Name: 16 Night Far East Cruise
Brand: Holland America Line
SKU: 126254
Price: 2219 USD
Availability: InStock

Explore and book Holland America Line 16 Night Far East Cruise on the Noordam departing from Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China on Dec 19, 2027 and ending in Phu My, Vietnam on Jan 4, 2028 Sail to Pattaya, Thailand, Malacca, Malaysia, Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur), Malaysia, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China, Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, Da Nang, Vietnam, Sihanoukville, Cambodia, Ko Samui, Thailand, Singapore, Singapore, Phu My, Vietnam

Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China

A vibrant metropolis, Hong Kong fuses eastern traditions with western influences. Its iconic skyline, bustling harbor, and rich culinary scene make it a dynamic stopover for cruisers seeking an urban Asian experience.

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Indochina Sails
Jadesails- Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay Luxury Cruise
(Official) Athena Luxury Cruise - 02 days 01 night program
Halong Bay In Just One Day with Ti Top Island
Secret Halong Cruise - The responsible excursion in Halong bay
2 Days - Save Amazing Moment on Halong Silversea Cruise
Halong to Lan Ha Bay Full Day Trip from Hanoi (Official site)
(Official) Signature Halong Cruise - 02 days 01 night program
Halong Bay Full Day Tour with Kayaking and Seafood Lunch from Hanoi
2-Day Halong Bay Overnight Cruise from Hanoi

Da Nang, Vietnam

Multi-Day Adventures: 3-Night Temple City of Angkor Wat (Single Occupancy)
Hoi An River Cruise & Marble Mountain
Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge
Imperial Hue
Cooking Class In Hoian
Countryside by Bicycle and Hoi An Town
Myson Heritage and Danang

Phu My, Vietnam

The gateway to Ho Chi Minh City, Phu My port offers cruisers the chance to explore Vietnam's bustling southern metropolis. From historic sites to bustling markets, there's a slice of Vietnamese culture at every turn.

Sihanoukville, Cambodia

Embark on a journey to Sihanoukville, a hidden gem in Cambodia that offers a unique blend of serene beaches and rich cultural experiences. This coastal city is a gateway to some of Asia's most beautiful islands and pristine waters, making it a perfect spot for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Sihanoukville also serves as a portal to the renowned Angkor Wat, allowing cruisers to combine a relaxing beach holiday with an exploration of ancient temples. The city itself, with its bustling markets and vibrant street life, provides a glimpse into the daily life of Cambodia. The local cuisine, known for its freshness and flavor, is a must-try for foodies. A cruise to Sihanoukville is more than just a beach vacation; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty and rich history of Cambodia.

Pattaya, Thailand

Ko Samui, Thailand

Fun at the Big Boop Boop
An Island 4x4 Safari
Ko Samui Extreme
Highlights of Ko Samui
A Jungle Adventure
A Day at Coral Island
Riding the Sky Fox
Fishing for Big Game

Malacca, Malaysia

Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur), Malaysia

The main gateway to Kuala Lumpur, Port Klang introduces cruisers to Malaysia's vibrant mix of cultures. From the iconic Petronas Towers to local street food, there's a world of Southeast Asian experiences awaiting.

Singapore, Singapore

A vibrant, modern city-state nestled in Southeast Asia, Singapore offers a cruise destination like no other. Known for its immaculate streets, cultural diversity, and rich history, this island nation has something for everyone. As you explore the city, you'll discover a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.

16 Night Far East Cruise

Australasia

Asia & Indian Ocean

China

Explorations Central™ (EXC®), Holland America Line’s exclusive destination programming, is designed to deepen your understanding of the places you visit. Its indispensable travel resources and opportunities to engage with experts and local insiders, make exploring each port of call more vivid and meaningful. Enjoy the programs listed below and visit our Explorations Central discovery center on board. *

Explorations Central

Your Holland America Line ship’s Casino offers a wide array of gaming options. Whether you prefer slot machines or want to try your hand at blackjack or poker, our dealers and staff are available to provide complimentary instruction — and we offer many engaging tournament options. The Casino is only open at sea.

Casino Action

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping in such signature shops as The Vault, Diamonds and Gemstones by Merabella, which offers the best diamonds at sea, brought to you by Effy.

