Southeast Asia & Hong Kong

Call at Pattaya’s Sanctuary of Truth, Viharn Sien and Khao Chi Chan during a full-day excursion. Depart the pier for the one-hour drive to Pattaya to begin at the Sanctuary of Truth. This all-wood structure is one of Thailand’s most extraordinary architectural landmarks—construction began in 1981 and continues today, as parts of the building are continually repaired and re-carved, a reflection of wisdom as an ongoing pursuit. Explore the sanctuary, then return to your motor coach for a sightseeing tour en route to a local venue for lunch. After, head to Viharn Sien, a museum and shrine built in the style of a Chinese palace and home to Thailand’s most impressive collection of Chinese cultural objects. Cap your day at Khao Chi Chan where you will see its colossal Buddha image, one of the largest in the world, carved directly into the face of a limestone cliff.

Immerse yourself in the culture of Bangkok as you explore this fascinating city. With your guide, drive to the Thai capital’s most important landmark, Phra Borom Maha Ratcha Wang. Since 1782, it has housed the kings of the Chakri dynasty, the rulers of Siam. The Grand Palace—with its gold temples, pavilions and gardens—centers on Wat Phra Kaew, the temple that houses the Emerald Buddha. It is Thailand’s most revered icon. Continue to Wat Pho, home to the Reclining Buddha. Ferry across the Chao Phraya River for lunch at a riverside Thai restaurant. Then cruise along the Chao Phraya, the heart of Bangkok. Explore the city’s legendary khlongs (canals). Pass Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), adorned with ceramics that glitter in the sun. After your excursion, return to your ship.

Experience one of Bangkok’s lesser-known treasures on a full-day visit to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. King Ramathibodi I founded the city in 1350; it served as the kingdom’s capital until the Burmese conquered and destroyed it in 1767. The magic of this former capital can be found in its stunning temples, majestic statues and tropical gardens. In all, there are eight forts and 22 gates around the palace structures. Explore two royal monasteries that were important temples: Wat Phra Si Sanphet, situated within the Royal Palace grounds and used to conduct Royal Court ceremonies, and Wat Maha That, where the Buddha’s relics were enshrined. Discover the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, a captivating collection of pavilions in a variety of Thai, Chinese, Italian and Victorian architectural styles set amid a beautiful garden. After lunch, return to your ship.

Taste some of the most delicious and unusual tropical fruits and see where they are grown on this farm visit. You will receive a warm and friendly welcome at Supattra Land Orchard in Rayong Province. Supattra Land is a fruit paradise, with 320 acres growing more than 25 varieties of the best tropical fruits such as durian, rambutan, mangosteen, starfruit, dragonfruit, jackfruit and passion fruit. Explore the farm on an open air bus and enjoy delicious samples from various displays, or just pick the ripe fruit straight off the trees. There is also a rubber tree section where your guide will demonstrate rubber tapping, and an apiary where the beekeeper will explain the care of the hive and offer you a taste of fresh honey straight from the comb. At the end of the tour you will savor the farm’s hydroponically grown lettuce alongside a delicious papaya salad, known as som tam.

Admire Pattaya’s elaborate Sanctuary of Truth, an all-wood structure known for its soaring roof and visionary art. Described as the “magnificence of heaven recreated on earth,” this wooden monument stands 340 feet on a commanding promontory overlooking the Bay of Pattaya. It is one of the most distinguished architectural monuments in Thailand, built entirely without nails and adorned with exquisite carvings and sculptures that cover every square inch. These are all visionary in nature, representing Thai, Khmer, Indian and Chinese beliefs on themes like the ancient vision of Earth, ancient knowledge and Eastern philosophy. Though the temple appears old, it was created in 1981 and is not scheduled to be fully complete until 2050. After exploring it you will spend some time in lively Pattaya City, and enjoy stunning sea views from Pattaya View Point, which lies just beyond the sanctuary.

Immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine as our Executive Chef leads you on an interactive culinary adventure. Journey by mini-coach to the local market to handpick ingredients under the guidance of our Chef. Later this evening, you will dine on regional dishes prepared by our experienced culinary team, using produce from the market. As you and your fellow guests enjoy this delicious creation at The Kitchen Table, you will also observe the art of plating with each dish. From fresh market fare to cooking techniques and elegant presentation, experience firsthand how your ship’s world-class culinary staff brings distinct, local flavors from the market to your taste buds. It is an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind opportunity to shop, interact and dine with the masters.

