For more than three decades, Pandaw Cruises has been revealing a different side of Asia. Sailing elegant shallow draft vessels into waterways beyond the reach of larger ships, Pandaw offers travellers a more intimate and authentic way to experience the region.

The 3-night Saigon to Phnom Penh journey provides an effortless introduction to the Mekong. Crossing from Vietnam into Cambodia, this carefully designed itinerary combines immersive cultural encounters, peaceful river cruising and elegant onboard living.

Journey Highlights

Saigon to Phnom Penh

Departing from My Tho Port near Saigon, the voyage follows the Mekong River from southern Vietnam into Cambodia, revealing a fascinating transition from bustling cities to peaceful countryside and centuries-old traditions.

Over four days, guests will explore hidden waterways, visit riverside communities and discover the cultures that have flourished along the Mekong for generations.

DAY 1 | Exploring the Mekong Delta

The journey begins as the vessel leaves the city behind and enters the vast network of waterways that define the Mekong Delta.

Here, life remains closely connected to the river. Small boats navigate narrow canals, fishermen cast their nets beside mangrove forests and local families continue traditional crafts passed down through generations.

Guests will explore the delta by local boat, visiting tropical fruit orchards, rural villages and traditional workshops, including a coconut candy producer where they can discover one of the region’s most recognisable treats.

DAY 2 | Discovering Chau Doc and Riverside Culture

Continuing upstream, the vessel reaches Chau Doc, one of Vietnam’s most fascinating river communities.

Guests will visit Sam Mountain, home to important temples and panoramic views over the Mekong Delta. The area reflects a unique blend of Vietnamese, Khmer and Cham cultures shaped by centuries of interaction.

The journey continues by sampan to explore the region’s floating fish farms, where communities have built their livelihoods around the river for generations.

Guests will then enjoy a private lion dance performance at a local village, offering a colourful insight into Vietnamese cultural traditions.

*During periods of high water, river conditions may affect access to Chau Doc. If required, the itinerary will be adjusted to include a village experience in Long Thuan.

DAY 3 | Crossing into Cambodia

One of the voyage’s most memorable moments comes as the ship crosses the Vietnam-Cambodia border.

With immigration procedures handled by the onboard team, guests can simply relax and watch the scenery transform.

Vietnam’s peaceful riverside landscapes gradually give way to Cambodia’s distinctive character, with traditional wooden homes, Khmer architecture and quiet villages along the riverbanks.

DAY 5 | Arrival in Phnom Penh

The journey concludes in Cambodia’s capital, where golden temples, French colonial architecture and the Mekong River meet.

For travellers wishing to continue exploring Cambodia, Phnom Penh provides the perfect gateway to further adventures, including journeys to Siem Reap and Angkor Wat.

Life On Board: Boutique Comfort on the River

The experience of Pandaw extends beyond the destinations themselves. Designed specifically for Asia’s waterways, Pandaw’s shallow draft vessels can reach smaller channels and remote communities that larger ships cannot access.

With fewer than 30 cabins on each vessel, every journey feels intimate and relaxed. Spacious public areas, attentive service and a peaceful atmosphere create the feeling of a private floating retreat.

Elegant Cabins Designed for Relaxation

The Staterooms, approximately 15.6㎡ in size, feature classic teak interiors, polished brass details, panoramic windows and modern comforts including premium spa amenities, bottled water and evening turndown service.

For guests seeking more space, the Suites offer approximately 40㎡ of refined comfort. With only four suites available onboard, each includes a private viewing deck, panoramic river views and personalised butler service.

The river becomes the main attraction, with ever-changing scenery unfolding throughout the journey.

💰 Cruise fares from US$1,170 per person

* The fare includes accommodation, daily meals, guided shore excursions, onboard cultural activities, embarkation and disembarkation transfers, and English-speaking guides.

The Best Time to Sail the Mekong

The Mekong changes character throughout the year, but October and November are among the most rewarding months for a river journey.

During the high water season, the river becomes broader and more navigable, while the surrounding landscapes are at their most vibrant. Lush vegetation, lively riverside communities and traditional river life create the perfect setting for exploration.

For autumn 2026, Pandaw offers several departures from Saigon to Phnom Penh.

▪️ October 2026 Departures

🌟 1 October 2026 | Golden Week Departure
A popular sailing period. Suites are fully booked, with only six Staterooms remaining.

🌟 10 October 2026
An ideal choice for travellers looking to experience the Mekong outside the peak holiday period.

🌟 21 October 2026
A quieter departure offering a more relaxed atmosphere both onboard and ashore.

▪️ November 2026 Departures

4 November / 7 November / 19 November / 23 November / 27 November

Planning Your Journey

As this itinerary begins in Vietnam and concludes in Cambodia, travellers will need to arrange the relevant visas before departure.

Vietnam electronic visas can be applied for through the official government website: https://evisa.gov.vn

Cambodian e-visas are available through: https://www.evisa.gov.kh

For guests entering Cambodia by river as part of the Pandaw itinerary, the onboard team will assist with the Cambodian visa on arrival process.

Local Support from A Trails

With extensive experience creating journeys across Southeast Asia, A Trails provides local expertise and support throughout your Mekong adventure.

Our teams in Saigon and Phnom Penh assist guests before, during and after their cruise, including:

• Pre-cruise consultation and travel advice
• Embarkation assistance
• Border crossing support
• Airport transfers and hotel arrangements
• Emergency coordination
• Tailor-made extensions in Vietnam and Cambodia

For travellers wishing to continue their journey, A Trails can arrange personalised experiences including Vietnam discovery programmes, Phnom Penh city experiences and Angkor Wat extensions.

From peaceful waterways and riverside villages to Cambodia’s rich heritage and Phnom Penh’s colonial charm, a Pandaw journey offers a rare opportunity to experience Southeast Asia beyond the usual tourist routes.

To discover the full itinerary, departure dates or personalised travel options, please contact us.