The towering limestone karsts of Halong Bay, the small riverside towns and floating markets of the Mekong Delta and the isolated farming communities that surround the Red River - Vietnam presents an array of rewarding experiences on its waterways. Traditional junks with their billowing sails ply the waters around Halong Bay, while in the south converted rice barges provide the perfect vantage point from which to take in life along the river.
Whether you’re seeking to journey for just a few days or longer, Audley can tailor-make your Vietnam cruise to provide a touch of charm and luxury at a tranquil pace.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip by calling one of our Vietnam specialists on 01993 838 140
Our suggested Vietnam cruising itineraries
Each of these itineraries features an element, big or small, of experiencing Vietnam by boat. As we’ve discovered, cruising lets you slow the pace and gain a different — sometimes exclusive — perspective on a destination. As with all our itineraries, treat these as just inspiration for your uniquely created trip.
Exploring the Mekong and Angkor Wat
Highlights of Vietnam
Cruising the Mekong from Saigon to Siem Reap
Cruising the Red River
Family adventure to Vietnam
Following the Mekong: Laos, Cambodia & Vietnam
Grand tour of Indochina: Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia
Boats and ships selected by our specialists
Ranging from luxurious floating hotels to far simpler options, the selection of Vietnam cruise vessels you can choose from all have one thing in common: they offer unparalleled access to sights well off the beaten track.
Aqua Mekong
The Aqua Mekong is one of the newest boats to sail between Siem Reap (Cambodia) and Saigon (Vietnam). Its modernity ensures you’ll want for nothing during your cruise on the fascinating Mekong River.
Jayavarman
Cruising between Saigon (Vietnam) and Siem Reap (Cambodia), the Jayavarman offers an intoxicating and authentic cruise experience on one of Asia’s mightiest rivers, the Mekong.
RV Mekong Pandaw
Although externally the RV Mekong Pandaw resembles an original 1920s river steamer, it has all the modern amenities you might expect. The boat offers a comfortable way to cruise the Mekong River between Saigon (Vietnam) and Siem Reap (Cambodia).
Au Co
Unlike most vessels that ply the waters of Halong Bay, the Au Co can carry its guests to the quieter bays in the Gulf of Tonkin. Built in the traditional Vietnamese style, this ship puts sustainable tourism at the fore, ensuring your cruise doesn’t disrupt the local way of life around you.
Bassac
Beautifully crafted and furnished with modern comforts, Vietnam’s Bassac fleet offers an excellent option for exploring the southern Mekong network. Each ship is designed along the lines of the traditional rice barges, ensuring your cruise feels authentic and unobtrusive.
Indochina Sails
Beautifully crafted wooden junks with local silk furnishings to soften the interior, the Indochina Sails fleet places Vietnamese authenticity at the fore. Each of the four vessels is small enough for your cruise of Halong Bay to feel intimate and unobtrusive.
Jasmine
Of the many ships that ply the waters of Halong Bay, the Jasmine is one of the most luxurious. Her elegant 1930s design is in keeping with the UNESCO protected surroundings. Enjoy sundowners on the upper deck as you marvel at the magnificent limestone karsts that rise up out of the calm sea.
L'Amour Junk
The L'Amour Junk offers a private cruise of Halong Bay for you and one other. With just one en suite cabin that affords superb ocean views, this is the most intimate way to admire the quieter coves of this UNESCO protected site.
RV Angkor Pandaw
Take a cruise on Halong Bay and the Red River in northern Vietnam on the RV Angkor, a traditional river steamer. You will pass beautiful scenery and visit local charity projects and communities along the way.
The Jahan
Soak up the Southeast Asian sun as you meander along the Mekong on board the luxurious Jahan, a vessel reminiscent of colonial British Indian ships. The Jahan cuts various routes between Saigon and Siem Reap, offering a number of excursions and stops en route.
Valentine
With just five cabins, the Valentine is one of the smallest junks that plies the waters of Halong Bay. You can be sure of an intimate experience with highly personalised service. Sail around the magnificent limestone karsts with a cocktail in hand and toast the beauty of this UNESCO protected site.
Valentine Premium
The Valentine Premium is one of the most exclusive, luxury vessels to ply the waters of Halong Bay. With just two private cabins, you can hire the entire boat and sail between the famed limestone karsts at your leisure.