Taking a cruise from Thailand to Vietnam is worthwhile, as you can visit multiple countries on your bucket list of Asia travel. Beyond the convenience of exploring various destinations in one journey, you will also have the chance to immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery and rich culture along the way.
1. Is there a direct route for a cruise from Thailand to Vietnam?
When planning for Southeast Asia travel, Thailand travel and Vietnam travel are always in the bucket list, as these are two cheap Asia travel destinations. People often take flights to travel between these countries. However, if you enjoy a nice relaxing holiday while making stops at multiple interesting locations along the way, going on a cruise will be an interesting option.
While the primary route from Thailand to Vietnam technically commences along the border, the Mekong only skirts it, dividing Thailand and Laos until reaching the Golden Triangle where Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar intersect. Nonetheless, there isn't a single cruise that spans the entire distance from the Golden Triangle to the Mekong Delta, necessitating a multi-stage approach.
For instance, travelers can opt for shorter boat rides from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang or Vientiane, and subsequently from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh, eventually reaching Saigon.
>>> Read more: How far is Thailand to Vietnam? – Air and land distance
2. Detail itinerary for the cruise from Thailand to Vietnam
To cruise from Thailand to Vietnam, travelers need to make the trip in short boat rides and combine other means of transportation via Vietnam neighboring countries including Laos and Cambodia. This is also an awesome opportunity for you to explore Thailand Vietnam Laos Cambodia.
2.1. Thailand to Laos
- Day 1: Huay Xai to Pakbeng
Normally, travelers would fly from Bangkok Thailand to Vietnam. However, with a cruise, you will embark on the journey from Chiang Rai to Chiang Khong, then cross the border into Laos, one of Vietnam’s nearest countries, at Huay Xai, where your river cruise commences. As you glide along the waterway, the lush jungles of Laos and Thailand gradually give way to rolling hills. By midday, you will dock at a small riverside village to immerse yourself in Laotian culture. In the afternoon, the cruise resumes, passing through jungle-lined shores until reaching the tranquil town of Pakbeng, where you will spend the night.
- Day 2: Pakbeng to Luang Prabang
After a restful night, your cruise from Thailand to Vietnam continues. As you approach Luang Prabang, the hills transition into majestic mountains. In the afternoon, you will disembark at Pak Ou, a riverside village, to explore the renowned Pak Ou Caves, housing countless Buddhist statues. Afterward, the journey proceeds, culminating in your arrival at Luang Prabang for the night.
- Day 3: Luang Prabang to Ban Muang
The start of the day sees you set sail downstream from Luang Prabang, reaching the newly constructed lock of Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant by lunchtime. Spend the afternoon stretching your legs at Ban Park Bor before continuing your journey to the next stop, Ban Muang.
- Day 4: Ban Muang to Vientiane
Departing from Ban Muang, your voyage proceeds towards Vientiane, traversing the town of Pak Lai, distinguished by its colonial architecture and vibrant markets. Here, you can pause for an hour to explore around. As this marks your final evening in Laos, indulge in a farewell dinner before retiring for the night, eagerly anticipating the panoramic view of Vientiane greeting you at dawn.
2.2. Laos to Cambodia
- Day 5: Vientiane to Siem Reap
To proceed further along the Mekong River, you will need to catch a flight from Vientiane to Siem Reap. Navigating the Mekong along the Laos border with Thai provinces like Sakon Nakhon and Ubon Ratchathani is hindered by waterfalls and rapids. Additionally, crossing the Laos-Cambodia border along the river is not feasible.
- Day 6: Siem Reap to Tonle Sap by car; Chong Khneas to Kampong Tralach
Begin your day by embarking on a ship in Siem Reap, situated at the northern tip of Tonle Sap Lake. Sail down the lake, stopping first at Kampong Chhnang, renowned as one of Tonle Sap River's largest fishing ports. Continue your journey along the Tonle Sap River to Kampong Tralach, where you will dock for the night.
