Mekong River Cruises
The Mekong River is the lifeblood of Southeast Asia, flowing through ancient landscapes and vibrant cultures before reaching the famous Delta in Vietnam. Often called the Mother of Water, this mighty river connects the spiritual heart of Cambodia with the energy and colour of Vietnam’s floating world.
A Mekong river cruise is a journey of extraordinary contrasts. Drift past stilted villages and saffron-robed monks at dawn, then arrive in bustling riverside cities alive with markets, temples and colonial heritage. From emerald rice paddies to the timeless wonders of Angkor, the Mekong offers one of the world’s most immersive cruising adventures..
Why Cruise the Mekong River?
Cruising the Mekong River is the most comfortable and enriching way to explore this fascinating region, offering seamless travel between Vietnam and Cambodia while reaching remote communities that are difficult to access by land.
With intimate ships, expert-led excursions and deep cultural encounters, Mekong cruising reveals everyday life along the river, from floating markets and Buddhist monasteries to UNESCO-listed wonders. It is a journey filled with history, spirituality and unforgettable local connection.
Top Destinations Along the Mekong River
The Mekong brings you to vibrant capitals, rural villages and legendary heritage sites across Vietnam and Cambodia.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
A dynamic city of pagodas, colonial landmarks and modern energy, often the gateway to Mekong Delta cruising.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Cambodia’s elegant capital is home to the Royal Palace, riverside boulevards and powerful historical sites.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
The spiritual highlight of the journey, offering access to Angkor Wat and the wonders of the Khmer Empire.
Kampong Cham, Cambodia
A peaceful riverside town surrounded by traditional villages, temples and authentic rural Cambodian life.
Sa Dec, Vietnam
A charming riverside community of artisan workshops, markets and French-influenced history in the heart of the Delta.
Tan Chau, Vietnam
A colourful Delta town known for silk weaving, floating markets and small sampan journeys through narrow canals.
Unmissable Mekong River Cruise Experiences
A Mekong river cruise is defined by unforgettable cultural moments, spiritual encounters and immersive local discovery.
Sunrise at Angkor Wat
Watching the sun rise over Angkor Wat is one of the world’s most moving travel experiences. As golden light reflects in the lotus pools, the ancient temple complex feels timeless and deeply spiritual, offering a breathtaking highlight at the heart of any Mekong journey.
Buddhist Blessing Ceremony
Visit a remote monastery where resident monks chant traditional blessings for your voyage. These ceremonies offer a rare and respectful insight into Cambodian spirituality, creating a meaningful connection to the region’s faith, rituals and way of life.
Sampan Canal Cruising
Step aboard a traditional sampan to explore the narrow waterways of the Mekong Delta. Glide through mangrove-lined canals, floating markets and riverside communities, experiencing daily life up close in a way only small boats can offer
Ox Cart and Tuk-Tuk Rides
Experience authentic local transport, from ox-cart journeys through rural villages to evening tuk-tuk tours in Phnom Penh. These simple moments offer joyful immersion, bringing you closer to everyday life along the Mekong.
Cruise Lines on the Mekong River
The Mekong is home to some of the world’s finest luxury river cruise operators. Emerald Cruises offers the bespoke Emerald Harmony, designed to sail directly into Ho Chi Minh City. Scenic’s ultra-luxury Scenic Spirit delivers truly all-inclusive comfort for just 68 guests, while Uniworld’s Mekong Jewel provides an all-suite boutique experience. AmaWaterways brings warm hospitality and cultural depth, and Viking offers destination-focused journeys with Scandinavian-style elegance.
Where Do Mekong River Cruises Start and End?
Most Mekong river cruises sail between Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam and Siem Reap in Cambodia, combining the energy of the Delta with the spiritual wonder of Angkor. Itineraries typically include Phnom Penh and several rural villages along the way, often paired with hotel stays before or after the cruise for a complete Indochina journey.
Recommended Mekong River Cruise Itineraries
Most Mekong cruises follow the classic route between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap, combining floating markets, rural villages and Angkor excursions in one seamless itinerary. Longer journeys may include Hanoi and Halong Bay, while extended Grand Indochina experiences offer deeper exploration across Vietnam, Cambodia and beyond.
When is the Best Time to Cruise the Mekong River?
The Mekong River is best cruised between November and April, when warm days and lower humidity create ideal conditions for temple visits and walking tours. From May to October, the Green Season transforms the region into a lush paradise, with vibrant landscapes, higher water levels and fewer crowds, offering a wonderfully atmospheric alternative.
Angkor Wat and the Mekong Cruise Connection
One of the most extraordinary elements of a Mekong river cruise is its seamless connection to Angkor Wat, the greatest archaeological treasure of Southeast Asia. Many itineraries begin or end in Siem Reap, allowing you to combine luxury river cruising with guided exploration of the UNESCO-listed Angkor temple complex. Watching sunrise over Angkor’s iconic lotus towers is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and travelling by river offers the most immersive and effortless way to experience Cambodia’s spiritual heart alongside the vibrant life of the Mekong.
Ready to Explore the Mekong River by Cruise?
Explore our best Mekong river cruise offers below, or speak with our cruise experts to find the perfect itinerary, ship and sailing season for you.