Exploring the Charms of Cambodia & Vietnam: Why Take a Mekong River Cruise

1. Breath-taking Scenery and Sights

Cruising along the Mekong River lets you soak in the scenic vistas along and beyond the riverbanks. Stunning natural landscapes embrace the longest river in Southeast Asia, including verdant forests, soaring mountains, mangroves, and vast rice paddies! One of the most unmissable sights is the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh – the epitome of Cambodia’s opulent architecture, featuring classic Khmer roofs and ornate gliding, plus the striking Silver Pagoda! 

Another must-see destination is the UNESCO-listed Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. Angkor Wat is undoubtedly the star attraction in the complex, rightfully so given its architectural splendour and historical significance. But there are more temples and ancient cities in Angkor that are worth visiting, such as Ta Prohm, a ‘jungle temple’ that exudes an otherworldly ambience for the muscular roots growing out of the towering trees and cloaking the temple walls; and Angkor Thom, the last capital city of the Khmer Empire, home to Bayon Temple, Terrace of the Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King.

2. All-inclusive comfort and luxury

A luxury Mekong River cruise is not only about the destination but also how you get there – the journey is part of the experience too! Sail in style and comfort on board a river cruise ship, transporting you to picturesque ports of Cambodia and Vietnam that are usually beyond the reach of mega cruise ships. The ships are fully equipped with a myriad of on board amenities and offerings for a hassle-free holiday, including luxury suites, personalised service, restaurants and bars, as well as entertainment and leisure spaces. Plus, more items are included in your cruise fare – from on board complimentary dining and drinks to endless shore excursions! 

3. Cultural Immersion

A rich tapestry of cultural experiences awaits on a Mekong River cruise! These scenic sailings allow you to trace the diverse cultures and civilizations that lived and thrived around the mighty river, with most still continuing their legacy as the locals carry on with their timeless traditions passed down through the centuries from their ancestors. Culture enthusiasts will be delighted to explore Ho Chi Minh City, boasting an intriguing mix of colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and imposing Chinese pagodas. 

Halting at small islets and villages like Cai Be and Oknathey offers an opportunity to immerse yourself with the rustic local lifestyle and observe the traditional silk weaving process. Experience Cambodia's exceptional craftsmanship yourself by taking the trishaw ride, an open-air pedal-powered vehicle with the driver behind and the passenger in  front, to craftsmen's workshops. Get the chance to admire Phnom Penh’s French colonial architecture and tree-lined boulevards whilst riding a “tuk tuk”, a motorised rickshaw with an ornately designed passenger seat at the rear of the motorcycle that's popular in Southeast Asia.

4. Colourful Floating Markets

The colourful floating markets in Mekong Delta is one of the main highlights of river cruising! These bustling markets, exploding with every colour imaginable, are a hallmark of the Mekong River way of life – showcasing Vietnam’s unique and vibrant local commerce. A floating market is a lively marketplace situated on the waters, where a fleet of boats come together to sell a diverse array of goods, from fresh produce to souvenir handcrafts.

Set close to Can Tho, Cai Rang is the largest and arguably the most famous floating market in Vietnam, beckoning tourists with its irresistible charm with its dazzling range of products and dynamic fruit trade scene. Another popular market is Cai Be, exuding a laid-back vibe perfect for a warm bowl of pho – plus it’s known for the photograph-worthy sight of the Catholic cathedral perched on the riverside! Want a more relaxed vibe? Head to the intimate Phong Dien floating market, filled with less than 50 small boats and stand-up sampans, that truly captures the serene essence of the region.

Top tips from us: The floating markets usually begin at around 5am, so we recommend going there as early as possible if you want to get the freshest item and dodge the midday heat!

5. Expert Local Guides

One of the most unique charms of taking the Mekong River cruise is the presence of a local guide who naturally has a deeper understanding of their homeland and can provide a more authentic and personal perspective. The cruise manager and tour guides are all local to the region, offering an in-depth insight of the region’s history, culture, and lifestyle. Their informed insider knowledge also helps guests discover the hidden gems in the area and avoid tourist traps. Landing a more personalised and immersive experience is one thing, there’s also the sense of reward on having the opportunity to support the host community through these local guides. And who knows? You might even gain a new friend along the way!

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