Onboard Shopping

Enjoy a game of pickleball on top-deck courts with stunning ocean views. Play casually anytime or join a tournament, with beginner lessons available for newcomers. Complimentary equipment provided, weather permitting.



Pickleball At Sea

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges on board. In the Piano Bar, gather around and sing along as our pianist plays your favorites.

Piano Bar

Enjoy live music in this popular bar perfect for pre-dinner cocktails.

Ocean Bar

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges onboard. The panoramic view takes center stage in The Crow's Nest at the top of the ship, where you can relax just about any time of day and enjoy your favorite drink.

Crow's Nest

Direct from Beale Street, B.B. King's All Stars bring the best of Memphis music to sea. From funky and fast to soulful and smooth, enjoy dancing and try specialty cocktails like the Lucille and Rock Me Baby.

B.B. Kings Blues Club

This sophisticated venue is adorned with an eclectic and whimsical mix of artwork including portraits, landscapes, still life and abstract pieces. Order your favorite cocktail or try one from our signature cocktail menu created in partnership with our Master Mixologist Dale DeGroff, a James Beard “Who’s Who” inductee.

Gallery Bar

The Explorer’s Lounge is an elegant and refined space to enjoy a glass of wine, a cocktail, or your favorite liqueur.

Explorer's Lounge

Feel the rhythm at the Rolling Stone Lounge, where a live band delivers rock, pop, and country hits every night. Grab a drink and hit the dance floor for an unforgettable evening of music and energy.



Rolling Stone Lounge

Unwind at Pinnacle Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails and fine wines set the tone for a sophisticated evening. Perfect for a pre-dinner drink before heading to Pinnacle Grill.



Pinnacle Bar

Sip on a cool cocktail while basking in the sun and savoring stunning ocean views from the deck lounge chairs. A laid-back vibe with unbeatable scenery.



Sea View Bar

Explore a world of intriguing culinary possibilities in the Lido Market. Steps from the Lido pool, this modern marketplace includes a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order: Breadboard, with freshly baked breads and pastries; Wild Harvest, offering a bountiful selection of hearty salads; Homestead, serving up comfort classics; Distant Lands, featuring global cuisine; Sweet Spot, for ice cream creations and desserts; Roasting Pan, hand-carved meats, fish and other hearty entrees; Perk, freshly brewed beverages and chilled juices; Quench, premium coffee, beer, wine, and soda available for purchase; Rise, savory quiches, croissants and sandwiches, and more.

Lido Market

Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, where an exceptional menu and impeccable service make for one of finest meals you’ll ever have. The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks — meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality — as well as classic steakhouse dishes and innovative recipes from James Beard Award-winning chef and Culinary Council® member, David Burke. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, beautifully plated and complemented by a vast collection of award-winning wines. Here, your meal is an event unto itself, a celebration of fine dining and a triumph of flavor.

Pinaccle Grill

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. This is the inspiration for our onboard Italian restaurant, Canaletto. Enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri or garlic shrimp ravioli. And for dessert: tiramisù, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more. Including pasta made fresh daily. Buon Appetito!

Canaletto

Dive-In offers a variety of casual culinary classics, using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with our own trade-marked secret sauce. Savor a succulent Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries. Or choose a grilled chicken breast sandwich or juicy portabella mushroom stack. Dive-In is the perfect spot to dine poolside on the best burgers at sea.

Dive-In

For an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch or unforgettable multi-course dinner, The Dining Room is your destination. Behind the scenes, our Culinary Council,® an elite team of seven world-renowned chefs,  and our talented onboard executive chefs have worked to bring each dish to perfection. For dinner, choose from classics such as Boneless Lamb Loin en Croute, Rosemary Roasted Chicken, as well as regionally inspired cuisine and artfully prepared vegetarian dishes. Enrich your journey with an extensive selection of wines, carefully selected by our Wine Curator, world-renowned wine critic James Suckling.

The Dining Room

At Explorations Café, relax in a comfortable, coffee house environment where you can browse through one of the most extensive libraries at sea, view a wide array of audio and video programming, or simply read the morning paper. Guests can also enjoy fresh pastries and their favorite espresso drink.

