The day was underway bright and early with Tai Chi on the main deck at sunrise, accompanied by the gentle sounds of traditional music. After a fine breakfast we gathered on the lower deck and boarded the sampans for the morning excursion. Today Jahan was docked just outside Chau Doc, a bustling town just 2km from the Cambodian border. Aquaculture is the main industry here, as Chau Doc lies on the banks of the Bassac River, the other main artery which branches off from the Mekong further upstream at Phnom Penh. Fish are farmed in captivity in underwater cages kept afloat by plastic drums or PVC piping. Many farmers also live on the water in small houses built above the fish cages.

Next we headed onshore to visit the town market. A delightful assortment of fresh fruit and vegetables is on display here, some more familiar than others. Exiting the market area we see the local temple which is dedicated to the founding father of the township. The architectural style, not to mention the Chinese characters which adorn the beams and columns within, evoke the influence which China has held over Vietnamese culture. Within, a small group of locals were gambling in the temple courtyard – it is clear the New Year holiday is not yet complete. Lastly we ventured into the streets and to take a quick cycle-rickshaw ride around the town.

After we returned to the Jahan, the captain weighed anchor and we proceeded to the border crossing. Whilst the rest of the day was spent aboard the boat, a full schedule awaited. Firstly we navigated down the narrow Tan Chau canal, a manmade channel which brings us back on to the mighty Mekong. Once we exited the canal we met in the lounge for photographic instructor Emily Mount’s presentation on iPhone photography. Following another fine lunch, cultural specialist David Brotherson gave an introduction to the diverse cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia. And for the culinary connoisseurs, our head chef and kitchen staff held a cooking class and unveiled their secret Vietnamese and Cambodian recipes. Finally naturalist Martin Cohen introduced us to the geography and biodiversity of the Mekong River catchment.

After dark we eventually reached the outskirts of Phnom Penh. We are poised for a day of contrasts in the Cambodian capital.