Siem Reap is not just about temples and history. The city’s proximity to Tonle Sap Lake makes it a prime spot for boat tours and cruises that offer a glimpse into everyday Cambodian life on the water. Whether it’s exploring the floating villages, cruising at sunset, or biking through the countryside, these experiences add a new dimension to your visit. One standout is the From Siem Reap: Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour by Boat—a highly rated journey that combines culture, scenery, and genuine interaction with locals.
If you’re after authenticity and scenic beauty, you’ll find plenty of options here. Some tours focus on floating villages like Kampong Phluk or Kampong Pluk, while others combine bike rides with boat trips, perfect for active travelers wanting a bit more immersion. For a relaxing conclusion, a sunset cruise offers spectacular views of the lake as the sky shifts colors. With so many choices, it’s worth knowing what makes each tour different to pick the right one for your style.
Quick Overview
Our list covers 15 top boat tours and cruises in Siem Reap, including floating village visits, sunset cruises, biking combined with boat trips, and private explorations. Tours range from quick half-day excursions to full-day adventures, some with inclusive meals and drinks, others more focused on cultural insights. Most are highly rated, with reviews praising friendly guides and authentic experiences. Dive into the details below to find your perfect match.
1. From Siem Reap: Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour by Boat
Rating: 4.9/5 (4267 reviews)
Price: $20 per person
Duration: 6 hours
This tour offers a full immersive experience on Tonle Sap, Cambodia’s largest lake. You’ll visit Kampong Phluk, a famous floating village where the houses sit high on stilts, and the community thrives amidst shifting water levels. The tour includes a cruise around the lake, giving you stunning views and a chance to interact with local residents. The guide shares engaging stories about village life, making this more than just a scenic ride.
What makes it stand out? The personal visits to houses, the floating hospital, and even feeding crocodiles at a floating restaurant—a memorable peek into the daily lives of Cambodians. Reviewers praise the funny guide Jack and the beautiful countryside drive. It’s ideal for travelers who want authentic interactions and a meaningful cultural experience.
Bottom line: Well-priced, highly rated, and packed with local flavor, it’s perfect for those who want a broad overview of life on Tonle Sap.
2. Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour by Boat
Rating: 5.0/5 (548 reviews)
Price: $20.00 per person
Duration: approx. 6 hours
This small-group tour focuses on giving you a close-up view of Kampong Phluk and its constantly changing landscape, thanks to Cambodia’s seasonal water levels. The boat trip takes you through lush mangroves and past stilted homes, a floating hospital, and fish farms. The tour’s tailored approach includes air-conditioned transfers and guides fluent in English, ensuring a comfortable and informative experience.
Guests particularly enjoy the opportunity to walk through the dry-season village, which reveals the house structures and local life up close. The sunset option makes for a memorable finish, and reviews often mention the helpfulness of the guides like Paul.
Bottom line: For a personalized, relaxing experience that highlights local culture and scenery, this tour delivers excellent value.
3. Floating Village Sunset Boat & Jeep Tour – Inclusive Drinks
Rating: 5.0/5 (100 reviews)
Price: $70.00 per person
Duration: 6 hours
If you want to combine scenic countryside with a luxurious sunset cruise, this is your pick. Starting with a jeep ride through rice paddies and local farms, you’ll stop at a distillery to sample rice wine and visit a family home. Then, the highlight: a sunset cruise on Tonle Sap, where you’ll see floating villages and spectacular views as the sky changes color.
It’s a small-group tour (max 8 people), making it more intimate. The refreshments and local delicacies included make this a relaxed, indulgent experience. Guests rave about the scenic views at sunset and the knowledgeable guide, Muni.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a combination of adventure, scenic beauty, and comfort.
4. Floating Village Bike & Boat – Inclusive Lunch & Boat Ticket
Rating: 5.0/5 (76 reviews)
Price: $75.00 per person
Duration: 10 hours 30 minutes
This is a full-day adventure blending cycling through rural Cambodia with a cruise into Kampong Phluk. You’ll pedal around 20 miles of countryside, visiting local farms and villages, then enjoy a lunch in a traditional restaurant. Afterward, a sunset boat cruise takes you through the floating village on Tonle Sap. The small group—up to eight people—ensures personalized attention.
