I just returned from a whirlwind trip through the Mekong Delta, and let me tell you, it was incredible! I took the Mekong Princess Cruise stretching towards the horizon, bustling floating markets, and serene boat rides along hidden canals. The whole place has this laid-back vibe that seeps right into your soul.
I spent three days and two nights on a 5-star RV Mekong Princess cruise. The ship is more like a boutique hotel on water. It cleverly blends French colonial design with hints of Khmer culture. You can imagine them as intricate carvings that whispered of ancient temples, offset by the clean lines of European architecture.
Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a relaxing escape, the Mekong Delta has something for you. Buckle up, because I am about to share all my travel tips, hidden gems, and maybe a few hilarious mishaps along the way.
How much does it cost?
To have this perfect trip, it took me days and nights to go through reviews about Mekong River cruises. Finally, I got my 3-day trip for just US $1032 per pax for a super luxurious suite called Saigon Suite.
Each cruise package includes a transfer from your hotel to the cruise port, in-suite accommodation, dining, entertainment onboard, and offboard excursions. However, please note that massage service and champagne will be excluded from the package. For those who feel more than three days are needed, there are different itineraries lasting from 4 to 8 days for you to explore.
You may wonder, “How can it be so cheap?”. The tip is to book a Mekong Princess cruise tour at www.bestpricetravel.com. With a discounted promotion of 35% off, there are five cabin classes with the lowest price of US $731.
How do I get to the Mekong Princess Cruise?
To reach the anchor point, we must be at the cruise port at 05 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, Ward 13, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City. If you want to be picked up, please give your hotel address, and the driver will be there. You need to get ready between 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. to avoid being late for the embarkation time. As you are at the port, an electric cart will transfer you to the ship.
What is the 3-day-2-night cruise like?
We will explore rustic sights, uncover hidden gems, and delve into the local experiences that make the Mekong Delta unique. So buckle up, because we are finding out what will await you on the 3-day, 2-night cruise from Saigon to Can Tho.
Day 1: Saigon Port – Mekong Delta – Sunset Canape
Once I got on the Mekong Princess Cruise, everyone fully gathered at the Ramvong Lounge. The crew started with a warm greeting and provided us with information and safety instructions.
As the cruise departed, we had our first lunch onboard. Seating a maximum of 30 guests, the Indochine restaurant fosters a friendly and personalized atmosphere. The restaurant offers a combination of buffet-style and a-la-carte meals, focusing on the advantages of Western food. I tried Ham baguette with Raisins and banana cakes, and they were extraordinary.
We then took a room tour around the Saigon Suite. It has an area of 24 m2 and is decorated with Vietnamese influence. Our room has the theme of Empress Nam Phuong, the last empress consort of Vietnam. The suite has sophisticated facilities and two twin-sized beds, suitable for two friends. I also loved the en-suite bathroom, as it was airy and had a window with a view of the majestic riverscape.
In the afternoon, we sailed through the Saigon River, Soai Rap River, Nuoc Man Canal, Vam Co River, and the Cho Gao Canal to reach the ‘Mighty Mekong River’. While passing the Cho Gao Canal, I was very excited. Instead of cars and trucks, I was dodging rustic wooden boats. It was a beautiful chaos, a microcosm of everything the Mekong Delta represents.
After spending all afternoon onboard, I checked out the gym, and it was beyond my expectations. Although there was not so much equipment, it was all high-quality. I could work out while gazing out at the ever-changing Mekong Delta scenery.
At twilight, we had a sunset canape and port talk. At the Ramvong Lounge, the host briefly informed us about the second day’s program. Then, we had a traditional Vietnamese ‘a la carte dinner. This was my first time attending such a royal-style dinner with dishes perfect for even the most discerning palates.
Day 2: Tan Phong Island – Can Tho
We started our second day with a colorful breakfast. Fresh fruits and dried sweets were used as toppings for cereals and yogurt. You can also mix them with bread and jam. If you need a nutritious meal with high protein, just order an English breakfast. It would include bacon and some bread.
Our first outdoor activity was to get on sampans through a channel lined with mangroves to visit Tan Phong Island. This island has a tradition of making coconut products like candy, oil, souvenirs, and kitchen utensils. I like those items because they are environmentally friendly and tasty. We enjoyed the yummy sweets while acknowledging the history of coconut candy and how to make it.
After the workshop, we boarded a small boat to go to a narrow creek highlighted with Nipah palm lines. As we went ashore, we got on a unique ride with the grand name Lambro 555 called ‘Xe Loi”. We moved to a local village to see the making of wood to build houses and the raising of cocks for fighting – a typical culture in Western Vietnam. Looking at how these cocks were specially raised made me want to see their fights very much.
Our morning ended, and we returned to the small boat, where the staff refreshed us with fresh coconut water and unique fruits like pineapples. As we got on the ship after the long walk on the dirty road, the crew staff carefully helped us clean our shoes.
In the afternoon, the cruise sailed through an untouched area with little tourism to reach the riverside capital of the Mekong Delta – Can Tho City. We went to the Ramvong Lounge for complimentary drinks while enjoying the picturesque sunset. There was also a spa with professional staff who could help you heal your spiritual mind and body immediately.
After a tasteful dinner, we boarded a sampan to visit Ninh Kieu night market. Ninh Kieu is like two markets in one. One side is a shopper’s paradise overflowing with colorful clothes, handcrafted souvenirs, and sparkling jewelry. The other half is dotted with dozens of mobile stalls serving steaming plates of local specialties.
Day 3: Cai Rang Floating Market – Disembarkation
It was our final day, and we needed to wake up early to enjoy the bustling life of the famous market here. We started with a continental breakfast filled with colorful fruits, cheese, bread, and jam. I think the cruise should diversify breakfast dishes instead of serving these sweets.
At about 7:30, we boarded the sampan to arrive at the Cai Rang floating market. Plenty of boats were selling individual fruits, breakfast, and coffee. Some people approached our boat to offer the products. Life here was so unique and exciting! I even saw entire families live on their boats.
We then landed and had a market tour before visiting the ‘Hu tieu’ manufacturer – a typical west side food. At the factory, I could see colorful Hu Tieu with different flavors. Our final destination for this trip was Zi Huang Pagoda with a greeting ‘Lion dance’ performance. The architecture reflects Chinese influences, with intricate carvings and upside-down roofs decorated with dragon statues. Stepping through the grand entrance, you’ll immerse yourself in a world of spiritual symbolism and cultural heritage.
In a nutshell
The Mekong Delta has woven its magic spell on me. The bustling water life and fresh fruits made me yearn to live here forever. Also, thanks to BestPrice Travel, we experienced 5-star services on a Mekong River Cruise at an affordable price. If you want an adventure that will challenge your senses and touch your soul, look no further than the Mekong Delta.
