Cambodia and Vietnam River Cruises
What if you caught sunrise at Angkor Wat with barely anyone around? That's when the light hits those ancient stones just right. This trip takes you from Hanoi's Old Quarter chaos to Halong Bay's limestone islands, then down the Mekong through Cambodia and Vietnam. Phnom Penh's Royal Palace shines with its Silver Pagoda, the Cu Chi Tunnels near Saigon tell intense stories, and floating markets show you real river life.
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Amazing Food, People, and Scenery This was my first river cruise, and it was incredible! Starting in Vietnam, we explored lively floating markets and quaint villages in the Mekong Delta. Every day brought something new: temples, farms, and even a fish farming village! The local guides were amazing, sharing stories that made each place come alive. The cruise ship itself was a highlight. The staff was so attentive, and the food—oh my goodness!—was some of the best I’ve ever had, with fresh ingredients and flavors from the region. The transition to Cambodia was exciting, and Phnom Penh offered rich cultural and historical experiences. The last leg to Siem Reap and Angkor Wat felt like a grand finale. I left the trip feeling deeply connected to the history and beauty of the Mekong.
Upstream Mekong River Cruise Tour From Vietnam To Cambodia – 10 DaysStaff excellent. Cabin lovely but situated back of boat and engine noise so loud prevented sleep. Other passengers were warned if this and given a reduced rate. Food and service excellent. Mooring at Phnom Penh for three nights with no view but underside of dock made balcony unusable for almost half of cruise. €1000 refund from Lotus accepted. Tourradar attempt to claim 20% of that disgraceful.
7-night Mekong Downstream Cambodia Vietnam on Mekong NavigatorIt was a wonderful trip. The ship was perfect, the staff friendly and always helpful. The cruise director, Sam, was a delight. He spoke several languages so communicated with all of us and made it a great experience. We would highly recommend this trip with this staff.
From the Mekong Delta to the Angkor Temples (port-to-port cruise)
10 best river cruises through Cambodia and Vietnam
Compiled by
NadineCambodia and Vietnam travel expert at TourRadar
- Journey along the Mekong 2027-2028 - 16 Days
- Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River with Bangkok (Southbound)
- Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River with Bangkok (Northbound) 2028
- From the Mekong Delta to the Temples of Angkor & Hanoi and Halong Bay (port-to-port cruise) (including Cai Be)
- Upstream Mekong River Cruise Tour From Vietnam To Cambodia – 10 Days
- 7-night Mekong Downstream Cambodia Vietnam on Mekong Navigator
- Enchanting Mekong and Siem Reap 2026-2027/2027-2028 - 11 Days (from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City)
- 10-Day Meandering Majestic Mekong Cruise 2026-2027 - 10 Days
- Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong (2026, Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi)
- Customized 12 Days Vietnam & Cambodia Adventure with Daily Departure
Check out the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City before boarding Scenic Spirit for a 7-night Mekong cruise with stops at Sa Dec's wet markets and Phnom Penh's Royal Palace. Have dinner at the 10th-century Prasat Kravan temple ruins with Apsara dancers, then ride a tethered balloon over Angkor Wat.
Duration 16 days Destinations Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours From
- US$10,420
Duration 16 days Destinations Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand Age Range Ages 8+ Operator Avalon Waterways From
- US$8,009+$520 upfront costs
Duration 16 days Destinations Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand Age Range Ages 8+ Operator Avalon Waterways From
- US$8,809+$570 upfront costs
From the Mekong Delta to the Temples of Angkor & Hanoi and Halong Bay (port-to-port cruise) (including Cai Be)
“Great food, great boat and facilities, great tours with flexibility. We were impressed that at each stop we had local tour guides.”
Peter, traveled in September
The RV Indochine II carries passengers on a 14-day river voyage through Vietnam and Cambodia. From Halong Bay's emerald waters to Mekong Delta's channels and Tonle Sap Lake, balcony cabins and regional cuisine complement expert-guided shore excursions.
Duration 14 days Destinations Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi, My Tho, Vinh Long, Cai Be, Sa Dec, Chau Doc, Phnom PenhSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator CroisiEurope River Cruises From $6,002
10% Off- US$5,421
Upstream Mekong River Cruise Tour From Vietnam To Cambodia – 10 Days
“The excursions were well chosen, especially the temple visits and the rural village tours. We felt like we got to see the real heart of these countries.”
