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The 3 Best Boat Tours & Cruises in Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta is one of Vietnam’s most captivating regions, offering travelers an authentic glimpse into life along Asia’s biggest river system. What makes it special for boat trips is the variety of experiences — from leisurely cruises aboard comfortable vessels to adventurous paddling through smaller channels. You’ll see floating markets, lush fruit orchards, and local villages where life still revolves around the river. We especially love tours that skip the heavily touristed spots in favor of genuine encounters, like visiting local families or sampling traditional foods. That’s why these three options caught our eye: they balance comfort, authenticity, and good value.
If you’re arriving on a cruise or planning a day trip, choosing the right Mekong Delta tour can make all the difference. Whether you want a premium cruise with all the bells and whistles or an active, up-close experience on bikes and kayaks, there’s something for every type of traveler. Read on for our curated list of the best boat tours and cruises in the region.
Quick Overview
We’ve picked three standout experiences, each with its own focus:
- A luxury shore excursion from Phu My Cruise Harbor, emphasizing culture without wasted time in shopping stops. (Mekong Delta from Phu My Cruise Harbor)
- An active eco-adventure combining biking, kayaking, and local market visits, perfect for outdoorsy types who want more than just a boat ride. (Off The Beaten Track The Mekong By Bike,boat & Kayak Day Trip)
- A private cruise experience designed for cruise ship passengers docking at Cai Mep Thi Vai port, offering a tailored and relaxed itinerary. (Mekong Delta from Cai Mep Thi Vai port of Phu My Cruise Harbor)
1. Mekong Delta from Phu My Cruise Harbor
This full-day private tour offers an ideal way for travelers arriving on international cruises to experience the Mekong Delta without the hassle of crowded shopping stops. The tour kicks off with pickup at Phu My cruise port, where your driver, holding a sign with your name, will whisk you away to the bustling Ben Tre and My Tho areas. The approximately 3-hour drive offers a chance to see Vietnamese countryside and small villages, breaking the journey with interesting sights.
Once at the boat station, you’ll hop onto a small motored boat to cross onto Long Island, where the scenery shifts to floating fish markets and lush tropical fruit orchards. One of the tour’s standout moments is visiting a local family, where you can sample fresh fruits in a giant garden while listening to traditional “Don Ca Tai Tu” folk music. Afterward, a bamboo boat ride through narrow canals offers a peaceful close-up of rural life.
This tour scores high on reviews, with a perfect 5-star rating from six travelers who commend its professional guides and well-paced itinerary. The focus on authentic experiences and avoiding overly commercialized stops makes it popular among travelers who want genuine immersion. For about $227 per person, you get a comprehensive day that highlights Vietnam’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise passengers seeking a hassle-free, authentic Mekong experience with a focus on local life and scenic waterways.
2. Off The Beaten Track The Mekong By Bike,boat & Kayak Day Trip
If you prefer your Mekong adventures active and hands-on, this day trip offers just that. Starting from Saigon’s Opera House, you’ll be picked up early and transferred into the countryside — but not to the usual tourist spots. Instead, the focus is on cycling through quiet villages, exploring local markets, and enjoying hands-on interactions with residents.
The tour includes bike riding along the riverbank, with options to switch to kayaking if water conditions permit. The highlight is the visit to Cai Be’s floating market, where you’ll experience the vibrant scene of boats laden with tropical fruits and local produce. You’ll also visit village homes to see traditional crafts and taste local foods — no cookie-cutter workshops here, just genuine daily life.
Rated 5/5 by travelers who love outdoor activity and authentic encounters, this tour is ideal for those who want a more immersive Mekong Delta experience. It emphasizes local interaction and natural scenery rather than typical tourist stops, making it a refreshing change from standard boat rides.
For around $98, this experience offers excellent value and a full day packed with adventure and cultural insights. The tour’s flexible nature means you can tailor riding and paddling to your comfort level, making it suitable for most active travelers.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers eager for a dynamic, hands-on day in the Mekong countryside with a focus on local life and outdoor fun.
3. Mekong Delta from Cai Mep Thi Vai port of Phu My Cruise Harbor
This private cruise experience is designed specifically for cruise ship passengers docking at Cai Mep Thi Vai port. It’s a relaxed and customizable tour that hits all the major sights at a comfortable pace. The trip begins with pickup directly from your ship, followed by a scenic drive to the Mekong’s core.
The itinerary includes a boat ride on the Mekong River to visit Ben Tre and My Tho, where you’ll see floating markets, tropical fruit orchards, and local families. A key feature is the personalized service, with guides and drivers committed to “None left behind”, ensuring your experience is tailored around your cruise schedule. This tour lasts around 9 to 10 hours, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day with no rush.
Rated 3 out of 5 from two reviews, it’s a solid option for those who prioritize flexibility and private arrangements over high ratings. The cost, about $199 per person, reflects its customized approach and the convenience of a private tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise passengers wanting a personalized, comfortable Mekong Delta trip with the flexibility to tailor the experience.
$198.88 per person
How to Choose the Right Mekong Delta Boat Tour
Picking the best tour depends on your budget, time available, and interests. If you’re arriving on a cruise and want a straightforward, high-quality experience, the Mekong Delta from Phu My Cruise Harbor offers a hassle-free, culturally rich day. For those who love active outdoor exploration, the bike, kayak, and boat trip provides a full-immersion adventure away from crowds. If you’re on a cruise at Cai Mep Thi Vai port and prefer a private, relaxed schedule, the Cai Mep tour is your best bet.
Consider how much time you want to spend — a full day or half-day — and whether your focus is on authentic rural scenes or comfortable sightseeing. Booking early is advised, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability. If you’re keen on a tailored experience that matches your cruise schedule, the private options are especially worth considering.
Final Thoughts
The Mekong Delta offers a wide spectrum of boat tours, from luxury cruises to active explorations. If you prefer a comfortable, all-in-one experience that concentrates on cultural highlights, the Mekong Delta from Phu My Cruise Harbor is a top choice. For travelers craving adventure and genuine interactions, the bike and kayak trip delivers a lively, authentic day. And for cruise passengers looking for personalized service, the Cai Mep tour provides a flexible, stress-free option.
No matter which tour you choose, the Mekong’s waterways are sure to leave a lasting impression. To ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences, book early and consider what kind of adventure best suits your style. Exploring the Mekong by boat isn’t just about seeing scenery — it’s about connecting with Vietnam’s river life in a way that suits you.