Exploring Mekong river with Aqua Expeditions
- Akvile Marozaite
- 6 days ago
- 5 min read
Words and Photos by Akvile Marozaite
This April, I had the pleasure of exploring the Mekong River with Aqua Expeditions as part of a fam trip hosted by the company. It was a short but immersive journey that showcased the magic of the destination and the sheer excellence of this luxury expedition cruise brand. I’ve put together this report to help you better understand, appreciate, and most importantly—sell—this truly exceptional product.
About Aqua Expeditions
Founded by Francesco Galli Zugaro in 2007, Aqua Expeditions is a boutique luxury expedition cruise company that specialises in small-ship experiences to some of the most biodiverse and culturally rich corners of the world. With five ships operating in the Peruvian Amazon, Galápagos, Mekong River, Indonesia, and Seychelles & Tanzania, their largest vessel accommodates just 40 guests—ensuring an intimate, personalised adventure.
Expect refined service, luxurious accommodations, curated cuisine, and expert-led shore excursions. I had the pleasure of interviewing Francesco in 2024 for our Expedition Cruise Leaders series, and his passion is absolutely infectious. If you haven’t seen it yet, I highly recommend watching it—it brings the Aqua Expeditions ethos vividly to life.
The Journey Begins: Rosewood Phnom Penh
My journey began in Cambodia, where I checked into the Rosewood Phnom Penh. Although I was the last to arrive, I was warmly welcomed at the rooftop bar by my host Max and fellow guests, along with representatives from Aqua Expeditions and the Rosewood team.
The hotel itself is spectacular—beautifully appointed rooms, a jaw-dropping rooftop bar, and a location that makes it ideal for pre- or post-cruise stays (or even as a standalone luxury city break).
The Itinerary: Culture, Contrast, and Connection
My first full day began early with a visit to the Royal Palace and S-21 Genocide Museum. The Palace, just waking up to tourists, was serene and regal. In stark contrast, S-21 was a sobering experience—an essential reminder of Cambodia’s painful past under the Khmer Rouge regime.
This emotional visit brought to mind other places I’ve visited that bear the scars of history— Lithuania’s museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, Andaman Islands’ colonial prison, Robben Island in South Africa. These places stir a deep reflection on humanity’s shared stories of suffering and resilience.
After a wonderful lunch at a local restaurant, we boarded the Aqua Mekong. Embarkation was seamless, and I was soon settled into my elegant suite, ready for the days ahead.
Immersive Shore Excursions
Aqua Expeditions is the only ship on the Mekong offering cycling excursions, and I jumped at the chance—booking both the morning and afternoon rides. Over 36km of peaceful riding through villages, we were met with smiles and enjoyed refreshment stops thoughtfully arranged by the Aqua team.
The next day brought a market visit with the ship’s head chef—a highlight! Later, I tried kayaking, which quickly became my favourite activity of the trip. Aqua Mekong carries eight double kayaks and offers kayaking regularly, alongside skiff rides, cycling, and walking excursions.
Back onboard, each day ended with a recap briefing, a cocktail at sunset, and a delicious dinner. One evening even included an open-air barbecue on the top deck. On our final night, we were surprised with local delicacies—fried crickets and spiders—which I politely declined, though others bravely gave them a try!
A Smooth Finale
Max, our host, and my fellow travellers: Miranda, Quinten, and Lyndsey - we had an amazing time!
On disembarkation day, we were transferred smoothly into Saigon, with an optional stop at a Buddhist temple—a lovely way to close the trip. Our final lunch took place at the lavishly eclectic Reverie Hotel, also used by Aqua for guests embarking on the reverse itinerary.
About the Aqua Mekong
Launched in 2014, the 62-metre Aqua Mekong accommodates just 40 guests across 20 river-facing luxurious suites. Designed for comfort and style, the ship offers:
A spa, game room, private cinema, lounge room, bar and boutique
Indoor and outdoor dining
Skiffs, kayaks, and bicycles for daily excursions
A swimming pool and jacuzzi on the top deck
We had three expert local guides onboard for 20 guests—providing outstanding attention to detail and deep cultural insight. Aqua’s Cambodian and Vietnamese crew delivered service of the highest calibre, and the onboard cuisine was consistently outstanding—locally inspired, fresh, and exquisitely plated.
A Day in the Life on Aqua Mekong
A typical day onboard offers a perfect balance of activity and relaxation:
6:00am: Optional meditation
7:00am: Buffet breakfast, including Asian options
8:00am: Morning excursion (via skiff)
12:00pm: Lunch (à la carte, with dietary needs accommodated)
2:30pm: Afternoon excursion (via skiff)
5:30pm: Return to ship
7:00pm: Recap briefing and dinner
Evenings wind down with a cocktail or nightcap in the lounge. All meals and house drinks are included, and the quality across the board is consistently exceptional.
Who Should You Sell Aqua Expeditions To?
Aqua Expeditions guests are typically experienced, affluent travellers who appreciate exceptional design, personal service, and curated experiences.
The average guest age is 55, with most hailing from Europe and North America. The minimum age for children is five, and Aqua Mekong is a fantastic option for multi-generational travel, though it retains a quiet, refined onboard atmosphere.
On my sailing, our group included:
A group of American friends (some repeat Aqua guests)
A young French couple
A British couple celebrating their anniversary
This is a product that delivers for discerning travellers seeking enriching, seamless, and stylish adventures.
A Passion-Driven Company
Photos courtesy @Aqua Expeditions
What sets Aqua Expeditions apart is its deep passion—and that starts with its founder. Sustainability is embedded throughout the guest experience, from drinking water made onboard and to partnerships with Gomi Recycle and Ruy Reach for waste management and so much more.
There’s no printed daily programme and thoughtful design choices help reduce unnecessary consumption while enhancing the overall experience. Even the boutique carries only a carefully curated selection of locally made goods.
Design lovers will find much to admire onboard: designer furniture, striking artwork, and intricate details abound. Every object feels considered—chosen with care and purpose.
Final Thoughts
Whether your clients are drawn to the Amazon, the Galápagos, or the remote Aldabra Atoll, if the experience is anything like what I encountered on the Mekong River, they are in excellent hands.
Aqua Expeditions is more than a cruise—it’s an exquisitely crafted journey through the world’s most captivating destinations, guided by passion, purpose, and excellence.
If you’re looking to recommend something truly special, this is it.
For Premium Members
Head to our Expedition Cruise Academy for a full trip report including expanded details on Aqua Mekong itineraries, Unique Selling Points, Ship details and more.
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