Home > All River Cruises > Asia River Cruises > Meandering Majestic Mekong Cruise

Meandering Majestic Mekong Cruise

5.0/5 Based on 4 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor

Meandering Majestic Mekong Cruise

5.0/5 Based on 4 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
Our Price From
US$3,401
Save $7,665pp
Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
10 Days
 Cruise Starts
Ho Chi Minh City
 Cruise Finishes
Phnom Penh
10 Day Meandering Majestic Mekong Cruise Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: Vietnam, Cambodia
 Cruise Length
10 Days
 Cruise Starts
Ho Chi Minh City
 Cruise Finishes
Phnom Penh
10 Day Meandering Majestic Mekong Cruise Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: Vietnam, Cambodia
Ship
Departures
Passengers
84
Crew
40
Launched
2019
Cruise Code
EWVL-1
Ship
Departures
Passengers
84
Crew
40
Launched
2019
Cruise Code
EWVL-1

Overview

Discover the mighty Mekong River aboard the luxury Star-Ship Emerald Harmony, to uncover the region’s rich tapestry of history and culture, along with a treasure trove of traditions and customs. Venture along the Cho Gao Canal before visiting the villagers of Ben Tre, My An Hung, and Gieng Island. Your journey will then take you to Cambodia, a country defined by its awe-inspiring religious temples. Witness the beauty of Angkor Ban, and learn about Cambodia’s revival from the Khmer Rouge.
Discover the mighty Mekong River aboard the luxury Star-Ship Emerald Harmony, to uncover the region’s rich tapestry of history and culture, along with a treasure trove of traditions and customs. Venture along the Cho Gao Canal before visiting the villagers of Ben Tre, My An Hung, and Gieng Island. Your journey will then take you to Cambodia, a country defined by its awe-inspiring religious temples. Witness the beauty of Angkor Ban, and learn about Cambodia’s revival from the Khmer Rouge.

Itinerary

Xin Chao and welcome to Vietnam. On arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, you’ll be transferred to downtown District 1 and the historic quarter and check into to the Sheraton Saigon Hotel and Towers. Later, you’ll transfer to the Saigon Port to board your luxury Emerald Star-Ship, where you’ll be warmly welcomed on board by your captain and crew.

After lunch, Emerald Harmony will cruise from the heart of the city down the Saigon River towards Ben Tre, in the Mekong Delta. This evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner on board with your fellow guests and an informative port talk hosted by your Cruise Director.

Please book your flight to arrive into Ho Chi Minh City prior to 08:30 AM. (L/D)

This morning, you’ll cruise through the bustling Cho Gao Canal, one of the major arterial canals of Vietnam connecting Tien Giang Province in the Mekong Delta with Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll find this a fascinating sight, observing the heavy commercial traffic navigate this important waterway, where upwards of 1,800 vessels transit each day. During your morning of relaxation on board, soak up the ever-changing passing scenery, enjoy a refreshing dip in the infinity pool, or indulge in a spa treatment (at additional cost).

Once on the Mekong River, this afternoon you’ll visit the rural Tan My Floating community, followed by a ride through local plantations to visit a mushroom farm, a fruit farm with sampling and a honey farm with local sweets. Later, you’ll cruise onwards to Sa Ðéc, a Mekong Delta hidden gem. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit the Thoi Binh hamlet and its authentic farming and fishing communities

This morning is a leisurely cruise to Sa Ðéc. Later this afternoon, take a short ride on a sampan to arrive in Sa Ðéc, a delightful old provincial city in the heart of the Mekong Delta. Enjoy a walking tour around town with a visit to the home of local resident, Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, who inspired Marguerite Duras’ novel L’Amant (‘The Lover,’), and the town’s bustling central market to peruse its varied produce.

Afterwards return to Emerald Harmony by sampan to anchor for the night. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le and the bustling Sa Ðéc markets

After a short sail with breakfast, transfer ashore by sampan to explore the village life on My An Hung Island. Recognised as a cultural and historical destination, this small village in rural Vietnam specialises in red-hot chilli and peppers. For today’s EmeraldPLUS experience, enjoy some local folk singing during the visit to this charming riverine community.