Explorations Cafe

We have partnered with BBC Earth to bring you unforgettable new ways to experience the world's natural wonders. Through the innovative and breathtaking programming, guests will be taken closer to the ocean and the natural world through groundbreaking concerts and films.

BBC Earth in Concert

In an exclusive partnership with the world’s leading center for the performing arts, we proudly present Lincoln Center Stage, showcasing outstanding musicians performing multiple programs of chamber music most evenings, as well as afternoon recitals during leisurely days at sea.

Lincoln Center Stage

2 pianos - 60 Years of Chart Toppers - 100s Of Songs.  Sing along, test your music trivia skills or just sit back and enjoy as the hits fill the room each night.

Billboard on Board

Experience world-class entertainment at World Stage, featuring captivating lectures by local experts and thrilling performances from top acts like Step One Dance Company and Cantaré. On select ships, a two-story LED screen enhances the immersive experience.

World Stage

Highlights for kids ages 3 to 6 include “Painting Picassos,” and “Sing-Along Storytime,” as well as theme parties, such as “Dino-Mite Night” and “Ships Ahoy Pirate Treasure Hunt Adventure.”

Kids Programs (Ages 3-6)

Holland America Line's youth activities program, Club HAL, offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by a full-time, professionally trained staff. They'll have an opportunity to join other kids their age for arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts, challenging team games and themed parties.

Club Hal

From ice-cream eating contests to gaming tournaments and theme parties, tweens will have plenty to enjoy.

Tweens Programs (Ages 7-12)

Teen cruisers enjoy mocktail parties, karaoke and trivia contests, jewelry making, video games, staff vs. teens volleyball tournaments, themed events and more.

Teens Programs (Ages 13-17)

Club HAL activities are available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on port days. Lunch is available for participants between the hours of 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Children must be registered and signed into and out of programming by a parent or guardian.

Port Day Activities

Stop by the professionally staffed Fitness Center equipped with the latest cardio and weight machines. Try one of our classes on indoor cycling, Pilates and more or work out at your own pace. You can also head out for fresh air and exercise on deck, where you'll find basketball and volleyball courts, and two refreshing pools (available on select ships). Some classes may have a nominal fee.

Fitness

During a leisurely day at sea, few places help you refresh, relax and rejuvenate like the Greenhouse Spa & Salon®. This heavenly retreat nurtures every aspect of your well-being with renowned spa rituals and healing touches. In the spa, pamper your skin with facial treatments featuring premium, naturally sourced ingredients. Nurture your body, too, with massage treatments employing time-honored, hands-on massage techniques gleaned from around the world.

Greenhouse Spa & Salon

Named for the Northern compass point, Noordam features museum-quality art — from 19th-century oils to contemporary photographs of music greats Dizzy Gillespie and B.B. King. Guests onboard can enjoy regional cooking demonstrations and food and wine tastings with EXC Port to Table programming. Explore the world’s wonders through BBC Earth Experiences. Take yoga or Pilates in our Fitness Center. Savor the sounds of Music Walk™ and the delights of our specialty restaurants.

B.B. King's Blues Club

Watch music shows and other entertainment like you never have before at World Stage. Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam bring the World Stage experience to the next level with a two-story, 270-degree wraparound LED screen. A perfect panorama of sight and sound.

Club HAL

Refresh, Relax and Rejuvenate. During a leisurely day at sea, few places help you refresh, relax and rejuvenate like the Greenhouse Spa & Salon®. This heavenly retreat nurtures every aspect of your well-being with renowned spa rituals and healing touches. In the spa, pamper your skin with facial treatments featuring premium, naturally sourced ingredients. Nurture your body, too, with massage treatments employing time-honored, hands-on massage techniques gleaned from around the world.

Holland America Line

Noordam

Board a motor coach for a journey through the rural areas of the Red River Delta. In the district of Thuy Nguyen, you’ll leave the coach for a half-mile walk to a local village renowned for its betel nut production. Enter via a series of small lanes and streets shaded by betel nut trees, the bulbs of which are cut open to reveal a red ‘nut’ that is chewed on by many elders throughout the country as a stimulant, in the same way that caffeine is used in the western world. Many of these betel nuts are transported throughout the north for consumption. In this local farming community, people spend the day tending their fields and livestock. You will notice a remarkable absence of mechanical assistance here—the work in the fields is mostly done by hand. At certain times of the year you may see people harvesting the rice, plowing the fields with buffalo or irrigating the intricate canal system by hand. Return to the coach for the journey to Haiphong, the main port city of the north. Visit the 17th-century Du Hang Pagoda, where you will find an impressive display of about 500 wooden relief sculptures.