Guests love the well-maintained bikes and the informative guide Phearon. Reviewers mention how the trip offers a genuine look at local life, with ample breaks and scenic stops. It’s perfect for active travelers who want more than just a boat ride.
Bottom line: A long but rewarding experience blending cycling, culture, and water scenery.
5. Floating Village Sunset Boat Vespa Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (57 reviews)
Price: $60.00 per person
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
For something truly different, try zipping around on Vespas to explore Cambodia’s countryside, visiting farms, a monastery, and then cruising on Tonle Sap. The tour’s highlight is the sunset over the lake, seen from a boat ride after a scenic Vespa journey. The small group keeps it personal, and the stops at local farms and markets provide insight into rural life.
Guests emphasize the fun of riding Vespas and the spectacular sunset views. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience both lively and authentic.
Bottom line: Best for adventure-seekers who want a quirky, fun way to see the countryside and unforgettable sunset.
6. Siem Reap: Angkor Sunset Bike & Boat Tour w/ Drinks & Snacks
Rating: 5/5 (22 reviews)
Price: $65 per person
Duration: 5 hours
This bike and boat combo takes you through Angkor’s lesser-known temples and countryside pathways. The highlight is cycling in the golden hour, then hopping onto a dragon boat for a cruise along the river. The tour includes drinks and snacks, making it feel like an evening picnic on water.
The small group size (up to 6) allows for personalized attention, and many reviewers mention the peaceful atmosphere and intimate experience. The guide Rith, “the Lion,” keeps it lively and informative.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers who want to explore Angkor at sunset with a mix of cycling and relaxing on the water.
7. Lotus Silk Farm: Amazing craft classes & boat trip to lotus field
Rating: 5.0/5 (16 reviews)
Price: $29
Duration: 2 hours
This isn’t a typical boat tour—it’s a craft-focused visit to a lotus silk farm. You’ll learn how lotus fibers are harvested, spun, dyed, and woven into textiles. Plus, a boat trip takes you into the lotus fields, where you can see the flowers blooming and even try making bracelets and drawings. It supports fair trade and women’s empowerment.
Guests appreciate the educational aspect and hands-on activities, though some found it a bit rushed. The friendly staff and unique focus make it worthwhile.
Bottom line: Ideal for culture lovers wanting an interactive, eco-friendly experience centered on Cambodian crafts.
8. Floating Village-Mangrove Forest Private Tonle Sap Lake Boat Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (14 reviews)
Price: $71.25 per person
Duration: 6–8 hours
This private tour concentrates on Kampong Phluk and its mangrove forests. The boat takes you through tidal waterways, revealing stilted houses and fishermen at work. You’ll learn about the local community’s history, including their resilience post-Khmer Rouge. The mangroves are especially lush during the wet season, accessible via canoe.
Guests note the peacefulness and rich cultural insights, with the personalized service making it a standout. It’s perfect for those who want a private, detailed experience.
Bottom line: An intimate, flexible tour suited to travelers eager for depth and quiet beauty.
9. Siem Reap: Kampong Phluk and Tonle Sap Sunset Boat Cruise
Rating: 4.8/5 (21 reviews)
Price: $23 per person
Duration: 5 hours
This affordable sunset cruise combines a boat ride past floating houses with views of the lake at dusk. It’s ideal for those wanting a shorter but beautiful experience. The cruise is complemented by a visit to Kampong Phluk, where you can see the unique stilted homes and local life.
Reviewers praise the informative guide and the breathtaking sunset, making it a great value. It’s best suited for travelers on a budget or those who want a brief overview.
Bottom line: A cost-effective way to enjoy Cambodia’s water scenery at sunset.
10. Kampong Phluk: Floating Village Bike Tour and Sunset Cruise
Rating: 5.0/5 (10 reviews)
Price: $75.00 per person
Duration: 10 hours
This full-day package combines a bike ride through the Cambodian countryside with a sunset cruise on Tonle Sap. You’ll ride through charming villages, enjoy a local lunch, and end with a beautiful sunset over the lake. The small group and informative guide make it a personal experience, emphasizing local life and scenery.
Reviewers mention the delicious regional food and authentic village interactions. It’s best for active travelers who want an all-inclusive day.
Bottom line: A comprehensive, immersive day for those ready to explore both land and water.
