own lunch, testing out the styles and flavours of the Cambodian cuisine.

The third option is to travel by Remok, a local style of Tuk Tuk to visit the French architecture and history of Phnom Penh.  Finish this tour with a stop at the unique designed Central Market for some shopping. At the conclusion of this choice, you can head back to the Scenic Spirit for lunch.

The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure.

Sunset Drinks
Later this evening revel in our Phnom Penh by City Lights tour, giving you an insight to the nightlife of the capital before stopping at a distillery for an exclusive Sundowners tour and tasting behind closed doors.

Experience the opulent side of Phnom Penh this afternoon at the Royal Palace with the famous Silver Pagoda, during your included visit to this must-see attraction. Upon returning to the ship, set sail and say goodbye to Phnom Penh as we sail to the Cambodian and Vietnamese border.

A relaxing afternoon of sailing will allow you to take advantage of the many exclusive facilities on board Scenic Spirit. You may wish to unwind in the Scenic Spirit library to learn more about the ports you are visiting. Or head to the heart of this ship, the Scenic Spirit Lounge, which is a great place to unwind with a glass of wine and meet other guests. You may wish to socialise by the pool with a refreshing cocktail and swim, or just settle into the private comfort of your luxury suite.

After clearing immigration into Vietnam at the border, experience a fantastically themed dinner on board the Scenic Spirit along with a lion dance performed by locals on the expansive Sun Deck.

You may wish to start your day with some exercise in the on board gym, try stretching at the early morning yoga class or relax in the sauna before setting off to on a Scenic Freechoice excursion of your choosing in the areas surrounding Tan Chau.

Freechoice: A prime example of leaving the city life behind will be found at Tra Su Bird Sanctuary in Tra Su Forest where you travel by sampan through endless waterways flanked by mangroves and lush greenery. This eco reserve spans 850 hectares and is known as an ecological haven for fauna and flora, with more than 100 species of water birds known to reside here.

If you would like to experience the community side of Vietnam, look no further than Evergreen Island for a morning of discovery about the local farmers. Back in Tan Chau, experience a ride in a Xe Loi. This commonly used form of transportation in rural Vietnam will take you to the recently renovated Cao Dai temple. The religion of Cao Dai is a syncretic, monotheistic religion established in southern Vietnam in the city of Tây Ninh in 1926. Here, you will learn more about the mix of ideas that form the basis of this fascinating religion.

The third Scenic Freechoice excursion involves boarding a speedboat to visit Chau Doc, a major city in the Mekong Delta.  Upon arrival, continue on board a coach to visit Tay An temple, which is a mixture of Indian and Islamic style architecture located at the foot of Sam Mountain. Then board another sampan to visit Vinh Te canal and view life along the riverfront of Chau Doc, stop at a family-operated fish farm and then return to Scenic Spirit.

What better way to end the first day in Vietnam than a refreshing cocktail by the pool on board the Spirit along with a great view of the Mekong as you set sail for Sa Dec.

Upon arrival in Sa Dec, board your sampan to explore and interact with the sellers in the lively wet market where you will see live fishes, frogs and even snakes. This 2-hour exploration lets you dive deep into the local lifestyle. You can also see the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le who inspired marguerite Duras novel L’Amant a story of tragic love told by your entertaining expert. After your morning excursion, head back to the Scenic Spirit for lunch whilst sailing downstream to Cai Be.

Freechoice: This afternoon enjoy your choice from the Scenic Freechoice activities. Re-board your sampan, pass the location of the morning floating market and soak in the local life on your way to visit Cai Be town. Stop at local cottage industries and a French colonial or traditional Vietnamese house.

Alternatively take a sampan from Scenic Spirit to savour a delicious afternoon tea at the Le Longanier, a French colonial house restaurant, where staff will welcome you with tea, coffee and a range of local fruit and snacks for your tasting. You can dive into a local experience with a band playing music and performing traditional Vietnamese songs.

