10 Best Small Ship Cruises to Asia for 2024-2025

8 Top Asia Land Tours 2024

Luang Prabang Explorer

7 Days from $1,786

Explore Luang Prabang on this active 7-day tour of northern Laos. Witness the monks' alms rituals in the morning, cross the Mekong River to famous Pak Ou Cave, interact with elephants at a conservation center, and spend two days hiking through rural Khmu villages in the nearby countryside. You'll even participate in a Baci Ceremoney at Ban Khomkhuang.

Best of Vietnam & Laos

13 Days from $2,472

Explore the main highlights of Vietnam and Laos on this 13-day tour, featuring a cruise in Ha Long Bay, wandering the streets of Hanoi, and experiencing the culture of Laos for a week in Luang Prabang and trekking to rural Khmu villages. You'll also see Thanh Chuong Viet Palace, the Pak Ou Caves, and the Elephant Conservation Center along the way.

Vietnam Adventure

12 Days from $2,816

This active 12-day trek through Vietnam explores the villages of Red Zao and Hmong, and cruises Ha Long Bay en route from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Meet and interact with locals along the way, learning about their culture and history. You will stay in comfortable lodges, boutique hotels, and resorts to relax after days spent hiking, climbing, and exploring.

Ancient India: The Odyssey of Kumbh Mela

11 Days from $5,463

Explore India's cultural richness from Delhi to Varanasi, encountering historical wonders, unique experiences at Sheroes Cafe, and the profound rituals of the Kumbh Mela festival. This transformative journey promises a blend of history, culture, and spirituality in the heart of India.

Vietnam Discovery

14 Days from $3,209

This 14-day discovery tour takes you to Ho Chi Minh City, exploring, hiking, and biking in the Kon Tum province, and to the relaxing town of Hoi An & Ha Long Bay, before ending with a tour of Hanoi. Along the way, you'll be introduced to Vietnam's rich culture and history as you enjoy cooking classes, hiking, biking, market visits and more!

Golden Triangle: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur

7 Days from $2,225

This 7-day tour takes you through some of India's most beautiful landscapes. Visit surrounding attractions such as Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, Agra's famed Taj Mahal, and Jaipur's exquisite Amber Fort.

Golden Triangle: Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Ranthambhore Extension

9 Days from $3,475

This 9-day tour takes you through some of India's most beautiful landscapes. Visit surrounding attractions such as Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, Agra's famed Taj Mahal, Jaipur's exquisite Amber Fort, and join a Ranthambore Tiger safari.

India Highlights

New Delhi to Cochin
10 Days from $3,669

This 10-day cultural tour takes you to the major attractions of India. Explore the most popular landmarks in the old city of Delhi. Visit the majestic Taj Mahal in Agra and Jaipur, the state capital of Rajasthan, popularly known as the "Pink City." Stay aboard a houseboat in Kumarakom while exploring the colorful city of Cochin.

All Asia River Cruises

10 Best Asia River Cruises for 2024-2025

Trip Name	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Mekong River - Upstream - Low water	$1505	5	Nov 19, 2024	Join this 5-day Mekong River cruise from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Travel across the mighty Mekong delta to get an inside look at Cambodian culture. … 0
Mekong River - Upstream - High water	$2741	8	Aug 23, 2025	Experience the Mekong River during the high water season on this 8-day cruise on The Jahan. This expedition takes you from Saigon to Siem Reap, … 0
Vietnam and Cambodia: Along the Mekong River, including Angkor and Saigon	$14345	13	Jan 15, 2025	Explore Vietnam & Cambodia along the Mekong River on this 12-day cruise aboard the luxurious small ship Jahan. As you cruise from Siem Reap, Cambodia … 0
Mekong River - Upstream - High water	$2529	8	Aug 30, 2025	Embark on this 8-day high river expedition on the Jayavarman and experience the Mekong River as it flows from Saigon to Siem Reap. Explore the lower … 0
Mekong River - Upstream	$1243	4	Nov 30, 2024	On this 4-day journey from Saigon to Phnom Penh, cruise the lower Mekong River in majestic style aboard the Jahan. Discover the culture and history … 0
Phnom Penh and Siem Reap	$1920	4	Feb 1, 2025	Discover Cambodia on this 4-day cruise aboard RV Bassac Pandaw. Combine the ancient Khmer martial art of Bokator in Silk Island with a visit to … 0
Mekong River - Downstream - Low water	$2782	8	Nov 30, 2024	Embark on this 8-day Mekong River cruise from Siem Reap to Saigon during low water season and discover the wonders of the Mekong. Experience the … 0
Mekong River - Downstream - High water	$2529	8	Sep 6, 2025	Explore the Mekong on this 8-day high-water Mekong River cruise from Siem Reap to Saigon. Get an inside look at the southern cultures of Vietnam and … 0
Mekong River - Upstream - Low water	$1685	5	Nov 26, 2024	Take this 5-day Low Water Mekong River cruise from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap aboard the Jayavarman. Travel across the mighty Mekong Delta to get an … 0
Mekong River - Upstream	$1231	4	Nov 23, 2024	On this 4-day journey from Saigon to Phnom Penh, cruise the lower Mekong River in majestic style aboard the Jayavarman. Discover the culture and … 0

Top Asian Destinations

Bali

Discover the “Land of the Gods” on a Bali cruise. Brimming with Hindu culture, Asia is home to an ancient civilization that cultivated terraced rice paddies and built impressive temples, such as the famous 16th-century temple, Tanah Lot. Travel through the highlands of Bali, visiting Ubud's cultural center, Sideman's rice …

Tun Sakaran Marine Park, also called Semporna Islands Park

Indonesia

Take a small ship cruise through some of the 18,000 islands that make up Indonesia. Stroll through rice fields in Bali before discovering local markets and historical Hindu temples and pagodas. Snorkeling through the Coral Triangle, relaxing on the beach, swimming in turquoise waters, and visiting historic Jakarta are just a few highlights!

