Dragon Eyes Mekong Delta Cruise 2Days 1 Night

Exploring the Mekong Delta on the Dragon Eyes Cruise: An Authentic Two-Day Adventure

Imagine drifting along the Mekong River in a beautifully maintained boat, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant local life. For just over two days, this cruise offers a glimpse into the heart of southern Vietnam—visiting floating markets, cycling through quaint villages, and relaxing on deck with panoramic views. Priced at $1,300 per person, it’s an experience that’s best booked well in advance—typically about 6 months ahead, which speaks to its popularity.

What we love about this cruise is the personalized touch—you can charter the entire boat if you’re traveling as a group, making it perfect for couples, families, or even solo travelers seeking a private escape. The included meals and optional extras like massages add to the comfort and convenience, making this a hassle-free way to explore the Mekong. However, it’s worth noting that drinks (besides water) are not included, and the tour’s non-refundable policy means it’s best reserved for those confident about their plans.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy authentic, scenic experiences—the kind that blend comfort with adventure. If you’re looking for a relaxing get-away that takes you off the beaten path but still offers guided insights, this cruise could be just the ticket. It’s particularly appealing for those who appreciate a balance of structured activities and free time to soak in the views.

Key Points

• Comfortable Accommodation: Cozy double or twin cabins offer a restful retreat after busy days.
• Scenic Highlights: Floating markets, orchards, villages, and sunset views from the deck.
• Flexible Experience: Option to hire the whole boat or join as an individual or small group.
• Included Meals and Shuttle: Several meals are included, with convenient pickup and drop-off from Saigon.
• Authentic Encounters: Land excursions on foot, bicycle, and sampan rides provide genuine local interactions.
• Limited Group Size: Max of 10 travelers for an intimate, personalized experience.

A Detailed Look at the Mekong Eyes Cruise Experience

The two-day Mekong Delta cruise stands out as a well-rounded introduction to southern Vietnam’s river life. It combines comfort, culture, and scenery in a way that appeals to travelers seeking more than just a quick overview. From the moment we step aboard, we’re greeted by a beautiful vessel with a relaxed yet elegant ambiance. It’s clear this isn’t just a transportation tool—it’s a floating sanctuary.

Day 1: From Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong

The adventure begins early, with a pick-up at your hotel in Saigon (limited to districts 1 and parts of district 3). The shuttle is straightforward and convenient, easing the transition from city buzz to tranquil river scenes. Once on board around noon, we immediately settle into our cozy cabins and enjoy a panoramic cruise with a delicious lunch served on deck. The food quality is praised—fresh, tasty, and perfectly suited to the relaxed pace.

As we glide through the river, the landscape quickly transforms from urban to lush countryside. In the late afternoon, a guided walk takes us through orchards and small villages, offering a chance to see local life up close. We love the way guides like Kin bring these small communities to life with stories and insights. Around sunset, we settle on the top deck, watching the sky change colors—a moment that feels almost magical, especially from the “Titanic” front deck spot, as one reviewer fondly describes.

Dinner on board continues the peaceful vibe, with good food and calming views. The night on the boat is quiet and comfortable, with many travelers describing it as “magical” and “very private”.

Day 2: Floating Markets and Village Visits

Morning begins early with a cruise and tea break. The highlight of the morning is the visit to the Cai Be floating market, accessed via a long sampan ride. This floating market is a lively hub where boats laden with fruits, vegetables, and local products converge. The sight of boats crowded like floating stalls offers a lively contrast to the peaceful river scenes earlier.

Post-market, you have the option to take a bicycle ride or walk through a small village, both experiences giving you an authentic glimpse into rural life. The guided bike or walk is a favorite among those who want more than just scenery—they want connection. The reviews highlight the charm of these excursions, with one traveler noting how “peaceful” and “charming” the experience was, thanks to helpful guides like Kin and friendly villagers.

Lunch at the Mekong Rest Stop wraps up the tour before we begin our return journey to Saigon, arriving by mid-afternoon.

What This Tour Means for You

This cruise is more than a sightseeing trip; it’s a balanced blend of relaxation and discovery. It’s perfect for those who want to escape the city without sacrificing comfort or authentic local experiences. The small group size ensures a more intimate feel, and the variety of activities—cruising, walking, biking, sampan rides—keeps the experience lively and engaging.

What We Think Could Be Better

While the experience garners high praise, it’s important to remember that drinks (except water) are not included, so you might want to budget for that. Also, as the tour is non-refundable, it’s best to book when your plans are firm, especially given its popularity—many travelers book about six months in advance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who appreciates authentic local encounters, stunning waterway scenery, and a comfortable, well-organized schedule, you’ll enjoy this cruise. It’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape, families wanting a memorable adventure, or solo travelers eager for a guided, intimate experience.

Summary

The Dragon Eyes Mekong Delta Cruise offers a well-rounded exploration of southern Vietnam’s river life, combining scenic beauty with cultural insights. The comfortable cabins, delicious meals, and small-group intimacy make it a standout choice for travelers who want more than just a quick look at the Mekong. It’s a peaceful, engaging journey that combines gentle adventure with authentic encounters.

The value lies in the careful balance of guided excursions, free time, and scenic cruising, all curated to maximize your experience without feeling rushed. While it’s not the cheapest way to see the Mekong, the quality of the experience, the knowledgeable guides, and stunning views make it worthwhile for those seeking a memorable Vietnamese river adventure.

If you’re ready to step aboard a beautiful boat, enjoy peaceful river scenes, and experience the Mekong’s vibrant local life, this cruise is a fantastic option. It’s especially suited to those who want a guided, intimate journey that’s both relaxing and enriching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, there is a shuttle bus pickup and transfer from Saigon, making it easy to start and end the tour without additional hassle.

Can I book just one day?
No, this experience is designed as a 2-day, 1-night cruise, giving you enough time to explore the Mekong and relax onboard.

What meals are included?
Several meals are included as per the itinerary: breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the cruise. Drinks besides water are not included.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour welcomes individuals traveling alone, with a maximum group size of 10 travelers ensuring a cozy, personal experience.

Can I charter the entire boat?
Absolutely, you can hire the whole vessel if traveling as a group or family, which provides maximum privacy.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include floating markets, orchard walks, village visits, sampan rides, and sunset views from the deck.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Most likely, yes, but given the early mornings and outdoor activities, it’s suitable for families with children used to such schedules.

This detailed look at the Dragon Eyes Mekong Delta Cruise aims to help you decide whether this authentic, scenic, and well-organized journey fits your Vietnam travel plans. It’s a chance to experience the Mekong’s rhythms and beauty in comfort and style—truly a memorable way to connect with southern Vietnam.