Cruise and Dine along the Phnom Penh Skyline

Cruise and Dine along the Phnom Penh Skyline offers a charming way to see Cambodia’s bustling capital as it lights up at night. For around $48, you’ll enjoy a 1 hour 45-minute cruise, complete with a buffet dinner and stunning views of iconic sights like the Royal Palace and National Museum. With hotel pickup included, it’s a hassle-free way to experience Phnom Penh’s beauty from the water.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines relaxation and sightseeing—gliding gently over the river while nibbling on international cuisine and marveling at the city’s illuminated skyline. The second highlight is the opportunity to see some of Phnom Penh’s most recognizable landmarks from an unusual vantage point, especially the Royal Palace’s glittering gold spires and the National Museum’s traditional Khmer architecture.

A possible consideration is that this cruise is relatively short; at just under two hours, it’s more of a scenic overview than an in-depth tour. Also, since food service is sometimes rushed or limited, it’s worth tempering expectations if you’re hungry for a gourmet meal or personalized service. This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed evening activity—those who enjoy great views, casual dining, and a touch of local elegance.

Key Points

• Great value for a scenic evening in Phnom Penh with included hotel pickup.
• Pass by major landmarks like the Royal Palace and National Museum for a different perspective.
• Buffet dinner with international options offers good variety, though service may be quick.
• Duration of around 2 hours makes it a manageable, relaxed activity.
• Ideal for travelers wanting an easy, scenic introduction to Phnom Penh’s skyline.
• Limited food options and quick service are worth noting for those with specific dining expectations.

In-Depth Review of the Phnom Penh Dinner Cruise

An Overview of the Experience

This cruise is centered around a 1 hour 45-minute journey along the Chaktomuk River, a peaceful waterway that offers stunning views of Phnom Penh’s lit-up skyline after sunset. The tour starts with a hotel pickup—which is particularly convenient if you’re staying centrally—and transfers you to the boat pier.

Once aboard, you’ll find that the cruise isn’t overly formal but offers a comfortable setting to enjoy the evening. You’ll be served a buffet dinner featuring both local and international dishes, with drinks available for purchase. The boat sets sail around 7 pm, giving you an enchanting view of the Royal Palace’s shimmering gold rooftops and the National Museum’s traditional Khmer design, all glowing against the night sky.

The Itinerary in Detail

The cruise route is straightforward but packed with visual highlights. As the boat departs, you’ll glide past the Royal Palace, the official residence of Cambodia’s King and Queen. Its Khmer architecture is striking, with intricate gold decorations and lush gardens within the walls, though most areas are closed to the public unless during special events.

Next, the boat drifts past the National Museum, a building that resembles a Buddhist-Khmer temple and houses an impressive collection of over 5,000 artifacts. These landmarks define Phnom Penh’s silhouette and are particularly beautiful when illuminated at night, making for memorable photos and a fresh perspective away from the busy streets.

During the cruise, you can enjoy a buffet dinner with a mix of international and local food. While the selection isn’t explicitly detailed, reviews mention the food as decent, with some noting it being limited or served quickly—so don’t expect a gourmet feast, but rather a casual meal to accompany your sightseeing.

What Travelers Appreciate

Many travelers have expressed enjoyment at how this cruise offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle, with some highlighting the excellent views and gentle ride as major plus points. For instance, Chelsea shared that “the cruise was really nice and the weather was perfect,” appreciating the calm atmosphere and the chance to see the city from a water-level perspective.

The pass-by landmarks make this tour especially appealing: seeing the Royal Palace’s glowing spires from the river is more captivating than many expect, especially during the evening when the city lights reflect off the water. Plus, passing by the National Museum’s traditional Khmer roofline adds a cultural touch to the scenery.

Practicalities and Comfort

The experience is designed to be low-stress. The pickup and drop-off are included, which simplifies logistics, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with Phnom Penh. The boat itself is equipped to handle a group of up to 99 travelers, but during our visit, it felt leisurely and not overcrowded.

However, since the cruise is only about 2 hours, it’s a short window of sightseeing—ideal if you’re looking to combine this with other evening activities or as a relaxing end to a busy day. Food service is provided on board, but as one review notes, “we expected to be served first and the food option was limited,” so don’t count on an elaborate dining experience.

Price and Value

At $48.72 per person, the price includes hotel pickup, dinner, and a scenic cruise, making it a fair value for those wanting a guided, hassle-free way to see Phnom Penh’s skyline. Compared to other evening activities, this tour offers a peaceful, scenic alternative to busy city tours or night markets.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who prefer relaxed, scenic activities over fast-paced tours. It’s perfect if you want to see the city’s highlights from the water without investing much time or energy, especially if you enjoy casual dining and beautiful night views. It also works well for those with limited time in Phnom Penh or for families seeking an easy, memorable experience.

Final Thoughts

Cruise and Dine along the Phnom Penh Skyline offers a simple yet charming way to experience the city’s iconic landmarks at night. The main attractions—the Royal Palace and National Museum—look stunning when viewed from the river, and the relaxed cruise setting makes it suitable for all types of travelers. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience, making it a hassle-free activity.

While the food may be basic and service occasionally rushed, the overall experience is more about scenery and atmosphere than gourmet dining. It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy a different side of Phnom Penh—so if you’re after a peaceful, scenic evening with good views, this cruise fits the bill.

If you’re in Phnom Penh and looking for a gentle way to wind down after a busy day, or simply want to see the city’s illuminated skyline from a unique vantage point, this tour makes for a memorable, Instagram-worthy experience. Just remember, it’s a short cruise—so plan your evening accordingly.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your Phnom Penh hotel, making it very convenient. Drop-off is also provided at the same location.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes, setting sail around 7 pm and returning around 9 pm.

What landmarks will I see during the cruise?
You will pass by the Royal Palace and the National Museum, both illuminated beautifully at night. Other sights include parks and the city skyline.

Does the dinner include local dishes?
The buffet features both local and international fare. Some reviews mention limited options, and service can be quick, so it’s best to keep expectations moderate.

Is this experience suitable for families?
Yes, the cruise is relaxed, scenic, and suitable for families or groups wanting a calm activity with good views.

Can I book this last minute?
Most travelers book about 21 days in advance, but last-minute bookings might be possible depending on availability.

Are drinks available onboard?
Yes, drinks are available for purchase during the cruise, but are not included in the ticket price.

In the end, this dinner cruise is more about the ambiance and views than culinary excellence. It’s a gentle, scenic way to enjoy Phnom Penh’s nighttime beauty—perfect for those who want a relaxed, memorable experience without fuss.