Holiday Overview
From Hong Kong travel south on your fantasic Holland America cruise stopping at Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand before finising in Singapore. Explore Manila’s historic Intramuros. Wander a Puerto Princesa butterfly garden. See Ho Chi Minh City from an xe om (motorcycle cab.) Savor 5-star Thai cuisine on a Bangkok overnight.
Far East Discovery Cruise includes:
- International Flights
- 1 Night Singapore accommodation
- 14 Night Holland America Cruise
- 2 Nights Hong Kong accommodation
- Airport Transfers
Day 1 - Hong Kong
Arrive in Hong Kong, take a private transfer to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 2 - Hong Kong
Spend today exploring 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 a great city in which to spend a day sightseeing and finding cultural things to do before the voyage.
Day 3 - Cruise from Hong Kong
Transfer from your hotel to Holland America Lines Westerdam for your fantastic 14 night cruise.
Day 4 - Depart Hong Kong
Explore the Westerdam as you depart Hong Kong.
Day 5 - Day at Sea
Explore the Westerdam as you spend the day at sea.
Day 6 - Manila, Philippines
Fast paced and endlessly fascinating, modern Manila is one of the most densely packed cities in the world, with some 1.6 million residents. Characterized by intense contrasts—soaring skyscrapers next to shantytowns, atmospheric food markets as well as air-conditioned malls—it’s also an impressively multicultural city, with a swirl of languages, cuisines and cultures. To catch some historic atmosphere, head to Manila's oldest neighborhood, the fortress enclave of Intramuros, which was founded in the 16th century and features sights such as Fort Santiago, Casa Manila and San Agustin Church.
In the upscale financial centre of Makati, visitors can find an array of bars, spas and restaurants in addition to malls like Glorietta, the landscaped Greenbelt Park and Ayala Museum, which showcases archaeological artifacts and indigenous textiles and art. In and around Rizal Park are several good museums, while the creative spirit of the city—from live music venues to independent art galleries—is sprinkled throughout several districts, and spaces such as the Cultural Centre of the Philippines host shows, film screenings and plays. For day trips, Corregidor Island should not be missed.
Day 7 - Day at Sea
Explore the Westerdam as you spend the day at sea.
Day 8 - Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan in the Philippines, is home to 250,000 people and offers a vastly different experience from Manila’s often overwhelming big-city dynamism. For many travellers, it’s simply a gateway to the resorts of El Nido, also on Palawan Island. Those who spend some time here, however, will discover a city that combines a laid-back vibe with beautiful sandy beaches and a wealth of marine life. Nearby, there are also lush mountains, rain forests, waterfalls, and dramatic limestone cliffs. Among the most popular sights are the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, where visitors are welcome to celebrate Mass accompanied by choral singing; the Palawan Heritage Centre, which displays local artworks and crafts; and the peaceful Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden and Tribal Village.
The city's biggest draws, however, are a boat trip through the limestone caves of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, and the beaches and islands scattered around scenic Honda Bay—perfect for snorkelling, sunbathing and picnics. Speaking of food, a visit to the most famous restaurant in the city, Kalui, is guaranteed to be a memorable experience for seafood fans; adventurous foodies can order crocodile sisig, a traditional—and delicious—stir-fry dish.
Day 9 - At Sea
Spend a leisurely day at sea.
Day 10 - Kota Kinabalu, Sabahlaem, Malaysia
Kota Kinabalu, also known as KK to those in the know, is a modern city that has not forgotten its roots. Located on the northwest coast of the Island of Borneo, the world's third-largest island, KK is also home to a modern arts scene, rich culinary heritage, long sandy beaches, pristine coral reefs, tropical rain forests, diverse cultures and beautiful flora and fauna.
Discover Borneo's indigenous history; explore Kinabalu Park in search of rare orchids; visit the Sabah State Museum and City Mosque; and enjoy the antics of Borneo's most famous residents, orangutans, whose name means "people of the forest" in Malay.
Day 11 - Day at Sea
Spend the day at lesiure on board while at sea.
Day 12 - Phu My, (Ho Cho Minh) Vietnam
The real draw of the port of Phu My is 80 kilometres (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.
Day 13 - At Sea
Spend today at lesuire.
Day 14 - Laem Chabang (Bangkok), Thailand
Thailand, known as Siam until 1932, is the only country in Southeast Asia (and one of the few in the world) never to have been colonized by a European power. Its capital, Bangkok, reflects the country's unique status. It has embraced modernity on its own terms as the seat of a beloved monarchy that dates back to the 13th century. In this city, Buddhist temples and gilded palaces coexist with the bustle of one of Asia's major metropolises. The contrast between the golden glow of sunrise along the Chao Phraya River, which runs through the municipality, and the neon lights of downtown can feel intoxicating. There are few places in the world where you can spend the morning visiting a centuries-old stupa, have lunch at one of the world's top Michelin-starred restaurants and then shop for exquisite silk garments. And wherever you explore, you'll be struck by the warm welcome you receive. "The Land of Smiles" may be a cliché and a tourism-marketing slogan, but it's also a fitting nickname for Thailand.
