Today is the day that we embarked on our cruise along the Mekong river. We left just before lunchtime for our bus ride to My Tho port, where the ship was docked.
The Mekong is the longest river in South East Asia, originating in Tibet and flowing through six countries until it reaches the delta. The river is brown due to the silt being brought down from higher ground. This is then deposited in the delta and is increasing the area of the delta. There are two seasons – dry and wet. 16000 to 18000mm of rain each year. The area is being badly affected by three things. Dams are being built further up and this means that there is less silt, less silt and fewer fish being washed down. Becauss there is less water the flow at the estuary is reduced and the salt water is being pulled further upstream. The third thing is the sand dredging ( the sand is used in construction work ) which is eating away at the river bed. The local people rely on the river for their fish farms and the fruit production.
We arrived at the ship in time for lunch. After lunch we found our cabin – it is lovely, with a balcony and really nice bathroom.
Picture 1 – Our Cabin
We had the afternoon to ourselves as the ship set sail for Cai Be. After settling into our cabin, Mum and I explored the ship before I booked a massage and manicure. At 5pm there was a safety drill, something which neither of us had done on our previous cruises.
Before dinner, there was a briefing with the Cruise Director, Tony, where he outlined the plans for tomorrow.
Dinner was four courses, neither Mum nor I had all four but I foresee the need to use the gym in my near future! The food was nice.
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