Top 7 best Mekong river cruises for your trip

The Mekong River, one of Asia’s great waterways, winds through lush landscapes and vibrant cultures, offering a unique window into the daily life of Southeast Asia. Mekong River cruises are the perfect way to discover its beauty - gliding past floating markets, ancient temples and riverside villages. Each journey reveals the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia through immersive experiences, local flavors and relaxing onboard comfort.

Ready to plan your unforgettable river adventure? Let Hanoi Voyages help you choose the perfect Mekong River cruise tailored to your travel dreams.

Discover top 7 best Mekong River cruises for your trip

A journey along the Mekong River is more than just a cruise - it's a cultural immersion into the heart of Southeast Asia. This curated list of 7 exceptional options blends comfort, authenticity and charm. Whether you're seeking a romantic escape or a cultural adventure, these cruises promise an enriching and relaxing experience.

Cruise on the Song Xanh

🚪 Cabins: 3 cabins.

⚓ Port of departure: Cai Be, Tien Giang, Vietnam.

📍 Destinations: Ho Chi Minh - Cai Rang Floating Market - Can Tho - Cai Be - Sa Dec - Rach Gia - Chau Doc

If you're looking for an intimate and culturally rich escape, the Song Xanh Sampan is a perfect choice. This traditional wooden boat offers a luxury Mekong River cruise experience tailored for small groups of up to 6 guests, making it ideal for couples, families, or friends seeking a private journey.

Along the way, visit an ancient house, discover vibrant floating markets, a coconut candy and puffed rice factory, a clay pot workshop and a Cao Dai temple. This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, peaceful and culturally rich experience on the water.

Cruise on the Bassac

🚪 Cabins: 12 cabins.

⚓ Port of departure: Ninh Kieu pier, Can Tho.

📍 Destinations: Can Tho - Cai Be - Mang Thit

The Bassac Cruise offers one of the best Mekong River cruise experiences for travelers seeking a blend of authenticity and comfort. Designed for overnight journeys through the lush waterways of southern Vietnam, Bassac vessels take you deep into the heart of the Mekong Delta.

Afternoons are dedicated to scenic countryside visits and meaningful encounters with locals, while mornings unveil the unique character of each destination - be it a lively floating market, a historic home, or traditional craft workshops. Though simple in design, the Bassac delivers a luxury Mekong River cruise feel through its warm hospitality, immersive itineraries and peaceful onboard atmosphere.

Cruise on the RV Bassac Pandaw

🚪 Cabins: 28 cabins.

⚓ Port of departure: Cruise Passenger Port, No. 5 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, Ward 12, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City

📍 Destinations: Siem Reap - Steung Trang - Peam Chi Korng - Oudong - Kampong Tralach - Phnom Penh - Chau Doc - Ben Tre - Ho Chi Minh

The RV Bassac Pandaw is a beautifully restored vessel inspired by the original 1930s P-class ships of the Pandaw fleet. Handcrafted in Saigon using polished teak and brass by skilled local artisans, this ship blends traditional Vietnamese style with colonial-era charm. Sailing between Vietnam’s Mekong Delta and the vibrant capital of Phnom Penh, it offers a refined and intimate journey through two fascinating countries.

With its nostalgic design and warm, inviting atmosphere, the RV Bassac Pandaw is ideal for travelers who appreciate old-world elegance paired with modern comforts. For those in search of the best Mekong River cruise with a historical touch, this vessel delivers a truly unique luxury Mekong River cruise experience.

Cruise on the Jahan

🚪 Cabins: 26 cabins.

⚓ Port of departure: Nha Rong Port, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

📍 Destinations: Ho Chi Minh - My Tho - Cai Be - Chau Doc - Phnom Penh – Koh Chen – Kampong Laeang – Kampong Tralach – Kampong Cham - Stueng Trang - Siem Reap

The Jahan cruise offers a refined journey along the lower Mekong River between Vietnam and Cambodia, blending heritage and luxury in every detail. Designed by Heritage Line and inspired by Emperor Shah Jahan, this elegant vessel reflects the charm of the Anglo-Indian era with intricate Indian artwork and classic furnishings. Each spacious stateroom comes with a private balcony, while the opulent Noble Suites deliver an exceptional onboard living experience.

Guests can relax at the East India Club & Lounge, a sophisticated space reminiscent of a British-Indian gentlemen’s club, or unwind by the Jacuzzi pool on the expansive sun deck. With resort-style amenities and thoughtfully curated itineraries, the Jahan cruise promises an unforgettable Mekong River cruise that combines cultural depth with refined comfort.

Cruise on the Indochine I

🚪 Cabins: 24 cabins.

