The Indochina Arc: Singapore to Hong Kong

Pricing is based on departure date: 04 January 2028

This itinerary strings together four of Southeast Asia's most culturally distinct nations in a single northward sweep from Singapore to Hong Kong, without a single wasted port. Ko Samui and Pattaya anchor the Thai chapter, Ho Chi Minh City brings colonial and wartime Vietnam into vivid focus, Halong Bay delivers one of Asia's most otherworldly natural spectacles, and Hong Kong closes the voyage with the most dramatic harbour arrival in the world. It is Southeast Asia told in its correct, flowing order from the equator northward, as the South China Sea always intended.

Itinerary Map

Itinerary highlights

Singapor

City-states are rare in the present day—and none are quite like Singapore. In the 20th century, the Southeast Asian nation hurtled itself into the modern world, and it continues to expand its state-of-the-art transportation system and build its edgy skyline. Yet Singapore's urban plan wisely maintained its intimate neighborhoods, many with streets lined with colorful shophouses (a type of building unique to parts of Asia, with businesses located on their ground floors and residences above). Add the city’s mix of ethnic groups—mainly Malays, Chinese and Indians—and you get a vibrant cultural scene that attracts a cosmopolitan, international community.

Singapore's food scene—which is arguably the world's most dynamic and runs the gamut from beloved street hawkers to Michelin-starred venues—would merit a trip alone, as would its never-ending shopping options. But the city is also packed with world-class museums, many designed by celebrated architects, and it hosts many major international events, such as the Formula One Grand Prix. Yet only about half of the 720-square-kilometer (278-square-mile) island is developed, which leaves plenty of room for parks and open spaces such as the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, where an old-growth forest still thrives.

Nathon (Koh Samui), Thailand

Koh Samui can feel like a screensaver landscape. As if designed by Mother Nature for posters, calendars and daydreams, it’s Thailand’s most famous island for a number of reasons. The beach-fringed coast is edged with vivid, blue water that’s a surf-and-sand playground for snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, building sandcastles and simply lounging. Along with busy food stalls and restaurants where you can find a whole world of cuisine made with local produce and fresh seafood as well as authentic Thai dishes, the lively streets are lined with bars, boutiques, markets and spas.

By contrast, the island’s interior can provide moments of reflection and replenishing solitude. Enter the dense, hilly jungles for hikes to ancient temples and pristine waterfalls and quaint villages where you can experience true Thai hospitality.

With dreamy landscapes and island adventures from boat excursions to nature treks, you'll soon be enchanted by Koh Samui.

Pattaya (Bangkok), Thailand

Located on the Gulf of Thailand, Pattaya beckons with golden sand stretches and intriguing cultural marvels. Though Pattaya shares the high energy typical of a big city, there’s no rush to your exploration. Shop for local handicrafts at the Pattaya Floating Market, admire the ornate details of the Sanctuary of Truth and Wat Phra Yai, or snorkel in the crystalline waters off the coast of a nearby island.

Phu My, Vietnam

The real draw of the port of Phu My is actually 80 kilometers (50 miles) away, in bustling, frenetic Ho Chi Minh City. Here, motorbikes hurtle down the wide streets and crossing the road is like a real-life game of Frogger. Its hectic pace is somewhat tempered by tranquil parks, peaceful pagodas and timeless alleyways.

Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a fascinating mix of high and low, old and new. On its streets, French-colonial architecture vies for attention with glistening modern skyscrapers; sleek designer malls sit alongside bustling local markets; and glamorous fine-dining restaurants are just around the corner from street-food stalls.

The best way to explore the city is on foot. Most major tourist venues are in compact District 1, which is easy to get around. Or hop on the back of a xe om (motorbike taxi) to see the city like a local. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll be swept along in the pulsating energy of it all.

Halong Bay, Vietnam

Like a combination of Thailand's famous limestone islanded Phang Nga Bay and old Hong Kong's harbor with its dragon-sailed junks, Vietnam's Halong Bay is fast making its way to the top of everyone's Asian must-see travel list. The bay and its almost two thousand islands were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 giving an official stamp of recognition to this natural wonder that has captivated painters and poets for centuries. Halong City has several markets and restaurants worth visiting, and is also a convenient base before setting out for places like Cat Ba Island and some of the smaller islets with their underground caves and biodiverse wildlife. As you sail the bay or look at it from the mainland, you may feel like you've stepped into a postcard or a painting from the classic era of Vietnamese art.

Some travelers come here for active days filled with kayaking, caving and islet-hopping but you can also sit back and simply sail through this stunning bay or take a day trip to fishing villages with their colorful markets. If you are up for venturing farther afield, it's a three-hour trip (each way) to Hanoi but worth the effort if you have yet to visit the city.

Hong Kong, China

Among the world's most glamorous and cosmopolitan cities, Hong Kong sits on the southern coast of China at the Pearl River estuary of the South China Sea. It comprises Hong Kong Island, where the Central Business District and most affluent areas and attractions are, and, on the mainland, Kowloon and the New Territories. Hong Kong is a regional and global hub for banking, shipping, fashion and food, boasting more than 60 Michelin-starred restaurants. Its five-star hotels are among the most elegant to be found anywhere; many are set in the towering skyscrapers that carpet Hong Kong Island's steep slopes and light up its skyline so beautifully.Officially known as Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, Hong Kong maintains a high degree of autonomy relative to the rest of China, even after it was reunified with China in 1997 after 156 years of British rule ended.Many cruises in Southeast and East Asia start or end in Hong Kong, and it's definitely a great city in which to spend a day or two sightseeing and finding cultural things to do before or after the voyage. Smaller cruise ships can dock right in Victoria Harbour, for front-row seats of the stunning skyline. Unfortunately, pollution is a problem, and sometimes the views are obscured because of it.

Your Ship: Noordam

Noordam combines Holland America Line's classic elegance with modern amenities, offering a refined and comfortable way to explore Asia. With spacious public areas, attentive service and a relaxed atmosphere, guests can enjoy a memorable journey both onboard and ashore.

Dining Experiences
Enjoy a variety of dining venues, from the elegant Dining Room serving expertly prepared cuisine to specialty restaurants featuring premium steaks, Italian favourites and fresh regional flavours. Casual cafés and lounges provide additional options for light meals and refreshments throughout the day.

Entertainment & Enrichment
Experience live music, stage performances and engaging entertainment designed to suit a range of interests. Destination-focused enrichment programs and cultural presentations provide deeper insights into the regions visited, enhancing your journey at every port of call.

Relaxation & Wellness
Take time to unwind at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, relax by one of the ship's pools or maintain your fitness routine in the well-equipped fitness centre. Comfortable lounges and expansive outdoor decks provide the perfect setting to enjoy ocean views and peaceful moments at sea.

Classic Holland America Experience
Known for its warm hospitality and attentive service, Noordam offers a welcoming mid-sized ship experience that balances comfort, enrichment and destination-focused cruising. Its elegant atmosphere and thoughtfully designed spaces make it ideal for discovering the diverse cultures and landscapes of Southeast Asia.

Singapore, Ko Samui, Pattaya (Bangkok), Phu My (Ho Chi Minh City/Saigon), Halong Bay, Hong Kong

All fares are displayed in AUD, and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.