After returning to Emerald Harmony, enjoy an afternoon cruise to Gieng Island. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit My An Hung Village
  • EmeraldPLUS Listen to local folk singing in My An Hung

Locally known as ‘Mango Island,’ Cu Lao Gieng is a small, picturesque island untouched by tourism, located along the upper Mekong River. Travel by local motorcycle rickshaw through the island’s villages to visit families who work in various local industries, including mango farming, various types of boat construction and a factory that produces temple incense sticks.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure on board as we cruise to Tan Chau. Upon arrival and for today’s EmeraldPLUS experience, delight in a traditional Lion Dance performance on the Sun Deck of Emerald Harmony. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit local industries in Gieng Island
  • EmeraldPLUS Lion Dance performance on board Emerald Harmony

In Tan Chau, embark on a sampan ride to Evergreen Island for a walk through a local village, affording an insightful glimpse into the ‘Delta farming community'. You’ll then reboard your sampan returning to Tan Chau for a visit to a local Cao Dai Temple. Cao Dai is a syncretic, monotheistic religion established in Tây Ninh, Southern Vietnam, in 1926. At the temple, you can learn more about the hybrid of philosophies that form the basis of this fascinating and complex religion. Afterwards, take a ride in a Xe Loi, a local form of Cyclo unique to the Mekong Delta, back to your sampan and return to Emerald Harmony. Back on board your Emerald Star-Ship, you’ll cruise towards the border between Vietnam and Cambodia. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit to Evergreen Island, a Cao Dai Temple visit and Xe Loi ride

Welcome to Cambodia. Today, you’ll awake in Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh. Known as the ‘Pearl of Asia’ during the French Indochina-era, this city was almost entirely evacuated by the Khmer Rouge regime in 1975. This morning, learn about the Khmer Rouge and the darkest days of Cambodia’s history. A short drive takes you to the Killing Fields at Choeung Ek, where you can stroll through the fields and visit the memorial, understanding more about the country’s sombre chapter.

Afterwards, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (infamously known as ‘S-21’), a former school converted to the Khmer Rouge’s main prison and torture headquarters. Spend the afternoon as you please, either joining one of our Emerald DiscoverMORE excursions, visiting the Central Market located at in the heart of Phnom Penh, or simply relaxing on board Emerald Harmony.

This evening, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you’ll enjoy an evening remork (local Tuk-Tuk) excursion through Phnom Penh, admiring the glittering city lights. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Killing Fields at Choeung Ek and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
  • EmeraldPLUS Phnom Penh by night on a remork (Tuk-Tuk) tour
  • DiscoverMORE A silk farm tour at Koh Oknha Tei (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Craft Beer Adventure by remork (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Samai Distillery (extra expense)

In the morning visit the majestic Royal Palace, captivating with its French-inspired gardens and Silver Pagoda. Once back on board, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you’ll enjoy a cultural performance by the Cambodian Student and Children’s Organisation. After lunch set sail from Phnom Penh and enjoy an afternoon of relaxed cruising as you continue further up the Mekong River to Angkor Ban. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit to the Royal Palace
  • EmeraldPLUS Cultural Performance by the Cambodian Student and Children’s Organisation

In Angkor Ban, explore its historical rural wooden houses which survived the Khmer Rouge. In the village temple, partake in an alm’s ceremony, learn how to pray in a Buddhist pagoda and receive a traditional Buddhist blessing from the temple’s resident monks from as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience. Afterwards set sail to your final destination, Peam Chi Korng located further upstream on the Mekong River. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Walk around the historical village of Angkor Ban
  • EmeraldPLUS A traditional Buddhist Monk blessing

Disembark Emerald Harmony in the morning and transfer back to Phnom Penh airport for your onward flight.

Please book your flight to depart out of Phnom Penh after 10:00 AM.

