Explore the Mekong Delta on a Budget: My 3 Memorable Days on Bassac Cruise

If you’ve ever dreamed of drifting through a watery maze of canals, lush rice paddies, and charming river towns, sailing aboard a Mekong River cruise might be what you want. However, these kinds of cruises are usually pricy, so you can check out short cruises in the Mekong Delta. I recently set out on a magical 3-day journey on Bassac Cruise from Cai Be to Can Tho and back, and honestly, the services are amazing for a very reasonable price. Here’s a little glimpse into the adventure.

Day 1: Cai Be – Cho Lach Canal – Tra On

Our adventure began right at noon in Cai Be, where the Bassac crew welcomed us with warm smiles and a refreshing drink. After a quick and easy check-in to our cozy cabin, which has high-quality wood interiors, comfy beds, and a window opening out to the river, it was time to set sail.

Lunch on board was a delicious introduction to the region’s flavors and tropical fruits I couldn’t pronounce but happily devoured. As we floated down the Tien Giang River, the natural world of the Mekong slowly unfolded with lush riverbanks.

The real magic started as we entered the Cho Lach Canal. Suddenly, the river narrowed and teemed with life, barges piled high with sand and rice, colorful churches peeking out behind coconut palms, and locals going about their day on their boats. It felt like peeking into the soul of the Delta.

In the afternoon, we dropped anchor and ventured ashore. Walking beyond the first line of trees, we stumbled upon a quiet countryside world: lush rice fields and fruit orchards heavy with tropical fruits. I also opted for a short cycling tour through the village lanes, which is a great way to soak in the slow rhythm of local life.

Back on board, we enjoy a cool drink just as the sky blazes into a stunning sunset. The evening slipped by with a leisurely dinner under the stars while the Bassac glided along the Mang Thit River. By the time we anchored just downstream from Tra On, the river was wrapped in a peaceful hush, the perfect lullaby.

Day 2: Can Tho – Cai Rang Floating Market – Mang Thit River

Day two started bright and early, at around 6:00 AM, we were on our way to Can Tho, fueled by a tasty breakfast. After that, we transferred to a smaller boat for one of the trip’s biggest highlights: the Cai Rang Floating Market.

Imagine dozens of boats bobbing on the river, laden with local goods, such as pineapples, watermelons, etc, entire floating grocery stores! Sellers hoisted their goods high on bamboo poles, advertising their wares. It was lively, chaotic, and utterly fascinating. 

After the market, we stopped by a tiny bamboo basket workshop, watching artisans weave magic from simple strips of bamboo. By mid-morning, we were back at Ninh Kieu Pier, boarding the Bassac once more with a fresh drink in hand. As the boat floated downstream along the Hau River, we tucked into a leisurely lunch, then settled onto the upper deck to watch the world drift by: green fields, sugar cane groves, and sleepy hamlets where time seemed to pause.

That afternoon, another shore excursion called us to explore the charm of the delta. Wandering through small paths, we found fields of rice shimmering in the sun and fruit orchards, and the friendly locals greeted us with easy smiles. We also hopped on bikes, pedaling through the countryside for more exploration.

Day 3: Mang Thit River – Cho Lach Canal – Cai Be

Our final morning aboard the Bassac began with another early sail, this time towards Cai Be. As we nibbled on breakfast, the boat slipped into the Cho Lach Canal, giving us one last vivid look at life along the waterways: boats heavy with rice, bustling shipyards, and riverside homes humming with activity.

Around 8:00 AM, it was time to check out. But the journey wasn’t over yet! We boarded a small rowing boat for a quiet glide through one of Cai Be’s smaller canals. If the Bassac felt like a grand adventure, this felt like whispering secrets with the river itself.

Afterwards, a local boat whisked us away for a final visit: exploring Cai Be’s famous handicraft village. Watching artisans shape coconut candy, rice paper, and pop rice by hand gave me a whole new appreciation for the skills handed down through generations here.

Final Thoughts

Sailing with Bassac wasn’t just a trip, it was an immersion. Every meal, every moment on deck, every step ashore gave a deeper glimpse into the rhythms of the river life. The gentle pace, the warmth of the people, and the ever-changing river scenery.If you’re craving an authentic, soul-soothing adventure far from the tourist crowds, let’s explore the Mekong Delta with BestPrice Travel.