10 Best Mekong River Cruises for 2023-2024

Vietnam, Cambodia, and the Riches of the Mekong - Cruise Only

Embark on your 8-day Mekong River cruise aboard the MS Amadara from Prek Kdam to Phnom Penh in Cambodia and finally on to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, with opportunities to ride an oxcart through the rice paddies of a small village, tour the former military base of Xeo Quyt, and explore the architecture, cafes, and nightlife of Phnom Pehn.

From the Temples of Angkor to the Mekong Delta & Hanoi and Halong Bay

Siem Reap to Hanoi
14 Days from $4,034

Sail through Cambodia and Vietnam aboard the colonial-style RV Indochine II. Spend 14 days cruising along the Mekong River, traveling from Siem Reap to Hanoi observing imposing monuments, examples of finest architecture, and extraordinary landscapes.

Mekong Discovery - Round-trip Phnom Penh

4 Days from $4,350

Board the Aqua Mekong for an excellent 4-day round-trip cruise from Phnom Penh along the Tonle Sap River. Along the way, you'll learn about a uniquely Buddhist practice at the Vipassana Dhura Mandala, enjoy a unique ox-cart ride, and see the Khmer Art Collection at the National Museum of Cambodia.

Charms of the Mekong - Cruise Only

Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap
8 Days from $2,399

Discover the charms of the Mekong as you cruise from Ho Chi Minh City to Prek Kdam on this 8-day Vietnam & Cambodia cruise aboard MS Amadara. Enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours, a large variety of land activities, visits to rural villages, historic pagodas, floating markets, and a Buddhist monastery.

Classic Mekong

Upstream
8 Days from $3,732

Explore both Vietnam's and Cambodia's striking cultural contrast in this 8-day Upstream Classic Mekong Cruise from Saigon to Siem Reap aboard RV Bassac Pandaw. Travel from the vibrant French colonial port of Saigon through the vast delta so rich in human life and endeavor to the rich countryside of Cambodia.

Mekong Expedition - Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh

8 Days from $10,640

From Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam to Phnom Penh, Cambodia, luxurious Aqua Mekong takes you on this 8-day Mekong River cruise, visiting Buddhist temples, local villages & markets, and touring Chau Doc, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Tralach, Koh Oknha Tey, and Sa Dec.

The Lost Civilization - Low Water

Saigon - Siem Reap
8 Days from $2,313

Discover the Mekong River during low water season aboard The Jahan on this 8-day cruise, which sails along the lower Mekong from Saigon to Siem Reap. Explore the mighty Mekong and learn about the culture and history of different towns along the river.

Explore the floating village of Tonle Sap

Mekong Expedition - Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh

8 Days from $10,150

Admire the diverse cultures and stunning natural beauty of Cambodia & Vietnam on this 8-day small ship cruise aboard Aqua Mekong. Hikes and bike rides complement cultural tours and market visits as you explore the cities & sites of Cai Be, Chau Doc, Ho Chi Minh City, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Tralach, Koh Chen, Phnom Penh.

From the Angkor Temples to the Mekong Delta

Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City
11 Days from $2,956

On this 11-day cruise of Cambodia & Vietnam aboard the RV Indochine II explore the fascinating Mekong river, its people, culture and history. Explore the waterways of Southeast Asia from the comfort of your floating hotel, making stops to visit Angkor, Tonle Sap, Kampong Tralach, Phnom Penh, My Tho, Ho-Chi- Minh City, and more.

From the Mekong Delta to Siem Reap

Ho Chi Minh City - Siem Reap
9 Days from $2,249

Discover the culture and history of Vietnam & Cambodia on this 9-day cruise from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap aboard the RV Indochine II, departing from Vietnam's Ho Chi Minh City towards Cambodia's Siem Reap, with stops in My Tho & Phnom Penh along the way.