Bay of the Descending Dragon is the English translation for Halong Bay. This remarkable natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Site became famous in the West when it was featured in the French film Indochine. Halong Bay is dotted with an estimated 1,969 islands spread over 900 square miles. Some islands are covered in dense vegetation; others are bare and rocky. Sail gracefully past these imposing formations on a converted fishing junk. See tiny islands dotted with rock arches, sheer cliffs, innumerable white sand beaches and peaceful coves. You will stop at Thien Cung Cave and wander through the cavern to marvel at its stalagmite and stalactite formations (suitable only for the agile).

After disembarking the ship, you’ll set off by coach through the countryside of Ha Long. Along the way, you will see numerous rice fields, and the daily activities of local people tending their farms along the highway. Upon arrival at Yen Tu Monastery, you can stroll around the main hall of the temple to explore the long history of Buddhism, which is presented through pictures on the walls and ceiling. At a typical village nearby, meet the locals for a chance to exchange culture and lifestyle information. You’ll see their rice fields and learn about their daily lives. Leaving the village, you will re-board the coach to return to Ha Long, visiting the local market before returning to the pier.

Your destination is the very interesting Yen Duc village -- chosen for its quintessential nature and that it will confer upon you the experience of having visited an authentic village. Yours to keep are some very special memories.

Set out for an afternoon at the Kowloon Markets, where truth is stranger than fiction and, in one place or another, virtually every imaginable consumer good can be purchased. You'll begin with a visit to the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden. This charming Chinese-style garden is the favorite gathering place of Hong Kong's songbird owners, who carry their beloved pets in intricately-carved cages. It's the see-and-be-seen scene for avian afficionados. All manner of beautiful birds are found here, as well as an intriguing selection of traditional bird-keeping paraphernalia.

Hong Kong was once a remote corner of the Chinese Empire, dominated by powerful clans and wealthy Mandarins. Today you'll head to the New Territories, which are not new at all -- they became part of Hong Kong in 1898 and comprise 86% of its land mass.

Hong Kong is one of the world's greatest food cities. For visitors, there's no better way to get to know the city's culture than by cooking and eating like a local. Indulge in dim sum -- a style of Cantonese food prepared in small, bite-sized portions. It's easily the city's favorite dining experience. Hong Kong's well-respected Six Senses Cooking Studio believes in promoting a healthy lifestyle through food and sharing authentic experiences. Follow a professional chef from the studio through a bustling market. Then, under his/her guidance, you'll create your very own Chinese dim sum meal.

Board a traditional-style Chinese floating pagoda to take in the dramatic views of Hong Kong Island from the water. You'll tour one of the world's most exotic ports on a narrated cruise around Victoria Harbour. At night, Hong Kong's spectacular skyline becomes a dazzling neon cityscape. Pristine skyscrapers are lit up against the night sky, including the Bank of China, the HSBC headquarters and the International Finance Centre -- the tallest building in Hong Kong. Enjoy unlimited drinks from the bar as you watch the sights and the city lights.

Cross under Victoria Harbour by way of the vehicle tunnel for a drive to the south side of Hong Kong Island. You'll pass lovely Repulse Bay with panoramic views of one of Hong Kong's most popular and beautiful beach, along with the colonial-style hotel that has long been a landmark here. Explore Aberdeen, where fishermen and their families live on junks and sampans. During a brief stop at one of the city's jewelry workshops, you'll see the wonderful craftsmanship of the goods and enjoy a refreshment in the exclusive showroom. Finally, you will head up to Victoria Peak by funicular tram for a breathtaking view of the harbor and Kowloon on China's mainland.

Discover out-of-the-way treasures, scenic beauty, spectacular bridges, mountains and historic sites as you travel to Lantau Island -- Hong Kong's largest outlying island.

