Hanoi – Hai Phong – Lan Ha Bay                                                              [L,D]

This morning, you are picked up from your hotel in Hanoi and transferred to the pier (about a two-hour drive). After boarding, the crew deliver a safety briefing. Lunch is served as the ship begins to cruise, passing Da Chong Islet which is home to a French-built lighthouse. Along the way, you see the limestone karst formations of Con Vit and Gia Luan rise dramatically out of the sea. This area remains relatively untouched as few cruise lines use this route.

In the afternoon, step off the boat to explore a local fishing village. Take a ride in a traditional coracle boat which is used by local fishermen and get an insight into local fishing methods. In the summer months, guests can swim and kayak in the bay’s pristine waters. In winter, guests can take a guided cycling excursion to a local village, stopping to visit home made from straw, mud and bamboo. In the evening, options include happy hour drinks at the bar or a cooking class. Dinner and overnight are on board.

Lan Ha Bay Cruise                                                                         [B,L,D]

Wake up to the serene sights and sounds of this amazing seascape in the heart of the bay. Start with an optional tai chi session on the sundeck followed by breakfast as the cruise continues. Today, you have the option to enjoy kayaking or swimming (depending on the weather) or a cycling excursion to Viet Hai Village. Surrounded by sea, high mountains and the dense jungles of the Cat Ba National Park, this rustic village exists as part of its natural surroundings, a charming respite from the modern world. Lunch and dinner are served on board.

Lan Ha Bay – Hanoi                                                                 [B]

The day starts with another energetic tai chi class on the sundeck followed by brunch as the boat makes its way back to the pier in Hai Phong. Disembark at the pier and transfer back to your hotel in Hanoi.

Day 1 | Bangkok – Ban Kao                                                                                                                                                                                [-, L, D]
The journey is sometimes as important as the destination and this is true on today’s adventure as we visit a wealth of fascinating attractions. We leave Bangkok for Kanchanaburi, via Nakorn Pathom and stop at this location to view the tallest stupa in Thailand at Phra Pathom Chedi. The structure measures 127 metres in height and its creation inspired the development of the town. Next is the riverside Khao Noi Cave Temple (Wat Tham Khao Noi). This monastery sits on a hill and features Chinese architecture and cultural art, as well as splendid views of the mountainous horizon from an exterior viewpoint. We also make a stop at the nearby Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) which features Thai cultural art. On arrival in Kanchanaburi we visit the JEATH War Museum, a realistic depiction of a prisoner of war camp with bamboo huts which give an insight into the grim living conditions and atrocities endured by detainees who were forced to build the Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway.’ We then board the RV River Kwai at Nong Ya Dock with lunch and dinner on board and the afternoon at leisure.

Day 2 | Ban Kao – Sai Yok                                                                                                                                                                                [B, L, D]
Our relaxing river cruise continues upstream on the Kwai Noi River to Muang Singh. After breakfast we step ashore and visit a boarding school for refugee children built under the patronage of H.R.H. Crown Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. We then explore Prasat Muang Singh, a historical park containing Khmer architecture dating back 800 years. This site marked the Western border of the Khmer Empire in what is now Thailand and it serves as a potent reminder of the enormity of the Khmer domain. Muang Singh, the ‘city of the lions,’ was probably established as a trading post in this era. We then continue by coach to Tha Kilen Train Station, a site which holds significant relevance in the construction of the Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway.’ We take a third class train to Saphan Tham Krasae and pass over the famed 300 metres-long trestle bridge that clings to the cliff side. On arrival, we proceed to the riverside Krasae Cave which houses a venerable Buddha image. We then continue by coach to Sai Yok village located on the river bank. Lunch and dinner are on board and the afternoon is at leisure.

Day 3 | Sai Yok – Ban Hin Dad                                                                                                                                                                  [B, L, D]
Our final day of cruising takes in more amazing natural and man-made attractions. After breakfast we take a short stroll uphill to visit Kaeng Lava Cave, the area’s deepest cave at 500 metres in length. Inside are stalactites and stalagmites and mystical stone draperies and hidden chambers. We then continue by coach to Hellfire Pass, a notorious section of the ‘Death Railway’ that cuts through a towering stone mountain. We follow a trail that leads to Hin Tok Bridge and the Konyu Cutting where a plaque commemorates the horrors endured by the prisoners of war (POW) who built the railway under Japanese enslavement. The memorial complex, Hin Lek Fai, stands in honour of these Allied soldiers and conscripted labour from Burma, India, Malaysia and Thailand who died during the railway’s construction. We enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Sai Yok National Park and take in the gushing Sai Yok Yai Waterfalls. The afternoon is at leisure on board, ahead of a farewell dinner.

