Vietnam River Cruise Tours
Explore the Mekong Delta & Beyond

Why Vietnam?

A Vietnam river cruise tour presents a distinctive and enriching way to discover the nation’s diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and captivating history. Travelers can marvel at the stunning scenery along the Mekong River, with its intricate waterways, bustling floating markets, and traditional craft villages.

Furthermore, river cruises offer valuable opportunities for genuine cultural immersion, allowing close interaction with local communities, visits to unique floating markets, and a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s rich heritage and historical significance.

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Featured River Cruise Tour in Vietnam

Our custom Vietnam tours have been carefully crafted with enriching private excursions and thoughtful routes honed with years of in-destination experience. Browse our best-selling Vietnam travel packages below and begin an unforgettable journey tailored uniquely to you.

Mekong River Cruise Tour to Angkor Wat

Vietnam & Cambodia Memories: Temples, Traditions & Tranquility

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15 days
from 7,499
Mekong River Cruise Tour from Saigon

Grand Mekong River Cruise Tour from Vietnam to Cambodia

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12 days
from 7,499
Vietnam Experiences

Floating Market

Witness the vibrant life of locals trading goods on boats at iconic markets like Cai Rang and Phong Dien.

Traditional Handicraft Villages

Discover how locals make rice paper, coconut candy, and weaving products in small riverside villages.

Sampan Boat Rides Through Narrow Canals

Glide through lush palm-fringed waterways in a traditional wooden sampan, immersing in the serene scenery.

Ancient Temples and Pagodas

Explore spiritual sites like Vinh Trang Pagoda or Khmer temples, rich in culture and history.

Greate Vietnam River Cruises For
Solf Adventour in Vietnam River Cruises

Soft Adventure

Explore Culture Through Vietnam River Cruises

Culture Encounter

Eco Travel Through Vietnam River Cruises

Eco Tourism

Food Tour Through Vietnam River Cruises

Food Lovers

Vietnam River Cruises Information

Discover the charm of Vietnam from a unique perspective – its rivers. Vietnam river cruises offer an unforgettable journey through lush landscapes, bustling floating markets, and historic towns. Whether you’re gliding along the Mekong Delta or exploring lesser-known waterways, this guide provides all the essential information to help you plan the perfect river cruise experience in Vietnam.

Vietnam’s tropical climate means the best time for river cruising depends on the region and the experience you’re seeking. However, in general, the ideal time to enjoy a river cruise in Vietnam is during the dry season, from November to April.

During these months, the weather is typically sunny with mild temperatures, making it comfortable for sightseeing and onboard relaxation. The dry season is especially favorable for cruising the Mekong River, as water levels are still high enough for smooth navigation, yet rainfall is minimal. This time is ideal for visiting floating markets, riverside villages, and cultural sites along the way.

If you’re cruising in northern Vietnam such as along the Red River or towards Halong Bay, October to April is also recommended. The cooler climate and clearer skies during this period enhance the scenic beauty of limestone karsts, rice fields, and ancient temples.

While river cruises operate year-round, the rainy season from May to October can bring unpredictable weather, including heavy showers and rising river levels. Some travelers still enjoy this time for fewer crowds and lush green landscapes, but it may not be ideal for those seeking a smoother, drier cruising experience.

A Mekong River cruise through southern Vietnam offers a captivating look into the heart of the Mekong Delta, a region shaped by water, tradition, and vibrant daily life. Here are the top destinations you’re likely to encounter on your journey, each offering a unique glimpse into the culture and beauty of the area:

1. Cai Be

Cai Be is often one of the first stops on a Mekong river cruise. Known for its vibrant floating market, Cai Be offers travelers a lively introduction to river life in the Delta. Colorful boats packed with tropical fruits and vegetables float alongside traditional wooden houses, while local vendors trade goods directly from their boats.

Visitors can also explore coconut candy factories, rice paper workshops, and local pagodas. A sampan ride through lush canals surrounded by nipa palms completes the experience, making Cai Be an unmissable highlight.

Highlights:

  • The Cai Be Floating Market, where local vendors trade fruits, vegetables, and handmade products directly from boats.
  • Visits to traditional workshops making coconut candy, rice paper, puffed rice, and snake wine.
  • Peaceful boat rides along narrow canals lined with nipa palms.

Why travelers love it: It’s a perfect introduction to the region’s river culture and local craftsmanship.

2. Vinh Long

Nestled between the river’s branches, Vinh Long is a charming rural stop known for its friendly communities and lush orchards. One of the best ways to experience this area is by staying in a local homestay on An Binh Island. Guests are invited to enjoy home-cooked meals, join in daily activities, and cycle through peaceful village paths.

The region is also famous for its fruit gardens, bonsai nurseries, and rice wine production. Vinh Long offers a hands-on look at the slow, nature-connected lifestyle of the Mekong Delta.

Highlights:

  • Homestays on An Binh Island, where guests can dine with local families and explore orchards.
  • Visits to bonsai gardens, brick kilns, and rice wine distilleries.
  • Hands-on cooking classes and folk music performances.

Why travelers love it: Vinh Long gives visitors a chance to connect personally with the local way of life.

3. Can Tho

As the largest city in the Mekong region, Can Tho is both a cultural hub and a major trading center. Its most iconic attraction is the Cai Rang Floating Market, where hundreds of boats gather each morning to sell fresh produce, flowers, and breakfast dishes.

Beyond the market, Can Tho features impressive colonial architecture, Binh Thuy Ancient House, and a bustling riverfront promenade. It’s a lively stop that perfectly balances tradition with modern comforts.

