3-day Mekong Eyes Cruise Vietnam – Cambodia

A 3-Day Journey Along the Mekong: Vietnam and Cambodia

If you’re dreaming of a river voyage that combines cultural discovery, vibrant markets, and awe-inspiring temples, the Mekong Eyes Cruise offers just that — for a price of around $782 per person. The journey begins in Ho Chi Minh City, takes you through the bustling floating markets of the Mekong Delta, and ends with a speedboat to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Along the way, you’ll visit Cai Be or Cai Rang floating markets, explore small villages, cruise past lush orchards, and see the legendary Angkor Wat.

What we love most about this tour are two key experiences: the lively floating markets, where local traders sell everything from fresh produce to noodles directly from boats; and the chance to stay on a cozy riverboat that offers fantastic views, decent amenities, and a genuinely relaxing atmosphere. The second highlight is the seamless combination of Vietnamese and Cambodian culture, making it perfect for travelers seeking an authentic cross-border adventure.

However, a possible consideration is the schedule’s intensity. Travelers who prefer leisurely, unhurried trips might find the itinerary packed and the transit times long. Also, some reviews mention noise from engines during overnight stays, which could impact your sleep if you’re sensitive to sound.

This tour suits those who want a snapshot of the Mekong’s vibrant life, enjoy boat rides, and are comfortable with some travel fatigue. If you’re eager to see Cambodia’s Angkor temples as part of the package, and don’t mind a busy schedule, this trip offers good value for an immersive experience.

Key Points

• Cultural Highlights: Visit floating markets and explore local villages in the Mekong Delta.
• Comfortable Accommodation: Stay overnight on a cozy cruise vessel with scenic views.
• Cross-Border Experience: Travel from Vietnam into Cambodia, ending in Phnom Penh.
• Food and Guides: Enjoy delicious meals and guided tours led by friendly, knowledgeable guides.
• Logistics: Includes shuttle transport, speedboat rides, and hotel stays, making logistics smoother.
• Travel Intensity: Expect a busy schedule with some long transit times and early mornings.

The Full Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Starting in Ho Chi Minh City

Your journey kicks off early from Ben Thanh Market in District 1, with a pickup around 8:00 am. The ride takes you through Vietnam’s bustling streets to the Mekong Delta, arriving at Cai Be or Can Tho around lunchtime. The choice of departure point depends on your schedule — Cai Be for even dates, Can Tho for odd.

Day 1: Cai Be or Can Tho and the Floating Market

Once aboard your cruise vessel, the first delight is the panorama cruise around noon, offering a window into rural life. The lunch on board is a highlight for many, providing a chance to sample local flavors while enjoying river views.

Later in the afternoon, guides lead a walk through orchards and small villages. This part of the trip is appreciated for its authenticity—seeing local life, tasting fresh fruit, and observing the simplicity of Mekong village life. At sunset, you’ll relax on the top deck, taking in the changing colors and the peaceful flow of the river.

Day 2: Cai Rang Floating Market & Chau Doc

Early morning, you’ll cruise on a long sampan to the Cai Rang floating market, a true floating marketplace where traders sell everything from tropical fruits to noodles. Many reviews praise the vibrant and lively atmosphere, making it one of the trip’s highlights.

A visit to a noodle-making family or coconut candy producer adds a charming, hands-on element. For those staying in Can Tho on odd dates, instead of the floating market, there’s an option to explore smaller canals and coconut candy production on Tan Phong Islet. This variety allows some flexibility depending on departure dates.

In the afternoon, the group boards a shuttle bus to Chau Doc, where you’ll check into a local hotel for the night. It’s an authentic small town with local markets and a laid-back vibe.

Day 3: Speedboat to Phnom Penh

The final leg involves a morning speedboat ride to Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh. The boat trip, which lasts roughly six hours, is an exciting way to see the river’s scenery and cross the border, with immigration formalities included. Upon arrival, you are transferred to your hotel, ready to explore Cambodia’s bustling city.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour price covers meals, transportation, including a shuttle bus, speed boat, and hotel stay in Chau Doc. The guide services are valued, helping to translate, explain, and make the journey smoother. You’ll also get breakfasts, lunches, and dinner, which are generally well-reviewed, especially the onboard meals.