Day 4 | Ban Hin Dad – Bangkok                                                                                                                                                                [B, L, -]
We start the day in traditional Buddhist style ‘making merit’ by offering food to monks at a nearby temple in return for a blessing and then return to the boat for breakfast. We then jump onshore again and head to Kanchanaburi to visit Wat Tham Khao Poon, an amazing subterranean world with nine caverns full of Hindu and Buddhist shrines. The exterior of the temple has a marvellous viewpoint of the Kwai Noi River valley. We then visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre Museum, a facility that provides a detailed insight into the 415-km Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway’ built by enslaved Allied soldiers and Asian conscripts during World War Two. We then visit Don Rak War Cemetery where 6,982 Allied POWs who died building the railway are buried. We continue to the famed Bridge over the River Kwai, which inspired the war era film of the same name. We enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant overlooking the bridge and then head to Bangkok and transfer to respective hotels.

Day 1 | Bangkok – Ban Hin Dad                                                                                                                                                                   [-, L, D]
The journey is sometimes as important as the destination and this is true on today’s adventure as we visit a wealth of fascinating attractions en route. We leave Bangkok for Kanchanaburi, via Nakorn Pathom and stop at this location to view the tallest stupa in Thailand at Phra Pathom Chedi. The structure measures 127 metres in height and its creation inspired the development of the town. Next is the riverside Khao Noi Cave Temple (Wat Tham Khao Noi). This monastery sits on a hill and features Chinese architecture and cultural art, as well as splendid views of the mountainous horizon. We also make a stop at the nearby Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) which features Thai cultural art. After lunch at a renowned Thai restaurant, we proceed to Hellfire Pass, a notorious section of the Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway’ that cuts through a towering stone mountain. We follow a trail that leads to Hin Tok Bridge and the Konyu Cutting where a plaque commemorates the Allied soldiers and Asian conscripts forced to build the railway by Japanese forces. We then board the RV River Kwai, and the afternoon at leisure with dinner on board.

Day 2 | Ban Hin Dad – Sai Yok                                                                                                                                                                        [B, L, D]
Our relaxing river cruise continues downstream on the Kwai Noi River. After breakfast on board we visit a boarding school for refugee children built under the patronage of H.R.H. Crown Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. We then drive to Hin Dad Hot Springs. The natural hot springs, with two large pools and private baths, were discovered by Japanese soldiers supervising the construction of the Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway.’ The minerals in the spring are believed to cure numerous ailments. We then visit stunning Pha Tad Waterfall in the west of Si Nakharin Dam National Park. This water feature originates from a small stream called Huai Kui Mang that flows into the Kwai Noi River. We reboard our vessel at Kaeng Pa Lorm and enjoy lunch ahead of some river rafting or canoeing. If time permits we will visit a nearby indigenous Mon village before returning to the RV River Kwai for dinner.

Day 3 | Sai Yok – Ban Kao                                                                                                                                                                                 [B, L, D]
Our downstream cruise continues along the idyllic riverscape of Kanchanaburi province. After breakfast on board we make a short stop at Sai Yok village. We enjoy lunch on board as we navigate the lush and mountainous landscape. We then board a coach and head to the riverside Krasae Cave which houses a venerable Buddha image and an excellent exterior viewpoint of the rolling hills. Next is Tha Kilen Train Station, a site which holds special significance in the construction of the Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway.’ We take a third class train to Saphan Tham Krasae and pass over the famed 300 metres long trestle bridge that clings to the cliff side. After arrival, we explore Prasat Muang Singh, a historical park containing Khmer architecture dating back 800 years. This site marked the Western border of the Khmer Empire in what is now Thailand and it serves as a potent reminder of the enormity of the Khmer domain. We renew our journey along the Kwai Noi River, with the afternoon at leisure and a farewell dinner in the evening.

