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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Neil • traveled in February
Seamless tour with excellent guides and drivers. Continual engagement with the tour operator who monitored our progress and ensured we had no surprises. The hotels met our expectations and on occasions we were complimentarily upgraded. The operator (Lucy Do ) even took time to meet us in person to receive our feedback. On reflection, the package provided value for money and I would not hesitate in booking a similar tour again.
Cambodia To Vietnam By Waterway In 15 Days - Deluxe Private Tour - A
Awadesh • traveled in October
Mr chien Nguyen was our guide on the Mekong cruise on the indochine from hochi min city to cambodia, to luang starting on 2/10/23. Knowledgeable Fluent in English Friendly And concerned about our safety always. He was a 5* guide - the best in this trip
From the Mekong Delta to the Angkor Temples (port-to-port cruise) (from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap) - R
Richard • traveled in April, 2025
Fantastic cruise up the Mekong. Made all the more special by such wonderful and diligent staff. Plenty of great excursions to surrounding islands. The guides were enthusiastic and informative. Even the 'sailing day' was packed with optional activities. We also loved our room and sitting on the balcony watching the countryside go by. Lotus Cruises went above and beyond with the cruise and it far exceeded our expectations. Thank you.
7-night Mekong Upstream Vietnam Cambodia on Mekong Navigator
10 best river cruises through Cambodia and Vietnam
Compiled by
NadineCambodia and Vietnam travel expert at TourRadar
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- Grand Tour of Indochina 2026-2027|2027-2028
- Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River with Hanoi, Ha Long Bay & Bangkok (Northbound) 2026
- Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River with Bangkok (Southbound) 2026
- GRAND TOUR 3 COUNTRIES : VIETNAM - CAMBODIA - LAOS (upstream)
- GRAND TOUR 3 COUNTRIES : VIETNAM - LAOS - CAMBODIA (downstream)
- 16-Day Mekong Delta Discovery (Vietnam & Cambodia) – Private Tour
- Cambodia To Vietnam By Waterway In 15 Days - Deluxe Private Tour
- From the Mekong Delta to the Angkor Temples (port-to-port cruise) (from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap)
- Explore Vietnam & Cambodia: 17-Day Coaster Charm & Mekong Adventure
The luxurious Emerald Harmony sails between Vietnam and Cambodia through the Mekong Delta's hidden gems. From Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap, passengers visit floating markets, ancient temples, and local villages, while enjoying premium river accommodation and authentic cultural experiences.
Duration 16 days Destinations Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Emerald Cruises From $14,055
48% Off- US$7,310You save $6,745
The Emerald Harmony guides passengers from Halong Bay's limestone formations to the Mekong Delta's floating communities. Seven nights of river cruising include visits to Tan Chau, Sa Dec, and Phnom Penh's riverside attractions.
Duration 24 days Destinations Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Emerald Cruises From $13,815
34% Off- US$9,120You save $4,695
Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River with Hanoi, Ha Long Bay & Bangkok (Northbound) 2026
This all-suite Avalon Saigon cruise runs from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap, stopping at Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei temple, and Phnom Penh's Silver Pagoda. Walk through the 120-mile Cu Chi Tunnels network, cruise among Ha Long Bay's 3,000 limestone islands, and take sampan rides in Vinh Long.
Duration 19 days Destinations Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand Age Range Ages 8+ Operator Avalon Waterways From
34% Off- US$9,409+$785 upfront costs
The all-suite Avalon Saigon sails the Mekong River with visits to UNESCO-listed Angkor Wat and its five towers, plus Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom where 200 mysterious stone faces watch over the ruins. You'll see Phnom Penh's Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, then head to hilltop Wat Hanchey for traditional monk blessings.
Duration 16 days Destinations Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand Age Range Ages 8+ Operator Avalon Waterways From
34% Off- US$7,539+$525 upfront costs
Spend 7 nights cruising the Mekong River on the Mekong Navigator, sailing from My Tho through Vietnam's delta and into Cambodia. You'll see Angkor Wat at sunrise in Siem Reap, check out the Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh, and walk the sacred grounds of Wat Xiengthong in Luang Prabang.
Duration 17 days Destinations Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos Age Range Ages 30+ Operator ZenVacation From
34% Off- US$9,999
Duration 17 days Destinations Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia Age Range Ages 30+ Operator ZenVacation From
34% Off- US$9,999
16-Day Mekong Delta Discovery (Vietnam & Cambodia) – Private Tour
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This tour was a perfect blend of activity, culture, nature, and relaxation. Food was varied and fresh, including chance to try local flavors and meals onboard boats.”
Hennry, traveled in December
The Bassac and Doris Cruise vessels carry passengers from Cambodia to Vietnam through Mekong Delta and Halong Bay. Floating markets, riverside villages, and limestone karsts highlight the journey, with luxury stays at Palace Gate Hotel and Apricot Hotel.
Duration 16 days Destinations Siem Reap, Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, Chau Doc, Can Tho, Cai Be, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hanoi, Halong Bay Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, French, Spanish, Dutch Operator Vietnam Tour Fun From
34% Off- US$2,583+$982 local payments
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."