Mekong River Luxury

10 Best Luxury Mekong River Cruises for 2023-2024

Trip Name	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Vietnam, Cambodia, and the Riches of the Mekong - Cruise Only	$2399	8	Apr 10, 2023	Embark on your 8-day Mekong River cruise aboard the MS Amadara from Prek Kdam to Phnom Penh in Cambodia and finally on to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, … 0
The Lost Civilization - Low Water	$2313	8	Apr 8, 2023	Discover the Mekong River during low water season aboard The Jahan on this 8-day cruise, which sails along the lower Mekong from Saigon to Siem Reap. … 0
Mekong Expedition - Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh	$10150	8	Sep 15, 2023	This 8-day cultural cruise aboard the Aqua Mekong takes you from Siem Reap, Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, stopping at Tonle Sap Lake and … 0
Pearl of the Orient	$1074	4	Apr 8, 2023	On this 4-day journey from Saigon to Phnom Penh, cruise the lower Mekong River in majestic style aboard the Jahan. Discover the culture and history … 0
The Lost Civilization - Low Water	$2313	8	Apr 1, 2023	Enjoy an 8-day Mekong River cruise from Siem Reap to Saigon during the low water season. Discover Vietnam and Cambodia's southern cultures while … 0
Charms of the Mekong	$4698	16	Apr 1, 2023	Join the MS Amadara on this 16-day Cambodia and Vietnam adventure. Starting with two nights in Ho Chi Minh City, depart on a 7-night Mekong River … 0
The Lost Civilization - High Water	$2313	8	Sep 2, 2023	Join this 8-day Mekong River cruise during the high water season from Siem Reap to Saigon. Get an inside look at the southern cultures of Vietnam and … 0
Pearl of the Orient	$1074	4	Apr 5, 2023	On this 4-day journey from Phnom Penh to Saigon, cruise downstream on the lower Mekong River in majestic style aboard the Jahan. See the stunning … 0
Mekong Expedition - Ho Chi Minh to Siem Reap	$10150	8	Sep 8, 2023	Board the Aqua Mekong for an unforgettable 8-day cruise up the Mekong River from Saigon, Vietnam to Siem Reap, Cambodia, with stops in Phnom Penh and … 0
Mekong Discovery - Phnom Penh to Siem Reap	$4350	4	Sep 12, 2023	Experience the colorful culture of Vietnam and Cambodia as you embark on this 4-day Mekong River Discovery Cruise and experience a richly-rewarding … 0

10 Mekong River Cruise Deals for 2023-2024

Trip Name	Save	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
The Lost Civilization - Low Water	Savings	$2313	8	Apr 8, 2023	Discover the Mekong River during low water season aboard The Jahan on this 8-day cruise, which sails along the lower Mekong from Saigon to Siem Reap. … 0
Pearl of the Orient - Downstream	Savings	$1024	4	Sep 13, 2023	Cruise downstream on the Mekong River in majestic style aboard the Jayavarman on this 4-day journey from Phnom Penh to Saigon. Learn about the … 0
The Lost Civilization - Low Water	Savings	$2104	8	Sep 2, 2023	Explore the Mekong River in sumptuous luxury aboard the Jayavarman on this 8-day river journey, which cruises majestically along the lower Mekong … 0
The Lost Civilization - High Water	Savings	$2313	8	Sep 2, 2023	Join this 8-day Mekong River cruise during the high water season from Siem Reap to Saigon. Get an inside look at the southern cultures of Vietnam and … 0
The Lost Civilization - High Water	Savings	$2313	8	Aug 26, 2023	Experience the Mekong River during the high water season on this 8-day cruise on The Jahan. This expedition takes you from Saigon to Siem Reap, … 0
The Lost Civilization - High Water	Savings	$2104	8	Sep 9, 2023	Explore the Mekong on this 8-day Mekong River cruise from Siem Reap to Saigon. Get an inside look at the southern cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia as … 0
Serenity Cruise - Low Water	Savings	$1301	5	Apr 11, 2023	Join this 5-day Mekong River cruise from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Travel across the mighty Mekong delta to get an inside look at Cambodian culture. … 0
The Lost Civilization - Low Water	Savings	$2313	8	Apr 1, 2023	Enjoy an 8-day Mekong River cruise from Siem Reap to Saigon during the low water season. Discover Vietnam and Cambodia's southern cultures while … 0
Serenity Cruise - High Water	Savings	$1262	5	Sep 9, 2023	From Siem Reap to Phnom Penh, join this 5-day Mekong river cruise aboard the Jayavarman and journey through the vast Mekong Delta to explore the … 0
Serenity Cruise - High Water	Savings	$1301	5	Sep 2, 2023	Join this 5-day high water river cruise aboard the Jahan from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh, and travel across the mighty Mekong Delta to discover the … 0

