Life in the Mekong Delta is very much lived on, by or near the water: houses are built on stilts to withstand the floods, ferries carry people and vehicles between banks and boats ply their wares on the watery highway.
We invite you to discover this everyday river life on board our sampans, all designed as authentic traditional Delta boats using natural materials such as rattan, bamboo and exotic wood. You can choose between private and join-in cruises, ranging from a few hours to 1, 2 or 3 days.
Song Xanh Sampan, dedicated mainly to overnight cruises, are decked out with all the amenities including one or two private cabins and a spacious bathroom
Available Itinerary
Day 1: Saigon – Mekong
This morning, meet with the guide at your hotel and drive to Mekong Delta.
Welcome on board and fresh towels are served.
Starts to visit some local home factories to observe the traditional procedure of making rice ice paste, coconut candies and other specialties. Proceed to Cai Be colorful floating market, cruise among local barges full of fruits and vegetables.
Take a direction to Vinh Long and Sa Dec, cruise upstream on Tien Giang River, one of the two largest arms of the Mekong.
Sail into a narrow canal to discover the hideaway unspoiled landscapes, luxuriant gardens and enjoy the airy atmosphere in countryside.
Pass several traditional brick factories while cruising and have an interesting onsite visit to one of them. Continue the journey to Sa Dec, the little “Venice” in the Mekong Delta with numerou s narrow canals, and different kinds of tradingactivities.
Disembark at the local market place and begin your exploration in this charming Sa Dec town by walking along its narrow streets and take photos of beautiful old houses and Chinese temples. Stop at an ancient house dating from 1890, home of
Ong Huynh Thuy Le, former “lover” of famous French novelist Marguerite Duras.
Lunch will be served on board while cruising down to Can Tho along a beautiful narrow canal. Passing under several wooden “monkey bridges” and tiny typical villages before pulling a stop to visit Cao Dai Temple.
The last stop before sunset is a splendid ancient house or “Nha Co” dating from the early 19th century. After the personal welcome of owner, a romantic candlelight dinner will be catered in an unique atmosphere.
After dinner, continue to proceed to Can Tho.
Overnight on board.
Day 2: Mekong – Saigon
The journey starts with breakfast, while approaching Cai Rang floating market, the largest market in the whole Mekong Delta Region. Cruise among local barges full of fruits and vegetables and enjoy the hustle and bustle of morning market.
The excursion ends at around at Ninh Kieu Pier after visiting Can Tho’s local market.
Drive back to Saigon.