Aqua Expeditions has released new details and images of its forthcoming vessel, three weeks ahead of its launch.

Aqua Mekong is the line’s third ship and first to be based in Asia.

Officially taking off on 30 September 2014, the 40-passenger vessel is a five-star ship designed to cruise along the Mekong between Vietnam and Cambodia.

Onboard, Aqua Mekong will have 20 suites with floor-to-ceiling windows decorated in an authentic Asian style using local fabrics and materials.

Public spaces onboard include the Observation Deck, where guests will be able to sit in contemporary woven cane planter chairs; and an Outdoor Lounge with a river facing plunge pool.

Aqua Mekong will be the first river ship on the river to have a generous sized spa and fitness centre.

Other spaces onboard include the library and a screening room for evening movies.

Food on the ship will be created by Australian Michelin-starred chef, David Thompson, who has been appointed as executive chef.

Thompson will create a menu using local ingredients such as Khmer Kampot Pepper, Mekong River Prawns and Catfish.

Among the dishes will be river prawns with ginger, shallots, tamarind and palm sugar served on betel leaves, and cashew nut pudding with coconut cream.