Princess Cruises: Southeast Asia & Japan with Halong Bay

Before embarking on your cruise, enjoy two days to explore the dynamic country of Singapore. Whether by sampling the streetfood of the hawker stalls in Chinatown, browsing the boutique shops of Orchard Road, or taking in the breathtaking Gardens by the Bay, there are endless ways to dazzle all five senses over 48 hours. 

Hotel: 4* Rendezvous Hotel Singapore by Far East Hospitality

Today you will join your cruise, and get settled into your cabin for the next two weeks. Your ship departs promptly at 4:00 pm, so we recommend arriving at least 2-3 hours early to smoothly navigate check-in and boarding. All ship amenities are open and ready, so kickstart your vacation with a refreshing drink or a delicious snack.

Today is a day of relaxation and enjoyment as you cruise through the open waters. Take advantage of the ship's various facilities, from the luxurious spa to the pool deck with stunning ocean views. Participate in onboard activities organised by the cruise staff, which may include lectures, workshops, and entertaining shows. Whether you prefer to unwind with a book on a sunbed or engage in fun games and activities, there's something for everyone.

Cam Ranh, historically known as Kăm Mran in the ancient Ede language, has long been significant in the development of Champa culture, serving as a vital military and economic hub since ancient times. It was a bustling commercial center attracting merchants from neighboring regions and was home to various ethnic minorities, including the Cham, Ede, and Raglai peoples. In 1939, the French colonial government established the Ba Ngòi Administrative Agency, enhancing Cam Ranh's military importance with the construction of fortifications and Cam Ranh Airport. Following the 1954 division of Vietnam, Cam Ranh became part of South Vietnam's Khánh Hòa province, further developing as a military base, notably during the Vietnam War, when the US military transformed it into a major stronghold. After the war, it was renamed Cam Ranh town and, on December 23, 2010, officially became the city of Cam Ranh, reflecting its continued significance in the region.

Enjoy a relaxing sea day aboard the Sapphire Princess. Take a dip in the pool, join an activity, or unwind on deck with ocean views all around. With great dining, entertainment, and plenty of space to relax, it’s the perfect chance to recharge before your next port.

The deepwater port of Cai Lan is your gateway to the splendors of North Vietnam. Nearby Halong Bay is one of the world's extraordinary scenic wonders. This World Heritage Site boasts a calm bay studded with over 3,000 dramatic limestone islands, islets and rock formations. Visitors to Cai Lan can also venture up the Red River to fabled Hanoi, the "Pearl of the North." Today, with memories of the Vietnam War fading, the city impresses with its splendid colonial architecture, ancient temples, superb parks and myriad lakes. It's little wonder that Northern Vietnam remains one of Asia's most popular vacation destinations. The limestone islands in Halong Bay are riddled with caves. The French who once ruled Vietnam called Go Dao Cave the Grotte de Merveilles, the grotto of marvels. Of course, they left their graffiti among the astounding assortment of stalactites and stalagmites.

Spend your sea day your way. Relax by the pool, take part in onboard activities, or enjoy a meal with ocean views. It’s the ideal opportunity to slow down, soak up the atmosphere, and make the most of life at sea.

Skyscrapers form a glistening forest of steel and glass, junks and sampans ply the busy harbor waters, and the green, dragon-crested hills of Kowloon beckon. Welcome to Hong Kong, one of the world's great travel destinations. Now a semi-autonomous region of China, Hong Kong - literally "Fragrant Harbor" - has lost none of its charm, excitement or exoticism. Modern skyscrapers and luxury hotels climb the slopes of Hong Kong Island. Narrow streets are crammed with noodle vendors, fortunetellers and bonesetters. The endless array of shops offer the visitor everything from hand-tailored suits and ancient porcelain to the latest consumer electronics. And everywhere more than seven million people are moving at a breathtaking pace in one of the world's great monuments to capitalism, commerce and enterprise.The former Crown Colony has enough attractions to last a lifetime. To take in the entire spectacle, head to Victoria Peak for panoramic views. Enjoy lunch on one of the city's floating restaurants. Walk down one of the crowded streets to take the city's rapid pulse. And whether you think you are in the mood or not - shop. After all, you are in the duty-free capital of the world.

A sea day is the perfect time to enjoy the ship’s dining options. From casual bites by the pool to elegant sit-down meals, there’s something for every taste. Take your time, try something new, and savour every moment as the ocean drifts by.

The oldest Chinese reference to Taiwan dates back to the Han Dynasty in the 3rd century B.C. However, it wasn't until the 17th century A.D. that Chinese Hakka traders first settled on the island. These bold merchants were soon followed by European and Asian adventurers seeking to control and colonize the strategic island. The most famous migration of all occurred in 1948, when the government of the Republic of China fled the mainland. Taipei is one of the world's most important commercial centers. Despite its turbulent history, Taiwan today boasts an economy that is the envy of the world. Modern Taiwan is a world leader in the production of bicycles, computer chips, plastics, chemicals and computer notebooks. Taipei is a sophisticated modern metropolis that has not forgotten its rich traditional past. The port of Keelung is your gateway to Taiwan. Visit the bustling city of Taipei and other interesting areas surrounding on this fascinating island in the East China Sea.

The balmy, subtropical climate draws countless visitors to its sandy shores, but Ishigaki offers much more than your typical island getaway. It is the cultural, political and economic center of the Yaeyama Islands, originally founded in 1908 as Yaeyama Village and becoming Ishigaki Town in 1926. Ishigaki was elevated to city status on July 10, 1947. A hilltop Shinto shrine which dates back to 1614 is the perfect place to start your exploration of this lovely town. Noted for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters to which snorkelers flock for a glimpse of the island's famed manta rays, Ishigaki Island offers many opportunities to commune with nature. Ishigaki has palm forests, mangrove-lined rivers suited for kayaking, and jungle-covered mountains perfect for hiking adventures. Amidst such natural beauty, you'll find an abundance of cultural sites with ties to the island's rich history. The Yaeyama Museum displays historic artifacts as well as traditional cultural items, and a visit to the well-preserved Miyara Dunchi, built in 1819, is a rare example of a samurai-style residence. Be sure to leave time in your busy day to sample some of the sweet island pineapple and to shop for the island's famed black pearls, a most special souvenir.nNote: Ishigaki is an anchorage port. Transportation from ship to shore is via the ship's tender service.

Use your sea day to rest and recharge before your next adventure. Lounge on deck, enjoy a leisurely meal, or take a quiet moment to soak in the views. It’s the perfect pause to refresh and get ready for the excitement ahead.

For most travellers, Nagasaki is a symbol of the horror and the inhumanity of war. An estimated 75,000 people perished in 1945 when the city became the second target of a nuclear attack. Today, Nagasaki's Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum draw visitors from around the world.But this beautiful city on Kyushu offers other sights. Often described as the San Francisco of Japan, the city occupies verdant hills surrounded by a deep-water bay. For three centuries, Nagasaki was Japan's sole window on the world. The city is also celebrated as the setting for Puccini's opera "Madame Butterfly."

On your final day at sea, make the most of every moment. Tick off all the experiences you’ve been saving - relax by the pool, enjoy a last spa treatment, savour your favourite meals, and catch any shows you’ve missed. Soak in the views, make the most of the ship’s amenities, and get ready to say farewell to an unforgettable cruise.

Disembark and explore the vibrant city of Tokyo in depth for the final three days of your holiday. Perhaps start by visiting Asakusa for the historic Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street. Then, experience the trendy vibe of Shibuya and witness the famous Shibuya Crossing. On the second day, immerse yourself in culture with a trip to Meiji Shrine and Harajuku, followed by a visit to the teamLab Borderless digital art museum in Odaiba. Finish off by exploring Tokyo Tower and Ginza for shopping, and Ueno for museums and Ameya-Yokocho Market. Embrace Japanese traditions with a tea ceremony and indulge in local cuisine.

Accommodation at 4* Hotel Okura Tokyo Bay