Which cruise to explore the Mekong Delta?

A cruise in the Mekong Delta is an unforgettable travel experience in southern Vietnam. Depending on your preferences and budget, embark on one of the cruise ships to treat yourself to an enchanted journey along the mythical river, adorned with languid landscapes and vibrant local life.

This article aims to provide answers to two major questions commonly asked by people who are planning a trip to the Mekong Delta in Vietnam, which are: “Which boat should I choose for a cruise in the Mekong Delta?” and “What to see and do during a cruise in the Mekong Delta?”.

Which boat to choose for a cruise in the Mekong Delta?

Which boat should you choose to explore this nonchalant river? It all depends on your expectations of comfort, your budget, and the time you wish to live this memorable experience. Keep in mind that cruises in the Mekong Delta are always more expensive than those in Halong Bay. Travelers with a generous budget and certain comfort requirements can count on high-end cruise companies to fulfill their desires for a getaway in this corner of southern Vietnam.

There are several companies capable of realizing your dreams, such as Aqua Mekong Cruise, Heritage Line Cruise, Victoria Mekong, or Avalon Siem Reap. These companies provide a unique cruise experience with impeccable quality of service, spacious and exquisitely appointed cabins, refined cuisine, magnificent relaxation areas, and carefully selected activities. Most of these top-class cruises take place over 7 days and will bring you to the fabulous Angkor Temples while passing Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia.

If you have a rather modest budget, you can opt for cruise companies like Bassac or Cochinchine. These companies favor conviviality over luxury without neglecting service or the quality of the cuisine. The cabins are certainly smaller; however, that is not a big problem if your goal is a cruise that allows you to take in the lush landscapes of the Mekong Delta. The itineraries of these cruises concentrate on the Mekong Delta and do not include visits to neighboring Cambodia.

Another interesting option worth considering for those who prefer high privacy is to opt for the services of Sampan Mango Cruise. This cruise company offers two magnificent traditional sampans for a completely private cruise. You can have for yourself this charming embarkation, with a single cabin, a relaxing area, and a crew who will take care of you throughout this unforgettable cruise in the Mekong Delta.

What to see and do during a cruise in the Mekong Delta?

Taking a cruise in the Mekong Delta is truly a fascinating experience. Admiring the languorous landscapes and bustling local life from your cabin or the deck is one of the most enjoyable activities.

But then again, you should know that the Mekong Delta is a multi-faceted region. A cruise in the Mekong Delta region is the perfect occasion to meet with the locals and immerse yourself in the native culture. 

There are numerous stops along the journey. On foot, by bike, and/or by small rowing boat, embark on an adventure to unveil this enchanted labyrinth. You will see magnificent rice fields stretching to the horizon, orchards filled with tropical fruits, diverse crafts inspired by exuberant nature, pagodas, churches, flamboyant Caodaist temples, and the rustic life of the locals, a far cry from your daily.

While cruising the Mekong Delta, you will also have the chance to visit one of the many floating markets. Can Tho, the Mekong Delta’s major economic center, is home to the region’s largest floating markets. Once you get here, make sure not to miss them.

A Mekong Delta cruise is an opportunity to sample the tasty cuisine of Southern Vietnam during meals on board the boat and to experience the authentic countryside of the small islands cradled by the waters of the Mekong. The islands can be explored on foot and by bike and offer a great opportunity to immerse yourself in local life, as on the Tiger and Phoenix islands.

Taking a cruise in the Mekong Delta also means discovering the vestiges of the French presence in this region. A region brimming with commerce, where some old colonial residences remain. A region where the famous novelist Marguerite Duras lived and which was the setting for her novel The Lover.

Depending on the cruise operator of your choice, a range of activities are available on the ship. Some may offer you Vietnamese cooking classes, relaxing treatments, tai chi classes, or speakers and connoisseurs of the destination who will liven up your evenings.

You might want to check out these articles: 

>> How to make a successful cruise in the Mekong Delta?

>> Top 10 unmissable activities in the Mekong Delta

>> Tour to the Mekong Delta: itinerary ideas in 1,2,3,4,5,6 days to know

>> Vietnam Cambodia tour in 3 weeks: What to do and what to visit?

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