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Journey through the heart of northern Vietnam on an extraordinary river expedition linking the dramatic limestone seascapes of Halong Bay with the cultural heartlands and remote waterways of the Red River Delta and beyond. This unique voyage explores a region where few cruise vessels travel, navigating the winding waterways of the Red River and its tributaries as they carve through fertile rice-growing plains, bustling river towns and quiet rural communities. Along the way, discover traditional craft villages, historic temples and lively local markets that reveal everyday life along one of Vietnam’s most important rivers. At the coast, sail among the towering limestone islands of Halong Bay — a UNESCO World Heritage landscape of emerald waters, hidden lagoons and dramatic karst formations. Inland, the journey continues through the Red River Delta and toward the mountainous north, where the scenery shifts to forested hills, river valleys and remote ethnic minority communities. Shore excursions bring the culture and heritage of northern Vietnam to life, from pottery villages and silk weaving communities to ancient pagodas and colonial-era towns. Good quality mountain bikes are carried onboard, offering the opportunity to explore quiet countryside lanes and riverside villages at your own pace when conditions allow. Blending breathtaking scenery, cultural discovery and off-the-beaten-track exploration, this intimate river journey offers a rare perspective on northern Vietnam — where sea, river and countryside meet.
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Day 1
Transfer from Hanoi and embark Viet Tri
Transfer from Hanoi to Viet Tri, where your expedition vessel awaits on the Red River. After boarding and settling into your stateroom, the ship begins its journey downstream through the fertile landscapes of northern Vietnam. As the evening unfolds, enjoy a welcome dinner onboard accompanied by traditional Vietnamese dance, an introduction to the culture and spirit of the region. The meeting point for embarkation in Hanoi will be the Pan Pacific Hotel (1 Thanh Nien Road, Ba Dinh Dist., Hanoi 10000, Vietnam) and registration will be at 09:30am in the Song Hong Bar. Please ensure you are checked out and ready on time for our departure at 10:00am. For those not staying at the Pan Pacific Hotel, please ask your hotel reception sto arrange a taxi to the meeting point at 09.30 am for registration.
Meals: L,D
Day 2
The Lo River & Craft Villages
Today offers an introduction to life in the Red River Delta. Visit Gia Thanh village, renowned for the production of Vietnam’s iconic conical hats, before continuing to Hung Lo Temple where a traditional Hat Xoan folk performance brings centuries-old music and storytelling to life. Later, explore villages known for carpentry and metalworking, where artisans continue traditional craft methods passed down through generations.
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Upper Red River & Ancient Villages
Sail through tranquil countryside where rice paddies and limestone formations create a timeless rural landscape. Visit Duong Lam, one of northern Vietnam’s best-preserved ancient villages, where narrow lanes and historic homes reflect centuries of rural life. Continue to lesser-known pagodas including Thay and Tay Phuong, celebrated for their remarkable Buddhist statues carved from jackfruit wood.
Day 4
Hanoi
Arrive in Vietnam’s capital, a city rich in history and vibrant street life. Explore highlights such as the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, and the historic Hoa Lo Prison. Later, wander through the lively Old Quarter where markets, street food vendors and coffee houses create an energetic atmosphere. Return to the ship in the evening after experiencing the cultural and historical heart of northern Vietnam.
Day 5
Bat Trang & the Lower Red River
Visit Bat Trang, a village famous throughout Vietnam for its ceramics. Workshops and family studios continue to produce pottery using traditional techniques developed over centuries. Later, sail the lower reaches of the Red River toward Dien Xa, known for its meticulous bonsai cultivation and ornamental trees.
Day 6
Day River & Phat Diem Cathedral
Journey along the Day River to explore Phat Diem Cathedral, a remarkable 19th-century church combining Vietnamese temple design with European Gothic elements. Nearby villages offer a glimpse into rural life where rice wine production and traditional crafts continue as part of everyday life.
Day 7
Ninh Binh – “Halong on Land”
Travel to Ninh Binh, a landscape of limestone cliffs rising dramatically above rice fields and winding waterways. Small rowing boats glide through caves and narrow channels surrounded by towering karst formations. Later, visit nearby villages where families craft musical instruments and woodwork using techniques passed down through generations.
Day 8
Delta Rivers & Water Puppetry
Cruise the interconnected rivers of the Red River Delta, observing the lively activity of fishing boats, cargo vessels and riverbank communities. In Thanh Ha commune, stroll through a traditional village before enjoying a private water puppet performance beside a lotus-filled pond — an art form that originated in the flooded rice fields of northern Vietnam.
Day 9
Halong Bay
Entering the Gulf of Tonkin, the scenery transforms dramatically as thousands of limestone islands rise from emerald waters. Explore Halong Bay by kayak or traditional basket boat, visiting the remarkable Dark and Bright Cave and its hidden lagoon surrounded by towering rock formations.
Day 10
Halong Bay & Viet Hai Village
Continue exploring the quieter corners of Halong Bay. Visit Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island where guests can explore by complimentary mountain bike or electric buggy through lush jungle scenery and farmland. Later, cruise toward Lan Ha Bay and enjoy the extraordinary seascapes of this UNESCO-listed region.