Samui has more to offer than just its beautiful beaches, clear water and gorgeous scenery. It also has an impressive tropical forest and a seasonal fruit orchard that is yours to explore. This adventurous eco-safari will introduce you to the ‘other side’ of Samui. Travel in a 4-wheel-drive vehicle passing the local villages where mostly they are fisherman and farmers. Learn about the coconut—the coconut that is the heart of the island’s original industry. Entering the safari park, you’ll leave the vehicle and switch to an entirely different and rather unusual mode of transportation—you will trek through the tropical jungle of Samui upon the back of an elephant (Elephant riding is optional). Later, watch the adorable baby elephant show. Watch in delight as a trained monkey plucks a nut from high atop a coconut tree. Just inside the same compound, step inside a local restaurant in the camp area for lunch; then, visit a rubber plantation to see how the farmers tap the tree for sap, and how it is transformed into sheets of rubber. Finally, enjoy free time to explore Nathon Market on your own or return to the ship.

Board your air-conditioned motorcoach and embark on a drive that takes you through the tropical countryside as you drive through Hua Thanon, a traditional fishing village set amidst a paradise of green trees, golden sand and glistening ocean. Have your cameras at the ready to possibly capture the photogenic beauty of the fishermen’s Kor Lae boats, ornately painted in bright colors.

Get away from it all with this great day out to a wonderland of nature—Ang Thong National Marine Park. The park consists of 42 islands with tranquil blue lagoons, reefs and deserted sandy beaches. There are fascinating rock formations, beautiful natural caves and even a salt lake or ‘keyhole’ lake surrounded by sheer rock walls. This trip offers the ultimate in tropical relaxation, and there will be time for snorkeling, swimming and canoeing. Lunch and soft drinks are included.

This half-day tour takes you to see the stunning sights of this tropical paradise. Learn about the coconut industry on the island from a local farmer; then, visit the fishing village of Baan Hua Tanon. You’ll be delighted as you watch a trained monkey climb a coconut tree to pluck a nut. Enjoy a taste of the natural coconut beverage--fresh coconut water! Visit the huge Seated Buddha, built in 1972. Phra Yai (Big Buddha) sits proudly on the top of a rocky islet off the northeast coast of the island. You’ll stop to view this monumental landmark and the small temple complex that surrounds it. End your experience with a delicious lunch at a beach resort.

Transfer from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh -- Cambodia's capital. Lunch is served at the hotel in Phnom Penh; then, you will visit the Royal Palace. Built in 1866 by King Norodom, the Palace is comprised of several of structures within a pagoda-style compound. One of them is the Silver Pagoda. The Silver Pagoda takes its name from the 5,000+ silver tiles lining the building and holds a number of National Treasures. Among these is perhaps most notably a life-sized gold Maitreya Buddha, decorated with 9,584 diamonds, weighing in at 200 lbs. There is also a small 17th-century Emerald Buddha made from baccarat crystal.

Enjoy a scenic overview of Sihanoukville, stopping at the Intra Ngean Pagoda—the city’s most prominent religious site. Then, you’ll drive through the outskirts of town and stop along the way for a short stroll along Ochheuteal beach under the shade of tall pines.Stop at the local market to see Khmer commerce firsthand. Returning to the ship you’ll visit the nearby fishing village of Tumnuk Rolok.

Enjoy a day at a local hotel resort, which provides an excellent swimming opportunity. Shared day rooms are provided for Holland America Line Line guests to change and freshen up. You’ll have access to the beachfront—one of the most beautiful beaches in Cambodia—and time to relax in the shade, swim and sunbathe. (Sundeck is subject to availability)

Named for the former King, Sihanoukville is a bustling and lively port town and Cambodia's premier beach destination. It is home to some architecturally intriguing pagodas. Experience Sihanoukville's stunning coastline scenery and explore the visual feast that is Cambodia's capital on a panoramic drive past some of its highlights.

Enjoy an in-depth introduction to Sihanoukville. Named after the King of Cambodia, Norodom Sihanouk, this port town provides key trading access to an otherwise land-locked nation. The town sits overlooking an expansive bay dotted with natural forested islands, many of which remain uninhabited. A nation of devout Buddhists, Cambodia is home to some architecturally intriguing pagodas.

