Mekong Eyes Cruises 2Days/1 Night

If you’re dreaming of a Mekong adventure that combines both comfort and culture, the Mekong Eyes Cruises 2Days/1 Night might catch your eye. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve taken this journey to paint a clear picture of what to expect, highlighting its strengths and areas that might give you pause.

What we love about this tour is its beautifully restored boat, offering a real sense of tradition blended with modern amenities, the authentic village visits, and the delicious local food served on board. The professional guides and well-organized schedule make the experience smooth and enjoyable. However, some travelers mention that the boat type they receive can vary, and the trip’s trips sometimes fall short of expectations — so it’s worth reading the details carefully.

This cruise suits those who are looking for a relaxed, scenic escape into the Mekong’s waterways, with a taste for cultural sights, stunning views, and comfortable logistics. If you’re after luxury or a private, exclusive experience, this might not be the perfect fit — but for an authentic, well-organized adventure, it certainly delivers.

Key Points

• Authentic Floating Experience: The boat is a beautifully refurbished rice barge, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern comfort.
• Cultural Highlights: Village walks, orchards, and floating markets offer genuine glimpses into Mekong life.
• Comfortable Accommodation: Cozy cabins with a touch of luxury, along with onboard meals, make for a relaxing stay.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides like Kin and Daisy have been praised for their attentiveness and local knowledge.
• Value for Money: At $450 per person, considering included meals, activities, and transportation, it offers a solid experience.
• Some Variability: Experiences can differ depending on the boat type and trip arrangements, so managing expectations is key.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Welcome to the Mekong

The day kicks off with a shuttle pick-up at around 7:30 am in Saigon, making it convenient if you’re staying in District 1 or nearby. This early start is typical for Mekong tours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery. Once aboard the Mekong Eyes, you’ll check into your cozy cabin, which reviewers describe as lovely and functional, providing a comfortable base for the adventure.

The panorama cruise begins around noon, offering scenic views of the river while you enjoy a lunch on board. The boat’s design, based on an old rice barge, provides spacious decking—perfect for lounging and photography. As you glide past lush riversides, you’ll appreciate the craftsmanship that went into restoring this vessel, noted by some as very beautiful despite being refurbished a decade ago.

Around 4 pm, a guided land excursion takes you into orchards and small villages. Reviewers mention that these walks are a highlight, offering authentic glimpses into rural life. You’ll visit local markets, see traditional farming, and experience the Mekong community firsthand.

As the sun begins to set, head to the top deck for sunset viewing—a tranquil moment that many travelers found memorable. Dinner is served onboard at 7 pm, featuring local dishes that received praise for their taste and freshness. Afterwards, you’ll spend the night on the boat, ensuring you wake up rested and ready for the next day.

Day 2: Markets and Village Life

Your second morning starts early at 6:30 am with a cruise to Cai Be floating market, one of the Mekong’s most iconic sights. The market is lively, with boats laden with fruit, vegetables, and local crafts. Travelers appreciate this as a genuine scene—though some note that visiting floating markets can be crowded or touristy, it’s still a worthwhile experience.

A sampan excursion follows, where you’ll hop onto traditional boats to glide through narrow canals, gaining intimate access to the river’s daily rhythm. Some reviews mention that this part of the trip is particularly charming, especially if you’re into photography or just want to see the Mekong from a different perspective.

Afterward, optional bicycle rides or walks in small villages are available for those using the shuttle service, providing a more active way to explore rural life. This flexibility is appreciated by travelers who want to engage more deeply with the landscape.

By 11 am, it’s time to check out of your cabin and head back towards Saigon, arriving around 3:30 pm. Lunch at a Mekong Rest Stop wraps up your experience, giving you one last taste of local flavors.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Traditional Boat with Modern Touches

The Mekong Eyes itself is a key selling point. Built from an authentic rice barge and decorated by local artisans, it looks like a floating piece of history. The “eye opening” ceremony—painting eyes on the bow for good luck—is a charming tradition that adds a layer of authenticity.

While some reviews note that guests may not always get the exact boat type they expect, the general consensus is that the vessel is beautiful, cosy, and well-maintained, making for an enjoyable cruise experience. The large deck space of approximately 250 m² allows for socializing, relaxing, and photography.

Cultural Encounters & Scenic Views

The land excursions and floating market visits give you a chance to see local life up close. The guided walks in orchards and villages are often highlighted as highlights, with guides like Kin being praised for their attentiveness and ability to adapt the trip to suit preferences.

Travelers consistently mention the stunning scenery—the endless waterways, lush green landscapes, and boats bobbing gently on the river. Many found the sunset views from the top deck to be a peaceful, picture-perfect moment.

Food and Hospitality

Meals onboard are generally well-received, praised for being fresh, flavorful, and authentic. Some reviewers note that the dinner and breakfast offerings exceeded expectations, making the journey even more enjoyable. The crew, including staff like Daisy and Harry, are often described as friendly, humorous, and attentive, adding to the overall positive atmosphere.

Flexibility and Convenience

The inclusion of shuttle transfers from Saigon simplifies logistics, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. The tour’s schedule is structured but flexible enough to include optional activities like biking or walking in small villages, catering to different energy levels and interests.

Considering the Price: Is It Worth It?

At $450 per person, the tour offers good value considering the lodging, meals, guided excursions, and transportation included. When you compare the cost to the overall experience—scenic cruising, cultural insights, and comfortable cabins—it’s a reasonable investment for a comprehensive Mekong Delta adventure.

However, it’s worth noting that drinks (besides bottled water) are not included, and extras like massage services are additional costs. If you’re seeking a more exclusive or private experience, you’ll need to look elsewhere, but for most travelers, this package hits a sweet spot between comfort and authentic exploration.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise appeals most to adventurous yet comfort-seeking travelers who want to experience the Mekong without sacrificing convenience. It’s ideal if you’re interested in seeing floating markets, rural villages, and river vistas, with an emphasis on local culture.

It’s also perfect for those who enjoy guided tours and want a well-organized schedule that covers key sights, balanced with moments for relaxation. If you’re after luxury, this might not be the best fit — but if you value authenticity, comfort, and good food, it ticks many boxes.

Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and scenic views will find this journey rewarding, especially if they’re open to a bit of variability depending on the boat assigned.

FAQ

Is transportation from Saigon included?
Yes, shuttle bus pickup and transfer from Saigon are included, making the journey hassle-free for most travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience spans approximately two days, with pickup early in the morning and return to Saigon around 3:30 pm on the second day.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included as per the itinerary, featuring local dishes and fresh ingredients.

Can I choose vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian options are available; just advise at the time of booking.

What is the size of the group?
Most groups are limited to 18 travelers, creating an intimate atmosphere.

Are drinks besides water included?
No, drinks other than the mineral water in your cabin are not included in the tour price.

What are the accommodation details?
Cabins are cozy and double or twin-bedded, with positive reviews describing them as comfortable and well-kept.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the physical activity involved in village walks or biking if traveling with young children or those with mobility issues.

Final Verdict

The Mekong Eyes Cruises 2Days/1 Night offers a well-rounded introduction to the Mekong Delta, blending traditional boat craftsmanship with authentic cultural visits and scenic river views. With attentive guides, comfortable accommodations, and thoughtfully included meals, this tour presents excellent value for those seeking a genuine Mekong experience without overextending their budget.

While it may not satisfy luxury-seekers or those looking for a totally private voyage, it remains a wonderful choice for travelers eager to see the Mekong’s vibrant life from a comfortable, beautifully restored vessel. Expect delightful scenery, engaging local encounters, and a taste of river life that stays with you long after the journey ends.