- Day 7: Kampong Tralach to Neak Loeung
Resume your voyage in the morning, heading south along the Tonle Sap River until you reconnect with the Mekong, just north of Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh. Most tours make a stop here for an afternoon of exploration before proceeding to the border and anchoring at Neak Loeung for the night.
2.3. Cambodia to Vietnam
- Day 8: Neak Loeung to My Tho
Commence the day with a brief journey to the border, where you will spend approximately 2-3 hours undergoing visa checks for entry into Vietnam. Upon completion, cross the border via the river, tracing the upper stretches of the Mekong Delta until reaching My Tho.
- Day 9: My Tho to Ho Chi Minh City
Conclude your cruise with a short voyage from My Tho through the Mekong Delta, arriving at the Vietnamese metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, where you will disembark.
>>> More on: Trips to Vietnam and Thailand: A one-stop guide for tourists
In Vietnam, there are several destinations for you to explore such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Ha Long, and so on. Whether you are drawn to cultural immersion, natural wonders, or simply seeking adventure, Vietnam offers a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored.
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3. FAQs about the cruise from Thailand to Vietnam
3.1. When is the best time for taking a cruise from Thailand to Vietnam?
When embarking on Asia tours, timing is essential due to the varying weather conditions in each country. This is particularly important when planning a cruise from Thailand to Vietnam. The optimal time to embark on a Mekong River cruise is during the dry season, typically from November to April throughout the region.
By the start of November, the rainy season has typically subsided, marking the onset of the dry season. However, remnants of recent rains keep the land verdant, while the river remains slightly swollen from the monsoon. This period offers travelers the freedom to enjoy outdoor activities without the constraints of heavy rainfall. From February to April, the temperatures across the region begin to rise, making travels somewhat uncomfortable. Additionally, during this time, the river begins to recede, resulting in stretches where water levels are too shallow for boats to navigate easily.
Cruising during the rainy season is still feasible, with rainfall typically occurring in late afternoon and evening. This period showcases the landscape at its most vibrant. So, while the dry season is preferred, the rainy season offers its own allure, attracting passengers eager to witness the lush beauty of the region.
3.2. How long does a cruise from Thailand to Vietnam last?
Mekong River cruises vary in duration, ranging from a brief day or two to more extensive journeys lasting 8-11 days. The length of your cruise depends on your points of departure, as well as any planned stops for exploration along the river. It is advisable to consider the best time to visit Vietnam and Thailand and carefully plan your trip to optimize your experience.
3.3. What to note while traveling on a cruise from Thailand to Vietnam?
- When choosing a ship for the stretch from Huay Xai to Vientiane on the Mekong, you should ensure that it offers cabins and is not a basic barge. Some boats along this route overcharge and lack accommodation. Also, you should avoid boats that require staying in specific hotels along the river, as they may have exclusive docking arrangements.
- It is recommended to pack warm clothing, especially during the dry season from November to January, as evenings and early mornings can be chilly.
- If you are prone to seasickness, bring some meds.
- Boats operating on the Lower Mekong, particularly from Siem Reap to Saigon or Saigon to Stung Treng, tend to be more commercial and slightly more expensive. You should prioritize reputable companies over the cheapest options to ensure a quality experience. Beware of unregistered boats.
- As you will spend time visiting Vietnam and other countries, you might want to look for travel to Vietnam tips and an Asia travel itinerary to make sure you are well-acknowledged of the culture and attractions to have a smooth journey.
>>> Read more: Thailand to Vietnam visa: useful information for tourists
*Note: The information in this guide is for reference purposes only. For the most up-to-date details, contact your travel agency.
Embarking on a cruise from Thailand to Vietnam promises an enriching experience, exposing travelers to a variety of landscapes as they traverse multiple countries. Rather than a direct journey, the route typically involves stops in Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia before reaching Vietnam. Given the length of the voyage, careful packing is essential to ensure a smooth travel experience.