Absorb the city sights on this exciting evening tour that showcases the best of Singapore after dark. Begin your tour as we head to the Marina Bay Sands observation deck, situated 650 feet above ground, to enjoy a different perspective of Singapore. Located 57 storeys up from the heart of the Marina Bay area, the Sands SkyPark Observation Deck boasts scenic views of the panoramic vistas of Marina Bay and Singapore’s world-class cityscape. Try and take a bird’s-eye view of Gardens by the Bay and the impressive Supertree Grove, or admire the sea view that stretches from Marina South Pier to the Singapore Strait.

This tour offers an interesting view of life outside the city, and starts with a visit to the Tiong Bahru Wet Market to see the locals buy their daily groceries and vegetables. Next, pass by the Kranji Dam area—once a swamp used as the first landing spot for Japanese Advance Boats during World War II. The Kranji War Memorial, unveiled in 1957, overlooks the Straits of Johore and is the final resting place for many of the Allied soldiers who lost their lives in World War II. It commemorates by name more than 20,000 men and women. After lunch, you’ll visit the Bright Hill Temple, a famous place of Chinese ancestral worship. The final loop of the tour will pass the Johore Battery, built by the British in 1939. Drive through Changi Village on the way back to the pier.

Visit the impressive Gardens by the Bay—a 250-acre park that is home to more than 250,000 rare plants housed in giant domed conservatories with several different regions to discover. Step into the Flower Dome and wonder at nature merged with spectacular, innovative design. This section replicates the cool-dry climate of Mediterranean regions and houses flora that thrive in these conditions. Wander through the gardens and discover all the marvels of nature and technology that make this award-winning attraction quite fascinating. Take time to visit the mysterious, mist-veiled Cloud Forest, where a 115-foot ‘mountain’ showcases the world’s tallest indoor waterfall and presents plant life from the tropical highlands (up to 6,500 feet above sea level). Next, you’ll head to the Marina Bay Sand’s observation deck, situated 650 feet above ground, to enjoy a different perspective of Singapore. Finally, enjoy a coach ride back to the cruise centre.

Next, gain insight into Singapore's history on a riverboat cruise. The Singapore River has seen 150 years of commercial activity and has been at the heart of the city's growth from an obscure fishing village to a great seaport and metropolis. A 30-minute ride on a low-slung riverboat enables you to appreciate this transformation. Today, the Singapore River is still buzzing with life and activity, but the waterfront now plays host to a colorful kaleidoscope of restaurants, wine bars, entertainment spots and retail stores. You'll also catch a glimpse, from a distance, of the famous Merlion fountain and Marina Bay Sands Hotel (weather conditions permitting).

The Night Safari is the world's first wildlife park purpose-built to be viewed at night. It is not an ordinary zoo simply illuminated by night or a modern version of nocturnal houses found in many zoos. Set in 98 acres of dense secondary forest, the Night Safari offers visitors the rather fascinating experience of observing wildlife in a tropical jungle at night.

Leaving the ship by coach, you'll begin a very relaxing panoramic tour of this tiny, but lovely, country. Singapore is an economic and social stronghold in the Pacific Rim, and as you set out to explore, you will see the Business District that is responsible for the nation's fiscal security.

This half-day excursion is ideal for guests wishing to explore the charming merchant town of Hoi An in more detail and to spend time at the beach. The pretty riverside town of Hoi An has remained unchanged for centuries. Initially an important trading port, Hoi An boasts some of Vietnam’s most historic architecture as well as temples and community houses. Upon arrival in the Ancient Town of Hoi An, you will set out on foot for a fascinating walking tour of this charming town. You will visit the Hoi An Museum and the interior of a traditional merchant house built to withstand the floods that plague Hoi An in the rainy season. Step inside the Phuc Kien Temple, built in honor of Thien Hau, the Goddess of the Sea, and the nearby Japanese covered bridge. However, the real key to discovering Hoi An is to keep your eye on the skyline where you will see in the architecture evidence of the Japanese, Indians, Chinese and Portuguese merchants that once inhabited these shores. After a thorough exploration of the town, journey along charming rural roads to a local beach in Da Nang. Enjoy the chance to wander along the shoreline prior to re-boarding your coach for the overland journey to the port.

