Mekong River - Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City

Mekong Expedition Cruise - Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City 8 Days

Prices From £8,389pp
July to April | 7 nights

Mekong Expedition Cruise - Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City 8 Days

Aboard: Aqua Mekong

Set sail aboard the luxurious Aqua Mekong on an unforgettable voyage from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City, tracing the timeless flow of Southeast Asia’s most storied river. Along the way, discover a world where ancient temples, floating villages, and vibrant markets reveal the deep connection between land, water, and life.

With twice-daily guided excursions led by expert local guides, explore the cultural heart of Cambodia and Vietnam, from riverside pagodas and peaceful monasteries to bustling delta towns and quiet canals. Meet local artisans, monks, and families who share their stories, traditions, and warm hospitality.

Aboard the Aqua Mekong, panoramic river views and contemporary comfort create a tranquil retreat between adventures. This is an immersive journey through two captivating countries, united by the enduring spirit of the Mekong River.

Highlights

  • Sail in luxury from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City through Cambodia and Vietnam
  • Twice-daily guided excursions with expert local guides for authentic, in-depth exploration
  • Discover Phnom Penh’s royal landmarks, historic temples, and vibrant riverside atmosphere
  • Visit remote silversmith villages, floating communities, and peaceful Buddhist monasteries along the Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers
  • Cross into Vietnam to explore Chau Doc, Sa Dec, and Cai Be, each alive with markets, temples, and delta life
  • Visit Vinh Trang Pagoda and its serene gardens
  • Cycle or kayak through lush rice fields, quiet canals, and tropical fruit plantations
  • Experience local culture through folk performances, artisan workshops, and warm village hospitality

What's Included

  • All meals while on board
  • Selected house wines and beer, non-alcoholic drinks
  • Twice-daily excursions with expert local guides
  • Group transfers to/from vessel when travelling on recommended flights
  • Laundry
  • Top-of-the-line biking and kayaking equipment
  • Unlimited access to high-speed Wi-Fi

Our popularitinerary Suggestions

All our itinerary holidays are fully customisable

Mekong River - Phnom Penh
1Day

Mekong River - Phnom Penh

Your journey begins in Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital city of Cambodia. After arriving independently, it’s time to step aboard the Aqua Mekong, your luxurious floating sanctuary on one of Asia’s great rivers. Settle into your elegant suite, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the ever-changing beauty of the Mekong, and relax in complete comfort. As evening falls, gather with your fellow travellers to celebrate the beginning of your journey with a graceful Khmer Apsara dance performance, an ancient art form immortalised on the temple walls of Angkor Wat. Tonight will provide the perfect introduction to the spirit and culture of the Mekong.

Tonle Sap River - Koh Chen - Kampong Prasat
2Day

Tonle Sap River - Koh Chen - Kampong Prasat

Today we sail along the Tonle Sap River to the village of Koh Chen, celebrated for its master silversmiths whose exquisite craftsmanship once adorned the Khmer royal courts. Observe the artisans at work before continuing to Udong, Cambodia’s former royal capital from the 17th to 19th centuries, where the serene Vipassana Dhura Meditation Center offers insight into traditional Buddhist practice. In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour of Kampong Prasat, a charming riverside community where everyday life unfolds along the water’s edge, offering a glimpse into the enduring connection between the Mekong and those who call it home.

Kampong Chhnang - Kampong Tralach
3Day

Kampong Chhnang - Kampong Tralach

This morning, explore the lively riverside community of Andong Russei, where traditional potters and palm sugar producers keep age-old crafts alive. Travel by mountain bike or tuk-tuk through rice fields and quiet villages, watching local climbers scale towering palms to collect their sweet harvest. After a cooking demonstration and lunch back on board, the afternoon invites further discovery. Choose from a gentle bike ride through the countryside, a bit of fishing, or a skiff excursion to the charming floating village of Kampong Tralach. As the sun begins to set, take to a kayak for a peaceful paddle along the Tonle Sap River, ending the day with sundowners by the riverbank as the light fades over rural Cambodia.

Mekong River - Koh Okhna Tey - Preah Prosop
4Day

Mekong River - Koh Okhna Tey - Preah Prosop

Today we sail along the Mekong River to Koh Okhna Tey, an island renowned for its skilled Khmer weavers who create the traditional kroma. These are colourful checked scarves that are an essential part of Cambodian life. Watch as artisans deftly dye and weave each piece by hand, then choose to explore further by bicycle, passing Buddhist temples, stilted houses, and grazing white oxen along the water’s edge. After lunch, board a skiff for a journey to Preah Prosop, a peaceful riverside village where life continues much as it has for generations, offering an authentic glimpse into Cambodia’s timeless connection with the Mekong.

Phnom Penh
5Day

Phnom Penh

Today we return to Phnom Penh to welcome new travellers joining us for the final leg of our journey. Set out by motorised tuk-tuk to discover the city’s most iconic sights including the glittering Royal Palace, the exquisite Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum of Cambodia, which houses the world’s finest collection of Khmer art. Those seeking deeper reflection may visit the moving Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, while others can explore the lively Russian Market, brimming with colour and local crafts. In the afternoon, we bid farewell to departing guests and toast to new beginnings with handcrafted sundowners. As evening descends, a mesmerising Khmer Apsara dance performance brings the day to a graceful close.