Discover the exotic beauty of Bangkok’s primary flower market and cruise the bustling Chao Phraya River. Stroll the many stalls brimming with brightly colored flowers at the renowned Pak Khlong Talat market. A market has existed on this site since the late 18th century; the current incarnation has been operating for more than 60 years. Breathe in the fragrant air as you walk among the extensive arrangements of fresh roses, sunflowers, lotus flowers and more. Then, embark on a private boat cruise along the bustling Chao Phraya and some of its peaceful canals. Watch as the river buses and ferries ply their trade, and see local life along the water. Disembark your vessel and set out to view Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple decorated entirely with colored porcelain and seashells. After lunch, continue through the Old City before returning to your ship.

Explore the ornately decorated Buddhist temple of Wat Pho, or the “Temple of the Reclining Buddha.” One of Thailand’s most revered temples, Wat Pho dates back to the 17th century, making it one of Bangkok’s largest and oldest. Its complex is home to more than 1,000 Buddha images as well as its famous Reclining Buddha. Gaze upon this immense statue, which measures 150 feet long and 50 feet high; the Buddha’s body is covered in gold leaf, with mother-of-pearl inlays in its eyes and on the soles of its feet. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere as you stroll through the complex, viewing the many statues and intricately detailed murals that cover the temple’s walkways. After lunch, take a ride in a tuk-tuk—an open-motor tricycle—on a scenic drive to Chinatown. Set out on foot to explore more with your guide before returning to your ship.

Set out with your guide to explore vibrant Bangkok, calling at famous night markets and an iconic Buddhist temple. Begin your journey with free time to explore Asiatique The Riverfront, a former commercial port-turned-night-market set on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Then, board your motor coach and drive to the old city to view its array of illuminated temples and landmarks. Stop at Pak Khlong Talat, Thailand’s largest wholesale flower market, open 24 hours a day, and Wat Suthat Thep Wararam, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the country. At Tep Bar, a watering hole hidden amid old Chinese and colonial buildings, try a shot of Thai herbal whiskey, reputed to have medicinal benefits. Finally, walk to Yaowarat Road, Bangkok's bustling Chinatown district, where you will savor a sampling of local street foods before returning to your ship.

See the Sanctuary of Truth, a 340-foot wooden structure perched on a cliff, and relax at a beachside resort. Embark on a scenic drive to Pattaya View Point to view its sacred monument. Crafted entirely without nails, this architectural wonder is adorned with intricate carvings, each telling stories rooted in Thai, Khmer, Indian and Chinese spiritual traditions. Next, head to the district of Na Jomtien Beach, known for its stretch of sandy beaches, upscale resorts and a variety of popular activities. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore the amenities of the club at your leisure. Then, enjoy a lunch accompanied by a soft drink or a glass of local beer. Return to your awaiting ship relaxed and rejuvenated.

Immerse yourself in Thailand’s cultural treasures during visits to the Grand Palace and ancient Ayutthaya. Discover some of Bangkok’s most celebrated sites during an overnight stay in the city, where you will call at the Grand Palace and walk through the magnificent temples of Ayutthaya. Please note: sites on this program are not accessible and cannot accommodate guests who rely on a walker, wheelchair or motorized scooter/wheelchair.

Day 1 – Bangkok, Thailand

Transfer from your ship to the 18th-century Grand Palace, once home to the Kings of Siam—modeled on Ayutthaya’s old royal palace, it consists of dozens of buildings, temples and courtyards. View its towering spires and colorful tiled roofs, and see its famed Emerald Buddha statue. After lunch, travel by tuk-tuk to the Pak Khlong Talad market, then embark on a boat ride along the city’s waterways. Later, check into your hotel and enjoy dinner, accompanied by a dance performance. (B, L, D)

Day 2 – Bangkok, Thailand

After breakfast, depart for Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand. Founded during the mid-14th century, this ancient city was once one of the largest and wealthiest in the world. Explore this UNESCO-listed site and visit two of its major temples, Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Maha That. Following lunch at a nearby restaurant, continue to the Bang Pa-In Palace to view its impressive collection of pavilions, designed with international influences. After, return to your ship. (B, L)