Mekong River Cruises 2027:
For Australians who want a river cruise unlike any other one that trades medieval castles for ancient temples, European café culture for floating markets, and Riesling for Saigon iced coffee the Mekong is the answer.
The Mekong is the lifeblood of Southeast Asia, flowing 4,350 km from Tibet through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. CroisiEurope's Mekong cruises concentrate on the most culturally rich stretch: Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam) to Siem Reap (Cambodia). And given Australia's proximity to Southeast Asia, this is the one CroisiEurope cruise that genuinely makes sense without the 20-hour Europe flight.
Why the Mekong is Australia's Closest Great River Cruise
Most Australians visit Vietnam and Cambodia on coach tours or independently. The Mekong cruise offers something completely different: the intimacy of a small ship, the continuity of watching the landscape change from your deck, and expert cultural context from on-board guides. The Mekong delta's world of water rice paddies, floating markets, pagodas is simply impossible to absorb from a coach window. CroisiEurope offers 22 Mekong itineraries.
CroisiEurope: Bringing French Excellence to the Mekong
CroisiEurope operates purpose-built ships designed for the Mekong's unique conditions. The RV Indochine II is the flagship modern, air-conditioned, with panoramic decks, a swimming pool, and French-inspired cuisine incorporating local Southeast Asian flavours. In Australia, all Mekong bookings are handled by CroisiEurope Australia (Tweet World Travel, Adelaide). Call 1300 739 652.
Top Mekong Cruise Itineraries for Australians in 2027
1. Vietnam & Cambodia (11 15 days)
From Ho Chi Minh City up the Mekong delta through southern Vietnam into Cambodia Phnom Penh, then upstream to Siem Reap (gateway to Angkor Wat).
Key stops: Ho Chi Minh City, Cai Be floating market, Sa Dec, Tan Chau, Phnom Penh, Kampong Cham, Siem Reap / Angkor Wat
2. Cambodia Only (Phnom Penh to Siem Reap)
Shorter cruise focusing on Cambodia's extraordinary heritage the Royal Palace, the Killing Fields memorial, and the Angkor temple complex.
3. Extended Including Luang Prabang, Laos
Some itineraries extend to the UNESCO-listed city of Luang Prabang considered one of the most beautiful small cities in Asia, with Buddhist temples, French colonial architecture, and the famous dawn alms-giving ceremony.
Must-See Highlights Along the Mekong
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
10 million people, millions of motorbikes, extraordinary street food. The War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, and Cu Chi Tunnels are essential. Most cruises allow 1 2 days in the city.
Cai Be Floating Market
In the early morning, waterways fill with wooden boats loaded with produce. Visiting by small local boat surrounded by the smell of pho and the sound of bargaining is one of Asia's most vivid travel experiences.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
The Royal Palace (with its Silver Pagoda floor of 5,000 silver tiles) sits beside the Tuol Sleng Museum and Killing Fields memorial. A confronting but essential day with on-board guides providing cultural context.
Angkor Wat
The world's largest religious monument, built in the 12th century. Most itineraries include a full day at Angkor Angkor Wat itself, the Bayon's 216 stone faces, and Ta Prohm (the temple reclaimed by jungle). Sunrise over the reflecting pools is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Best Time for Australians to Take a Mekong Cruise
November to February (Dry Season): Ideal cooler temperatures, clear skies, peak season. Book early.
March to May: Getting hotter. Still enjoyable with smaller crowds.
June to October (Wet Season): Heavy rains. Some areas more accessible but excursions can be disrupted.
Note for Australians: Nov Feb is Australian summer ideal for Australians who want warmth abroad during cooler Australian months.
Planning Your Mekong Cruise from Australia: Practical Info
Getting there: Fly into Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) or Siem Reap (REP) via Singapore, KL, Bangkok, or Hong Kong. Total: 8 12 hours from most Australian capitals.
Currency: USD widely accepted in Cambodia; Vietnamese Dong in Vietnam. On-board expenses settled in AUD.
Visas: Australia requires an e-visa for Vietnam (USD25) and Cambodia eVisa (USD36). CroisiEurope Australia can advise for 2027.
Health: Consult your GP at least 6 weeks before departure. Hepatitis A & B recommended. Check malaria advice for specific regions.
How to Book Your 2027 Cruise with CroisiEurope Australia
CroisiEurope Australia handles all bookings for Australian travellers with local support, AUD pricing, and no credit card surcharges on Visa or Mastercard.
Phone: 1300 739 652 | Email: contact@croisicruises.com
Website: www.croisieuroperivercruises.com.au
Office: Tweet World Travel, 544 Magill Road, Magill SA 5072
Request a free 2027 brochure posted to your door with full itinerary details, pricing, and deck plans.
2027 Early Booking is open now. Lock in your preferred sailing before the best cabins and fares are gone.