Rivers and waterways are subject to variations in water levels. While every effort is made to adhere to the planned itinerary, changes in river conditions, ad hoc local government regulations or local festivities may require journey modifications. These will be made based on the advice of local authorities or for safety reasons. Hotels are indicative and are subject to change. (B)

Xin Chao and welcome to Vietnam. On arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, you’ll be transferred to downtown District 1 and the historic quarter and check into to the Sheraton Saigon Hotel and Towers. Later, you’ll transfer to the Saigon Port to board your luxury Emerald Star-Ship, where you’ll be warmly welcomed on board by your captain and crew.

After lunch, Emerald Harmony will cruise from the heart of the city down the Saigon River towards Ben Tre, in the Mekong Delta. This evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner on board with your fellow guests and an informative port talk hosted by your Cruise Director.

Please book your flight to arrive into Ho Chi Minh City prior to 08:30 AM. (L/D)

This morning, you’ll cruise through the bustling Cho Gao Canal, one of the major arterial canals of Vietnam connecting Tien Giang Province in the Mekong Delta with Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll find this a fascinating sight, observing the heavy commercial traffic navigate this important waterway, where upwards of 1,800 vessels transit each day. During your morning of relaxation on board, soak up the ever-changing passing scenery, enjoy a refreshing dip in the infinity pool, or indulge in a spa treatment (at additional cost).

Once on the Mekong River, this afternoon you’ll visit the rural Tan My Floating community, followed by a ride through local plantations to visit a mushroom farm, a fruit farm with sampling and a honey farm with local sweets. Later, you’ll cruise onwards to Sa Ðéc, a Mekong Delta hidden gem. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit the Thoi Binh hamlet and its authentic farming and fishing communities

This morning is a leisurely cruise to Sa Ðéc. Later this afternoon, take a short ride on a sampan to arrive in Sa Ðéc, a delightful old provincial city in the heart of the Mekong Delta. Enjoy a walking tour around town with a visit to the home of local resident, Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, who inspired Marguerite Duras’ novel L’Amant (‘The Lover,’), and the town’s bustling central market to peruse its varied produce.

Afterwards return to Emerald Harmony by sampan to anchor for the night. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le and the bustling Sa Ðéc markets

After a short sail with breakfast, transfer ashore by sampan to explore the village life on My An Hung Island. Recognised as a cultural and historical destination, this small village in rural Vietnam specialises in red-hot chilli and peppers. For today’s EmeraldPLUS experience, enjoy some local folk singing during the visit to this charming riverine community.

After returning to Emerald Harmony, enjoy an afternoon cruise to Gieng Island. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit My An Hung Village
  • EmeraldPLUS Listen to local folk singing in My An Hung

Locally known as ‘Mango Island,’ Cu Lao Gieng is a small, picturesque island untouched by tourism, located along the upper Mekong River. Travel by local motorcycle rickshaw through the island’s villages to visit families who work in various local industries, including mango farming, various types of boat construction and a factory that produces temple incense sticks.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure on board as we cruise to Tan Chau. Upon arrival and for today’s EmeraldPLUS experience, delight in a traditional Lion Dance performance on the Sun Deck of Emerald Harmony. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit local industries in Gieng Island
  • EmeraldPLUS Lion Dance performance on board Emerald Harmony

In Tan Chau, embark on a sampan ride to Evergreen Island for a walk through a local village, affording an insightful glimpse into the ‘Delta farming community'. You’ll then reboard your sampan returning to Tan Chau for a visit to a local Cao Dai Temple. Cao Dai is a syncretic, monotheistic religion established in Tây Ninh, Southern Vietnam, in 1926. At the temple, you can learn more about the hybrid of philosophies that form the basis of this fascinating and complex religion. Afterwards, take a ride in a Xe Loi, a local form of Cyclo unique to the Mekong Delta, back to your sampan and return to Emerald Harmony. Back on board your Emerald Star-Ship, you’ll cruise towards the border between Vietnam and Cambodia. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit to Evergreen Island, a Cao Dai Temple visit and Xe Loi ride

Welcome to Cambodia. Today, you’ll awake in Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh. Known as the ‘Pearl of Asia’ during the French Indochina-era, this city was almost entirely evacuated by the Khmer Rouge regime in 1975. This morning, learn about the Khmer Rouge and the darkest days of Cambodia’s history. A short drive takes you to the Killing Fields at Choeung Ek, where you can stroll through the fields and visit the memorial, understanding more about the country’s sombre chapter.

