Mekong Eyes Cruises 2Days/1 Night

Taking a 2-day/1-night cruise on the Mekong River aboard the Mekong Eyes offers a unique way to experience Vietnam’s bustling southern waterways. This vessel, built from a traditional rice barge and decked out with modern amenities, combines regional craftsmanship with comfort. While it might not be the most luxurious floating hotel, it provides a genuine, thoughtfully curated journey into the heart of the Mekong Delta.

What really stands out for us is the authenticity of the experience — from the traditional “eye opening” ceremony on the bow to guided visits through small villages and floating markets. The vessel itself is a charming, well-maintained craft that exudes character. One thing to keep in mind is that the journey’s quality can depend heavily on your expectations; some travelers have expressed a desire for a more traditional boat experience rather than a vessel that feels more like a floating hotel.

This cruise suits travelers who love a mix of scenic cruising, cultural stops, and good food in a relatively relaxed, small-group setting. If you’re after a deep dive into local life with comfortable accommodations, this tour offers a well-rounded package.

Key Points

• Authentic Mekong Experience: The cruise blends regional boat-building traditions with modern comforts, offering a memorable journey.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Carefully curated stops, including floating markets, villages, and orchards, provide cultural insights.
• Comfortable Accommodation: Cozy cabins with double or twin beds make for a restful overnight stay.
• Includes Convenience: Shuttle service from Saigon, all meals, and side trips on sampans are included, adding value.
• Group Size: Limited to 18 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.
• Mixed Reviews on Trip Details: While the boat and food are praised, some travelers were disappointed by certain trip aspects, highlighting the importance of managing expectations.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Setting Sail from Ho Chi Minh City

Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Sai Gon (district 1 and some parts of district 3). This shuttle service, included in the package, makes logistics easier, especially in a busy city. Once on board the Mekong Eyes, a vessel measuring 39 meters long and 8.5 meters wide, you’ll check into your cozy cabin. These rooms, described as charming and well-furnished, seem to satisfy most guests, with some reviewers mentioning the rooms being “lovely” and the food “great.”

The lunch on board offers a chance to settle in and enjoy the views as the boat slowly cruises along the river. The highlight of this part is the panoramic cruise, giving you a wide perspective of the lush surroundings and the river’s vibrant life. Later, a guided land walk takes you through orchards and small villages where you can see local life and perhaps sample fresh fruit.

As the sun begins to dip, you’ll return to the vessel for refreshments and watch the sunset from the top deck — a peaceful, beautiful moment appreciated by many travelers. Dinner on the boat wraps up the first day, with some noting the food’s quality as a standout.

Day 2: Floating Markets and Village Life

The next morning kicks off early, with a cruise and tea break before arriving at Cai Be floating market. This lively market, floating on the river, offers an authentic glimpse of local trade. You’ll explore in a long sampan, rowing through small canals to get up close to the floating vendors — an experience described as “fun” and “interesting” by travelers.

Following the market, you have an option for a bicycle ride or a walk through a quiet village along the Mekong canals. This part of the trip adds an authentic touch, letting you see rural life away from the tourist spots.

By mid-morning, it’s time to check out of your cabin and prepare for departure back to Sai Gon, arriving around mid-afternoon. The included lunch at the Mekong Rest Stop offers a chance to enjoy local flavors once more before the journey concludes.

What Travelers Love and Find Challenging

Many reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and attentiveness, mentioning guides like Kin who tailor the experience to the group’s interests. The stunning views along the river and the delicious meals—often highlighted as a highlight—add to the overall value. Guests also appreciate the small group size, which fosters a more personal atmosphere.

