I just returned from a whirlwind trip through the Mekong Delta, and let me tell you, it was incredible! I took the Mekong Princess Cruise stretching towards the horizon, bustling floating markets, and serene boat rides along hidden canals. The whole place has this laid-back vibe that seeps right into your soul.

I spent three days and two nights on a 5-star RV Mekong Princess cruise. The ship is more like a boutique hotel on water. It cleverly blends French colonial design with hints of Khmer culture. You can imagine them as intricate carvings that whispered of ancient temples, offset by the clean lines of European architecture.

Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a relaxing escape, the Mekong Delta has something for you. Buckle up, because I am about to share all my travel tips, hidden gems, and maybe a few hilarious mishaps along the way.

How much does it cost?

To have this perfect trip, it took me days and nights to go through reviews about Mekong River cruises. Finally, I got my 3-day trip for just US $1032 per pax for a super luxurious suite called Saigon Suite.

Each cruise package includes a transfer from your hotel to the cruise port, in-suite accommodation, dining, entertainment onboard, and offboard excursions. However, please note that massage service and champagne will be excluded from the package. For those who feel more than three days are needed, there are different itineraries lasting from 4 to 8 days for you to explore.

You may wonder, “How can it be so cheap?”. The tip is to book a Mekong Princess cruise tour at www.bestpricetravel.com. With a discounted promotion of 35% off, there are five cabin classes with the lowest price of US $731.

How do I get to the Mekong Princess Cruise?

To reach the anchor point, we must be at the cruise port at 05 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, Ward 13, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City. If you want to be picked up, please give your hotel address, and the driver will be there. You need to get ready between 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. to avoid being late for the embarkation time. As you are at the port, an electric cart will transfer you to the ship.

What is the 3-day-2-night cruise like?

We will explore rustic sights, uncover hidden gems, and delve into the local experiences that make the Mekong Delta unique. So buckle up, because we are finding out what will await you on the 3-day, 2-night cruise from Saigon to Can Tho.

Day 1: Saigon Port – Mekong Delta – Sunset Canape

Once I got on the Mekong Princess Cruise, everyone fully gathered at the Ramvong Lounge. The crew started with a warm greeting and provided us with information and safety instructions.

As the cruise departed, we had our first lunch onboard. Seating a maximum of 30 guests, the Indochine restaurant fosters a friendly and personalized atmosphere. The restaurant offers a combination of buffet-style and a-la-carte meals, focusing on the advantages of Western food. I tried Ham baguette with Raisins and banana cakes, and they were extraordinary.

We then took a room tour around the Saigon Suite. It has an area of 24 m2 and is decorated with Vietnamese influence. Our room has the theme of Empress Nam Phuong, the last empress consort of Vietnam. The suite has sophisticated facilities and two twin-sized beds, suitable for two friends. I also loved the en-suite bathroom, as it was airy and had a window with a view of the majestic riverscape.

In the afternoon, we sailed through the Saigon River, Soai Rap River, Nuoc Man Canal, Vam Co River, and the Cho Gao Canal to reach the ‘Mighty Mekong River’. While passing the Cho Gao Canal, I was very excited. Instead of cars and trucks, I was dodging rustic wooden boats. It was a beautiful chaos, a microcosm of everything the Mekong Delta represents.

After spending all afternoon onboard, I checked out the gym, and it was beyond my expectations. Although there was not so much equipment, it was all high-quality. I could work out while gazing out at the ever-changing Mekong Delta scenery.

At twilight, we had a sunset canape and port talk. At the Ramvong Lounge, the host briefly informed us about the second day’s program. Then, we had a traditional Vietnamese ‘a la carte dinner. This was my first time attending such a royal-style dinner with dishes perfect for even the most discerning palates.

Day 2: Tan Phong Island – Can Tho

We started our second day with a colorful breakfast. Fresh fruits and dried sweets were used as toppings for cereals and yogurt. You can also mix them with bread and jam. If you need a nutritious meal with high protein, order an English breakfast. It would include bacon and some bread.

Our first outdoor activity was to get on sampans through a channel lined with mangroves to visit Tan Phong Island. This island has a tradition of making coconut products like candy, oil, souvenirs, and kitchen utensils. I like those items because they are environmentally friendly and tasty. We enjoyed the yummy sweets while acknowledging the history of coconut candy and how to make it.

