RV Mekong Princess: 3-Day Saigon to Can Tho Mekong Delta Cruise

In the late morning, a guide will meet guests at their Ho Chi Minh City hotel, typically between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM, to facilitate transfer to Saigon Port at 05 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, Ward 13, District 4. Upon arrival at the RV Mekong Princess, travelers will proceed with boarding formalities. A crucial safety briefing is then conducted in the Ramvong Lounge, followed by a warm welcome from the Vietnamese and Cambodian crew, marking the beginning of this river expedition.

Soon after setting sail, a delightful lunch is served, offering a taste of attentive oriental hospitality. Guests can then settle into their luxurious suites, taking time to relax and absorb the initial views of the passing landscapes. The vessel navigates through a complex network of waterways, including the Saigon River, Soai Rap River, Nuoc Man Canal, Vam Co River, and Cho Gao Canal, eventually reaching the expansive Mekong River itself.

As evening approaches, the ship anchors within the heart of the Mekong Delta. This provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy expertly mixed cocktails while observing the sunset and the various sampans gracefully moving along the river. Dinner in the Indochine Restaurant features a classic Vietnamese à la carte menu, presenting a refined selection of dishes designed to satisfy sophisticated tastes.

The morning begins with an excursion by sampan, guiding guests along a channel bordered by lush mangroves. The first stop is a local coconut candy workshop, where visitors can observe the traditional candy-making process. Following this, a short walk leads to a vibrant orchard, showcasing a variety of native Vietnamese fruits at different stages of growth. Guests are invited to enjoy a refreshing fruit tasting session.

Subsequently, a local boat awaits, with two guests per boat, to navigate through narrow creeks adorned with Nipah Palms, offering an intimate perspective of the Delta's natural beauty. The ship then continues its journey through a seldom-visited part of the Mekong Delta, making its way towards Can Tho, the significant riverside capital of Vietnam's Mekong Delta region.

In the afternoon, guests have the option to participate in a brief city tour of Can Tho, which includes a visit to the historic Zihuang Pagoda (Chua Ong). This excursion also features a chance to experience traditional unicorn dances, adding a cultural dimension to the day. The evening allows for independent exploration of the charming city before returning to the ship for dinner. The RV Mekong Princess docks in Can Tho overnight.

After breakfast, the day commences with a sampan excursion to the renowned Cai Rang floating market. This bustling marketplace sees countless boats converging each morning to trade a wide array of produce and essential goods for local residents. It offers a fantastic opportunity for photography amidst the lively activity, and guests can enjoy fresh fruit along with fresh coconut water, often referred to as Vietnam's "anti-aging drink."

Before returning to the ship, a stop is made at a local noodle factory. Here, visitors receive a firsthand look at the intricate and fascinating process of noodle production, gaining insight into a traditional Vietnamese craft. The cruise concludes with disembarkation scheduled for 10:30 AM, marking the time to bid farewell to the RV Mekong Princess and its dedicated crew in Can Tho.