Highlights:

  • The famous Cai Rang Floating Market, one of the largest and busiest in Vietnam.
  • The historic Binh Thuy Ancient House and Can Tho Museum.
  • Vibrant nightlife and riverside dining.

Why travelers love it: It blends traditional market culture with a more modern, urban energy.

4. Sa Dec

Sa Dec is a peaceful riverside town famous for its flower-growing industry and French colonial architecture. It’s especially vibrant during the Lunar New Year season, when the Sa Dec Flower Village bursts into color.

Literary fans often visit the Huynh Thuy Le House, made famous in Marguerite Duras’ novel The Lover. This small town’s quiet beauty and nostalgic atmosphere make it a hidden gem along the cruise route.

Highlights:

  • The Sa Dec Flower Village, especially beautiful during Tet (Vietnamese New Year).
  • The house of Huynh Thuy Le, the real-life lover in Marguerite Duras’ novel The Lover.
  • Local markets and quiet canals great for cycling or boat rides.

Why travelers love it: It’s a romantic and culturally rich stop with fewer tourists.

5. Chau Doc

Located at the border with Cambodia, Chau Doc is a multicultural town where Vietnamese, Cham, Khmer, and Chinese communities live side by side. The town is known for its floating fish farms, Cham Muslim villages, and colorful temples.

Travelers often take a boat ride to visit local stilt houses and explore Sam Mountain, which offers panoramic views of the rice fields and surrounding countryside. Chau Doc is often the final stop before crossing into Cambodia by water.

Highlights:

  • A boat trip to floating fish farms and Champa minority villages.
  • A visit to Sam Mountain, home to temples, pagodas, and panoramic views.
  • Cultural mix of Vietnamese, Khmer, and Cham communities.

Why travelers love it: Chau Doc offers a unique cultural diversity and marks the transition from Vietnam to Cambodia.

A river cruise in Vietnam is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering a unique blend of culture, nature, and relaxation. To make the most of your journey, a bit of thoughtful planning goes a long way. Here are some helpful tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise:

  • Select a cruise route that matches your interests: For cultural immersion, floating markets, and cross-border travel into Cambodia, choose a Mekong River cruise. For historical sites, peaceful countryside, and fewer tourists, consider a Red River cruise in northern Vietnam.
  • Pick a cruise length that fits your schedule: Cruise durations vary widely from short, scenic day trips to immersive journeys lasting up to two weeks. Please choose the right cruise length that fits your time in Vietnam. 
  • Check visa requirements in advance: If your cruise includes Cambodia, you’ll need a visa for both Vietnam and Cambodia. Some cruise lines assist with this process, but it’s best to confirm and prepare early.
  • Pack appropriately for the climate and excursions: You should pack things to prepare for climate changes in Vietnam, including: Light, breathable clothing; Comfortable shoes or sandals for walking; Sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, and a hat; Modest clothing for temple visits (cover shoulders and knees)
  • Consider travel insurance: Unexpected delays or medical issues can occur during any international trip. Travel insurance adds peace of mind and financial protection.
  • Book your cruise early, especially in peak season: The dry season is also the most popular travel time. Booking in advance helps secure your preferred itinerary, cabin type, and travel dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Choose the Right Vietnam River Cruises Length?

When planning your Vietnam river cruise, one of the first things to consider is how much time you have. Each option offers a different experience in terms of depth, destinations, and onboard comfort. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the cruise length that best matches your travel style:

  • 1–2 Day Cruises: If your time in Vietnam is limited or you’re looking to add a relaxing touch to a larger itinerary, a 1- or 2-day cruise is a great choice. These shorter cruises are typically based in the Mekong Delta region, departing from cities like Can Tho, Cai Be, or Ben Tre.
  • 4–8 Day Cruises: These mid-length cruises are ideal for travelers who want a deeper cultural immersion and the convenience of unpacking once. Cruises in this range often travel between Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh, or from Hanoi through the Red River Delta.
  • 10–14 Day Cruises: For those who want a truly immersive experience, longer cruises offer the chance to explore both southern Vietnam and Cambodia in a single, seamless journey. These cruises often begin in Ho Chi Minh City and end in Siem Reap, or vice versa, with extensive cultural, culinary, and historical encounters along the way.
Which rivers can I cruise in Vietnam?

Vietnam offers two main river cruising regions:

  • The Mekong River in southern Vietnam, flowing into Cambodia. Major river cruises in Vietnam are operated in Mekong Delta.

  • The Red River and its tributaries in northern Vietnam, connecting to Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and other cultural landmarks.

What can I expect to see on a Mekong River cruise?

You’ll explore floating markets, traditional villages, lush rice fields, fruit orchards, and local workshops. Many cruises also include cultural experiences like folk music, temple visits, and cooking classes. On longer routes, you may travel all the way to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap in Cambodia.

Are Vietnam river cruises suitable for seniors?

Yes, absolutely. Most cruises cater to older travelers and offer comfortable accommodations, relaxed itineraries, and guided excursions with minimal walking. Luxury and boutique cruises in particular are popular with seniors seeking cultural discovery at an easy pace.

Are the boats safe and comfortable?

Yes. Most river cruise vessels are well-maintained, with air-conditioned cabins, private bathrooms, and onboard dining. Luxury cruises may also include spas, sundecks, and entertainment lounges. Safety regulations are followed carefully, and crews are trained to assist international guests.

Is tipping expected on Vietnam river cruises?

Tipping is not mandatory but is customary and appreciated, especially for guides, crew members, and drivers. Some cruises include tips in the price, while others provide guidelines (typically $5–10 per day for staff).

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