After the workshop, we boarded a small boat to a narrow creek highlighted with Nipah palm lines. As we went ashore, we got on a unique ride with the grand name Lambro 555 called ‘Xe Loi”. We moved to a local village to see the making of wood to build houses and the raising of cocks for fighting – a typical culture in Western Vietnam. Looking at how these cocks were specially raised made me want to see their fights very much.

Our morning ended, and we returned to the small boat, where the staff refreshed us with fresh coconut water and unique fruits like pineapples. As we got on the ship after the long walk on the dirty road, the crew staff carefully helped us clean our shoes.

In the afternoon, the cruise sailed through an untouched area with little tourism to reach the riverside capital of the Mekong Delta – Can Tho City. We went to the Ramvong Lounge for complimentary drinks while enjoying the picturesque sunset. There was also a spa with professional staff who could help you heal your spiritual mind and body immediately.

After a tasteful dinner, we boarded a sampan to visit Ninh Kieu night market. Ninh Kieu is like two markets in one. One side is a shopper’s paradise overflowing with colorful clothes, handcrafted souvenirs, and sparkling jewelry. The other half is dotted with dozens of mobile stalls serving steaming plates of local specialties.

Day 3: Cai Rang Floating Market – Disembarkation

It was our final day, and we needed to wake up early to enjoy the bustling life of the famous market here. We started with a continental breakfast filled with colorful fruits, cheese, bread, and jam. I think the cruise should diversify breakfast dishes instead of serving these sweets.

At about 7:30, we boarded the sampan to arrive at the Cai Rang floating market. Plenty of boats were selling individual fruits, breakfast, and coffee. Some people approached our boat to offer the products. Life here was so unique and exciting! I even saw entire families live on their boats.

We then landed and had a market tour before visiting the ‘Hu tieu’ manufacturer – a typical west side food. At the factory, I could see colorful Hu Tieu with different flavors. Our final destination for this trip was Zi Huang Pagoda with a greeting ‘Lion dance’ performance. The architecture reflects Chinese influences, with intricate carvings and upside-down roofs decorated with dragon statues. Stepping through the grand entrance, you’ll immerse yourself in a world of spiritual symbolism and cultural heritage.

In a nutshell

The Mekong Delta has woven its magic spell on me. The bustling water life and fresh fruits made me yearn to live here forever. Also, thanks to BestPrice Travel, we experienced 5-star services on a Mekong River Cruise at an affordable price. If you want an adventure that will challenge your senses and touch your soul, look no further than the Mekong Delta.

Oceania Cruises^® is offering an extensive collection of voyages across East Asia in the first half of 2025, boasting destination-rich adventures for even the most seasoned world travelers. 

Within the new collection of sailings, Oceania Cruises invites guests to explore the wildly diverse landscapes of Asia, from the vibrant city of Hong Kong to the lush coves of Bali, the ancient temples of Kyoto, and the stunning turquoise coastlines of Phuket. Oceania Cruises’ small, luxurious ships carry no more than 1,250 guests and are more than an elegant means of travel with exceptional guest-to-staff ratios. They are perfectly sized to access some of the most remote ports, immersing guests completely in untouched ancient cultures.

East Asia Sailings

“Asia is one of the most striking regions in the world to explore by sea; the powerful contrasts between its ultra-modern and historic influences are breathtaking,” remarks Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. “Through our thoughtful itineraries and our incredible array of immersive small group tours, guests can enjoy the region’s timeless heritage and impressive futuristic strides in one trip – making guests feel like they’re traveling through time. These destinations are truly not to be missed.”

With Oceania Cruises’ wide range of small-group shore excursions, guests can experience the region’s vibrant cultures, cuisines, and natural beauty the way they want: Food-focused tours that range from cooking classes in Thailand to market visits in Vietnam. Wellness Discovery Tours that nourish the mind, body, and spirit; Go Local Tours that invite guests to discover authentic local life; Go Green excursions that focus on sustainability practices in local communities; and more. For guests looking for even further adventure, there are endless opportunities to fulfill even the most ambitious bucket list items through Oceania Cruises’ overland experiences. Guests can trek through jungle hills and mountains to discover the wet caves in the Tu Lan system in China, relax on the banks of the Red River in Hanoi, and tour Asia’s most spectacular attractions, including Angkor Wat and the Terracotta Warriors Museum. 

