The RV Toum Tiou 2: A Mekong River Cruise Like No Other

Boarding the RV Toum Tiou 2

As I stand on the deck of the RV Toum Tiou 2, watching the sun rise over the majestic Mekong River, it’s hard to imagine a more perfect setting. The light plays across the water, shimmering as the river, which has cradled generations of life, flows lazily past. A gentle breeze rustles through the palm fronds, and the soft hum of the boat is a constant reminder that we’re embarking on something truly special.

As purser aboard this incredible vessel, I have the unique privilege of being at the heart of the Toum Tiou 2 experience — a river cruise that offers guests not just a vacation, but an immersion into one of the world’s most vibrant and culturally rich regions: the Mekong River basin, which flows through both Vietnam and Cambodia. 

RV Toum Tiou 2 Lounge

There’s a certain magic that comes with traveling down this ancient waterway, a river that is as much a lifeblood for the people of these two countries as it is a symbol of Southeast Asia’s past, present, and future. From the lush, bustling delta of Vietnam to the serene, rural landscapes of Cambodia, the Toum Tiou 2 offers a journey that connects guests to both the history and the heart of this remarkable region. It’s not just a cruise; it’s a journey of discovery, connection, and, most importantly, unforgettable memories.

Introducing the RV Toum Tiou 2: The Ship, The Journey, The Experience

RV Toum Tiou 2 Crew

The RV Toum Tiou 2 is the latest addition to our fleet of luxury river cruisers, and I couldn’t be prouder of what she represents. A sister ship to the original Toum Tiou, she has been designed with both elegance and functionality in mind. The goal was simple: to offer an unparalleled Mekong River experience — one that blends luxurious comfort with authentic cultural exploration.

The ship itself is a modern masterpiece, yet it carries with it a sense of history, echoing the design of classic riverboats while embracing contemporary amenities. Her sleek hull allows her to glide effortlessly through the Mekong’s winding waterways, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. The interiors are as luxurious as they are welcoming, with each of our 14 suites thoughtfully appointed to offer the best of both local and international design aesthetics. The large windows provide each guest with their own front-row seat to the ever-changing scenery outside — whether it’s the lush jungle, traditional riverside villages, or bustling markets on the water.

Fun Times

But what truly sets the Toum Tiou 2 apart is the intimate size of the vessel. With just a maximum of 28 passengers aboard, we are able to offer a level of personalized service that is simply unmatched. There’s no sense of rushing or crowded spaces. Every guest can expect a tailored experience, where their comfort, interests, and needs are at the forefront. It’s a luxury experience, but one that doesn’t feel stuffy or impersonal. In fact, one of the things I love most about working aboard the Toum Tiou 2 is the community we build among guests — friendships form easily, conversations flow freely, and everyone feels like they belong here.

A Day in the Life Aboard the Toum Tiou 2

Tour Guide & Mitch, the Purser

Being purser on the Toum Tiou 2 means that every day brings something new. Our itineraries are carefully crafted to showcase the very best of the Mekong, offering a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Whether it’s cruising through the tranquil waters of the delta, taking in the sights of bustling riverside markets, or visiting historical temples, there’s always something to see, learn, and experience.

A typical day aboard the Toum Tiou 2 begins with a leisurely breakfast on the sun deck or in the dining room. Guests enjoy a selection of freshly made pastries, local fruits, and Western-style favourites, all accompanied by the rich aroma of Vietnamese coffee or freshly squeezed juice. There’s a relaxed atmosphere in the morning as we gently cruise from one port of call to another, and I often find myself chatting with guests over breakfast, hearing their stories, and getting a glimpse of the memories they’re creating.

Shore Excursion

The early morning is often spent visiting one of the local villages that dot the banks of the Mekong. These villages are a testament to the resilience of the people who live along the river. On our shore excursions, guests have the opportunity to see how the local communities live and work — from traditional fishing methods to the cultivation of rice and fruit. The floating markets are particularly popular, and they’re truly a sight to behold. There’s something magical about the way the boats come to life in the early morning light, vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, all while navigating the winding canals and rivers.

Our local guides, who are passionate about the region’s history and culture, provide insightful commentary throughout the day. They offer a window into the way of life along the river, and guests have plenty of opportunities to ask questions, interact with the locals, and capture memories through their cameras or simply by soaking in the vibrant sights and sounds of the market.

Lounging Around

By afternoon, the ship typically departs for another leg of the journey, cruising through the mesmerizing landscapes of the Mekong Delta. This is the time when many guests retreat to the comfort of their suites, enjoying the cool breeze on the sun deck, reading a book, or just taking in the beauty of the riverbanks. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind.

