Discover Southeast Asia & Hidden Natural Wonders

Romantically referred to by the French as the Pearl of the Orient, Ho Chi Minh City today is a super-charged city of sensory overload. Motorbikes zoom day and night along the wide boulevards, through the narrow back alleys and past vendors pushing handcarts hawking goods of all descriptions. Still called Saigon by most residents, this is Vietnam's largest city and the engine driving the country's current economic resurgence, but despite its frenetic pace, it's a friendlier place than Hanoi and locals will tell you the food—simple, tasty, and incorporating many fresh herbs—is infinitely better than in the capital.This is a city full of surprises. The madness of the city's traffic—witness the oddball things that are transported on the back of motorcycles—is countered by tranquil pagodas, peaceful parks, quirky coffee shops, and whole neighborhoods hidden down tiny alleyways, although some of these quiet spots can be difficult to track down. Life in Ho Chi Minh City is lived in public: on the back of motorcycles, on the sidewalks, and in the parks. Even when its residents are at home, they're still on display. With many living rooms opening onto the street, grandmothers napping, babies being rocked, and food being prepared, are all in full view of passersby.Icons of the past endure in the midst of the city’s headlong rush into capitalism. The Hotel Continental, immortalized in Graham Greene's The Quiet American, continues to stand on the corner of old Indochina's most famous thoroughfare, the rue Catinat, known to American G.I.s during the Vietnam War as Tu Do (Freedom) Street and renamed Dong Khoi (Uprising) Street by the Communists. The city still has its ornate opera house and its old French city hall, the Hôtel de Ville. The broad colonial boulevards leading to the Saigon River and the gracious stucco villas are other remnants of the French colonial presence. Grisly reminders of the more recent past can be seen at the city's war-related museums. Residents, however, prefer to look forward rather than back and are often perplexed by tourists' fascination with a war that ended 40 years ago.The Chinese influence on the country is still very much in evidence in the Cholon district, the city's Chinatown, but the modern office towers and international hotels that mark the skyline symbolize Vietnam's fixation on the future.

Begin your cruise in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s most dynamic metropolis, where rich heritage and modern energy sit side by side. An overnight stay offers the opportunity to experience both its cultural depth and fast-evolving urban rhythm, which turns up the volume after dark.

Please book your flight to arrive into Ho Chi Minh City prior to 02:00 PM.

Romantically referred to by the French as the Pearl of the Orient, Ho Chi Minh City today is a super-charged city of sensory overload. Motorbikes zoom day and night along the wide boulevards, through the narrow back alleys and past vendors pushing handcarts hawking goods of all descriptions. Still called Saigon by most residents, this is Vietnam's largest city and the engine driving the country's current economic resurgence, but despite its frenetic pace, it's a friendlier place than Hanoi and locals will tell you the food—simple, tasty, and incorporating many fresh herbs—is infinitely better than in the capital.This is a city full of surprises. The madness of the city's traffic—witness the oddball things that are transported on the back of motorcycles—is countered by tranquil pagodas, peaceful parks, quirky coffee shops, and whole neighborhoods hidden down tiny alleyways, although some of these quiet spots can be difficult to track down. Life in Ho Chi Minh City is lived in public: on the back of motorcycles, on the sidewalks, and in the parks. Even when its residents are at home, they're still on display. With many living rooms opening onto the street, grandmothers napping, babies being rocked, and food being prepared, are all in full view of passersby.Icons of the past endure in the midst of the city’s headlong rush into capitalism. The Hotel Continental, immortalized in Graham Greene's The Quiet American, continues to stand on the corner of old Indochina's most famous thoroughfare, the rue Catinat, known to American G.I.s during the Vietnam War as Tu Do (Freedom) Street and renamed Dong Khoi (Uprising) Street by the Communists. The city still has its ornate opera house and its old French city hall, the Hôtel de Ville. The broad colonial boulevards leading to the Saigon River and the gracious stucco villas are other remnants of the French colonial presence. Grisly reminders of the more recent past can be seen at the city's war-related museums. Residents, however, prefer to look forward rather than back and are often perplexed by tourists' fascination with a war that ended 40 years ago.The Chinese influence on the country is still very much in evidence in the Cholon district, the city's Chinatown, but the modern office towers and international hotels that mark the skyline symbolize Vietnam's fixation on the future.