11. Sunset Dinner and Drinks with a Floating Village Cruise
Rating: 4.0/5 (150 reviews)
Price: $49.00 per person
Duration: 4 hours
For a romantic evening, this dinner cruise on Tonle Sap Lake combines a boat ride through floating villages with a buffet dinner and unlimited cocktails. The boat glides past floating schools, churches, and markets, offering spectacular sunset views. An informative guide points out key sights along the way.
Guests appreciate the all-inclusive experience and the peaceful atmosphere. It’s perfect for couples or those celebrating special occasions.
Bottom line: Best for romance and relaxation over a scenic, hassle-free dinner.
12. Kompong Phluk Floating village & Mangrove forest cruise
Rating: 4.5/5 (36 reviews)
Price: $61.53 per person
Duration: 3–4 hours
This half-day tour takes you into Kampong Phluk’s floating village and adjacent mangroves. You’ll learn how houses are built on stilts and live on water, with the option to canoe through flooded mangroves during the wet season. The guide shares insights into local adaptation to seasonal changes.
Guests often mention the scenic views and interesting local stories. It’s ideal for those who want a short but detailed water trip.
Bottom line: A compact, insightful tour for seasont travelers seeking nature and culture.
13. Siem Reap: Kampong Phluk and Tonle Sap Sunset Boat Cruise
Rating: 4.8/5 (21 reviews)
Price: $23 per person
Duration: 5 hours
This affordable sunset cruise offers a relaxed cruise around Kampong Phluk and Tonle Sap. The boat ride provides beautiful views of the floating houses and dusk over the lake. The tour includes a visit to the village, with opportunities to see local life and stilted homes.
Reviewers highlight the informative guide and the breathtaking sunset views. It’s a budget-friendly option offering a short but scenic experience.
Bottom line: Suitable for budget travelers wanting a quick, scenic water experience.
14. Siem Reap to Battambang by Private Boat on Tonle Sap Lake
Rating: 5.0/5 (6 reviews)
Price: $165.00 per person
Duration: 6–7 hours
This exclusive transfer combines sightseeing with travel, offering a slow, scenic journey from Siem Reap to Battambang. The private boat passes fishermen, villages, and mangroves, giving a glimpse of Cambodia’s rural life on the water. It’s a great alternative to buses or taxis, especially for leisurely travelers.
Reviewers mention it as a “relaxing journey” that supports local communities. It’s suited for those who want a travel experience with cultural insight.
Bottom line: An ideal choice for slow-paced travelers seeking a different way to see Cambodia.
15. Floating Village-Mangroves Forest Tonle Sap Lake Boat Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (5 reviews)
Price: $17 per person
Duration: 8 hours
This full-day tour explores Kampong Phluk’s floating village, then continues with a city tour of Siem Reap, including Wat Bo and Ro Lus Market. It’s perfect if you want a comprehensive look at both water-based and land activities. The private boat allows you to navigate the waterways and see local houses, markets, and the surrounding landscape.
Guests appreciate the value and depth of experience, calling it a “wonderful day”. It’s best for those with ample time and a curiosity for diverse sights.
Bottom line: Combines water and city exploration into one memorable day.
How to Choose Your Best Water Experience in Siem Reap
When selecting a boat tour or cruise, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. For example, if you want a full-day culture with biking and boating, the Floating Village Bike & Boat Tour offers active adventure combined with scenic water views. On the other hand, couples seeking a romantic evening might prefer the Sunset Dinner and Drinks cruise, which includes dinner and unlimited cocktails.
If you’re short on time but still want a spectacular sunset, the Kampong Phluk and Tonle Sap Sunset Boat Cruise is a solid choice. Active travelers will enjoy the cycling and boat combination tours, like the Floating Village Bike & Boat or the Sunset Bike & Boat.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred dates and ensure a smooth experience.
To sum it up, Siem Reap offers a remarkable variety of boat-based adventures that reveal the real Cambodia beyond the temples. Whether you prefer a full-day exploration, a relaxing sunset cruise, or an active cycling combined experience, there’s something for every water lover. For a balanced blend of culture, scenery, and comfort, options like the Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour by Boat and the Sunset Dinner Cruise come highly recommended. Don’t forget to book ahead—it’s the best way to make sure your water adventure fits perfectly into your Siem Reap itinerary.