Alternatively, if you are enjoying the comforts of the luxurious Scenic Spirit, our highly skilled bar team is ready to welcome you for a hands-on cocktail/mocktail making class featuring fresh local ingredients. Create delicious favourites from the Scenic Spirit menu.

Back on board you will have time to relax and overlook the gorgeous sunset of the Vietnamese skyline and life on the Mekong River before your engaging farewell dinner with the crew.

It is time to bid farewell to Scenic Spirit as you wave goodbye to the staff and commence your 90 minute drive to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival you will be dropped off at the airport as you prepare to depart Vietnam for your onwards flight to Denpasa, Bali.

Welcome to Bali, the Island of the Gods. It’s just one of the more than 18,000 islands of Indonesia, but it’s long been a favoured destination for travellers from all over the world. Spectacularly beautiful, culturally diverse and brimming with luxury, Bali is truly a little piece of paradise. Enjoy an overnight stay after being transferred from the airport upon arrival.

Board Scenic Eclipse II for an ultra-luxury Discovery Voyage at Benoa, a peninsula on the southern edge of the island. You’ll be warmly greeted by the crew and shown to your spacious ultra-luxury suite to meet your butler. Join fellow guests on the Sky Deck for a glass of Champagne to toast the start of an incredible journey. 

Sailing overnight, you will arrive at the port of Badas on Sumbawa Island. Though it is close to Bali and Lombok, Sumbawa has yet to be discovered by tourists and retains its strong cultural identity. The few who do venture here come mostly for the epic surf, spectacular reefs and wild terrain.  

Sumbawa Buffalo Racing Village Tour: Immerse yourself in an authentic village experience, where you’ll explore the vibrant tapestry of Sumbawan life. Guided by a local, you’ll enjoy traditional music and dancing, witness the art of rice preparation, and experience the unique practice of buffalo racing. 

Today you will see the famed Komodo dragon, a unique species of lizard that has been roaming this island for millions of years. Stretching up to three metres in length, they can weigh over 150kg.  

Komodo Dragon Walking Tour: Join an expert guide for an unforgettable walking adventure, encountering these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. 

Board Scenic Eclipse II again at midday to cruise around the island to the famous Pink Beach, one of just seven found anywhere in the world. Swim and snorkel in the vibrant turquoise water to admire hundreds of species of coral and an abundance of fish. 

Stretching into the Flores Sea, south of Sulawesi, the Taka Bonerate National Park covers more than half a million hectares and includes an atoll of 28 islands, the third largest coral atoll in the world. In 2015 it was recognised as a World Heritage-listed Biosphere Reserve for its incredible variety of marine life including fish, turtles, dolphins, whales and birds. Be sure to grab your in-suite binoculars or head to the Observation Terrace to look through the Swarovski telescopes. 

In this remote outpost, the Captain will find a calm spot to stop for swimming, snorkelling and other water sports including diving below the surface with a SEABOB. 

Palopo is the third largest town on the island of Sulawesi and was founded around 1620 by the Muslim ruler Sultan Abdullah Muhiddin. The city’s first mosque, Masjid Jami, was built during his reign and still stands along one of its main streets.  

Tana Toraja Experience: Palopo is the gateway to the lush highlands of Tana Toraja, home to one of Indonesia’s most exotic and mysterious ethnic groups. On a fascinating tour, you’ll explore cultural landmarks, caves and historic tombs, then visit a Nanggala Village to learn about their unique burial customs and distinctive houses. 

Today is yours to do as much or as little as you want. Perhaps you’d like to take things slowly, starting with breakfast brought to your suite by your butler. Or you could start the day with an invigorating work out in the gym or a class in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio, followed by some time in the KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge.  

Be sure to check the daily program to see what lectures or discussions the Discovery Team are running and learn more about upcoming ports, wildlife and activities on offer. 

After days of remote archipelagos and relaxed cruising, this morning you will arrive in Makassar. The largest city in eastern Indonesia, this is a bustling and gritty metropolis that clings to the south-western tip of Sulawesi. For centuries, it was the global gateway to Indonesia and remains a diverse, multicultural city, with a population of local Makassarese, indigenous Bugis people and a large Chinese contingent.  