Many of the country's most important historic areas can be found not far from Bangkok. Ayutthaya, the former Thai capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive Buddhist ruins. The 16th-century town of Chachoengsao is known for its many temples, including Wat Saman Rattanaram with its 22-meter-long (72-foot-long) statue of the Hindu god Ganesha. In Pattaya, on the coast, the Pattaya Elephant Village is a sanctuary for Asian elephants.
Whether you travel by boat, bus or tuk-tuk (a three-wheeled motorized taxi) to explore Bangkok's temples, palaces, and markets, be prepared to fall in love with this city that somehow manages to be both chaotic and captivating at the same time.
Day 15 - Laem Chabang (Bangkok), Thailand
Today maybe take a short excursion before sailing to Singapore at 18:00.
Day 16 - At Sea
Spend the day at leisure
Day 17 - Singapore
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 neighbourhoods, many with streets lined with colourful 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.
Day 18 - Singapore - UK
Transfer to the airport for your homeward flight.
Alternatively speak to your consultant regarding options for lengthening your stay in Singapore, or extend the adventure onto another part of Asia.
Image Gallery
Noordam
Hong Kong
Vietnam
Singapore
Bangkok
Kota Kinabalu
Manila
Singapore
Puerto Princesa, Cathedral
Ho Chi Minh
Puerto Princesa
Singapore
Manila
Hong Kong
Bangkok
Alternative Holidays That May Interest You
Below you will find a small selection of 2024, 2025 holidays that may interest you. Remember, we tailor-make each holiday to your exact needs, so please call us on 0800 270 0069 and let one of our Holiday experts design the perfect trip for you
Vietnam Holidays
Highlights of Vietnam
- 9 Nights
- Ho Chi Minh
- Hoi An
- Hue
- Hanoi
- Halong Bay
Indochina Multi Country Holidays
Bangkok, Cambodia & Mekong Cruise
- 9 Nights
- Bangkok
- Siem Reap
- Phnom Penh
- Mekong Delta Cruise
- Ho Chi Minh
India Holidays
Royal Rajasthan and Mumbai
- 13 Nights
- Delhi
- Agra
- Jaipur
- Jodhpur
- Jawai
- Udaipur
- Mumbai
Indonesia Holidays
Singapore, The Best of Java & Bali
- 12 Nights
- Singapore
- Yogyakarta
- Borobodur
- Blitar
- Mount Bromo
- Ijen Crater
- Bali
Vietnam Holidays
Highlights of Vietnam & Cambodia
- 11 Nights
- Hanoi
- Halong Bay
- Hoi An
- Hue
- Ho Chi Minh
- Phnom Penh
- Siem Reap
Japan Holidays
Celebrity Best of Japan Cruise
- 15 Nights
- Tokyo / Yokohama
- Yokohama
- Mt Fuji
- At Sea
- Kobe
- Kochi
- Hiroshima
- Nagasaki
- Busan
- Hakodate
- Aomori
Malaysia Holidays
Borneo's Best of Both Worlds
- 13 Nights
- Kuala Lumpur
- Sandakan
- Kinabatangan River
- Kota Kinabalu
China Holidays
Landscapes of China
- 13 Nights
- Shanghai
- Chengdu
- Lijiang
- Guilin
- Yangshuo
- Hong Kong
Thailand Holidays
Indochina - Unique & Boutique
- 13 Nights
- Bangkok
- Siem Reap
- Ho Chi Minh
- Phu Quoc
Indochina Multi Country Holidays
Highlights of Indochina
- 13 Nights
- Hanoi
- Hoi An
- Ho Chi Minh
- Siem Reap
- Bangkok
India Wildlife Holidays
Indian Family Adventure
- 9 Nights
- Delhi
- Agra
- Ranthambore
- Jaipur
India Holidays
Historic Lower Ganges Cruise
- 8 Nights
- Kolkata
- Ganges River Cruising
Malaysia Holidays
Malaysia Heritage Trail
- 8 Nights
- Singapore
- Malacca
- Kuala Lumpur
- Ipoh
- Penang
Thailand Holidays
Bangkok, Beach & Buddhas
- 12 Nights
- Bangkok
- Ayutthaya
- Amphawa
- Phuket
India Holidays
South India Coast to Coast