However, extras like tips, personal expenses, drinks, and a Cambodian visa are not included. Visa cost is manageable at the border, but remember, the process might add some waiting time.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Challenges

Many travelers find that the guides are knowledgeable and add a lot of value. One reviewer mentioned that their guide, Jonathon, was especially friendly and helpful, which enhanced their overall experience. The scenery along the Mekong is often described as peaceful, lush, and teeming with activity, especially during the floating market visits.

Food quality also earns praise, with some reviewers comparing it to a first-class restaurant—a surprising bonus on a river cruise. The sunset views from the top deck are regarded as memorable, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.

But not all aspects are perfect. A common complaint involves engine noise, especially from the boat’s engines during overnight stays, which some reviewers say hampers sleep. The physical comfort on certain cabins might vary, so if you’re sensitive to engine sounds, consider requesting quieter rooms if available.

The Schedule: Busy but Rewarding

The itinerary moves swiftly from one highlight to the next. While this can be energizing, it might leave some wanting more leisure time. For those who prefer slow-paced travel, the early mornings and packed days could feel rushed. But for travelers eager to see both Vietnamese and Cambodian highlights in a short period, it’s a practical choice.

Value for Money

At nearly $800, the tour isn’t cheap, but when you account for transport, accommodation, guided tours, and meals, the value becomes clearer. It offers a comprehensive cross-border experience that would be difficult to organize independently, especially with logistics and language barriers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy boat trips, floating markets, and cultural excursions, this tour offers a solid introduction to the Mekong Delta and Cambodia’s capital. It’s particularly suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with a busy schedule and some long transit times. Those who appreciate local food, knowledgeable guides, and picturesque river scenery** will find much to enjoy.

However, if you’re seeking luxury accommodations or a more leisurely pace, or if noise sensitivity is a concern, you might want to explore other options or consider a more tailored itinerary.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 3-day Mekong Eyes Cruise provides a window into Vietnamese and Cambodian river life, packed with market visits, scenic cruising, and cultural insights. It’s a good value for those wanting a comprehensive, guided experience that combines nature, local markets, and temples.

The highlight for most travelers is the chance to witness floating markets and rural villages firsthand — authentic moments that are hard to find elsewhere. The comfort of the cruise and the delicious food make the journey more enjoyable, while the logistical ease of transfers and guided tours reduces hassle.

But be prepared for early mornings, busy days, and the possibility of engine noise disturbances. This tour is best suited for active travelers eager to maximize their Mekong experience in a short span, rather than those seeking total relaxation.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Mekong Eyes Cruise

• How long is the entire tour?
  The tour lasts approximately 3 days, including travel time, with activities scheduled from early morning to late evening.

• What is included in the price?
  The price covers meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), accommodation in cabins, guided excursions, shuttle transfers, and a speedboat to Phnom Penh.

• Are tips and drinks included?
  No, tipping and drinks are personal expenses and are not included in the tour price.

• Do I need a visa for Cambodia?
  You can obtain a visa at the border crossing, but it’s wise to check current requirements before your trip.

• What is the accommodation like?
  The cruise offers cozy double or twin cabins with scenic views, and you’ll stay overnight in a hotel in Chau Doc for the second night.

• What about transportation between cities?
  A shuttle bus and public speed boat are used for transfers, making logistics smoother and organized.

• Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
  Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable with early mornings, some long transit times, and active exploration.

• Can I customize the itinerary?
  The tour follows a fixed schedule, but some options vary depending on departure dates, such as exploring smaller canals or markets.

In summary, the Mekong Eyes 3-day cruise acts as a manageable, guided introduction to a region bursting with sights, sounds, and flavors. It’s an excellent pick for travelers wanting to experience the Mekong’s lively markets, scenic waterways, and the grandeur of Angkor Wat — all in one compact adventure.