Our 8 Favorite Mekong River Cruise Ships for 2023-2024

Aqua Mekong

The luxurious Aqua Mekong was designed to embody the aesthetic of a sophisticated five star hotel. Spacious and indulgent, yet intimate enough to feel entirely exclusive, the Aqua Mekong incorporates relaxed yet refined lounging and sailing.

MS Amadara

Explore Europe's legendary waterways on the luxurious small ship MS Amadara. It boasts a capacity of 124 passengers, a wide range of facilities, and a wide range of ports of call.

RV Indochine II

The RV Indochine II successfully combines colonial and modern styles. Built in 2016 with the finest material and start-of-the-art technology, this is an ideal ship for cruises along the waterways of Asia.

Scenic Spirit

Unpack your bags just once and settle into your spacious suite featuring separate living and sleeping areas as well as your own balcony. Explore the light-filled public spaces and dining areas, where you can relax, indulge and dream, as the magical Vietnamese and Cambodian landscapes float by. Your experience will be one of unmatched luxury with enhanced protocols, for your health and wellbeing.

RV Indochine

The RV Indochine is an exotic ship which sails entirely on Asia's Mekong River. Built in 2008, she is made of local woods and decorated in a colonial style. The RV Indochine is an ideal ship for cruising the waterways of Asia.

Jahan

The elegant Jahan is one of the first modern boutique-style riverboats to sail the Mekong. The ship is reminiscent of colonial cruise liners and features 26 luxurious cabins with floor to ceiling windows, gourmet dining, and special on-board amenities.

Emerald Harmony

Emerald Harmony, the newest Emerald Star-Ship launched by Emerald Cruises, was designed to take up to 84 passengers and this watercraft is designed specifically to navigate the waters of the Mekong.

Jayavarman

Jayavarman is a ship resembling a floating art gallery, with fine works of art exhibited all over the public decks. The ship's public spaces and rooms are decorated with a stylish Art-Deco theme and a charming French-colonial aesthetic. The warm and embracing atmosphere invites you to feel at home from the first step aboard.

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Mekong River Cruising Guide & Travel Tips

The Mekong River flows all the way from the heights of the Tibetan Plateau ultimately into the South China Sea, making it the 12th longest river in the world at 4350 km (2700 mi) in length. Along the way, it winds through Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam. Each of these countries has its own unique culture, customs, and traditions, but as your riverboat plunges deeper into the jungles and verdant landscapes of these countries, you will see well-preserved ancient architecture, remnants of abandoned fortresses, and the highlights of the Buddhist culture - still thriving today - that has defined the cultural identity of the Indochina Peninsula.

While some cruises are as short as four days and do not visit more than one or two countries, others meander down the Mekong making their way to three or even all four countries along this waterway. Your tour might include visits to:

Bangkok: Thailand's busy capital city.
Ho Chi Minh City: the bustling city formerly known as Saigon in Vietnam
Luang Prabang: the spiritual capital of Laos.
Kuang Si falls three-tiered water that cascades off towering drops into turquoise pools.
Pak Ou Caves of Cambodia.

You might also get to know each of these countries on your river cruise:

Laos: A country dominated by Buddhist architecture that reflects national spirituality.
Cambodia: Where you'll find a mix of temples and pagodas in traditional Buddhist or Hindu style.
Thailand: Home to some of our most active Mekong River cruises and unforgettably distinct cuisine.
Vietnam: Formerly ravaged by war, its breathtaking landscapes, jungles, and architecture now enjoy tranquility and peace.

How to get to the Mekong River?

The government of Laos has not been issuing any tourist visas, check the US and Laos embassy's website for up-to-date information.

United States - There are many 1 stop flight options from the rest of the countries with access to the Mekong River. Check the US to Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam embassy's advice for travel.