With itineraries ranging from six-day jaunts to 24-day journeys aboard a variety of Oceania Cruises’ ultra-premium ships, these sailings are the perfect way to absorb the wonders of East Asia in world-class comfort. With the line’s simply MORE™ value promise, guests will enjoy more value and greater convenience with 2-for-1 cruise fares, free shore excursions, complimentary Champagne, wine, and beer, and free WiFi as they discover the wonders of East Asia.

Highlighted Voyages 

• 6 Days from Singapore to Singapore aboard Regatta: This unique shorter voyage exploring the charismatic Malay Peninsula and surrounding islands combines culture-rich cities with some of the best beaches in the world, offering a varied and unforgettable journey.
• 14 Days from Taipei to Kyoto aboard Regatta: Rejoice in spring’s arrival amid the grandeur of Asia’s ancient empires, from the tiered fortresses of exquisite Japan to the sprawling palaces of dynastic China. Enjoy extra time for discovery with overnight stays in Shanghai, Beijing, and Kyoto.
• 15 Days from Singapore to Taipei aboard Regatta: Delve into mystical Eastern lands dotted with magnificent temples, thriving marketplaces, and serene tropical retreats. You’ll enjoy lavish overnight stays in bustling Bangkok, poignant Ho Chi Minh City, and glittering Hong Kong.
• 20 Days from Hong Kong to Bali aboard Regatta: A Condé Nast Traveler branded itinerary, experience idyllic, forested islands and pristine beaches while also witnessing delightful cities of contrast across Asia. Enjoy extra time for discovery with overnight stays in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Singapore, and Bali.
• 24 Days from Tokyo to Singapore aboard Riviera: Range throughout the Far East, exploring a striking array of destinations such as dazzling Boracay Island, the enigmatic Sultanate of Brunei, and unspoiled Borneo, with indulgent overnight stays in bustling Tokyo and Jakarta as well as exquisite Bali.

View All Featured 2025 East Asia Itineraries Here. 

For additional information on Oceania Cruises’ small-ship luxury products, exquisitely crafted cuisine, and expertly curated travel experiences, visit OceaniaCruises.com, call 855-OCEANIA, or speak with a professional travel advisor.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced its 2026 spring/summer itineraries to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, Alaska, Canada and New England, as well as a new season of voyages from the Port of Philadelphia (PhilaPort) for the first time in many years.

Norwegian Jewel to Homeport in Port of Philadelphia

On April 16, 2026, Norwegian Jewel^® will commence seven-to-nine-day cruises to Bermuda, launching the city as a new cruise destination. Departing from the SouthPort Marine Terminal Complex, where plans are currently underway with the local government to develop a facility to welcome cruisers in 2026, Norwegian Jewel’s Bermuda itineraries will feature overnight calls to Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda, providing guests more time to enjoy and discover the island’s turquoise blue waters and pink-sand beaches. This new homeport for NCL will provide residents in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region more access to cruising, as it will be the only cruise line sailing from Philadelphia through Oct. 17, 2026.

“We remain committed to delivering more experiences for our guests to create unforgettable memories so they can vacation better with us,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “We are particularly proud to partner with PhilaPort to launch cruising in the area, making it even more accessible to the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region.”

“The Port of Philadelphia is extremely excited to partner with Norwegian Cruise Line, one of the world’s premier cruise lines,” said Jeff Theobald, executive director and CEO of PhilaPort.  “Philadelphia has so much to offer, as the birthplace of freedom and the home to much of our nation’s history, we look forward to connecting cruisers with our world class city.  This new service rounds out the portfolio of services offered at PhilaPort, and we look forward to this next growth phase.”

The Company’s new 2026 spring/summer season includes nearly 250 itineraries for nine of its soon-to-be 20 ships. Embarking from U.S. and Canadian ports between April and November 2026, these voyages will call to 30 unique destinations across the Caribbean, Bermuda, Bahamas, Canada, and New England, as well as Alaska. With an average of 10 hours in port, guests can choose to enjoy the picture-perfect beaches, colorful cities, and vibrant culture of the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Bermuda; enjoy the rustic fall foliage of Canada and New England; or dive deep into the pristine nature and abundant wilderness found in Alaska.

