Revealing the soul of Asia through its majestic waterways.

With a growing number of comfortable small boats, these river journeys are the perfect balance between adventure and luxury. From exploring remote villages on the upper Mekong to encountering orangutans deep in the Indonesian jungle, VIETNAM CK's collection of river cruises presents a unique opportunity to experience something unexpected in Asia.

The Upper Mekong in Laos is a tranquil stretch of water that features emerald jungle, remote villages and unspoilt beauty.

Most cruises are accessible from Chiang Khong, Thailand, and offer a journey of approximately 160 kilometres to Luang Prabang, the capital of Lao culture. This journey can be completed in one day, but the best way to appreciate the beauty of the Upper Mekong is on a slower, multi-day cruise.

Along the way, ships stop for shore excursions in riverside villages, which provide an opportunity to see the traditional way of life and customs of the Lao countryside and Hmong people. Along the way, they also visit the mystical Pak Ou caves, filled with Buddha statues, which provide an introduction to the rich spiritual culture of Laos.

VIETNAM CK proposes different cruise options from 2-night journeys to week-long stays that continue south to the Lao capital Vientiane.

The best months to cruise the Upper Mekong are: October to February boasts clear skies and mild temperatures.

Kalimantan is located in the south of Indonesian Borneo and is one of only two places in the world where orangutans roam freely. A multi-day houseboat cruise on the tranquil rivers of Tanjung Puting National Park offers an experience that combines unique access to nature and comfort.

Stops are made to go ashore and visit conservation projects, where guests learn more about the endemic flora and fauna and the amazing work being done to preserve habitats. In addition, these centres provide an incredible opportunity to see orangutans and other wildlife such as proboscis monkeys, puffins, leopards and sun bears in their natural habitat.

At night, there are guided walks in Tanjung Harapan or Pondok Tanggui to watch nocturnal wildlife. There may also be opportunities to see thousands of fireflies flitting among the Nipa palms on the banks of the river.

The best months to cruise Kalimantan: We recommend July to September

The Mekong Delta and the lower Mekong River are the lifeblood of Southeast Asia, and millions of people depend on them for food, water and transport. It is also a region rich in history, diverse cultures and natural beauty.

Short one- to two-night cruises focused exclusively on the Vietnamese Delta introduce guests to the incredible labyrinth of waterways, villages and farms that make the Delta so unique.

Longer cruises that traverse these vital waterways from Vietnam to Cambodia showcase the vibrant and distinct cultures of the two neighboring countries. From bustling floating markets and tranquil villages to historic temples and lush rice paddies, cruises on the lower Mekong go beyond the usual places travelers see and offer intimate encounters with local life, including traditional sites and regional cuisine.

The best months to cruise the Lower Mekong: However, we recommend the period from October to April.

Although it is not a river, Halong Bay is one of the most popular places for cruising in Asia. Located on the Gulf of Tonkin, about a 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi, this waterway is famous for its high limestone karsts, which make a stunning backdrop for night cruises.

One- and two-night cruises take guests through the water, stopping at intricate cave systems, pearl farms, secluded beaches and/or fishing villages. Lan Ha Bay is increasingly popular as an alternative to neighbouring Halong Bay. We recommend a two-night cruise to fully enjoy the journey. Bai Tu Long is a quieter alternative, but fewer shipping companies operate in this area, resulting in a lack of choice and availability.

Larger rooms with balconies, private boats or a seaplane flight over the bay are great upgrades.

Please note that in recent years Halong Bay has faced increasing environmental problems such as pollution and overfishing, as well as habitat degradation.

VIETNAM CK encourages all its guests to adhere to the principles of responsible tourism as outlined in our Travel Tips guide. By acting together, travellers can play a key role in preserving the beauty of Halong Bay for future generations.

Best months to cruise Halong Bay. Summer (March-May) brings blue skies and mild winter (October-November) is characterized by moody, misty atmosphere. Late August-September brings the occasional typhoon, but cancellations are fortunately limited to a few days during the season.