The Mekong is the best way to see Vietnam and Cambodia. River cruises run between the delta near Ho Chi Minh City and Kampong Cham in Cambodia, passing through rural communities, floating markets and landscapes that road travel cannot match. Most itineraries combine a seven-night cruise with stays in Ho Chi Minh, Siem Reap for Angkor Wat, and Hanoi with Halong Bay.
Mekong Small Ship River Cruises Cruises
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Our top picks
Scenic River Cruises
Highlights of Vietnam, Cambodia & Luxury Mekong
From Hanoi to Siem Reap
14 Jul - 2 Aug 2026 (19 Nights)
From £9,900 per guest
Scenic River Cruises
Treasures of the Mekong Meandering Cruise
From Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap
19 Jul - 2 Aug 2026 (14 Nights)
From £7,350 per guest
Scenic River Cruises
Meandering along the Mekong and Temple Discovery Cruise
From Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap
21 Jul - 2 Aug 2026 (12 Nights)
From £6,850 per guest
Scenic River Cruises
Highlights of Cambodia, Vietnam & Luxury Mekong
From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
22 Jul - 10 Aug 2026 (19 Nights)
From £9,900 per guest
Our Insight
Highlights of a Mekong river cruise
The river journey begins in the Mekong Delta, where life runs on the water. Floating markets, fishing villages, rice paddies and small communities line the banks. This is rural Vietnam at its most authentic, a world away from the cities.
Crossing into Cambodia, the pace shifts. Phnom Penh is a city still processing its history. The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda contrast with the sobering Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. It is difficult but important and the river cruise gives you time to fully absorb it.
From Kampong Cham, most itineraries fly to Siem Reap. Angkor Wat, an extraordinary 12th century complex of beautiful temples and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Seeing it properly takes time. The temple complex is vast and the best programmes allow 2 or 3 days to explore at a sensible pace.
Ho Chi Minh City bookends the journey at one end, with the Cu Chi Tunnels and War Remnants Museum adding context.
The river cruise difference on the Mekong
The Mekong shows you a side of Vietnam and Cambodia that roads cannot reach. Villages accessible only by water. Markets that exist for locals, not tourists. A rhythm of life that has not changed much in decades.
Small river ships carry fewer than 70 guests, with high crew ratios and guides who know the region deeply. Excursions are by smaller boat into narrow tributaries, on foot through villages, by cyclo through towns. The ship becomes a base from which to explore, returning each evening to good food and comfort.
Luxury Mekong River cruise itineraries
Mekong cruises work best as part of a wider programme. The river section is typically seven nights, but the full experience combines this with city stays and touring.
- Mekong with Ho Chi Minh and Siem Reap - The core itinerary. Time in Ho Chi Minh City, a seven-night river cruise through the delta and into Cambodia, then a flight to Siem Reap for Angkor Wat. Guided throughout.
- Adding Hanoi and Halong Bay - Extends the journey north to Vietnam's capital. Hanoi has a different character to the south, with French colonial architecture, the Old Quarter and excellent food. Halong Bay adds time among the limestone islands.
- Grand Indochina - The most comprehensive option. Combines the Mekong cruise with extended touring through Laos, including Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng and Vientiane, ending in Bangkok. Luang Prabang is worth the journey alone - an atmospheric town that feels authentic and off the main tourist trail.
Luxury cruise lines sailing the Mekong
- Scenic operates the most extensive Mekong programme, with several itinerary lengths and combinations. Their Grand Indochina & Luxury Mekong routing is worth highlighting - it combines the river cruise with stays in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Siem Reap, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Vientiane and Bangkok for a complete Indochina journey.
- AmaWaterways offers Mekong itineraries with the option of a Bangkok extension.
- Uniworld brings their boutique style to the river, with well-designed ships and strong guiding.
The best way to compare options is to explore our Mekong River cruises or speak to us for tailored recommendations.
The best time to cruise the Mekong
November to April, the dry season. River levels are more predictable and the weather is warm without being too humid. During the wet season (May to October), some cruises may not operate and the crossing to Siem Reap by water is less reliable.
Travel tips and FAQs for Mekong River cruising
How long should I allow?
The river cruise itself is seven nights, but we recommend allowing time for Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap as well. Longer programmes add Hanoi and Halong Bay, or extend into Laos and Bangkok.
Is the river cruise the only way to see this region?
No, but it is the best way. Road travel between the same points would be long and tiring. The river shows you communities and landscapes that roads do not reach, and the ship provides comfort between destinations.
What will I see on the river?
Floating markets, fishing villages, rice paddies, fruit orchards, Buddhist pagodas. Excursions take you into local communities, silk-weaving villages, and smaller tributaries by sampan. The landscape is flat and green, with life centred on the water.
Is Angkor Wat included?
On most itineraries, yes. You fly from Kampong Cham to Siem Reap, with two or three days to explore the temple complex. This is one of the highlights of any Mekong journey.
What about visas?
UK citizens need visas for both Vietnam and Cambodia. E-visas are available for both countries. Requirements change, so check before booking and again before travel.
What should I pack for a Mekong cruise?
Light, breathable clothing. Modest dress for temple visits (shoulders and knees covered). Comfortable walking shoes. Sun protection, insect repellent and a hat. A light rain jacket even in the dry season. Smart-casual for evenings on board.
Can I extend to Laos?
Yes. Scenic's Grand Indochina itinerary includes Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng and Vientiane. Luang Prabang is particularly worth visiting - a UNESCO-listed town with temples, French colonial buildings and a pace that feels a long way from the tourist trail.
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