However, a few reviewers express disappointment over the unexpected boat experience. Some were hoping for a more traditional wooden boat but found themselves on a somewhat more modern vessel that felt “more like a floating hotel.” Plus, not all excursions (like the village cycling) are included unless you book the shuttle bus, which can be an extra consideration for budget-conscious travelers.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

The Boat: A Traditional Yet Modern Vessel

The Mekong Eyes was crafted from an old rice barge, beautifully decorated by local craftsmen, and features a large open deck perfect for lounging and watching the scenery. Its size and layout—around 250 m²—ensure plenty of space for comfort, with room for up to 30 guests, although most trips keep group sizes smaller (around 18).

While some guests mentioned that they didn’t get the classic wooden boat they initially expected, the vessel’s charm and comfort compensate. The “eye opening” ceremony performed on the bow, painted for good luck, adds a touch of regional tradition to the boat’s character.

The Meals and Cuisine

The meals are well-regarded, with many reviewers mentioning the quality of the food. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, with options for vegetarians available if requested at booking. The cruise staff seem to prioritize offering local dishes and fresh ingredients, enhancing the authentic feel.

The Excursions and Side Trips

The guided walks in villages and orchards provide insight into local life, showcasing small-scale agriculture and craftsmanship. The floating market visit is a highlight for many, offering vibrant scenes of river commerce. The use of sampans for side trips allows close-up views of the waterways and local vendors.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 18 travelers, the cruise maintains an intimate, relaxed vibe. Guests often mention the friendly guides and staff, notably highlighting guides like Kin or Daisy for their attentive service and local knowledge.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $450 per person, the tour falls into a moderate price range for this type of experience. The value lies in the inclusive nature—meals, transfers, and side trips are all covered—reducing the stress of planning. The comfortable cabins and the scenic cruise are also significant perks.

That said, some travelers felt that the boat’s modern comforts slightly detract from the traditional vibe they expected, which might influence how they perceive the value. For those seeking a more authentic, rustic boat experience, this might be a compromise but still a reasonable trade-off considering the convenience and comfort.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort without sacrificing authenticity. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided tours, scenic river views, and cultural excursions in a small-group setting. It’s also suitable for those who want all-inclusive convenience—from transfers to meals—without worrying about logistics.

However, if you’re looking strictly for a traditional wooden boat experience or wish to spend more time exploring local villages independently, you might find this trip slightly plush.

Final Thoughts

The Mekong Eyes 2-day/1-night cruise offers a balanced experience of scenic relaxation and cultural discovery. It’s a well-organized, comfortable way to see the Mekong Delta, especially if you’re keen on guided insights and good food. The vessel’s charm, combined with thoughtfully planned stops, makes it a memorable way to get a taste of river life.

The reviews indicate that guides like Kin, Daisy, and Harry elevate the trip with their friendliness and knowledge, which is a real plus. While some travelers wish for a more traditional boat or more inclusive excursions, most agree that the overall experience delivers authentic Mekong scenery and delicious local cuisine.

If you’re after a comfortable, well-paced tour that combines scenic cruising, cultural stops, and friendly service, the Mekong Eyes cruise is worth considering. Just keep your expectations aligned with the vessel’s modern comforts and the itinerary’s carefully curated charm.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes shuttle bus pickup and transfer from and to Saigon, making logistics hassle-free.

What’s included in the price?
Accommodation in cozy cabins, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), side trips on sampans, and transfers are included. Drinks are not included unless mineral water in your cabin.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian meals are available. Just advise at the time of booking if you need this option.

How many travelers participate in this tour?
The tour usually hosts up to 18 travelers, creating an intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

What if I want to do extra activities like biking?
Bike rides or village walks are optional and only included if you take the shuttle bus service. You might need to book these separately or as part of the package.

Can I expect luxury accommodations?
The cabins are described as cozy and well-furnished but are not luxury suites. They are intended to provide comfort after a day of exploring.

The Mekong Eyes 2-day cruise offers a friendly, scenic, and culturally rich experience suitable for those who enjoy guided tours with a touch of regional character. It balances comfort with authenticity, making it a worthwhile choice for exploring the Mekong Delta.