Mekong Cruises from Phnom Penh

What our customers ask about Mekong Cruises from Phnom Penh

• What's the typical length of Mekong river cruises starting in Phnom Penh?

  Mekong river cruises from Phnom Penh span 3 to 10 days with most travelers choosing 4 to 8-day journeys. The Emerald Harmony delivers a detailed 10-day route to Ho Chi Minh City while the Mekong Eyes Cruise offers a shorter 4-day trip. As shared by a TourRadar traveler about their 8-day AmaWaterways cruise: "The itinerary was perfectly paced allowing us to really experience both Cambodia and Vietnam from the river perspective."

• What are the main stops between Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City on Mekong cruises?

  The river journey connects several noteworthy locations including Angkor Ban where visitors experience village life and Tan Chau known for traditional sampan rides. Boats stop at Sa Dec's local markets and the bustling floating markets of Cai Be. The route includes time in Chau Doc's historic district and Ben Tre's lush coconut region before arriving in Ho Chi Minh City. A TourRadar traveler noted: "Each stop offered something unique - from the silk weaving in Tan Chau to the fascinating floating markets of Cai Be."

• What type of accommodation can I expect on Mekong cruises from Phnom Penh?

  The river vessels range from upscale ships like the Emerald Harmony featuring panoramic suites to intimate boats like the Mekong Eyes Classic with cozy twin cabins. Modern comforts include AmaDara's pool-equipped Sun Deck and Avalon Saigon's observation lounge. According to a TourRadar traveler on AmaDara: "The staterooms were spacious and well-appointed with both French and outside balconies offering amazing views of the Mekong."

• What are the common pickup locations in Phnom Penh for these cruises?

  Cruise lines collect guests from downtown Phnom Penh hotels with primary boarding points at Sisowath Quay pier Peam Chi Korng port and Phnom Penh Cruise Port. Mekong Eyes Cruise provides complimentary transfers within 5km of Sisowath pier while Emerald Cruises arranges pickup at the Hyatt Regency. A TourRadar guest reported: "The transfer from our hotel to Sisowath Quay was seamless and well-organized."

• What's the best season to take a Mekong cruise from Phnom Penh?

  October through February marks the prime time for Mekong cruises with pleasant temperatures and minimal rain. While companies like DNQ Travel and AmaWaterways operate throughout the year these months offer optimal water conditions for sailing. One TourRadar traveler noted: "We went in November and had perfect weather - not too hot and the river conditions were ideal for cruising."

• What should I explore in Phnom Penh before starting the cruise?

  Key attractions in Phnom Penh include the ornate Royal Palace complex Silver Pagoda National Museum and the bustling Central Market. Emerald Cruises packages often feature these sites plus the sobering Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. A TourRadar traveler advised: "Arrive a day early to explore the Royal Palace complex and enjoy a sunset drink at the Foreign Correspondents Club overlooking the river."