Sunset Cruise: Best view on 3 floors boat & English speak guide

A Closer Look at the Phnom Penh Sunset Cruise on a 3-Floor Boat

Imagine drifting along the Mekong River as the sun begins to dip, casting a golden glow over the city’s skyline—sounds pretty magical, right? This Sunset Cruise from Phnom Penh promises just that, with a boat equipped with three different viewing levels, an engaging English-speaking guide, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a relaxed way to soak in the city’s sights while enjoying some refreshments, and it comes highly rated for the overall experience.

What truly sets this tour apart is the opportunity to see Phnom Penh from the water, with panoramic views of landmarks like the Royal Palace and Hotel Cambodiana. Plus, the added visit to Silk Island gives it an authentic local flavor, allowing you to explore a traditional Khmer island with a tuk-tuk tour, witnessing local homes, a Buddhist monastery, and a silk farm.

One thing to keep in mind is the potential for some confusion over the starting point—reviewers have noted that the initial meeting location isn’t always clearly marked, so planning your transport in advance is wise. This cruise is suited for those who enjoy scenic, laid-back outings, want a taste of local life, and love the idea of a sunset experience on the water.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Offers panoramic vistas from three different levels of the boat, perfect for photography and sightseeing.
• Authentic Experience: Visiting Silk Island adds a genuine local touch, with insights into Khmer culture and crafts.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Unlimited drinks, fresh fruit, and the gentle river breeze create a leisurely vibe.
• Expert Guidance: An English-speaking guide shares entertaining and informative commentary, making the experience educational yet fun.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup simplifies logistics, ensuring a smooth, stress-free outing.
• Good Value: At $12, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck—especially with unlimited drinks included in some options.

Detailed Breakdown of the Sunset Cruise Experience

The Boat and Its Unique Multilevel Setup

The three-floor boat is a highlight itself, designed to give you multiple vantage points. We’ve read reviews praising the ample space and good visibility from all decks. The boat’s size allows for easy movement, and the upper floors provide unobstructed views of the sunset and city skyline. Despite some comments about the boat being older, cleanliness and comfort seem well maintained, and the multiple levels are perfect for both lounging and photo sessions.

Embarking on the Mekong and Tonlé Sap

The cruise kicks off at the meeting point at Presh Sisowath Quay, adjacent to the Royal Palace. From here, you’ll glide out onto the Mekong River, passing iconic sights like the Royal Palace, built in 1866, and the Hotel Cambodiana, dating back to 1969, which adds a nostalgic charm to your sightseeing.

During the cruise, you’ll notice the lively riverbank life—fishermen on houseboats, bustling markets, and everyday scenes of Phnom Penh’s river communities. Reviewers have appreciated the insights shared by the guide about the local lifestyle and the development areas, making the experience not just about pretty views but about understanding the city’s pulse.

Highlights of the Itinerary

• Royal Palace View: From the water, the Royal Palace appears truly grand, especially with the setting sun highlighting its golden rooftops.
• 1961 Building: The cruise passes in front of a notable structure built in 1961, adding a historical touch.
• Luxury Hotel: The first five-star hotel, established in 1969, gives a glimpse into Phnom Penh’s upscale evolution.
• Development Area: Observing the city’s modern expansion from the river offers a perspective on Phnom Penh’s growth.

The Silk Island Excursion

The real gem of this tour is visiting Silk Island, a serene getaway from the bustling city. Once ashore, you’re taken on a tuk-tuk ride across the island, passing local houses and schools, and stopping at a Buddhist monastery—an authentic look at Khmer village life. The visit to a silk farm is particularly interesting, where you’ll see the traditional silk weaving process. Reviewers find this part of the tour a refreshing change from the city, offering both cultural insight and peaceful scenery.

Food and Drinks on Board

Unlimited beer and soft drinks are some of the features that reviewers love—especially those who appreciate a casual, social vibe. The boat also offers fresh fruit platters, which guests describe as refreshing and plentiful. Some reviews mentioned that the drinks are constantly refilled, even if only half full, creating a relaxed, no-pressure environment to enjoy the scenery.

It’s worth noting that wine and spirits aren’t included, so if you’re a connoisseur, you might want to bring your own or purchase locally. Also, the guide’s commentary is lively and humorous, making the cruise both fun and informative.

Timing and Practical Considerations

This tour lasts around 1 hour 30 minutes, with the cruise itself taking about an hour and a half. The timing ensures you catch the sunset, which reviewers describe as “unreal,” with a few even calling it “breathtaking.” The ferry departs from a centrally located spot, with some travelers noting the importance of arriving early or clarifying the meeting point to avoid confusion.

The tour offers hotel pickup, which is a massive plus for convenience, though drop-off isn’t included—so plan your return transport accordingly. With a maximum capacity of around 70 travelers, it’s suitable for larger groups but still maintains a friendly vibe.

Value for Money

At just $12 per person, this cruise offers excellent value—especially considering the unlimited drinks and the multi-level boat experience. Several reviewers have remarked that it’s “well worth the price”, praising the knowledgeable guides who keep the narration engaging. The addition of Silk Island makes it more than just a river cruise; it’s an introduction to local life, craft, and scenery, all at a reasonable price.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This sunset cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic outing with some cultural flavor. It’s perfect for those who enjoy beautiful views, especially during sunset, and want to skip the hustle for a more laid-back experience. Families, couples, or solo travelers will find the multi-level boat comfortable, and the informal atmosphere makes it accessible for all ages.

It’s also a good pick if you’re interested in local culture and crafts, thanks to the Silk Island visit. However, those expecting a high-energy party or a heavily historical narration might find it a little light on details.

Final Thoughts

This Phnom Penh sunset cruise provides a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and social enjoyment. The three-tier boat setup ensures great views, and the knowledgeable guide, Dawood, reportedly keeps things both informative and humorous. The unlimited drinks and fresh fruit make it feel like a very good value for the price.

While there are minor logistical considerations—like the initial meeting point and the older boat—the overall experience tends to leave travelers feeling relaxed and impressed. It’s a fantastic way to see Phnom Penh from a different angle and enjoy a special sunset on the river, making it a worthwhile addition to your Cambodia itinerary.

For travelers who love scenic, easygoing experiences with a touch of local culture and a chilled vibe, this cruise is sure to deliver a memorable evening.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers a convenient hotel pickup, making it easier to start your evening stress-free.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise itself lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Can I buy alcohol on the boat?
Unlimited beer and soft drinks are included, but wine or spirits must be purchased separately.

What are the main sights seen from the boat?
You’ll see the Royal Palace, Hotel Cambodiana, development areas, and the vibrant riverbank life of Phnom Penh.

Is the boat comfortable and safe?
Despite some reviews mentioning the boat’s age, it maintains a good standard of cleanliness and comfort, with ample space on three decks to enjoy the views safely.

Are there options without the Silk Island visit?
Yes, the tour can be booked as a cruise-only experience, without the island stop.

What should I wear?
Casual and comfortable clothing for a relaxed river cruise; bring a light jacket or sunglasses for sun protection.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, including families, as long as children are supervised around the water.

What is the best time to go?
Booking in the late afternoon ensures you catch the sunset, the highlight of the tour.

How do I confirm my booking?
The tour is confirmed upon booking with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the departure.

In summary, this sunset cruise offers a fantastic mix of panoramic views, local culture, and relaxed enjoyment, all at a budget-friendly price. It’s perfect for those wanting to unwind, take in Phnom Penh’s skyline, and experience a peaceful evening on the river.