Herrera continued, “Our new 2026 spring/summer deployment further meets the vacation demands of our guests with more shorter cruise offerings to fun-in-the-sun destinations, such as the Bahamas and the Caribbean, as well as a variety of longer itineraries to bucket-list destinations, such as Alaska.”

Itinerary highlights from NCL’s spring/summer 2026 deployment include:

New Bermuda, Canada, and New England Homeport and Itineraries

Following Norwegian Jewel’s first-ever season of Bermuda voyages from Philadelphia from April 16, 2026 to Aug. 27, 2026, it will sail immersive 10- and 11-day Canada and New England itineraries, alternating embarkation ports between Philadelphia and Québec City. Guests will enjoy quainter ports in the region, like Saguenay, Charlottetown, and Halifax, Canada, as well as well-known ports, such as Bar Harbor, Maine, and Boston.

On April 19, 2026, Norwegian Breakaway^® will become the largest NCL vessel to offer regular turnarounds in Boston with seven-day Bermuda voyages through November. Throughout the peak summer season, voyages will feature an overnight stay at the Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda, and a day in Halifax, Nova Scotia, one of the highest-rated ports in Northeast Canada. From late August through mid-October 2026, the ship will embark on seven-day Canada and New England itineraries calling the most picturesque ports, including Bar Harbor, Maine, Saint John, New Brunswick, and Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Moreover, Norwegian Aqua will return to New York City for its second Bermuda season, sailing a selection of five—and seven-day itineraries with overnight stays at the Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda.

A Longer Continuous Bahmas Season

Due to popular guest demand, NCL is expanding its short-cruise offering with nearly 40 voyages to the Bahamas from Miami in spring/summer 2026 aboard Norwegian Getaway® for a continuous season of cruises to the island chain nation. The three—to four-night cruises will visit Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas, the cruise line’s private island and best guest-rated port in the region. As of late 2025, it will feature a newly constructed multi-ship pier, enhancing the overall guest experience of this exclusive destination.

Caribbean Cruises Aboard NCL’s Newest Vessel

Norwegian Prima’s sprawling outdoor space allows for some of the best island-hopping itineraries in the Caribbean. The ship will extend its season in Port Canaveral, Fla. and sail seven-day sailings to Eastern and Western Caribbean, visiting the most sought-after ports in the region, including Montego Bay, Jamaica; George Town, Cayman Islands and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. For an extended vacation in the tropics, guests can book back-to-back sailings to create a 14-day voyage to maximize their fun-in-the-sun experience.

The Youngest Fleet In Alaska

Alaska remains a bucket-list destination for travelers and explorers worldwide, with its rugged coastal landscapes, majestic glaciers, and local marine wildlife on display. The 2026 season will commence in late April and deliver breathtaking voyages through October from Seattle, Whittier, Alaska, and Vancouver, British Columbia. Guests can enjoy a variety of experiences with some of the newest ships in the region, Norwegian Encore®, Norwegian Bliss®, and Norwegian Joy^®, all of which feature unmatched onboard activities, including the industry’s only racetracks at sea. Custom-built for the Alaska experience, these ships feature expansive outdoor and indoor spaces to marvel at the iconic beauty of the destination.  Embarking from Seattle’s Pier 66, Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss will sail seven-day voyages, while Norwegian Joy will offer longer and more immersive nine- to 10-day itineraries.

Norwegian Jade® will cruise a series of seven-day open-jaw sailings between Vancouver, British Columbia, and the new-to-NCL homeport Whittier, Alaska, with no days at sea. Guests aiming to immerse themselves even more in “The Last Frontier” can add an NCL Cruisetour to their reservation and explore the interior of Alaska, take a ride on the narrow tracks of the Alaska Railroad, or fish halibut and salmon in the cold waters, of Kachemak Bay.

Norwegian Cruise Line has some of the youngest ships in Alaska for the 2026 season, including Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Encore, and Norwegian Joy.

In addition to the newly opened spring/summer 2026 deployment, NCL cruises to more than 450 destinations worldwide giving guests the chance to plan and book their upcoming cruise vacation well in advance. For B-roll of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, please click here. 

For more information about the Company’s award-winning 19-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.