Afterwards, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (infamously known as ‘S-21’), a former school converted to the Khmer Rouge’s main prison and torture headquarters. Spend the afternoon as you please, either joining one of our Emerald DiscoverMORE excursions, visiting the Central Market located at in the heart of Phnom Penh, or simply relaxing on board Emerald Harmony.

This evening, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you’ll enjoy an evening remork (local Tuk-Tuk) excursion through Phnom Penh, admiring the glittering city lights. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Killing Fields at Choeung Ek and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
  • EmeraldPLUS Phnom Penh by night on a remork (Tuk-Tuk) tour
  • DiscoverMORE A silk farm tour at Koh Oknha Tei (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Craft Beer Adventure by remork (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Samai Distillery (extra expense)

In the morning visit the majestic Royal Palace, captivating with its French-inspired gardens and Silver Pagoda. Once back on board, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you’ll enjoy a cultural performance by the Cambodian Student and Children’s Organisation. After lunch set sail from Phnom Penh and enjoy an afternoon of relaxed cruising as you continue further up the Mekong River to Angkor Ban. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit to the Royal Palace
  • EmeraldPLUS Cultural Performance by the Cambodian Student and Children’s Organisation

In Angkor Ban, explore its historical rural wooden houses which survived the Khmer Rouge. In the village temple, partake in an alm’s ceremony, learn how to pray in a Buddhist pagoda and receive a traditional Buddhist blessing from the temple’s resident monks from as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience. Afterwards set sail to your final destination, Peam Chi Korng located further upstream on the Mekong River. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Walk around the historical village of Angkor Ban
  • EmeraldPLUS A traditional Buddhist Monk blessing

Disembark Emerald Harmony in the morning and transfer back to Phnom Penh airport for your onward flight.

Please book your flight to depart out of Phnom Penh after 10:00 AM.

Rivers and waterways are subject to variations in water levels. While every effort is made to adhere to the planned itinerary, changes in river conditions, ad hoc local government regulations or local festivities may require journey modifications. These will be made based on the advice of local authorities or for safety reasons. Hotels are indicative and are subject to change. (B)

Life Onboard Emerald Harmony

Emerald Harmony
Emerald Harmony

Enjoy inspired luxury infused with Asian design and flavours when you cruise the Mekong. Read more

EmeraldPLUS
EmeraldPLUS

Authentic included adventures that take you into the cultural heart of each destination. Read more

Emerald Cruises Excursions
Emerald Cruises Excursions

A range of complimentary excursions and options to Discover More at cost showcase Mekong life. Read more

The Flavours of Asia
The Flavours of Asia

Savour an impressive menu from breakfast to dinner in the relaxed ambience of the Reflections Restaurant. Read more

Pool Deck
Pool Deck

Witness river life pass by as you take a refeshing dip in the pool at the ship's stern. Read more

Sundeck
Sundeck

Head to the open Sun Deck at the top of the ship to relax outdoors. Read more

Play Youtube Video

Trip Reviews (4) Most Recent 'Meandering Majestic Mekong Cruise' Reviews

5.0
Average Rating 5.0 / 5
4 Reviews
5 Star
100%
4 Star
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Slowly down the Mekong   2 , NSW, Australia, Feb 2024
Wonderful experience on the Emerald Harmony . Lovely crew and delicious food on board, plenty to do or as little as you want. Highlight was experiencing Siem Reap and Angkor, much changed after 20 years since last here, as was Phnom Penh and Bustling Saigon, made more colourful by being there in Chinese NY and TET.
Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & The Mekong 4 , QLD, Australia, Nov 2023
Firstly I would like to thank Tracey, my travel consultant at Global Journeys, for all the help she gave to me in booking and processing this tour. This Emerald Cruises tour was the best trip I have been on for a long time. From day 1 arriving in Ho Chi Minh City to the end in Siem Reap the Tour Directors and their support staff along with the staff read more and crew on the Emerald Harmony were absolute professionals and the service provided by all was excellent.

