4 Luxury Mekong River Cruises From Cambodia To Vietnam

Trace the culture of the colourful Khmer empire with unique, luxury Mekong river cruises from Cambodia to Vietnam. Go on a slow travel and see a side of Southeast Asia other travellers rarely get to see. 

In Cambodia, cruise along Tonle Sap, see the Angkor Wat, and learn about the somber Khmer Rouge regime. In Vietnam, tour the massive Mekong Delta, explore local villages, and take part in cooking and handicrafts classes. Different itineraries will have different options to choose from, and guests can go on different excursions throughout the day.

Intrigued? These luxury Mekong River cruises from Cambodia to Vietnam will take you on a memorable cultural adventure.

1. Aqua Expeditions

Choose from a 3-night, 4-night and 7-night river cruise aboard the luxury Aqua Mekong. Take the journey of a lifetime for a truly immersive, meaningful and culture-rich experience.

With Aqua Expeditions’ Mekong River cruise, guests will see the most authentic facets of Mekong culture and ways of life. Explore the beautiful landscapes of the Mekong River in comfort and luxury. Knowledgeable English-speaking guides are there to share about the age-old traditions and unspoilt nature, and every day on the Mekong is an opportunity to learn something new and amazing.

The Aqua Mekong is equipped with many amenities, such as a plunge pool, expansive outdoor lounge area, and a gym that offers panoramic views of the Mekong. There is also a spa and home theatre! Meals wise, enjoy a world-class menu that showcases the region’s myriad flavours, crafted by Michelin-starred chef David Thompson. Get a drink at the indoor/outdoor bar and when it’s time to rest, retreat to your stylishly-appointed suite. During the day, feel free to lounge about in plush daybeds and watch life on the Mekong through floor-to-ceiling windows.

2. Avalon Waterways

On Avalon Waterways’ 8-day Mekong river cruise from Cambodia to Vietnam, immerse in local cultures and ancient traditions as you sightsee and meet locals in interesting places.

Go on an ox cart ride and learn about the daily lives of farmers in the rice paddy fields of Cambodian’s countryside. Get to know the art of silversmithing in a silversmith village using age-old techniques. Tour the National Museum and Royal Palace of Phnom Penh with its striking Silver Pagoda, and meet children at a local orphanage. 

Continue your river cruise into Vietnam, where you’ll visit a colourful market. See firsthand how handcrafted sampans are built at the home of a family in Cu Lao Gieng. Experience Vietnamese culture with a visit to a workshop to learn how rice wine and traditional candies are made. This unique Mekong River cruise is sure to create lasting memories!

With a maximum of 36 guests, Avalon Waterways offers an intimate experience. Enjoy amenities such as lounges, fitness rooms, spa rooms and luxurious suites with beds facing the window. With wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, you’ll never miss a fascinating view on the Mekong!

3. Uniworld

Board Uniworld’s Mekong Jewel for a journey from Cambodia to Vietnam. As two of the most beautiful, historic and friendly places in all of Asia, each possesses its own unique charm and traditions, its own tragic history and complex past. 

In many ways, this river cruise is less about the sights you see than it is about the people you meet and the experiences you have along the way. Look forward to visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites, meeting young children at a local school, friendly villagers in their homes, and receiving a water blessing from local Buddhist monks. Delve into Cambodia’s tragic past and learn about the infamous Killing Fields of the Khmer Rouge. 

Crossing the border into Vietnam, you’ll stop at a temple of Hoa Hao, venture to Gieng Island and observe the daily routines of locals in Sa Dec. Explore backwaters and narrow canals on a sampan, and visit the untouched island of Ben Tre. Arriving in Ho Chi Minh city, you’ll see the vestiges of the Vietnam War, and catch a glimpse of the Cú Chi Tunnels.

Onboard the Mekong Jewel, take full advantage of the swimming pool, spa, sauna and steam room and gym. There’s even a hair salon and nail bar so you can stay stylish all the way, along with two lounges and a library. Meals onboard are made with the finest and freshest ingredients, and come with complimentary house wine, local spirits and beer!

4. Mekong River Cruises

Explore the beauty of the Mekong’s powerful waters with Mekong River Cruises. Marvel at unspoiled tropical jungles and mountain peaks, impressive rock formations, and visit secluded villages. Your experienced captain guides your ship through awe-inspiring gorges, past labyrinths of pristine sandbanks, and even through turbulent rapids.

There’s a little something for everyone – culture lovers, nature lovers and thrill seekers. You’ll learn about the Buddhist culture with visits to temples, pagodas and monasteries. Visit national parks and explore the beauty of pristine shore lands. Climb 160 steps up the “seven levels of heaven” on a wooden staircase and marvel at the view from the top. Whatever you feel like doing, you are free to design your own day. 

An elegant blend of tropical hardwood, old-world styling and cutting-edge shipbuilding technology, the boutique ship carries a colonial elegance. Recline on a comfortable deck chair and get some sun from the sundeck, or enjoy a traditional massage. Hungry? Meals are freshly prepared using ingredients bought from local merchants along the way. There’s even a library onboard, a dream come true for bookworms. Or feel free to spend the day in your comfortable cabin, which features an outdoor balcony!