Phnom Penh isn’t just about temples, markets, and history; it’s also a surprisingly lively spot for enjoying BBQ by the river. What makes these experiences stand out is their combination of stunning river views, laid-back atmosphere, and tasty grilled dishes. We particularly like the Phnom Penh: Sunset Cruise with Unlimited Beers & BBQ Buffet, which offers a relaxing evening with all-you-can-eat BBQ and freeflow drinks while drifting past Phnom Penh’s illuminated skyline. It’s perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing or just soaking in the sunset over the Mekong.
If you’re after a flexible, fun boat experience, there are several options—ranging from simple sunset cruises to customizable adventures that let you pick the experience you want most. Whether you prefer a quick ride, a more luxurious setting, or a lively atmosphere with unlimited food and drinks, there’s something for every appetite and pace. Keep reading to find the best BBQ river cruise that suits your style.
1. Phnom Penh: Sunset Cruise with Unlimited Beers & BBQ Buffet
At number 1, we highlight the Phnom Penh: Sunset Cruise with Unlimited Beers & BBQ Buffet. This tour offers a 1.5-hour cruise along the Tonle Sap, Mekong, and Four Faces Rivers, beginning with a hotel pickup by tuk-tuk—adding a local touch to your experience. Once aboard, you’re treated to an all-you-can-eat BBQ buffet and freeflow beers, making it a great value at just $9 per person.
What makes this tour special is the combination of serene river scenery, a laid-back atmosphere, and the chance to capture stunning sunset views as the sky turns orange and pink. The cruise passes iconic sights like the new Diamond Island bridge and offers a perfect spot for photos of the Cambodian flag fluttering against the sunset. The reviews rave about the friendly staff, delicious food, and relaxed pace—perfect for families or groups wanting a simple, enjoyable evening. The only downside is that participants need to arrange their own transport back, but many find this a minor inconvenience given the experience.
Bottom Line: This cruise is ideal if you want a budget-friendly, relaxing way to enjoy Phnom Penh’s riverside at sunset with unlimited drinks and BBQ.
2. Phnom Penh: Sunset Cruise with freeflow beers & BBQ buffet
The Phnom Penh: Sunset Cruise with freeflow beers & BBQ buffet offers a slightly different approach. This tour includes three package options, with the best being the Gold package—which combines freeflow beers, soft drinks, and a BBQ buffet. Starting at 4:30 pm with hotel pickup, it’s designed to maximize the sunset experience on the Mekong with scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere.
What sets this cruise apart is the flexibility of packages and the emphasis on making the most of your evening. Many travelers highlight the superb views of Phnom Penh’s skyline and the calm ambiance created by gentle breezes and soft background music. The all-inclusive options mean you can indulge without worries about extra costs, although some reviews mention that additional drinks like wine or sangria cost extra. The small number of reviews suggests it’s a newer tour but one that’s quickly gaining fans.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a more customizable river cruise experience with comprehensive drink options and scenic sunset views.
3. NEW Sunset Cruise! “Your cruise U Choose” – Unlimited BBQ & Drinks
At number 3, the New Sunset Cruise! “Your cruise U Choose” gives you a personalized experience with three options: cruise only, drinks only, or unlimited BBQ with drinks. This 2-hour journey along the Mekong is designed to be flexible, allowing you to pick what suits your mood best.
The highlight is the “U Choose” nature of this tour—perfect if you want a tailored experience. The unlimited BBQ, cold beers, and soft drinks make it a practical choice for those craving a hearty, casual meal while enjoying the serene river vistas. The description emphasizes the tranquil journey past fishing boats and traditional villages, providing an authentic feel. Reviews mention the standard buffet and the storm that added a dramatic backdrop to the trip, making it quite memorable.
While it’s not the most elaborate option, the value for money and customization appeal to travelers seeking a straightforward, enjoyable cruise that combines good food with beautiful scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want flexibility and a relaxed, personalizable river cruise experience with BBQ and unlimited drinks.
4. Phnom Penh: Sunset Cruise with Beer and BBQ
Rounding out our list, the Phnom Penh: Sunset Cruise with Beer and BBQ is a more premium option. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t have to worry about logistics. For $45, you get a luxurious cruise experience with unlimited beer and soft drinks, paired with a delicious BBQ buffet.
This tour stands out for its comprehensive experience—you can enjoy views of the Royal Palace and the bustling riverfront, with the Diamond Island suspension bridge providing a picturesque backdrop. The sunset over the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers is a highlight, with the dining experience adding a satisfying culinary touch to the scenic setting. Although the reviews aren’t detailed, the high price point suggests an emphasis on comfort and convenience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers looking for a more upscale experience that combines luxury, great views, and full-service dining.
$45 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect BBQ River Cruise
When selecting the right BBQ experience in Phnom Penh, consider your budget, time, and what kind of atmosphere you prefer. For a budget-friendly, relaxed sunset cruise, the Sunset Cruise with Unlimited Beers & BBQ Buffet offers excellent value. If you want more flexibility and a personalized experience, try the U Choose option.
For those who prioritize comfort and convenience, the Luxury Sunset Cruise with hotel transfers provides a more premium experience, though at a higher cost. The best timing for these tours is at sunset, roughly between 4:30 and 6:00 pm, so plan accordingly.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, as these tours tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Phnom Penh offers a surprising variety of river-based BBQ experiences. For a laid-back evening with unlimited drinks and beautiful sunset views, the first two cruises deliver great value. If you’re after a more customizable or upscale experience, the third and fourth tours provide additional amenities and comfort.
Whether you’re a budget traveler eager for a simple cruise or someone looking to indulge in a luxurious dining experience, these options make enjoying Phnom Penh’s riverside cuisine and scenery easy and memorable. Don’t wait too long—these popular tours fill up quickly, so it’s best to book early and enjoy a relaxing evening on Cambodia’s beautiful rivers.