Border Crossing - Chau Doc - My An Hung
6Day

Border Crossing - Chau Doc - My An Hung

We now cross the border into Vietnam, gliding along the Mekong as the landscape shifts from Cambodia’s floodplains to the emerald rice fields of the Mekong Delta. In the lively border town of Chau Doc, travel like a local by xe loi (motorised rickshaw) through bustling markets before heading to Long Son Pagoda for sweeping views from the summit of Sam Mountain. Learn from resident monks about their Mahayana Buddhist traditions, then return via the colourful morning market or, for the more active, set out on an optional 18-kilometre bike ride through Long Khanh Island’s serene paddy fields. In the afternoon, visit My An Hung, a welcoming riverside village surrounded by lush plantations. Here, enjoy tropical fruits in a local home as villagers perform traditional folk songs and a lively Unicorn dance, or choose to explore the countryside on a gentle 17-kilometre cycling route, immersing yourself in the rhythm of delta life.

Binh Thanh/ Sa Dec - Cai Be - Mekong River
7Day

Binh Thanh/ Sa Dec - Cai Be - Mekong River

Today’s adventure begins at Binh Thanh, a riverside village famed for its traditional mat weaving. Join the locals on a gentle bike ride through bustling markets, fruit plantations, and fish farms, or choose a more relaxed pace with a visit to Sa Dec, a charming delta town rich in history and romance. Accompanied by our chef, wander through the lively markets before visiting the Lover House and Kien An Cung Temple, elegant remnants of Sa Dec’s colonial past. Back on board, enjoy a cooking demonstration and a delicious lunch as we sail toward Cai Be. Later, board a local sampan to Tan Phong Island, where tropical fruit gardens and quiet canals await. Whether you prefer an 8-kilometre cycle, a peaceful kayak paddle, or a leisurely stroll through the village, each offers a chance to experience the gentle rhythm of life along the Mekong.

Mekong River - My Tho - Ho Chi Minh
8Day

Mekong River - My Tho - Ho Chi Minh

After a final breakfast on board, it’s time to bid farewell to the Aqua Mekong as your journey along this legendary river draws to a close. Disembark at My Tho and travel onward toward Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s bustling and energetic southern hub. Along the way, pause to visit the magnificent Vinh Trang Pagoda, one of the region’s largest Mahayana Buddhist temples. Here, admire its unique blend of architectural styles, serene gardens filled with bonsai trees, and the three grand Buddha statues that watch peacefully over this tranquil sanctuary. Your visit here offers a fitting reflection of your voyage down the Mekong.

A view from Above

All Aboard

Aqua Mekong
Luxury vessel

Aqua Mekong

Glide along the timeless waters of the Mekong River aboard the Aqua Mekong, a boutique luxury vessel that redefines river cruising in Cambodia and Vietnam. Designed by the acclaimed Noor Design studio, this elegant ship combines sleek modern architecture with subtle Asian influences, creating an atmosphere of effortless sophistication. With only 20 spacious, river-facing suites, each offering full-length windows or balconies, and refined interiors, guests can enjoy the tranquillity of the Mekong in complete comfort and style.

Every voyage aboard the Aqua Mekong is an immersion into the rich culture and cuisine of Southeast Asia. Michelin-starred consulting chef David Thompson curates exquisite dishes inspired by the region’s vibrant flavours, while Proof & Co’s expertly crafted cocktail menu complements each experience. Between gourmet dining, personalised excursions on private tender boats, and serene onboard spaces including an outdoor plunge pool and indoor spa, this award-winning river cruise delivers an intimate, world-class journey through the heart of the Mekong Delta.

Too much to choose from? This is where we come in

Take advantage of our vast experience, passion and expertise to help you hand craft the perfect Mekong River adventure for you.

Michael Gardiner Senior Travel Expert

Mike has more than 15 years of experience in the travel industry and continues to be inspired by the people, places and wildlife he discovers. His in-depth personal knowledge of a diverse range of destinations ensures your adventure itinerary will be a holiday like no other.

Simon Rowland Senior Travel Expert

As Senior Travel Expert, Simon has an absolute wealth of experience in adventure travel in some of the most fascinating places in the world. With in-depth knowledge and fantastic organizational skills, Simon’s first-hand experience and genuine passion drive him to work to create your perfect itinerary.

Sally Nevitt Sales Team Leader

Sally pairs a real love of adventure travel with a natural gift for looking after people. She knows exactly what makes a trip unforgettable, and with her warmth and endless patience she'll guide you from your first enquiry right through to the moment you're safely home again.

Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?

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0800 195 3385
Outside the uk
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43

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Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?

Call us - 0800 195 3385
Outside the uk? + 44 1625 5811 43
+ 44 1625 5811 43 Call us - 0800 195 3385

Chat Now

Fill in our
Enquiry form

Book Consultation

Book a
Consultation

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