Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia’s climate varies by region, but in general, the best times to cruise are:

• November to March: Dry season across much of mainland Southeast Asia—ideal for Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand
• April to May: Hotter temperatures but fewer crowds; great for shoulder-season cruising
• June to October: Wet season in many regions, but still viable for cruising parts of Indonesia and the Philippines, with lush landscapes and fewer travelers
• For Indonesia and the Coral Triangle, dry season tends to run from May to September—ideal for coastal and marine-focused expeditions

Traveling by water in Southeast Asia mirrors the rhythms of the region itself—fluid, layered, and deeply connected to its rivers and coasts. Small ship and river cruising allows you to access historic trading ports, spiritual sites, floating markets, and natural sanctuaries without the rush of land travel.

From Buddhist temples to colonial towns, from bustling night markets to tranquil rice paddies, you’ll uncover authentic experiences that larger ships and tours cannot reach. Guided by regional experts, you’ll gain insight into daily life, traditions, and cuisine—whether you're floating past stilt villages on the Mekong or dropping anchor off a hidden beach in Indonesia.

Sample Experiences Include:

• Visiting the temples of Angkor Wat as part of a Mekong River itinerary
• Cruising through the limestone islets of Ha Long Bay aboard a traditional junk-style ship
• Exploring floating markets, silk workshops, and Buddhist pagodas in Cambodia and Vietnam
• Trekking in the jungles of Borneo to see orangutans and indigenous tribes
• Sailing through the Spice Islands or Komodo National Park with naturalists and historians
• Participating in an almsgiving ceremony in Luang Prabang, or a cooking class in Hoi An

At Small Ship Travel, we bring deep expertise in Southeast Asia cruising—from luxury Mekong itineraries to expedition-style sailings through the Indonesian archipelago. We partner only with cruise lines that meet our standards for cultural authenticity, comfort, and responsible travel.

Our clients enjoy exclusive perks such as upgrades, shipboard credits, and private shore excursions, along with tailored pre- and post-cruise extensions in destinations like Siem Reap, Hanoi, Bangkok, and Bali. A dedicated advisor manages every detail of your trip, from visa guidance to custom transfers and luxury hotel arrangements, ensuring a seamless and enriching travel experience.