Betsy, traveled in September
Duration 10 days Destinations Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi, Can Tho, Cai Be, Chau Doc, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator VietLong Travel From
10% Off- US$1,850
7-night Mekong Downstream Cambodia Vietnam on Mekong Navigator
“Cabin lovely but situated back of boat and engine noise so loud prevented sleep. Food and service excellent.”
Barbara, traveled in February
The RV Mekong Navigator presents the river's rich heritage between Cambodia and Vietnam. Ancient temples, colonial buildings, and traditional villages dot the journey. Luxury suites provide comfort while wine-paired meals, cultural shows, and expert-guided excursions enrich the experience.
Duration 8 days Destinations Siem Reap, Kampong Cham, Phnom Penh, Cu Lao Gieng, My An Hung, Sa Dec, Cai Be, My Tho, Ho Chi Minh City Age Range Ages 12+ Operated in English, German Operator Lotus Cruises From
10% Off- US$3,199
Duration 11 days Destinations Siem Reap, Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei, Tonle Sap Lake, Kampong Kdei, Kampong Tralach, Oudong, Phnom Penh, Koh Oknha Tei, Tan ChauSee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Emerald Cruises From $4,370
26% Off- US$3,216
What our customers ask about Cambodia and Vietnam River Cruises
What are the main ports and destinations visited during a typical Mekong River cruise?
A Mekong River cruise connects key destinations across Vietnam and Cambodia. The route typically starts in Ho Chi Minh City and includes stops in My Tho and Chau Doc in Vietnam before crossing into Cambodia to visit Phnom Penh Kampong Chhnang and Siem Reap. Passengers can explore the bustling Cai Rang floating market see the Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh and visit the temples of Angkor Wat. The journey includes stops at smaller destinations such as Koh Chen where travelers can watch silver craftsmen at work and Sa Dec known for its French colonial buildings. According to CroisiEurope travelers: "The variety of stops gave us an authentic glimpse into local life along the Mekong."
How long are typical Cambodia and Vietnam river cruises?
Mekong River cruises generally span 7-15 days with most travelers choosing the popular 8-day route between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap. The extended 15-day programs often add land excursions to places like Hanoi Halong Bay or Bangkok. AmaWaterways runs an 8-day "Charms of the Mekong" cruise while Emerald Cruises offers a more extensive 15-day "Wonders of Vietnam & Cambodia" journey. As noted by a TourRadar traveler: "Our 8-day cruise was the perfect length to experience both countries while maintaining a relaxed pace."
What are the best times of year to take a Cambodia and Vietnam river cruise?
The most favorable time for Mekong River cruises falls between November and February when the weather is mild and dry. These conditions are ideal for exploring major attractions like Angkor Wat in Siem Reap and the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City. September-October and March-April represent the shoulder season offering good value and fewer tourists though temperatures begin to climb. As one TourRadar traveler noted about their October cruise on the RV Indochine: "The weather was perfect for exploring the villages and temples not too hot or humid."
What are the typical shore excursions included on Cambodia and Vietnam river cruises?
Mekong River cruise excursions take you into the heart of local life. The programs include visits to vibrant floating markets traditional villages ancient temples and significant historical sites. Travelers can see artisans making silk and rice paper tour the Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh and explore the Cu Chi Tunnels. In Sa Dec visitors can step into the house of Huynh Thuy Le made famous by Marguerite Duras' novel "The Lover". At Wat Hanchey temple guests receive traditional water blessings from Buddhist monks. A TourRadar traveler who sailed with CroisiEurope mentioned: "The excursions were extremely well organized with knowledgeable local guides who shared fascinating insights into the culture and daily life along the Mekong."
What kinds of ships sail the Mekong River between Vietnam and Cambodia?
Modern river vessels designed specifically for Mekong navigation combine local character with contemporary comfort. The AmaDara features French colonial styling and twin-balcony staterooms while the Emerald Harmony offers a pool and Asian-fusion design. The RV Indochine II provides 31 spacious cabins with traditional wooden details. As one TourRadar traveler noted about the Emerald Harmony: "The ship was beautifully appointed with large cabins an infinity pool and excellent public spaces for relaxing and watching the Mekong scenery pass by."
What is included in the dining experience on Mekong River cruises?
The dining program on Mekong cruises blends local and international cuisines with full-board service. Ships like the Emerald Harmony include complimentary beverages with meals and all-day coffee and tea service. Chefs source fresh ingredients from local markets along the route creating authentic Vietnamese and Cambodian dishes alongside Western options. The RV Indochine features cooking classes focusing on regional specialties. A TourRadar traveler commented: "The food was exceptional with great variety - we especially loved trying all the local dishes and fresh tropical fruits at breakfast."