Nearby, the limestone karst mountain ranges of Rammang Rammang look as though they have been pulled from the time of the dinosaurs, covered in thick green foliage and interwoven by tranquil waterways.  

Freechoice:
Makassar History & Highlights: Explore the stunning Laeng Laeng Caves, historic Fort Rotterdam and the vibrant streets of China Town on a full-day bus-based tour, showcasing the region's rich history. 

Fort Rotterdam & China Town: Join a local guide for a tour of Fort Rotterdam, a former Dutch Colonial power base. Then visit Chinatown to uncover centuries of Chinese trade and culture. 

Make the most of another sea day indulging in the many exceptional dining experiences on board. Start with breakfast al fresco at the Yacht Club (be sure to return later to visit the large gelato fridge). For lunch, Azure Bar & Café serves light meals, pizza and salads.

For dinner, Elements is the ship’s main restaurant with a contemporary menu that ranges from Italian to steak and seafood. The selection of specialty restaurants on board allows you to dine around the world each night, from Koko’s Asian Fusion to French fine dining at Lumière*.

Sprinkled off the east coast of the island of Borneo, the World Heritage-listed Derawan Islands are simply stunning. The 31 islands are fringed with white-sand beaches and waving palm trees surrounded by turquoise seas. It’s also one of the region’s most biodiverse places, home to giant manta rays, whale sharks, dolphins, endangered sea turtles and hundreds of species of fish.  

For a truly out-of-this-world experience, join the Discovery Team for a dip alongside rare stingless jellyfish in a natural lake on Kakaban Island. You can also try swimming and snorkelling off the pristine beach. 

Your Discovery Yacht will cross from Indonesia into Malaysia this morning, arriving at the city of Sandakan. Once the capital of British North Borneo, the city is today the gateway to the island’s incredible wildlife encounters and its most famous resident, the shaggy, orange orangutan.  

Some of the world’s most vulnerable and endangered animals live here in Borneo, and concerted conservation efforts have worked hard to turn the tide. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is at the heart of the island’s conservation efforts and first began rescuing orphaned orangutans for almost 60 years. 

Freechoice:
Orangutan Experience: Visit the famed Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary to observe the large apes living in the reserve, watch a feeding session and see the babies from an outdoor nursery viewing area. 

Sandakan War Heritage: Explore Australia's wartime legacy on a half-day guided tour of the moving Sandakan War Memorial, including the commemorative pavilion, park and obelisk. 

After a couple of active days on shore, today would be a good time for some relaxation. The indulgent Senses Spa# awaits on Deck 6. The expansive 550m2 facilities are unlike anything you’ve experience at sea.

Be pampered with a range of indulgent ESPA treatments# and alternative therapies like Tibetan bowl sound healing. Relax in the Vitality Pool, warm up in the exclusive KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge, and try out the saunas, steam rooms and therapeutic pressure showers.

Awake this morning in a magical place. Set on the northern edge of Palawan Island, El Nido has to be seen to be believed, with its sun-kissed islands, towering marble cliffs, blindingly white beaches, rich green jungle and inviting tropical waters. The Discovery Yacht’s GPS Dynamic Positioning system lets her hold position without dropping anchor on ecologically sensitive seabeds, helping preserve this pristine environment. 

El Nido Island Beach Day: Enjoy a beach day with the Discovery Team. Your Discovery Voyage sails here in April, which is the best time of the year to ensure perfectly clear water for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding or try the diving below in a SEABOB. You’ll be completely immersed in this secluded paradise. 

Freechoice:
Bird Watching and Nature Walk: Discover the full spectrum of Palawan's wildlife, from vibrant birds to unique plants and fascinating reptiles and amphibians. Embark on a leisurely beachside journey along a tranquil trail on this tour, which offers an immersive introduction to Palawan's rich biodiversity, renowned for its endemic species and rare treasures. 

Island Hopping by Local Qutrigger Boat: Experience the paradise of island-hopping in El Nido, where you can explore tranquil lagoon, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and be surrounded by majestic limestone cliffs and untouched beaches. It’s the perfect natural getaway. 

