If you're an English speaker seeking an unforgettable luxury cruise on the Mekong River, you're in the right place. In this article, we’ll take you through the top 5 cruises that offer a perfect blend of comfort, exceptional service, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re looking to unwind in style or explore with a spirit of adventure, there’s something here for you. Read on to discover which Mekong River cruise is your perfect match!
Launched in 2009, the RV La Marguerite offers a luxurious 14-day cruise along the Mekong River, connecting Vietnam and Cambodia. The boat features stylish, comfortable cabins, some with private balconies and suites with jacuzzis. The journey includes cultural activities, traditional cooking classes, local shows, and guided tours, with highlights such as Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Ho Chi Minh City.
Reference itinerary for a 14-day cruise
- Day 1: Outbound flight
- Day 2: Departure - Siem Reap
- Day 3: Aboard the boat
- Day 4: Siem Reap - Tonle Lake
- Day 5: Kampong Chhnang
- Day 6: Kampong Chhnang
- Day 7: Phnom Penh
- Day 8: Phnom Penh
- Day 9: Aboard the boat
- Day 10: Tan Chau
- Day 11 : Sa Dec
- Day 12 : My Tho - Saigon
- Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City
- Day 13: Return flight
- Day 14: Arrival - Return flight
The RV Mekong Pandaw, launched in 2003, is an elegant colonial-style cruise ship that explores the Mekong River’s most scenic parts. With 24 spacious cabins, teak interiors, and large panoramic windows, the ship offers breathtaking views. The boat also features a beautiful sun deck and a stylish bar for relaxing while enjoying the Mekong’s charm.
8-day itinerary aboard the Pandaw boat on the Mekong River
Day 1: From Saigon to the Delta
Day 2: Ben Tre and the fertile waterways
Day 3: Chau Doc and to Cambodia
Day 4: Phnom Penh
Day 5: Life on the Tonle Sap
Day 6: Oudong and Pak Russei Silk Meditation
Day 7: Peam Chi Korng Pottery Village
Day 8: Disembarkation in Siem Reap
The RV Indochina offers a more intimate cruising experience, catering to 48 passengers with panoramic views, spacious 16m² cabins, and a variety of cultural entertainment. This 11-14 day cruise takes you through some of the most iconic destinations along the Mekong River, including Angkor Wat, floating villages, and night markets, offering a perfect blend of culture, history, and comfort.
The reference itinerary for an 11-day cruise along the Mekong River aboard RV Indochine.
- Day 1: Departure - Ho Chi Minh City at 12:00
- Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City - Cho Gao
- Day 3: Cho Gao - Sadec
- Day 4: Sadec - Chau Doc
- Day 5: Chau Doc - Phnom Penh
- Day 6: Phnom Penh
- Day 7: Phnom Penh - Kampong Chhang
- Day 8: Kampong Chhang - Tonle Sap - Siem Reap
- Day 9: Siem Reap - Angkor Temple
- Day 10: Siem Reap - the other temples
- Day 11: Siem Reap - The airport for the return
Built in 2014, Aqua Mekong is a luxurious five-star cruise ship designed by British architect David Hokinson. This 8-day journey sails between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap, stopping at places like Phnom Penh and Koh Chen. The ship offers designer suites with international-standard amenities and is known for its knowledgeable guides who provide in-depth cultural and historical insights along the way.
For a more traditional experience, Bassac Cruises operates wooden boats with modern amenities, including air-conditioned cabins. Their two-day cruises from Cai Be to Can Tho or the reverse explore the Mekong Delta’s peaceful rivers and floating markets. You’ll have the chance to visit local villages, bike rides, and enjoy meals on board, with views of the serene river landscape.
8-Day Itinerary Aboard Aqua Mekong River Cruise
- Day 1: Ho Chi Minh - My Tho
- Day 2: Binh Thanh/Sa Dec - My An Hung
- Day 3: Chau Doc - Vinh Xuong - Ka'om Samnor Border
- Day 4: Koh Oknha Tey - Preah Prosop
- Day 5: Phnom Penh
- Day 6: Koh Chen - Kampong Chhnang
- Day 7: Mouth of Tonle Sap Lake - Chhnok Tru - Moat Khla
- Day 8: Tonle Sap Lake - Prek Toal - Siem Reap
The Toum Tiou is a charming cruise ship with 10 comfortable cabins, each with its own bathroom and large windows. It offers a laid-back experience with a French colonial ambiance. This 8-day cruise from Saigon to Siem Reap includes visits to local markets, aquaculture farms, and cultural landmarks like the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. The boat features a cozy lounge, a restaurant, and a half-covered bar where you can relax and enjoy the view.
The Mekong Eyes Classic is a 39-meter boat built using traditional Mekong Delta rice barge techniques. It offers 14 elegant cabins with private bathrooms and panoramic views of the river. This 4-day cruise explores the Mekong Delta, with visits to floating markets and small canals. It’s a peaceful, immersive way to experience the Delta’s local life and culture.
For a private, intimate experience, Song Xanh Sampans offer customized cruises perfect for couples or families. The boats explore the quieter, more authentic parts of the Mekong Delta, allowing you to interact with local villagers, visit traditional workshops, and take part in cultural activities. With a crew of four and options for bike rides, these sampans provide an authentic experience with personalized service, including fresh fruit and local delicacies.
Mekong Delta cruises, no matter how big or small, allow you to experience the Southeast Asian region in an original and authentic way. There are also other cruises on the Mekong Delta offered by Vietnam Discovery. Do not hesitate to contact us to organize a personalized, special and memorable trip.1
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