Dinner Cruise 1h45 on the Mekong including 4 courses

Taking a cruise along the Mekong River in Phnom Penh offers a unique way to see the city beyond its busy streets. This particular dinner cruise, lasting approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, combines scenic views, a thoughtfully prepared 4-course meal, and the chance to unwind after a day of exploring. While not perfect, it has enough charm and value for travelers seeking a relaxed evening with a taste of local cuisine and peaceful river vistas.

What makes this experience stand out? First, we love the opportunity to see Phnom Penh from the water, especially at sunset, when the city’s skyline takes on a golden hue. Second, the quality of the food, prepared by a Cambodian chef, appears to impress many guests with its flavors and attentiveness. Lastly, the knowledgeable guides and attentive staff help elevate the overall experience, making guests feel well cared for. However, the difficulties in locating the dock at night and the lack of a dedicated lighting system could be frustrating for some. This cruise is best suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic dinner with minimal hassle and are happy to pay a modest price for it.

Key Points

• Scenic views of Phnom Penh from the Mekong River at sunset.
• Well-prepared 4-course meal by a Cambodian chef, offering good value for the price.
• Knowledgeable staff and attentive service enhance the overall experience.
• Easy online booking with a mobile ticket, suitable for most travelers.
• Location can be tricky at night; arriving early or with a guide helps.
• Good option for a relaxed, romantic, or family-friendly evening on the water.

An Authentic Look at the Mekong Dinner Cruise Experience

While we haven’t taken this cruise ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what to expect. The departure point is at Kanika Boat, Phnom Penh, with the boat leaving precisely at 7:00 pm. The cruise takes you along the Tonle Sap and Mekong, offering a different perspective of the city as the sun begins to set—an ideal moment for photos and enjoying the cool evening breeze.

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

The cruise begins at the designated meeting point — Kanika Boat — which is conveniently near public transportation options. Once aboard, the boat drifts away from the dock, and the real magic begins. Guests are served a 4-course dinner prepared by a Cambodian chef, with some reviews mentioning the quality and attentive service. The menu does not specify if there are options for Western or Asian cuisine, but the reviews suggest the food is well-received, with “wonderful” flavors and attentive staff providing umbrellas in case of rain.

The cruise itself lasts just under two hours, providing ample time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. As the boat glides past floating villages, river life, and city lights, you’ll be able to appreciate Phnom Penh from a tranquil vantage point. Reviewers mention that the views are especially stunning at sunset, as the sky turns vibrant shades, illuminating the riverbanks and cityscape.

The Location and How to Find It

One common concern is finding the dock at night. According to reviews, the signage can be hard to spot in the dark, with some guests mentioning the absence of lighting on the sign and the proximity to workboats cluttering the dock. The dock is located behind the hotel, with the ladder behind the hotel building, which can be confusing if not pre-informed. Guests have shared that arriving early or with a guide can make the process smoother.

Price and Value

At $25.65 per person, this cruise offers a decent value considering the scenic views, dinner, and overall experience. The inclusion of a 4-course meal and the knowledgeable staff makes it a good option for those seeking a relaxed, memorable evening without breaking the bank. It’s important to note that private transportation isn’t included, so arranging your own ride or walking may be necessary, especially if you’re staying near the meeting point.

The Experience from Guest Perspectives

Several reviews highlight the positive aspects of this cruise. For instance, one guest described the food as “wonderful” and appreciated the staff’s attentiveness, especially when it rained, as umbrellas were offered. Another review mentioned the easy-to-find departure point and the opportunity to enjoy a great night out.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One guest lamented the difficulty of locating the boat at night, noting the poor lighting and the crowded dock with multiple workboats. The guide’s response to the negative review was quite heated, but the core issue remains: arriving prepared or early is advisable.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for couples looking for a romantic evening, families seeking a relaxed activity, or solo travelers wanting a different view of Phnom Penh. It’s not for those who require luxury amenities or have mobility issues, given the potential difficulty finding the dock at night. The moderate price and scenic appeal make it a solid choice for travelers on a budget or those wanting a quiet, scenic experience.

Final Thoughts

This dinner cruise offers a relaxing way to wind down after a day exploring Phnom Penh. The scenery, combined with a tasty meal and friendly service, creates a memorable evening, especially if you’re comfortable with some logistical hurdles at the start. It’s a good value for the price and perfect for travelers who want to see the city from a different perspective.

While not a luxury cruise, it provides enough charm, comfort, and local flavor to justify giving it a try. Just plan to arrive early and be prepared for a bit of night-time navigation.

The Sum Up

This Mekong dinner cruise in Phnom Penh offers a straightforward, affordable way to enjoy the city’s riverside charm. The scenic sunset views and delicious Cambodian cuisine are the main highlights, making it a good choice for those seeking a relaxed, scenic dinner with an authentic touch. The friendly guides and attentive staff add to the experience, ensuring you feel looked after throughout.

It’s best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a slightly tricky start and appreciate the simple pleasures of good food and beautiful scenery. It’s also perfect for romantic evenings or family outings, providing a peaceful escape on the water amid the bustling city.

If you’re someone who enjoys river views, local cuisine, and a casual atmosphere, this cruise will likely meet your expectations and add a special touch to your Phnom Penh stay.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for everyone? Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, those with mobility issues might want to confirm accessibility due to the dock’s location.

How do I find the meeting point? The boat departs from Kanika Boat near public transportation. The dock is behind the hotel, with signs and a ladder, but arriving early or with a guide can help.

What’s included in the price? The ticket covers the 1h45 cruise and a 4-course dinner prepared by a Cambodian chef. Private transportation isn’t included.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, the cancellation policy is free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for full refunds if you need to cancel.

What should I wear? Casual, comfortable clothing is fine. Bringing an umbrella or raincoat is advisable in case of rain, as some guests did.

How long before departure should I arrive? Aim to arrive at least 15-20 minutes early, particularly if you want to avoid last-minute stress finding the dock at night.

Is there a choice between Asian or Western cuisine? The reviews do not specify options, but the meal is prepared by a Cambodian chef, and the quality is generally well-received.

What do guests typically say about the staff? Guests frequently mention the staff as attentive and friendly, especially noting their efforts during rainy weather with umbrellas.

What about the views? Expect beautiful, peaceful scenes of Phnom Penh as the sun sets — an ideal time for photos and soaking in the city’s riverside ambiance.

Is this experience worth the price? Considering the good food, scenic cruise, and friendly service, most reviews suggest it’s a fair deal, especially for a relaxed evening activity.

This review aims to give you a balanced look at what to expect from the Dinner Cruise on the Mekong in Phnom Penh, helping you decide if it fits your travel style and expectations.