⚓ Port of departure: Nha Rong Port, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

📍 Destinations: Ho Chi Minh - My Tho - Cai Be - Vinh Long - Sa Dec - Chau Doc - Phnom Penh - Kampong Tralach - Kampong Chhnang - Siem Reap

The Indochine I offers a refined luxury Mekong River cruise aboard a beautifully crafted 24-cabin vessel measuring 51 meters. With elegant wood finishes and a classic design, the ship provides a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. Guests can relax in the air-conditioned lounge bar, enjoy cultural activities, or watch a movie on board. 

The upper-deck restaurant serves delicious Continental and Asian cuisine with panoramic river views. Each cabin is thoughtfully equipped with hot showers, security safes, central air conditioning and generous storage, making the Indochine I one of the best Mekong River cruise choices for comfort and style.

Cruise on the Indochine II

🚪 Cabins: 31 cabins.

⚓ Port of departure: Nha Rong Port, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

📍 Destinations: Ho Chi Minh - My Tho - Cai Be - Vinh Long - Sa Dec - Chau Doc - Phnom Penh - Kampong Tralach - Kampong Chhnang - Siem Reap

The Indochine II is a flagship vessel that sets the standard for a Mekong River cruise. With 31 elegantly appointed cabins spread across a 65-meter ship, it offers top-tier amenities such as a swimming pool, private balconies and a stylish, air-conditioned lounge bar for onboard activities. Guests can enjoy fine dining on the upper deck, where a spacious restaurant serves both Asian and Continental cuisine. 

Each cabin is fully equipped with air conditioning, hot showers, security safes and generous storage space. Certified by Bureau Veritas for safety and quality, the Indochine II is one of the best Mekong River cruise options for travelers who expect world-class comfort with peace of mind.

Cruise on The Toum Tiou I

🚪 Cabins: 10 cabins.

⚓ Port of departure: Nha Rong Port, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

📍 Destinations: Ho Chi Minh - My Tho - Cai Be - Vinh Long - Sa Dec - Chau Doc - Phnom Penh - Kampong Tralach - Kampong Chhnang - Siem Reap

The Toum Tiou I is a standout option among the best Mekong River cruise experiences, being the only vessel offering a direct and safe voyage from Siem Reap to Saigon without the need for disembarkation. Its steel hull and shallow draft allow it to reach remote villages and navigate narrow waterways that other ships cannot access. 

With just 10 double cabins, this luxury Mekong River cruise emphasizes privacy and comfort, featuring air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, hi-fi systems and private lounges - perfect for those seeking both cultural immersion and tranquility.

👉 Ready to explore the best of the Mekong River? Let Hanoi Voyages craft a fully customized itinerary tailored to your pace and interests. 

Contact us now and start planning your unforgettable journey to Vietnam!

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Tips for choosing the best Mekong River cruise

Cruising along the Mekong offers travelers a unique perspective into the daily rhythms of life in both Vietnam and Cambodia, from floating markets to rural villages. But with so many cruise options available, how do you pick the right one? These expert tips will help you choose the best Mekong River cruise that suits your style, comfort and expectations.

Book with a trusted travel company

With so many cruise options available, booking through a trusted travel company can make all the difference in creating a smooth and memorable journey. A professional agency doesn’t just help you choose the right ship - they provide expert advice on routes, visa requirements, pre- and post-cruise accommodations and exclusive perks you might not find when booking directly.

Recommend: Hanoi Voyages has years of experience curating tailor-made River cruise experiences. We specialize in tailor-made Mekong cruise packages and work with the region’s most trusted cruise lines. Our expertise ensures you’ll find a cruise that fits your timeline and travel style without the stress.

Choose the right route for your journey

Each luxury Mekong River cruise offers a different route and the experience can vary significantly depending on the destinations covered. If you're short on time, a cruise around the Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam is a great option. For a deeper exploration, look for cruises that connect Ho Chi Minh City with Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, giving you a chance to experience both Vietnamese and Cambodian culture in one journey.

Check the weather before you go

When planning a luxury Mekong River cruise, timing is key to ensuring the most comfortable and scenic experience. The Mekong River region, which stretches through southern Vietnam and Cambodia, has a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry and wet.

The dry season runs from November to April and is widely considered the best time for a Mekong River cruise. During these months, you’ll enjoy pleasant weather with less rainfall, lower humidity and clear skies - perfect for outdoor excursions, photography and relaxing on the sundeck.

Review what’s included in the package

Not all cruise packages are the same. The best Mekong River cruise experiences typically include meals, guided excursions, entrance fees to historical sites, cultural performances and sometimes even massage services. Always check what’s covered to avoid unexpected costs and ensure you’re getting good value for your budget.

Embarking on a luxury Mekong River cruise is more than just a journey—it’s an immersive experience that blends cultural discovery, natural beauty and high-end comfort. From the floating markets of Vietnam to the timeless charm of Cambodian temples, every moment on the Mekong promises unforgettable memories.

Ready to explore this legendary River in style? Let Hanoi Voyages craft your perfect Mekong adventure with carefully curated itineraries and exceptional service. 

Reach out to our team today and set sail on a cruise that captures the very soul of Southeast Asia!