Phnom Penh: Sunset Dinner Cruise with English Speaking Guide

Imagine gliding along the Mekong River with the sun sinking behind the city skyline, a refreshing drink in hand, and a knowledgeable guide sharing stories of Phnom Penh’s sights. This Sunset Dinner Cruise offers a relaxed way to see the city from the water, and for many travelers, it’s a memorable highlight. We’ve gathered the details and feedback to help you decide if this experience is right for you.

We especially like the chance to see the Royal Palace from the river, a perspective that’s often missed when touring on land. Plus, the local insights from an English-speaking guide make the experience both educational and personable. A potential drawback is that the tour ends around sunset, so if your focus is on an extended evening or a lively night out, you might want to plan accordingly.

This cruise suits visitors looking for a gentle, scenic experience that combines sightseeing, cultural insight, and a peaceful sunset. It’s perfect if you enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, authentic views of Phnom Penh’s riverbank life, and a touch of comfort with drinks included. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this tour special—and what to keep in mind.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $9 per person, this cruise offers great value for a scenic experience.
• Beautiful Views: See landmarks like the Royal Palace, Diamond Island, and stilted houses from the water.
• Engaging Guide: An English-speaking guide provides context and stories about the city and local life.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: The 1.5-hour cruise is a perfect break from busy sightseeing days.
• Included Refreshments: Unlimited beer and soft drinks, and a fresh fruit platter add to the enjoyment.
• Limited Duration: The short cruise is ideal for a quick overview but might leave those craving more.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

This half-day tour kicks off with a hotel pickup if booked in advance — note that last-minute bookings won’t include this service. The boat departs at 5 pm, giving you a front-row seat to watch the changing scenery as daylight fades.

As you cruise along the Mekong River, your guide will point out key sights, such as the Royal Palace, which looks striking from the water with its golden rooftops reflecting in the river. You’ll also see Diamond Island, a man-made landmass that’s become a notable feature in the city’s skyline, and the Four Faces River, adding a cultural touch to the landscape.

Beyond the landmarks, the real charm lies in observing stilted houses and fishing villages lining the riverbanks. The local farmers and fishermen work their routines as you glide past, giving you a glimpse of everyday life along this vital waterway. The boat also passes cropland growing near the river, an insight into the agricultural side of Phnom Penh’s economy.

The highlight of the cruise is the sunset over the city. As the sky turns orange and pink, you’ll have a beautiful, unobstructed view, perfect for photos or simply soaking in the moment. Many reviews note the fabulous city lights on land—a sight that’s best appreciated from the river.

A unique part of this tour is the visit to Silk Island, accessible via a local tuk-tuk ride. Here, you’ll have the chance to see local houses, a Buddhist monastery, and a silk farm, gaining insights into traditional crafts and village life. Your guide will help interpret what you see, making it more meaningful.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in your ticket are a cruise ticket, hotel pickup (if booked in advance), unlimited soft drinks and beer, and a fresh fruit platter—a delightful way to stay refreshed while taking in the views. The guide, available at the 5 pm departure, enhances the experience with lively commentary and local stories.

Not included are hotel drop-off (which is optional and not part of the package), wines, spirits, cocktails, and gratuities. If you’re planning to enjoy a drink or two, the included soft drinks and beer make this a fairly budget-friendly outing.

The Experience: A Balance of Scenic Beauty and Cultural Insights

One of the most praised aspects of this tour, according to reviews, is the knowledgeable guide. Many travelers mention how informative and friendly the guide was, making the short trip more engaging. Comments like “guide very informative” and “lovely atmosphere” highlight how the human element enhances the ride.

Travelers also appreciate the stunning river views, with some describing the experience as “so much fun” and noting the fabulous city lights at night. The fruit platter and unlimited drinks received positive remarks, adding a touch of luxury to the simple pleasure of cruising.

A few reviews mention the limited sunset—some felt they didn’t see much of the actual sunset, but still enjoyed the beautiful city lights and the overall atmosphere. That said, the short duration means you won’t spend hours on the water but will get a succinct, picturesque overview of Phnom Penh’s riverside life.

Practical Tips for Your Cruise

• Book early to secure hotel pickup, especially during peak seasons.
• Arrive at the meeting point a little early to ensure a smooth departure.
• The cruise departs promptly at 5 pm, so plan your evening accordingly.
• The duration is 1.5 hours, perfect for a quick yet memorable experience.
• Remember, smoking is not permitted on the boat for safety reasons.
• Dress comfortably for the weather, and consider bringing a camera—the views are worth capturing.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.
• In case of bad weather, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds offered.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who This Tour Is Best For

This sunset cruise is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers who want a scenic overview of Phnom Penh without breaking the bank. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy gentle boat rides, cityscape views, and cultural insights delivered by a friendly guide. If you’re looking for an authentic glimpse into river life and stunning vistas, this tour will fit the bill.

It’s also perfect for first-time visitors who want a quick, relaxed way to see key sights without the hassle of navigating on land. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate informal, social atmospheres will find this cruise offers both fun and relaxation.

However, if you’re after a longer, more immersive experience or nightlife, consider combining this cruise with other evening activities in Phnom Penh.

The Sum Up

The Phnom Penh Sunset Dinner Cruise offers a beautiful, inexpensive way to see the city’s riverside sights from a different perspective. With stunning views of landmarks like the Royal Palace, the chance to witness local life along the riverbanks, and a knowledgeable guide to enhance your understanding, it’s a well-rounded experience. The included drinks and fruit add value, making it a comfortable and enjoyable outing.

While the cruise is short and may not offer an extended sunset show, many travelers find the peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty more than enough to justify the price. It’s especially suitable for those wanting a relaxing, scenic overview of Phnom Penh without a large time commitment or high cost.

If you’re seeking a laid-back, authentic glimpse of the city’s river life, this cruise could be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to book in advance, arrive on time, and enjoy the peaceful ride as the sun dips behind the city.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, if you book in advance, the tour provides a one-way hotel pickup. Last-minute bookings won’t include this service.

What time does the cruise leave? The departure is at 5 pm, so arrive a little early to board comfortably.

How long is the cruise? The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving you a quick but scenic overview of Phnom Penh from the water.

What is included in the ticket? Your ticket includes the cruise itself, unlimited beer and soft drinks (depending on your selection), a fresh fruit platter, and an English-speaking guide at the 5 pm departure.

Are drinks alcoholic? Yes, depending on your ticket choice, you’ll have unlimited beer, along with soft drinks.

Can I get dropped off at my hotel? No, hotel drop-off is not included, but pickup is offered if booked in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors? Generally, yes, but it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear? Dress comfortably for the weather; lightweight clothing and sun protection are advisable.

What happens in bad weather? The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the sunset always visible? Not necessarily; some travelers mention limited sunset views but enjoy the city lights and atmosphere.

This cruise offers a simple, pleasant way to end your day in Phnom Penh — a peaceful, scenic, and culturally insightful experience that doesn’t require a big time or money investment.

You can check availability for your dates here: