This full-day excursion offers a more in-depth foray into the vast Mekong River Delta, home to over 25 million people. Originating in the Tibetan Plateau and considered one of the great rivers of the world, the Mekong flows over 2,790 miles to the South China Sea. In Vietnam, the rich river delta is a patchwork of brilliant green rice paddies, fields of sugarcane, and orchards of bananas, coconuts and mangos. Journey into the true heart of the delta, and experience a traditional way of life along the natural and manmade canals used by the locals to navigate this thriving area.

From the port, drive by private car or van past small towns and farming communities before arriving at one of the river's nine branches, Cai Be. After the 2½-hour drive, take a short break to stretch your legs and use the simple facilities, before boarding a private long boat, covered overhead and open on the sides to let the breeze flow through and make photo taking easier. Sit back and relax as you cruise the peaceful canals through natural greenery and passing villages and homes fronting the waterways.

Arrive at the Cai Be floating market where every day a large number of boats filled with fruits, vegetables and other products gather on the river waiting for traders and customers. The tour continues to Tan Phong Island, famous for its large rambutan gardens. Cruising the small canals bordered on both sides by a colorful array of tropical vegetation, there are many opportunities to take photos of the surroundings.

Cross the Mekong River to Binh Hoa Phuoc village to visit a local farmer's house. Stroll through a garden of bonsai, flowers and fruit trees, and safely enjoy the local fruits and tea while mingling with your host and his family. Proceed to a candy workshop where rice or corn is popped in a huge iron vat filled with blackened sand, and sweetened with honey, sugar and peanuts. Try a few samples, before enjoying a relaxing lunch of Mekong fried fish and other Vietnamese delicacies served at a local restaurant. Well rested and nourished, re-board your transportation for the journey back to the ship.