Bassac Cruise
Experience the authentic character of the Mekong Delta aboard the Bassac Cruise, a traditional wooden vessel offering insightful journeys into local life and waterways.
About the Bassac Cruise Fleet
The Bassac Cruise offers an authentic and engaging way to explore the Mekong Delta, providing voyages that range from short to medium durations. This fleet comprises two distinct traditional wooden boats, Bassac II and Bassac III, both thoughtfully designed to reflect the classic aesthetic of traditional rice barges. These vessels provide a cozy and genuine cruising atmosphere through the intricate river systems of the Mekong.
Bassac II features two decks and ten cabins, accommodating up to twenty guests, making it ideal for discovery tours along the river. Its main deck houses eight cabins, including twin and double configurations, each with its own private bathroom. On this deck, guests will also find the ship's main dining area and bar, offering a relaxed environment for meals and socializing. The upper deck includes two additional double cabins with en-suite facilities, a spacious lounge that can double as an extra dining space, and a shaded outdoor area at the stern for al fresco meals, all while enjoying the river scenery.
Bassac III, with its two passenger decks and twelve cabins, provides an intimate journey for up to twenty-four passengers. This vessel beautifully merges traditional allure with contemporary comforts. Eight cabins, consisting of six twin and two double options, are located on the main deck, each equipped with a private bathroom. The main dining room and a bar on this deck create a welcoming space. The upper deck features four double cabins with private bathrooms, a panoramic lounge, and a second bar. A shaded outdoor dining area at the aft allows guests to enjoy meals amidst the captivating river views.
Operating primarily along the well-known Mang Thit and Co Chien Rivers, the Bassac Cruise allows guests to witness the lively Cai Be floating market and other characteristic scenes of the Mekong Delta. The design and operational style are centered on offering guests a profound connection with the local culture and landscapes.
Guests consistently rate the Bassac Cruise highly, reflecting satisfaction with the overall experience. Reviewers frequently praise the boat's cleanliness, the quality of the food served, and the professionalism and helpfulness of the staff. While cabin sizes are noted as compact, they are generally considered well-equipped and comfortable for an overnight stay. The opportunity to witness local life on the Mekong Delta, including visits to floating markets and villages, is a recurring highlight, with many recommending the cruise as an excellent way to experience the region.
Cabin Types
Cruise Programs
Dining & Facilities
- Restaurant and Bar facilities
- Spacious Panoramic Lounge areas
- Shaded Outdoor Dining spaces
- Sundeck for relaxation and viewing
- Private En-suite Bathrooms in all cabins
- Air Conditioning in all cabins
- Soundproofed cabins with double glazing
- Restaurant and Bar facilities
- Spacious Panoramic Lounge areas
- Shaded Outdoor Dining spaces
- Sundeck for relaxation and viewing
- Private En-suite Bathrooms in all cabins
- Air Conditioning in all cabins
- Soundproofed cabins with double glazing
Dining aboard the Bassac Cruises offers a delightful and authentic culinary journey through the Mekong Delta. Meals are served in the onboard dining areas, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner meticulously prepared to complement the cruise itinerary and the changing river scenery.
The menu showcases a straightforward yet delicious array of Vietnamese specialties, alongside a selection of familiar international dishes. All meals are freshly prepared using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a genuine taste of the Mekong's rich culinary heritage. Each cabin receives a complimentary bottle of drinking water daily. Additional beverages, including various wines, fresh juices, soft drinks, beers, and cocktails from the onboard bar, are available for purchase.
- Explore countryside villages on guided walks or cycling excursions
- Visit the Cai Rang Floating Market
- Discover traditional handicraft workshops
- Cruise through the vibrant Cho Lach Canal and Co Chien River
- Enjoy onboard cooking demonstrations
- Relax with welcome drinks and crew introductions
Booking Policies
- Private car transfers to/from Ho Chi Minh City, Cai Be, or Can Tho (available for booking separately)
- Overnight accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City
- International airfare to/from Vietnam
- Personal travel insurance
- Personal expenses such as drinks, souvenirs, laundry services, and other incidentals
To confirm your reservation, a deposit is required, with specific details provided at the time of booking. Each cruise has its own policy regarding cancellations and payments, which will be outlined in your cruise details or can be obtained by contacting our sales team.
- More than 30 days prior to departure: 10% of the total rate will be charged.
- Between 30 and 8 days prior to departure: 30% of the total rate will be charged.
- Within 7 days prior to departure: 100% of the total rate will be charged.
- Children under 2 years old: Free of charge.
- Children between 2 and 12 years old: 75% of the adult price.
- A maximum of 1 child is permitted to share the same room with two adults.
Guests are responsible for their transfers to the departure piers in Can Tho or Cai Be. Transfers from/to Ho Chi Minh City, Cai Be, or Can Tho by private car are not included in the cruise price but can be arranged as an additional service. Departure points are typically Ninh Kieu Pier in Can Tho (11:30 AM - 12:00 PM) or Cai Be Pier (11:00 AM - 12:00 PM), depending on the chosen itinerary. The cruise concludes with drop-off at either Cai Be or Can Tho piers, generally between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM.
| Operator | TransMekong |
| Cruise Line | Bassac Cruise |
| Ship Type | Premium |
| Built Year | 2009 |
| Refurbished | 0 |
| Cabins | 12 |
| Passengers | 24 |
| Home Port | Can Tho |