The Emerald Harmony was a beautiful and comfortable ship and the food provided was beyond amazing, a great chef and his staff provided some of the most enjoyable meals I have experienced. The tours were short but interesting, taking into account the humidity still rather high in November. I had an amazing look into Vietnamese and Cambodian life and culture. The hotels in Ho chi Ming City and Siem Reap were excellent and very comfortable. I applaud Emerald for the support they give to various organisations, the dancing troupe, Satcha Cambodian handicrafts etc. I am highly recommending Emerald cruises and this tour and hopefully will be able to return to Vietnam and Cambodia in the future.
Vietnam and Cambodia by river 1 , Christchurch, New Zealand, Sep 2023
We have just returned from an amazing cruise on board the Emerald Harmony. Our only other river cruise was in Europe in the winter (Emerald also) so we were not sure what to expect on hot steamy days in South East Asia. From the Cruise director, AB, to the cabin staff and all in-between we were treated like VIPs and always knew what, where and why things read more were happening.
Sampan rides, tuktuk rides, rickshaws - all safely navigated.

The cultural events on board were worth attending and were given with passion by the people of the culture. Our new cruise friends were great fun but we also were able to find a quiet place if needed. The transfer and hotel service provided by Emerald made everything so easy so I really could relax for the whole journey. The cabins were all that was needed and were super clean and comfy.
A wonderful insight to the history of Vietnam and Cambodia 4 , VIC, Australia, Dec 2022
This was our first river cruise and was a wonderful experience. Thanks to Hannah at Global Journeys and the helpful, attentive and friendly guides and crew. Oh so much better than a large cruise ship. The itinerary was varied and encompassed some truly magical spots, the varied cultures and history of the region, even if it was confronting from time read more to time. Top marks to Emerald!

Dates & Pricing USD USD

Cabin Layout Options:

Select Cabin Preference:

From $3,401
From $3,886
From $6,117
Sunday 30 Aug 2026 30 Aug 26 Ho Chi Minh City
Tuesday 08 Sep 2026 08 Sep 26 Phnom Penh
Details
Emerald Harmony
Wave Offer
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$3,401
Save $6,789
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday 17 Sep 2026 17 Sep 26 Ho Chi Minh City
Saturday 26 Sep 2026 26 Sep 26 Phnom Penh
Details
Emerald Harmony
Wave Offer
River View
Sold Out
Unavailable
Sold Out
Wednesday 11 Aug 2027 11 Aug 27 Ho Chi Minh City
Friday 20 Aug 2027 20 Aug 27 Phnom Penh
Details
Emerald Harmony
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$9,895
Save $295
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 29 Aug 2027 29 Aug 27 Ho Chi Minh City
Tuesday 07 Sep 2027 07 Sep 27 Phnom Penh
Details
Emerald Harmony
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$9,895
Save $295
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday 16 Sep 2027 16 Sep 27 Ho Chi Minh City
Saturday 25 Sep 2027 25 Sep 27 Phnom Penh
Details
Emerald Harmony
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$10,574
Save $316
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 11 Dec 2027 11 Dec 27 Ho Chi Minh City
Monday 20 Dec 2027 20 Dec 27 Phnom Penh
Details
Emerald Harmony
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$11,059
Save $331
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Emerald Cruises. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

Similar River Cruises

11 Day Enchanting Mekong and Siem Reap (Emerald Cruises)

11 Days Siem Reap Ho Chi Minh City

Operated By: Emerald Cruises

From 11,348
Save 342
10 Day Meandering Majestic Mekong Cruise (Emerald Cruises)

10 Days Phnom Penh Ho Chi Minh City

Operated By: Emerald Cruises

From 3,740
Save 7,150
16 Day Wonders of Indochina and the Mekong (Emerald Cruises)

16 Days Ho Chi Minh City Bangkok

Operated By: Emerald Cruises

From 14,153
Save 432

Travel Styles