The city reflects its complex past through French colonial landmarks and significant war sites, such as the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. Meanwhile, its present-day identity is defined by bustling markets, vibrant street life, and contemporary commercial districts.

The Côn Ðao archipelago is a remote and atmospheric island group known for its unspoiled beaches, clear waters and moving history. Once the site of a brutal prison, from French colonial times until the 1970s, today it is a peaceful retreat where natural beauty and complex tales coexist in a striking island setting. 

Pulau Redang is one of Malaysia’s most beautiful island escapes, known for its powder-white sands, turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs. Part of a protected marine park, it offers exceptional snorkelling and diving, kayaking and other watersports amidst a tranquil natural setting surrounded by tropical rainforest.

The Anambas Archipelago is a remote cluster of islands in the waters of Southeast Asia, celebrated for its crystal-clear lagoons, coral reefs and untouched tropical landscapes. With limited development and a true sense of seclusion, it’s easily one of Indonesia’s most pristine island experiences. 

Your luxury Emerald yacht offers the best ways to explore here, with excursions by Zodiac, kayak or stand-up paddleboard straight from the Marina Platform, depending on conditions.

Pulau Tioman is a lush, jungle-covered island known for its dramatic mountain backdrop, clear waters and relaxed coastal villages. Tekek Bay serves as a gateway to the island’s natural beauty, offering opportunities for beach relaxation, snorkelling and exploration of its laid-back island lifestyle. 

Pulau Bintan has a relaxed blend of tropical landscapes and resort-style leisure just across the waters from Singapore. The island has many coastal resorts in the Lagoi area, but there are still peaceful beaches and extensive mangrove ecosystems that can be explored by boat. Its appeal lies in its natural surroundings and easy-going island atmosphere, making it an accessible and restful penultimate stop on your journey. 

The main island of Singapore is shaped like a flattened diamond, 42 km (26 miles) east to west and 23 km (14 miles) north to south. Near the northern peak is the causeway leading to West Malaysia—Kuala Lumpur is less than four hours away by car. It is at the southern foot where you will find most of the city-state’s action, with its gleaming office towers, working docks, and futuristic "supertrees," which are solar-powered and serve as vertical gardens. Offshore are Sentosa and over 60 smaller islands, most uninhabited, that serve as bases for oil refining or as playgrounds and beach escapes from the city. To the east is Changi International Airport, connected to the city by metro, bus, and a tree-lined parkway. Of the island's total land area, more than half is built up, with the balance made up of parkland, farmland, plantations, swamp areas, and rain forest. Well-paved roads connect all parts of the island, and Singapore city has an excellent, and constantly expanding, public transportation system. The heart of Singapore's history and its modern wealth are in and around the Central Business District. The area includes the skyscrapers in the Central Business District, the 19th-century Raffles Hotel, the convention centers of Marina Square, on up to the top of Ft. Canning. Although most of old Singapore has been knocked down to make way for the modern city, most colonial landmarks have been preserved in the CBD, including early-19th-century buildings designed by the Irish architect George Coleman.

Arrive in Singapore, a world-class city-state where futuristic architecture meets multicultural heritage. From iconic skyline views to vibrant districts and exceptional dining, Singapore offers a dynamic finale to your journey. An overnight stay gives you time to explore this global hub at leisure.

The main island of Singapore is shaped like a flattened diamond, 42 km (26 miles) east to west and 23 km (14 miles) north to south. Near the northern peak is the causeway leading to West Malaysia—Kuala Lumpur is less than four hours away by car. It is at the southern foot where you will find most of the city-state’s action, with its gleaming office towers, working docks, and futuristic "supertrees," which are solar-powered and serve as vertical gardens. Offshore are Sentosa and over 60 smaller islands, most uninhabited, that serve as bases for oil refining or as playgrounds and beach escapes from the city. To the east is Changi International Airport, connected to the city by metro, bus, and a tree-lined parkway. Of the island's total land area, more than half is built up, with the balance made up of parkland, farmland, plantations, swamp areas, and rain forest. Well-paved roads connect all parts of the island, and Singapore city has an excellent, and constantly expanding, public transportation system. The heart of Singapore's history and its modern wealth are in and around the Central Business District. The area includes the skyscrapers in the Central Business District, the 19th-century Raffles Hotel, the convention centers of Marina Square, on up to the top of Ft. Canning. Although most of old Singapore has been knocked down to make way for the modern city, most colonial landmarks have been preserved in the CBD, including early-19th-century buildings designed by the Irish architect George Coleman.