Day 11
Disembark and transfer to Hanoi
Enjoy a final morning sailing through the limestone islands of Halong Bay before disembarking at Tuan Chau Marina before transferring to Hanoi. Estimated arrival at Hanoi Airport at 15.30 PM, hotels in Hanoi arriving around 16.30 PM. Your flight out of Hanoi airport must be after 16:30 (domestic) or 17:30 (international). Our last drop off at Pan Pacific Hanoi Hotel for passengers stay in Hanoi.
Meals: B,L
Transfer from Hanoi and embark Ha Long Bay
Transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay to board your expedition vessel. After settling in, begin sailing among the bay’s spectacular limestone formations before anchoring in a secluded bay for the evening. The meeting point for embarkation in Hanoi will be the Pan Pacific Hotel (1 Thanh Nien Road, Ba Dinh Dist., Hanoi 10000, Vietnam) and registration will be at 09:30am in the Song Hong Bar. Please ensure you are checked out and ready on time for our departure at 10:00am. For those not staying at the Pan Pacific Hotel, please ask your hotel reception sto arrange a taxi to the meeting point at 09.30 am for registration. For passengers already in Ha Long Bay on the night before, please come to Tuan Chau International Jetty. Embarkation time will be between 12:00 and 13:00.
Cruise through the karst islands and visit Viet Hai Village where guests may explore the surrounding countryside by mountain bike or electric buggy along scenic paths winding through limestone hills.
Continue exploring the bay’s caves and hidden lagoons including the Dark and Bright Cave. Kayaks and small boats allow closer access to these extraordinary landscapes before the vessel departs the bay and heads toward the river systems inland.
Sail along the busy Kinh Thay River, an important commercial waterway connecting the delta to the sea. Visit Thanh Ha village, believed to be the birthplace of water puppetry, where a private performance reveals the stories and traditions of this unique Vietnamese art form.
Continue inland along the Day River, visiting Co Chat village where artisans weave silk by hand. Markets and workshops provide a fascinating insight into traditional craft production.
Journey along the Day River to explore Phat Diem Cathedral, a remarkable 19th-century church combining Vietnamese temple design with European Gothic elements. After lunch explore Khanh Thien, a traditional delta town where villagers produce water hyacinth handicrafts, rice paper and local cakes.
Disembark after breakfast and visit Hung Lo Temple and nearby villages before transferring to Hanoi for onward travel. Estimated arrival at Hanoi Airport between 14:30 to 14.45, hotels in Hanoi arriving between 15:30 to 16.00. Your flight out of Hanoi airport must be after 16.00pm (domestic) or 17.00pm (international). Our last drop off is at the Pan Pacific Hanoi Hotel for passengers staying in Hanoi.
What's included
What's not included
Our voyages are designed for curious travellers — not just passengers. While our itineraries offer a range of activities, from gentle zodiac cruises to more challenging hikes and paddles, it’s important to understand the nature of this experience before you join us. These river cruises are suitable for most travellers with an adventurous spirit, good health, and the ability to move confidently around a vessel. Some shore landings and excursions may involve uneven terrain, wet landings, or light scrambling. Shore landings and navigating the boat may require balance and agility, though our experienced team is always on hand to assist. Each trip may include a variety of optional activities, most of which require no prior experience. Of course, all activities are optional — you’re always welcome to stay aboard and watch life on the river at your own pace. Not sure if this trip is right for you?
Get in touch with our team — we’re here to help you choose the experience that best suits your interests, comfort, and curiosity.
Angkor Pandaw is an intimate river expedition vessel designed for exploring Southeast Asia’s great rivers in comfort and style. With space for just 32 guests, the ship offers a relaxed and personal atmosphere that feels closer to a private yacht than a traditional cruise vessel. Classic riverboat design elements such as polished teak decks, brass fittings and wide promenade walkways evoke the golden age of river travel, while modern comforts ensure a comfortable onboard experience. Spacious outdoor decks provide uninterrupted views of the passing landscapes, inviting guests to slow down and enjoy the rhythm of life along the river. Life onboard centres around the river itself — from relaxed mornings watching village life unfold along the banks to evenings sharing regional cuisine and stories from the day’s exploration.
Pandaw Stateroom
Angkor Pandaw features 16 spacious staterooms arranged across the main and upper decks. Designed for comfort and natural light, each cabin includes panoramic French windows that bring the ever-changing river scenery directly into the room. Interiors combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary comfort, featuring warm teak finishes, premium bedding and thoughtful amenities. Cabins measure approximately 170 square feet, offering generous space for relaxing between daily excursions. Bedding configuration is either double or twin.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
Explore places the big ships can’t with the widest selection of genuine small-ship, activity-first cruising. On Water Expeditions offers exceptional value, quality services, no hidden costs, and plenty of inclusions.
Don't watch the action sail past your window, dive into it! Designed for active travellers, these itineraries give you more time to adventure off the boat.
Activity is built into every journey. From paddling to hiking, enjoy a basecamp-style experience that injects fun, meaningful connections and thrilling adventure into it.
Each voyage is thoughtfully selected for low-impact exploration, supporting genuine conservation and sustainability while respecting local communities and environments.
9 Days
8 Days