The Marble Mountain area has long inspired Vietnam’s artisans because it combines the natural harmony of the Vietnamese countryside with unique architectural influences. Your exposure to artistic Vietnam begins as you meander along Da Nang’s tree-lined streets on the way to the Cham Museum. This ethnographic facility opened in 1939, under the umbrella of the French Ecole Française d’Extrême Orient. Its collection of original sculpture works is displayed in four sections, according to each piece’s origin. Your coach will then head seven miles from the center of town to the grand spectacle of the Marble Mountains. Step off the coach for a 45-minute walk around this historic area, whose five peaks correspond to the five basic elements of feng shui. During the Cham period, this marble ridge was a Hindu sanctuary. Later, Vietnamese Buddhists built pagodas on its slopes dedicated to Buddha or Confucius. Nowadays, Buddhist shrines occupy several mountain caves which were bombed during the war. Enjoy a photo stop at My Khe Beach—once a wartime recreational hangout for American GIs—and Continue to Linh Ung Pagoda before returning to the ship.

The presence of Eastern and Western merchants in Hoi An during the first half of the 19th century significantly influenced the architecture, culture and customs of this lovely community. Many remaining wooden buildings lend the town a distinctive charm. Take a step back in time during your guided walk through its narrow streets. Your visit to a traditional merchant’s house will reveal a unique mix of European, Japanese and Chinese styles. Enjoy some free time for exploring and shopping in the town. Lunch is served at a local restaurant with exquisitely subtle Vietnamese flavors. Before returning to the ship, you will pause at My Khe Beach. This was a favorite military recreation spot during the war and became world famous through the television series in the USA. It is also a great chance to see the beauty the Marble Mountains and a marble workshop operating right on the roadside.

See Da Nang as the local people do, aboard a pedal cab. An air-conditioned motor coach or minibus will whisk you to the Cham Museum, where your pedal cab awaits. Aboard this simple and somewhat noisy conveyance you take a whirlwind tour through the city streets to see such landmarks as the Han Market, the Da Nang Cathedral and the TV Broadcasting Station en route to the Cham Museum. Leave the pedal cab there as you step inside for a 30-minute museum sojourn. View an extraordinary collection of sandstone-sculpted items, which provide insight into the history and culture of the fascinating Cham minority people. Your motor coach or minibus waits for the continuation of this excursion to My Khe Beach. You’ll pause for photos at the idyllic spot—a wartime recreational hangout for American GIs—that was immortalized in a television series before returning to the port.

Explore this fascinating part of Vietnam, starting out by motor coach through central Da Nang, where colonial-style buildings border shady, tree-lined streets. You will continue your journey to Hoi An, where the presence of Eastern and Western merchants has influenced the architecture, culture and customs of this community. Many of the wooden buildings dated from the first half of the 19th century, so the town retains a distinctive charm. Step back in time on a guided walk through the narrow streets. A visit to a traditional merchant’s house will reveal a unique mix of European, Japanese and Chinese styles, and you will see a short handicraft production demonstration. Before returning to the ship, pause at My Khe Beach. This was a favorite military R&R spot during the war and a recreational hangout for American GIs.

Hue was the Imperial City of the Nguyen Emperors, rising to glory during their reign from 1802 to 1945. Drive through the Hai Van tunnels from Da Nang, to arrive in Hue. Your visit will be to the Imperial Citadel. Passing through the impressive Mon gate, you will reach the main pavilion—the Palace of Supreme Harmony. It was here that important ceremonies took place. Recent reconstruction has seen this building restored to its former splendor with regal red and gold columns and ornate furnishings. Much of the ground beyond the Palace suffered damage in the Tet Offensive of 1968, and beyond the walls, entrepreneurial farmers work the fertile land. You will see the immense Dynastic Urns, each depicting a different Vietnamese region, and the Pavilion of Benevolence. A buffet Imperial Feast lunch is served at a local hotel. Enjoy your meal featuring Asian specialties including those of Hue, where Vietnamese cuisine is more extensive than anywhere else in the country. After lunch, drive through pine forests and orchards to visit one of the numerous imperial tombs which dot the surrounding countryside. Built by the Nguyen Dynasty Emperors, each tomb was meant as a place of recreation before being utilized as a final resting place. Tu Duc Tomb resembles a miniature royal palace with an attractive pavilion overlooking a tranquil lake, ornate buildings, fragrant gardens and hunting grounds.

Approximately two hours’ drive by motor coach from Da Nang, via the undulating countryside of Central Vietnam, you will discover the beautiful My Son Mountains—the holy land of the lost Champa kingdom. Upon arrival, you will switch to a local van or jeep for five minutes to gain access to the exquisite spiritual architecture of the My Son UNESCO World Heritage Site. Historically, this land was ruled by the Champa civilization from the early 7th century through the 14th century. More than 70 brick temples were built to worship the Hindu gods. When French explorers came upon the temples at the end of the 19th century, most were intact. Unfortunately, many were later destroyed in 1969 by bombing raids during the Vietnam War. Today, however, visitors like you can still appreciate their historical value and gain an insight into the lost kingdom. Returning to Da Nang city, you will stop at a local restaurant for lunch. Clamber into a rickshaw afterwards for a fun pedal around the main city streets. Your rickshaw driver will drop you off at the Cham Museum for 30-minute museum sojourn. The Cham Museum was founded by a group of French scholars in 1915 and this old sandstone building now houses the best collection of Cham art in the world. On display are more than 300 sandstone and terra cotta sculptures. During your guided visit, you will see a sampling of Cham artifacts, sculptures and sandstone carvings, many of which were excavated from the My Son site.

Vietnamese cuisine is varied and wonderful. Long touted for its use of fresh ingredients, minimal use of dairy and oil, and complementary textures, Vietnamese cuisine balances fragrance, taste and color. This tour gives a practical introduction to Vietnamese cooking and is highly specialized for guests interested in regional cuisine.

As you approach Cu Chi, it is hard to believe you are entering what was a war zone of incredible strategic importance. This tour focuses on the ingenuity and resilience of the Vietnamese fighters who both lived and fought from underground tunnels. Originally constructed as a means to fight against the French by the Viet Minh, the tunnels were later expanded up to 36 feet below ground in hard soil using only rudimentary tools. Most tunnels were only 2 – 2½ feet wide and 4½ feet tall, with thick roofs capable of withstanding the weight of tanks or the impact of bombs.

Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters. Recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for guests with mobility limitations.

Your first stop is at the recently renovated City Museum—a wonderful example of French heritage that has survived the surge of development currently enveloping old Saigon. Among the most attractive buildings in the city, the museum belonged to the Emperor Gia Long at the beginning of French rule in the mid-1800s. Since 1975, it has housed artifacts unique to Vietnam’s culture and history, including a wide selection of rarely seen black and white images of the communist struggle for power in Vietnam.

Drive from Phu My through pretty countryside dotted with rice fields and rubber plantations. The main ‘highway’ is packed with bicycles, heavily laden buses and people making their way to market. This tour introduces the major highlights of bustling Ho Chi Minh City, still commonly referred to as Saigon.

This transfer may suit you if you would like to explore on your own. It consists of a motor coach ride from the ship to Ho Chi Minh City. You will be dropped off at a central location, and the coach escort will advise you of the pick-up time for the return journey. You will have time to shop and explore on your own.

Vung Tau was known as Cap St Jacques during the days of the French occupation, and has always been a popular beach resort for residents of Saigon. Attractive villas that dot the hillsides have now been converted into guesthouses. The resort is on a peninsula lined with miles of sandy beach.

Non-alcoholic beverage package	$8 - $17.95
Alcoholic beverage package	$54.95 - $59.95
Gratuities	$15.50 - $17
Wi-fi internet access	$10 - $20
Specialty dining	Varies
Spa packages & shore excursions	Varies

Cruisebound

16 Night Far East Cruise

16 Night Far East Cruise

Cruise highlights

Itinerary

Shore excursions

Amenities

About the ship

Noordam

Included in your fare

Add-ons

Flights & hotels

16 Night Far East Cruise

16 Night Far East Cruise

Cruise highlights

Itinerary

Shore excursions

Amenities

About the ship

Noordam

Included in your fare

Add-ons

Flights & hotels

Flights

Hotels

Departure info