India - There are many 1 stop flight options to the countries accessing the Meko g River from India's cities. Check India's to Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam embassy's advice for travel.

United Kingdom - The United Kingdom is currently prohibiting international travel for purposes of tourism, check the official website for up-to-date information.

The Best Time to Take a Cruise on the Mekong River

The Mekong River is a year-round travel destination but depending on when you go, you?ll have a different experience. The best time to take a cruise down the Mekong is during the dry season, between November and April. Though November through January is the ideal time because the usual temperature won?t be too high and the wet season has already passed.

Best Times to Visit Thailand

In general, November to early April is the ideal season to visit Thailand. It is advised to avoid Thailand from May to October, regardless of geography. The rainy season is from July through October, but monsoons and storms can cause travel delays and cancellations as early as May. Here are some tips to figure out the best months for your travel to Thailand. Learn about typical weather, crowds, and other factors that may influence when you plan your trip to the "Land of Smiles."

Brief History of Thailand

Formerly Siam, this country has undergone various events and influences throughout the centuries that have helped shaped its current character. This article gives some basic insight into some of Thailand's history. However, the only way to gain understanding of this intriguing nation and culture is to experience it for yourself!

The Giving of Alms

Each morning at dawn hundreds of monks leave the temples to go out through the streets to collect food offerings. Faithful people bring cooked rice to help provide for them, and it is a unique ritual to experience. Learn about proper etiquette and behavior as a visitor observing the daily alms giving.

Buddha statues Wat Yai Chaimongkol, Ayutthaya

Thai Religion

Before your trip, learn about cultural and historic influences on Thai religion throughout the centuries. A mix of mostly Buddhism, animism, and Hinduism, the religion of Thailand is truly unique and an integral part of everyday life. Travelers will also find helpful tips on proper etiquette when visiting temples around the country.

Best time to Visit Laos

When is the right time for your trip to Laos? This country does have distinct rainy and dry seasons, which can determine when you decide to travel. Depending on what you want to see and do during your trip, the weather is definitely something to consider. Learn more about what to expect so you can begin planning your trip!

Laos Wildlife

Laos may not come to mind as a place full of wildlife, but the country's tropical climate & landscape make it a haven for a variety of creatures! Elephants, sun bears, tigers, & 740 species of birds are just a few of the animals that call this home. Discover the wild side of Laos on your trip!

Lao Cuisine

The cuisine of Laos may not be familiar, but it is one that will satisfy any food-loving traveler! While some similarities do exist between it and Northern Thai food, Lao cuisine has many distinct elements that make it unique. Learn more about what to expect on your trip to Laos, common ingredients, and popular dishes.

Best Time to Visit Myanmar

While a trip to Myanmar can be taken any time of year, there are some things travelers should consider when planning a visit. As an educated traveler, you can avoid monsoon season or extremely hot weather, as well as experience the activities that interest you most. This guide will help you determine the best times of year for your trip to Myanmar.

Glimpse into Myanmar Culture

Centuries of various influences have shaped Myanmar into the nation it is today. Foreign influence, deep-rooted heritage, and a religious thread throughout result in the unique characteristics of the country. The vibrant culture and ancient traditions can only be understood by visiting this enchanting destination.

Myanmar Destination Highlights

Are you a curious traveler who is interested in all that Myanmar has to offer as a destination? Whether history, cuisine, rich culture or active excursions are your thing, Myanmar has something for every style of traveler. Check out this overview of the varying regions of this colorful, intriguing country to help you decide where the adventure will take you.

History of Myanmar

A trip to Myanmar will immerse travelers in an ancient culture that has been shaped by various foreign influences, as well as internal changes. Formerly known as Burma until 1989, this continues to be a nation that is still experiencing constant progression. Get a brief history of this country to get a glimpse of why it is such a fascinating destination.

Vietnam Overview

Vietnam is as rich in environmental wonders as it is in cultural expressions. From its complicated history to its inviting cities, Vietnam has a variety of attractions to satisfy any inquisitive traveler. This country will captivate you with its intriguing culture, unique cuisine, distinct geography, and so many more interesting characteristics.

