The Steppes Travel Group cruise on the Mekong River offers a rich and varied tapestry of life found on any waterway worldwide. A panoply of busy and colorful markets, floating, remote villages, and ancient cities, the Mekong is a cultural conduit that links the diverse cultures of six countries.

Hearty souls can cruise the length of the 2,703 miles from Vietnam to China.

But the heart of the river is in Vietnam and Cambodia, where Steppes arranges custom-designed cruises to your clients specifications.

Itineraries include the lush, densely populated Mekong Delta and the extraordinary Khmer ruins of Angkor. Experience daily land-based guided excursions to observe traditional river life.

Visit a Cham village where the people are among the Muslim minority in Vietnam. View the mosque and vendors selling vegetables from their wheeled stalls. Visit Phnom Penh and its Royal Palace and spectacular Silver Pagoda. Tour Chong Koh, a silk weaving village. Cruise past houses built on stilts in the fishing villages with their boats tied below. See stunning bird life and beautiful temples along the river banks.

The ships which Steppes Travel Group use are the Mekong Pandaw ships. They are relatively small, specially designed for the Mekong, and have a “no groups” policy. Each cabin has a balcony. The easiest way to explore the rural charms of Cambodia and Vietnam is to cruise the Mekong in the welcoming and relaxed atmosphere of these comfortable ships with excellent staff and wonderful regional food. Land-based excursions are available.

There are regular departures of the ships from Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) to Siem Reap and from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh.

Rates start at $2,552 per person, depending on the season. They include transfers at the beginning and end of trip, seven night/eight day cruise with accommodation and meals, guided shore excursions, local drinks, entrance fees and guide services.

Steppes Travel Group, www.steppestravel.com