South East Asia covers a vast region of white sand beaches, limestone karsts, temple complexes and cities that run on a different kind of energy. Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines each have their own character. Ocean cruises connect the coastlines and islands. River journeys on the Mekong take you inland.
South East Asia Small Ship 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 luxury South East Asia cruise
Thailand anchors so many itineraries. You have Bangkok which mixes palaces, temples and markets in a city that never slows down. Then the southern islands, Koh Samui, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, that offer white beaches and clear water.
Vietnam and Cambodia pair naturally with Thailand. Vietnam runs from the rice paddies and hill villages of the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south. Ha Long Bay's limestone pinnacles rising from the water are worth the journey alone. Hoi An brings lanterns, bridges and a quieter pace. Cambodia's Angkor Wat is an unmissable temple complex, whilst the coastline remains largely unspoilt.
Longer itineraries reach Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines. Malaysia has the Cameron Highlands, Taman Negara rainforest and Kuala Lumpur. Borneo, shared with Indonesia and Brunei, is where you find orangutans. Indonesia's 17,000 islands include Bali, volcanic Java with the Borobudur temple complex and Komodo with its dragons and pink beaches. The Philippines adds the underground river at Puerto Princesa.
Singapore and Hong Kong bookend many cruises. Singapore is one of the world's most innovative cities. Whilst Hong Kong balances markets and temples with green spaces like Victoria Peak.
The small ship difference in South East Asia
Small ships reach smaller ports for island-hopping in Thailand and Malaysia and access harbours that larger vessels cannot enter. Shore excursions in smaller groups mean more direct contact with local markets, temples and guides who know the area. On the Mekong, small river ships are the only way to travel through Cambodia and Vietnam's interior, connecting landscapes and cultures that the coast never shows you.
Luxury small ship South East Asia itineraries
The region covers eleven countries: Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Timor-Leste, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Most cruises focus on a few.
- Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand (10-14 nights) - The most popular combination. Vietnam's coastline pairs with Thailand's islands and a Mekong extension into Cambodia. Many itineraries include an overland tour to Siem Reap and the temple complex of Angkor Wat.
- Singapore or Hong Kong departures (14+ nights) - Longer itineraries starting from Singapore or Hong Kong add Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Borneo. Some connect onwards to Australia or New Zealand.
- Mekong river cruises (7-14 nights) - River journeys through Cambodia and Vietnam, often combined with touring in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Siem Reap and Bangkok.
Luxury cruise lines sailing South East Asia
Scenic operates Mekong river cruises through Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand. AmaWaterways offers introductory seven-night itineraries covering the region's highlights.
For ocean cruising, Seabourn has a wide choice of departures with 2-week Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia options. Silversea runs longer routes from Singapore or Hong Kong, adding Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos and Bali.
The best way to compare options is to explore our South East Asia cruises or speak to us for tailored recommendations.
When is the best time to cruise South East Asia?
November to February works for most destinations. October to February suits Thailand's west coast. December to April is good for the Gulf of Thailand, Java Sea and South China Sea. Malaysia and Singapore have a dry season from April to October. Check specific destinations when booking, as the region's climates vary.
Travel tips and FAQs for South East Asia cruising
How long is the flight?
Direct flights from the UK to Bangkok, Singapore, Manila and Hong Kong take around 12-14 hours.
What should I pack for a South East Asia cruise?
Lightweight breathable clothing for temperatures between 20-30°C. A light rain jacket for tropical downpours. Swimwear, mosquito repellent and sun protection. No special equipment needed.
What happens on a South East Asia cruise?
Time on deck in warm weather. Shore excursions include market and city tours, temple visits, cooking classes, wildlife lectures, kayaking, waterfall walks, beach time and snorkelling. Some activities are included, others at additional cost.
Is South East Asia good for families?
Yes, for adventurous families with older children (around 7 upwards) who will enjoy the cities, food and meeting local people.
Can I visit Angkor Wat on a cruise?
Many itineraries include an overland excursion to Siem Reap and Angkor Wat from Phnom Penh or the Mekong. It is worth building in at least two days to view this exciting complex properly.
What about the Mekong?
The Mekong is a highlight of the region. River cruises run between Vietnam and Cambodia, connecting Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh and the countryside between. This is the best way to see the interior.
What our clients say
“I couldn’t manage all my cruises without their help and knowledge. Nothing is too much trouble.”Mrs Gosland
collections
Mekong river
The Mekong, South East Asia’s longest river, passes through Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos, offering a glimpse of the diverse cultures and history of these very different countries.
Japan, China & South Korea
Japan, China and South Korea cruises are, in practice, about Japan. Small ships move between Japan’s main islands, balancing major cities with quieter regional ports, and an international stop adding contrast.
India & Sri Lanka
Cruises in India and Sri Lanka are a magnificent introduction to a country where every sense is turned up to eleven, with vibrant colours and smells, extraordinary people and cultures, and an amazing history.