Day 4 | Ban Kao – Bangkok                                                                                                                                                                                 [B, L, -]
Today’s adventure starts with exploration of an amazing cave temple. After breakfast we visit Wat Tham Khao Poon, an astonishing subterranean world with nine caverns full of Hindu and Buddhist shrines. The exterior viewpoint has a marvellous view of the Kwai Noi River valley. We continue by coach to Kanchanaburi to visit the world famous Bridge over the River Kwai that was immortalised in the World War Two movie of the same name. This sturdy iron bridge was a crucial part of the ‘Death Railway,’ and it took enslaved Allied POWs and Asian conscripts 16 months to build. After this historical experience we continue to the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre Museum, an interactive facility that provides a remarkable insight into the Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway.’ Finally, we visit the Donrak War Cemetery which contains the remains of 6,982 Allied POWs who died during the construction of the rail link. We then reboard the RV River Kwai with lunch served as we cruise towards Nong Ya Dock. On arrival, we return to Bangkok by coach and transfer to respective hotels.

In the later afternoon, the guide and driver will collect you from the hotel. The first visit of the evening is to Hongya Cave located in the riverside area where the Yangtze River and the Jialing River converge. The name is misleading as it is not actually a cave – but a military fortress that dates back over 2,300 years. The site is now home to a large complex of stilt houses called Hongyadong. These unique, 11-storey buildings, built alongside a steep cliff on the bank of the river, are an excellent example of Bayu architecture. This is a vibrant place full of bars and restaurants that is beautifully illuminated at night.

Next, you will board a boat for a cruise along the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. Sit back and relax and take in views of the glittering riverbank, the city skyline and the old and new architecture.

At the end of the tour, the driver will take you back to the hotel.

For even more views, there is the option to go to Pipa Mountain Park, or the well-known sightseeing spot, Yi Ke Shu, on the top of South Mountain.

Bauhinia Cruises operates four boats, all of which started life as vehicular ferries. They have now been renovated and modernised into bright and colourful cruise boats. On arrival at North Point Ferry Pier, board the Bauhinia and relax while absorbing nature’s free show — a spectacular sunset.

Help yourself to a delicious buffet dinner while the boat cruises through the harbour passing alongside famed areas, including Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, Wanchai, Causeway Bay and North Point. A live band will play on the boat adding to the vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere.

From the water, you have uninterrupted 360-degree views of Hong Kong Island, Victoria Peak and the Kowloon skyline as the Symphony of Lights show unfolds around you. From the open deck, you will be able to watch the spectacular display of dancing laser beams bouncing off skyscrapers on both sides of the harbour.

The entire cruise takes approximately two hours to complete and it is a memorable evening out for all ages. The seat-in-coach tour provides return transfers between the hotel and the boat pier. For the private cruise, no transfers are included.

Meet your driver and guide at the hotel and set off to the pier at Purple Bamboo Park. Board the boat for the same cruise along the stretch of river taken by the Empress Cixi over a century ago. During the journey to the Summer Palace, take in the sights, both ancient and modern, along the riverbank.

The cruise ends at Kunming Lake, the central lake in the Summer Palace. This man-made reservoir provided water for the city and the irrigation of surrounding fields for 3,500 years. On arrival, disembark from the boat and spend some time exploring the peaceful gardens.

The UNESCO-listed Summer Palace is an imperial garden was used as a summer retreat for Qing dynasty emperors. Built between 1750 and 1764, it is an outstanding masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design. The natural landscape of hills and open water is skillfully blended with artificial features such as exquisite pavilions, halls, bridges and temples to form a site of outstanding aesthetic value. Dowager Empress Cixi took up permanent residence here for a while, giving rise to some wonderful tales of extravagance and excess. Throughout the tour hear the life, legends and legacy of this fascinating historical figure.

At the end of the tour, the driver and guide will take you back to the hotel.

A morning cruise on a catamaran reveals the stunning beauty of the famed Gili Islands of Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air. These are renowned for their colourful reefs, abundant tropical fish, sea turtles and amazing underwater statues.