Reflections of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)

History of Vietnam

A trip to Vietnam takes travelers to a nation with one of the oldest and most continuous histories in the world! The best way to gain understanding of this intriguing nation and culture is to experience it first hand. However, this brief overview gives travelers some insight into ancient and modern Vietnamese history prior to a visit.

Variety of Vietnamese food offered by a vendor in Hoi An

Vietnamese Cuisine

Vietnamese cuisine varies from the north to south and everywhere in between based on foreign influences and regional crops. However, travelers will find the constant staple ingredients of rice, fish sauce, and a multitude of herbs & spices. Discover the different foods throughout this country and experience the local flavor of each region!

Brief Introduction to Siem Reap

Siem Reap is perhaps the most recognizable area of Cambodia. The famous Angkor Wat temple, the largest religious monument in the world, is located here. Once the seat of power for the great Khmer Empire, this area is the most popular tourist destination in the country. Get a first-hand glimpse of Cambodia's history and culture.

In memory of the killing fields of Phnom Penh

What was the Khmer Rouge?

The Khmer Rouge was the Communist Party of Kampuchea that reigned in Cambodia from 1975-1979. Its goal was to create a self-sufficient, Utopian society by force, creating a terrible genocide in the process. This recent part of Cambodia's history helps define present-day issues & characteristics.

Cambodia Wildlife

Wildlife may not the first thing that comes to mind for visitors to Cambodia. However, isolated pockets of the country's forest offer some of the best opportunities for wildlife spotting in all of Southeast Asia! It is even home to a number of endangered species, including the tiger, Asian elephant, sun bear, & gibbon.

Cambodian Cuisine

Experience the unique cuisine of Cambodia on your trip! Influences from China, India and France are strongly evident, along with borrowed methods and dishes from neighboring Thailand and Vietnam. This results in delicious food that can be enjoyed no other place in the world.

Best Mekong River Cruise Lines for 2023-2024

AMA Waterways - operates ten trips on the Mekong River between Vietnam and Cambodia. MS Amadara, the company's sole Mekong River cruise ship, features spacious staterooms and suites with twin balconies that invite the ever-changing scenery of Southeast Asia inside.
Lindblad Expeditions - explores Vietnam, Angkor, Saigon, and Cambodia down the Mekong River on board the 48-guest Jahan, a remarkable new riverboat that brings a degree of luxury to the Mekong previously dreamed of.
CroisiEurope - one of the most established and experienced river cruise lines, sails the Mekong aboard its luxury ships, the RV Indochine and RV Indochine II.
Aqua Expeditions - is the only Mekong River cruise line that provides complimentary flight extensions to Siem Reap during the low water season. Aqua Mekong, a luxury river cruise ship charts a path through the picturesque lower Mekong basin with expert guides on board.

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Mekong River Travel FAQs

Do I need a visa to travel to the Mekong River?

The only country on the Indochina Peninsula that does not require a tourist visa is Thailand; Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia do require tourist visas. Tourist visas are not hard to get, and we can help point you in the right direction throughout the process. Check the visa requirements for more specific information

Is tipping customary in the countries of the Mekong River?

Throughout most of the countries along the Mekong River, it is customary to tip around 10 percent of your meal and $5-10 per day for personal drivers and up to $20 for guides

What is internet access like along the Mekong River?

While you will find that the more developed areas and cities have decent internet and accessible cyber cafes, there is some censorship that will prevent you from accessing certain sites, and the rural areas probably won't have the internet at all

Can I use my cell phone while on the Mekong River?

You probably will be out of range for most of your trip, but if you are in a big city and would like to use your phone, the easiest way to do so is to buy a local SIM chip that you can find at any airport and pre-pay for data and minutes

Do I need power adapters or electrical converters?

Power is 220v but most 110v devices can handle this as well. Outlets are either A (two-flat prongs), C (two round prongs) or G (three flat prongs in a triangle). Make sure to have a plug adapter for these types just in case

What are the toilets like along the Mekong River?

The facilities on boats and hotels are generally western style bowl toilets, but on any day excursions, you might come across squat toilets. Make sure that you bring your own toilet paper and throw it into the wastebasket rather than the bowl before flushing