Of course, there’s always something to do for those who want to be more active. From cooking classes that explore the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine to tai chi sessions on the sun deck, the Toum Tiou 2 offers a wide range of activities to suit different interests. My role as purser also means I’m on hand to ensure that everything is running smoothly and that every guest feels pampered and well-cared for.

Cruising Down the River

By evening, the mood shifts from exploration to relaxation. The sun begins to set, casting a golden glow over the river. This is when the real magic happens — as guests gather in the lounge or on the sun deck, cocktails in hand, to watch the sky change colors. The day’s shore excursion might be followed by a multi-course dinner featuring some of the finest Vietnamese dishes — fresh fish, tender meats, and plenty of aromatic herbs and spices. The meals aboard the Toum Tiou 2 are a highlight, with our talented chefs preparing dishes that reflect the authentic flavors of the Mekong region, while also incorporating international influences. It’s a culinary journey in itself.

After dinner, guests often stay on the deck to chat, enjoy live music, or simply gaze out at the starlit sky. The pace of life on the Toum Tiou 2 is deliberately slow — there’s no rush, no agenda beyond enjoying the present moment. It’s a rare kind of luxury, one that allows guests to truly connect with the river, the culture, and the people around them.

Why the Toum Tiou 2 is the Best Way to Experience the Mekong

Sunset on the River

There are plenty of ways to explore the Mekong River — from large, impersonal cruise ships to bus tours that only skim the surface. But what makes the RV Toum Tiou 2 such a standout experience is the depth of connection she offers, both with the river and with the local communities we visit. This is not just a river cruise; it’s a cultural immersion.

One of the things that makes the Toum Tiou 2 unique is our commitment to responsible tourism. We aim to leave a positive impact on the communities we visit, and we work closely with local artisans, farmers, and boat operators to ensure that our excursions are beneficial to them as well. Guests have the opportunity to purchase locally made products, such as handcrafted textiles and pottery, knowing that their purchases are helping to sustain local economies and preserve traditional crafts.

Sampan Boat Ride

The small size of the ship allows us to navigate the smaller, more remote channels of the Mekong, giving our guests the opportunity to see parts of the river that larger ships simply cannot reach. The intimate scale of the experience fosters personal connections, both between passengers and with the people of the Mekong. I’ve seen friendships blossom aboard the Toum Tiou 2, and it’s always heartwarming to see guests from different corners of the world bonding over shared experiences.

Moreover, the flexibility of the itinerary is another perk of this boutique cruise. While we have a planned schedule, we always allow for flexibility in our excursions, ensuring that guests can have a more tailored experience. Whether it’s a special request for a private tour, a dietary restriction, or even just the need for some extra relaxation time, the crew always goes above and beyond to accommodate.

The Crew: The Heartbeat of the Toum Tiou 2

Mitch the Purser & Crew

As purser, I have the privilege of working with a dedicated and passionate 15 member crew, and it’s their enthusiasm, care, and attention to detail that really makes the Toum Tiou 2 experience stand out. From the captain, who skillfully navigates the winding river channels, to the chefs who prepare gourmet meals with a personal touch, to the housekeeping team who make sure every guest suite feels like a home away from home, every member of the crew plays a vital role in creating an unforgettable journey.

What makes the Toum Tiou 2 special is the camaraderie that exists between the crew and the guests. It’s a place where the atmosphere is friendly, welcoming, and warm. There’s always someone available to assist with anything a guest might need, whether it’s advice on what to do in port or a recommendation for a local delicacy to try. The crew is always on hand to make sure that every aspect of the experience is tailored to our guests' needs, ensuring their journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

The RV Toum Tiou 2: A Journey You’ll Never Forget

In my years aboard the RV Toum Tiou 2, I’ve seen it time and time again: the transformation that takes place when guests step off the ship at the end of their journey. They are not just relaxed and rejuvenated, but profoundly touched by the experiences they’ve had. Whether it’s the quiet moment they shared with a local fisherman, the taste of a freshly prepared Vietnamese dish, or the friendships they’ve made along the way, it’s clear that this journey is one they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

RV Toum Tiou 2

And for me, that’s the true magic of the Toum Tiou 2 — it’s more than just a ship and a river; it’s a place where people come together to learn, grow, and create lasting memories. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, one that blends luxury, culture, adventure, and personal connection, then I invite you to join us aboard the RV Toum Tiou 2. Come see the Mekong as it was meant to be seen — up close, on the water, and with an unforgettable sense of wonder. *By Mitch the Purser

RV Toum Tiou 2

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