Our excursion includes a buffet breakfast and the chance to soak up some rays from the deck of the boat. We will be looked after by trained and experienced snorkel guides who are equipped to point out the best sights this destination has to offer.

Once we have completed our exploration of an underwater marine kingdom, we enjoy a buffet lunch and more time to relax on the boat, ahead of the return to shore.

In the morning, you will be collected from your hotel on Gili Trawangan and taken to the boat, ready for a day spent exploring the best snorkelling sites around Gili Meno, Gili Air and Gili Trawangan. The crystal-clear waters are dotted with excellent snorkelling sites, most of which offer wonderful visibility throughout the year. Underneath the waves are tropical coral gardens teeming with biodiversity.

Jump into the calm and azure waters at Gili Meno and snorkel in one of the most unique areas, home to famed underwater statues. Hauntingly beautiful, these 48 life-size sculptures depict embracing figures that symbolise life and continuity. Continue to Turtle Point where you have the chance to swim with friendly sea turtles.

It’s then time to relax and chill out for a while with a stop on Gili Meno’s famous white sand beaches.

The boat then cruises over to the reefs around Gili Air for more snorkelling among a myriad of colourful, tropical fish. A delicious barbecue lunch cooked fresh on board will be waiting for you once you get out of the warm water. As you eat, enjoy chatting with the other people on the boat, take in the breathtaking views and listen to some laidback tunes.

At the end of the tour, the boat will cruise back to Gili Trawangan.

After your guide and driver welcome you at your Shanghai hotel, we head straight out of the metropolis in a western direction towards Suzhou. Located around 20 kilometres from downtown along the Taihu Lake, Tongli Town is a perfect example of a Venice of the East in China: true to its word of being a highly-valued tourism destination, the waterways of this more than 1000-year old town form the real side of what once was. The waterways entwine the old city, with 5 major lakes surrounding the quaint town centre, where a collection of ancient bridges are there to admire. Some bridges still stand as highlights in Tongli, silently telling the stories and legends of the ancient town, just south of the Yangtze. Gently sailing through this town is a must and included.

Lunch will be included at a local restaurant before we head into Suzhou. Of all the cities in China, Suzhou has been blessed with a top 20 spot in the most interesting places in the whole country. The cultural aspect of Suzhou itself lies in the meticulously-maintained gardens, filled with symbolism and give ample examples of the richness in Chinese garden design. One of the most significant gardens, under UNESCO protection, will tell its own story of affluence and strong ties with architecture. A garden that has maximized its space to create an oasis of peace has to be the Garden of the Master of the Nets. It is the smallest of the Suzhou residential gardens, yet it is one of the most impressive ones because of its illusion of an area that is much greater than its actual size.

We, unfortunately, do not have enough time this day to watch more stunning examples of classical Chinese garden design, but with the Gardens of the Master of the Nets as our example that reflects the profound metaphysical importance of natural beauty in Chinese culture, one has an understanding of what one may expect more.

Freshened up and ready to end the day on a romantic note, your driver-cum-guide welcomes you at your booked resort along Langkawi’s most popular beaches (conditions apply).

The short drive to the harbour is a joint transfer where you will meet your fellow dinner cruise guests for an evening of food, fun and relaxation. Once arriving at the harbour, you are welcomed by the captain, his crew and the team behind this culinary journey. With the sun setting and on its final trajectory to rise again the following day, the crew hauls in the catamaran’s anchor as the captain sets sail onto the waters. The chilled drinks, complemented with the cool breeze of the evening laud in an evening of dining festivities, are served in a buffet set up and with plenty of delectable dishes to choose from. A well-balanced mix of Malaysian specialities and western favourites are on the menu for you and your travel companions to try out.

With the arrival of the evening, so come new photo moments. Langkawi is known for its large eagle population, and these may follow in the wake of the boat’s engines. A common thing to see is the numerous flying fish that leap out of the waters left and right, and when lucky, you may even spot a dolphin fin along the horizon. For a complete cooling down, try the so-called saltwater Jacuzzi on board with a drink in your hand and a starry sky above you!

Time to make landfall again as the skipper places the compass needle of his trustworthy vessel in the direction of Langkawi. After disembarkation, you will be brought back to your booked accommodation (along with selected beaches only), where you will arrive back at around 8 pm.