Manila, the densely populated capital of the Philippines, is a bustling city with a rich history dating back to the 16th century. The city was founded as a Spanish colony and soon became one of the New World’s main trading ports, earning it the name Pearl of the Orient. Today, it has become a hub for commerce, business, shopping, dining, culture and luxury hotels. The oldest district, Intramuros, is home to Spanish-era landmarks like Fort Santiago and Manila Cathedral. The city's rich history and vibrant culture make it an attractive destination for visitors. 

Downtown Manila and Intramuros: Take an immersive tour of the captivating landmarks of Manila, including the Planetarium, the National Museum, San Sebastian Church and Manila City Hall. The tour continues at Old Intramuros. Built by the Spaniards and home of the elite during that long period of Spanish colonization in the Philippines, World War II left the area in ruins. A significant survivor was the San Agustin Church. 

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An Evening of Filipino Music at Malate Church 
Enjoy this extraordinary event at the Malate Church, where the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra fills the air with vibrant classical and contemporary music, set against the stunning backdrop of Plaza Rajah Sulayman and Manila Bay. Experience the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines as Banda Kawayan blends traditional bamboo instruments with modern arrangements for an unforgettable performance. 

After a day spent exploring the past of this fascinating city, now it is time to explore modern Manila. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local cuisine or indulge in some shopping at the many markets and shops brimming with unique treasures.  

Freechoice:
Malacañang Heritage Tour: Join a palace expert for a tour of the Malacañang Museum, home to the Presidential Museum. Explore archives and architecture, and possibly meet a Palace Executive.

Tombs and Traditions of Manila: Explore the city’s second oldest cemetery. Located in Binondo, the Manila Chinese Cemetery is full of unique tombs, each with a story to tell. Afterwards, head to La Loma, famed for its live charcoal cooking. 

Yuchengco and Metropolitan Museum Art Tour: Discover contemporary and historic fine art in Yuchengco Museum and the local and international art of the Metropolitan Museum of Manila on this cultural tour. 

This will be your last full day at sea, cruising north through the waters of the South China Sea. Take some time to yourself in your luxurious suite. Your butler is on call and can bring morning coffee, afternoon tea or cocktails to sip on your private verandah.  

Then enjoy some rest or watch a movie from the comfort of your signature Scenic Slumber Bed. When you’re ready to venture out, watch the world slip by as you relax in a cabana on Deck 10 before taking a dip in the Vitality Pool. 

Enjoy a relaxed morning on board as your Discovery Yacht arrives in port around midday. The city of Hualien sits on the east coast of the island of Taiwan, famed for its beautiful coastline. It’s the gateway to Taroko Gorge National Park, one of Taiwan’s most famous sites.

The landscape of Taroko Gorge has been formed by the great forces of nature, from typhoons and earthquakes to millions of years of erosion. Today, it is a patchwork of marble gorges, bright blue rivers and pockets of untouched forest dotted with ancient temples, tumbling waterfalls and hidden caves. 

Freechoice:
Taroko Gorge National Park: Explore the dramatic Taroko Gorge National Park, visiting Swallow Grotto, admiring the Tunnels of Nine Turns, and crossing the Buluowan Suspension Bridge. 

Hualien City Tour: Discover the city’s rich cultural history and stunning views of Hualien Port and the Pacific. Visit Pine Garden, a historic Shinto shrine, and the largest Taoist temple, Kang Ten Temple. 

Today it is time to farewell Scenic Eclipse II after 17 magical days on board. Enjoy one last indulgent breakfast at the Yacht Club or ask your butler to bring coffee to your suite so you can take your time packing up. If you would like to explore more of Taiwan, Scenic can arrange post-cruise accommodation and suggest tours or activities.  

If you would like to explore more of Taiwan, Scenic can arrange post-cruise accommodation and suggest tours or activities. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Taipei after 12:00 PM.

^The helicopter and submersible are not operational in Indonesia. #Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. *The specialty restaurant requires a reservation.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.