At first glance these small boats look just like any of hundreds in the Mekong Delta. Once on board they reveal themselves to be something quite special. The comfortable Song Xanh Sampans offer a new and authentic way to explore the region in purpose-built traditional Indochinese river boats, inspired by those that have plied the Mekong for many years. The boats are chartered privately and travelling on a private small sampan is undoubtedly the most romantic way to experience the Mekong Delta, meandering through the network of waterways with just your guide, a pilot and a deckhand.

Although not en-suite, you only share the bathroom with your travel companion. Because the Song Xanh sampans are smaller and for your exclusive use, they also allow you to venture a little further off the beaten track, heading to places not on the itineraries of the larger boats. Disembarking is quick and straightforward, ensuring that you get plenty of time to explore on land. You control your own time and the food and service levels befit such an experience.

For those who eschew group tours and larger boats, then the Song Xanh Sampans are without doubt the most luxurious and independent way to see the Mekong Delta. Since they started operating, client feedback has consistently placed an overnight cruise on a sampan as a highlight of Vietnam! But there are only a few boats and once they are booked, that’s it. It is essential to book early.