Welcome to vibrant Singapore, a dynamic island city-state where futuristic skylines, rich multicultural heritage, and lush waterfront gardens create an unforgettable first impression. Blending modern architecture with historic neighbourhoods, bustling hawker centres, and iconic landmarks, Singapore offers a captivating introduction to your journey. In the afternoon, you’ll be welcomed on board your luxury Emerald yacht, ready to embark on your voyage of discovery. 

Discover a World Heritage-listed city shaped by centuries of trade and colonial influence. Malacca is known for its bustling Jonker Street, historic Dutch square and A Famosa ruins. The city reflects a unique blend of Malay, Chinese, Portuguese, and Dutch history, visible in its landmarks and vibrant cultural traditions.

Kuala Lumpur, or KL as locals refer to it, intrigues visitors with its diversity and multicultural character. The city's old quarter features stretches of shop houses that hint at its colonial past, while modern buildings—including the iconic Petronas Towers—give a glimpse of its modern financial ambitions. The city is filled with culturally colorful quarters dedicated to Chinese, Malay, and Indian communities. New shopping malls with designer labels, five-star hotels, and top-notch restaurants also proliferate in this bustling city of 1.6 million.

Arriving in Port Klang, Malaysia’s principal port, you’ll have access to the dynamic capital city of Kuala Lumpur. Here, gleaming skyscrapers rise alongside historic landmarks, offering a striking blend of modern ambition and cultural heritage. From bustling markets and vibrant neighbourhoods to iconic sights such as the Petronas Twin Towers, a visit to Kuala Lumpur provides an engaging insight into Malaysia’s contemporary urban life. 

A peaceful island retreat known for its quiet beaches, clear waters and traditional fishing villages, Pangkor Island promises a slower pace of life. Lush jungle-covered hills and calm coastal views create an idyllic setting for relaxation and exploration.

A cultural melting pot celebrated for its World Heritage-listed George Town, Penang combines colonial architecture, street art and world-famous cuisine. The island’s vibrant atmosphere is matched by its picturesque coastline and rich multicultural heritage.

On Malaysia's west coast, Langkawi is an archipelago made up of 99 islands. The only real settlement is on the main island, Pulau Langkawi. This popular beach destination attracts divers from around the world to explore the sea life, and after being declared a duty-free zone back in the '80s, it has become a favorite shopping spot for visitors seeking cheap booze. You'll find sightseeing attractions—such as national parks, a cable car ride, and a large aquarium—throughout this island of lush rainforests. However, it's the long stretches of sandy beach that attract most visitors to this tropical paradise.

A stunning archipelago of 99 islands, Langkawi is famous for its dramatic landscapes of limestone cliffs, mangroves and turquoise waters. Duty-free shopping, cable car viewpoints and pristine beaches make it one of Malaysia’s most popular island destinations.

A hidden gem in the Andaman Sea, Ko Muk is known for its unspoiled beaches and vibrant crystal-clear waters. The island’s highlight is the famous Emerald Cave, a natural sea cavern leading to a secluded lagoon surrounded by towering cliffs.

Though few tourists linger here, Phuket Town, the provincial capital, is one of the more culturally interesting places on the island to spend half a day. About one-third of the island's population lives here, and the town is an intriguing mix of old Sino-Portuguese architecture and the influences of the Chinese, Muslims, and Thais that inhabit it. The old Chinese quarter along Talang Street is especially good for a stroll, as its history has not yet been replaced by modern concrete and tile. And this same area has a variety of antiques shops, art studios, and trendy cafés. Besides Talang, the major thoroughfares are Ratsada, Phuket, and Ranong roads. Ratsada connects Phuket Road (where you'll find the Tourism Authority of Thailand office) to Ranong Road, where there's an aromatic local market filled with fruits, vegetables, spices, and meats.

Your luxurious yacht journey comes to an end in Phuket, Thailand’s largest island and most famous beach destination. From here, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home or onward travels, taking with you cherished memories of your extraordinary journey. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Phuket after 12:00 PM.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such, Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will be operated unaltered from the itinerary stated above.