- 14 Nights
- Chennai
- Mahabalipuram
- Puducherry
- Thanjavur
- Karaikudi
- Periyar
- Madurai
- Alappuzha
- Kochi
Malaysia Holidays
Luxurious Malaysia
- 8 Nights
- Malacca
- Kuala Lumpur
- Cameron Highlands
- Pangkor Island
Vietnam Holidays
Vietnam and Thailand Cruise
- 14 Nights
- Hong Kong
- Halong Bay
- Nha Trang
- Ho Chi Minh
- Bangkok
- Singapore
Vietnam Holidays
Vietnam Winter Warmer
- 10 Nights
- Ho Chi Minh
- Mekong Delta
- Phu Quoc
Indochina Multi Country Holidays
Lost Kingdoms of Indochina
- 11 Nights
- Phnom Penh
- Siem Reap
- Hoi An
- Hanoi
- Vientiane
- Luang Prabang
China Holidays
Magnificent Yangtze & China Highlights
- 11 Nights
- Beijing
- Xian
- Yangtze River Cruising
- Shanghai
India Holidays
Rajasthan - Unique & Boutique
- 14 Nights
- Delhi
- Agra
- Jaipur
- Jodhpur
- Jawai
- Udaipur
Japan Holidays
Iconic Japan
- 11 Nights
- Tokyo
- Tsumago
- Kanazawa
- Hiroshima
- Kyoto
- Kyoto / Nara
Sri Lanka Holidays
Snapshot of Sri Lanka
- 6 Nights
- Colombo
- Sigiriya
- Kandy
- Nuwara Eliya
- Yala
- Beruwala
Cambodia Holidays
Cambodia Beach Extension
- 6 Nights
- Phnom Penh
- Cambodia Beach Resorts
Thailand Holidays
Bangkok & Highlights of the North
- 7 Nights
- Bangkok
- Chiang mai
- Chiang Saen
- Chiang Rai
Indochina Multi Country Holidays
Mysterious Indochina
- 10 Nights
- Phnom Penh
- Siem Reap
- Luang Prabang
- Phonsavan
- Vientiane
India Holidays
Classical India with Bandhavgarh
- 8 Nights
- Delhi
- Agra
- Varanasi
- Khajuraho
- Bandhavgarh
Myanmar Holidays
Myanmar in Depth
- 12 Nights
- Yangon
- Kalaw
- Inle Lake
- Pyin Oo Lwin
- Mandalay
- Irrawaddy River Cruising
- Bagan
Sri Lanka Holidays
Sri Lanka In depth
- 13 Nights
- Colombo
- Anuradhapura
- Sigiriya
- Kandy
- Nuwara Eliya
- Udawalawe National Park Safari
- Beruwala
Nepal Holidays
Annapurna Trekking in Style
- 11 Nights
- Kathmandu
- Pokhara
- Annapurna Region
India Holidays
Foothills of the Himalayas
- 11 Nights
- Delhi
- Amritsar
- Dharamshala
- Pragpur
- Shimla
India Holidays
Deccan India, with Goa & Mumbai
- 12 Nights
- Hyderabad
- Hampi
- Badami
- Goa
- Mumbai
Vietnam Holidays
Cuisine and Culture of Vietnam
- 11 Nights
- Hanoi
- Halong Bay
- Hoi An
- Mekong Delta
- Ho Chi Minh
Thailand Holidays
Bangkok and Thai Island Hopper
- 12 Nights
- Bangkok
- Koh Lanta
- Koh Phi Phi
Singapore Holidays
Far East Discovery Cruise
- 17 Nights
- Hong Kong
- Kota Kinabalu
- Ho Chi Minh
- Bangkok
- Singapore
Vietnam Holidays
Complete Vietnam
- 14 Nights
- Hanoi
- Halong Bay
- Hue
- Hoi An
- Phu Quoc
- Ho Chi Minh
- Mekong Delta
Vietnam Cruise Holidays
Mekong in Style
- 14 Nights
- Phnom Penh
- Mekong Delta Cruise
- Ho Chi Minh
- Nha Trang
- Hampi
Vietnam Holidays
Vietnam Family Adventure
- 12 Nights
- Hanoi
- Halong Bay
- Hue
- Hoi An
- Ho Chi Minh
Japan Holidays
Japan In Depth
- 13 Nights
- Tokyo
- Nikko
- Matsumoto
- Nagoya
- Ise-Shima
- Osaka
- Hiroshima
Japan Holidays
Silversea Japan Cruise
- 15 Nights
- Osaka
- At Sea
- Kagoshima (Kyushu Island)
- Nagasaki
- Busan
- Kanazawa
- Niigata
- Akita
- Aomori
- Hakodate (Hokkaido)
- Tokyo
Thailand Holidays
Bangkok, Beach & Elephants
- 10 Nights
- Bangkok
- Khao Lak
- Khao Sok National Park
Round the World Trips
Round the World Westbound
- 19 Nights
- Los Angeles
- Auckland
- Sydney
- Singapore
- Delhi
- Agra
Multi-Country Holidays
Round the World Eastbound
- 23 Nights
- Beijing
- Hong Kong
- Auckland
- Melbourne
- Sydney
- Los Angeles
- New York