Borneo

Explore the rainforests of Borneo in search of pygmy elephants, orangutans, rhinoceros hornbills, & proboscis monkeys. Or visit Gaya Island Resort for a natural sanctuary with coral reefs that can be explored by kayaking, diving & snorkeling. Nicknamed "Asia's Galapagos" for its stunning biodiversity, our hand-crafted itineraries won't disappoint.

Mt. Fuji framed by Lake Kawaguchiko and cherry blossoms

Japan

Discover ancient cultures on a luxurious small ship cruise of Japan and neighboring islands. Explore Tokyo, Osaka, and the cultural treasures of Kyoto. Visit the cities of Hiroshima & Nagasaki, rebuilt after the devastating atomic bomb. Japan has been a cultural gem for over one thousand years, and now forms a vital part of world commerce.

Cambodia

Explore the ruins and cultures of Cambodia on a small boat cruise of the Mekong River, visiting the expansive complex at Angkor Wat. Bike through the rural countryside spotting giant Hindu temples, or lounge on the pristine beaches of Sihanoukville. You can also visit Koh Rong Sanloem or the bustling capital city of Phnom Penh.

Thailand

A tour of Thailand will entice you with breathtaking beaches, remote mountain villages and the friendly Thai people. Beachcomb in Phuket, sample Thai cuisine in Bangkok, or raft, bike and hike through the rainforest with Adventure Life. Thailand is a great destination for foodies too, who hope to combine a cultural immersion with authentic cuisine!

Vietnam

Cruise the Mekong River or trek & bike through the mountains as you admire terraced rice paddies and traditional villages that typify Vietnam. In Hanoi, you'll see the One Pillar Pagoda & the 11th-century Temple of Literature. Then it's off to Ho Chi Minh City, where a modern cityscape looks boldly to the future.

The iconic panda bear climbing a tree in the wild

China

Get to know the authentic China with Adventure Life. Discover the the Great Wall, the Forbidden City and Terracotta Warriors. Take in modern China visiting the cities of Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu.

Malaysia

Split between the ruggedly forested Borneo and the Malay Peninsula, travelers to this diverse country will come across many different cultures, languages, and lifestyles as you explore the numerous sites. From rainforests to golden beaches to modern cities, you will see a bit of everything, stopping in Kuala Lumpur, Mt. Kinabalu, and beach resorts.

India

From the mesmerizing Taj Mahal to the beaches of Goa, from bustling New Delhi to colorful Varanasi, India is truly a land of contrasts. India has also been blessed with diverse geography, ranging from the lush rainforests and wildlife reserves of Kerala to the majestic Himalayas and highlands of Rajasthan. Contact Adventure Life travel experts to plan your ideal India tours and cruises today!

Golden Sleeping Buddha, Mount Phou Si, Luang Prabang

Laos

Tucked between Vietnam, Thailand, and Myanmar, the narrow country of Laos has so much to offer. Interact with elephants at the Elephant Conservation Center, cruise to the Pak Ou Caves to swim and see over 3,000 Buddha Statues inside, explore the spiritual capital of Luang Prabang, and hike to the three-tier Kuang Si Falls.

Myanmar (Burma)

Cruise the Ayeyarwady river on a small ship discovering traditional cultures and wildlife, then explore the plains of Bagan where the ruins of more than 2000 temples dot the landscape before returning to Mandalay.

Tibet

Hike, trek and climb to the roof of the world: the Himalayas of Tibet. Visit Buddhist monasteries, trek to Everest Base Camp, and get to better know the Tibetan people during a homestay with a family in a small mountain village.

Couple following Everest Base Camp trekking route near Dughla 4620m

Nepal

Travel to Nepal for a true Himalayan adventure. Experience its majestic mountains and famous wildlife, including tigers, rhinos, snow leopards, rhinoceros, and elephants. Discover the largest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, see great cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, explore the lush green jungles of Chitwan National Park, …

Buddha statue at a temple complex in Colombo

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean," is a mesmerizing island nation that beckons travelers with its diverse attractions. From the lush greenery of its rainforests and hill country to the pristine beaches that encircle the island, Sri Lanka offers natural beauty in abundance.

Get Inspired to Explore Asia

Typical Thai fruits enjoyed with views of Phuket

Beaches

Two young monks read on the steps of a temple

Classics

Festivals

River Cruises

Walk out over the crystal clear waters of Indonesia

Luxury

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Asia Travel Tips & Guide

12 Unforgettable Experiences in Asia: Must-See Attractions & Activities

Discover 12 unforgettable experiences in Asia, from exploring ancient temples to indulging in delicious street food.

Highlights of Asia
Asia is both the world's biggest and most populous continent, with close to 50 countries spanning from the middle East to the Pacific coast. Each country has its own unique cultures, religions, flavors, customs, and traditions. Our tours showcase the best that Asia has to offer. We feature tours that visit:

China: Shanghai, The Great Wall, Beijing, and more.
Japan: Tokyo, Osaka, Hiroshima, Nagasaki
Thailand: Bangkok, Phuket & Hong Islands
Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) & the Mekong River
Laos: Luang Prabang, Pak Ou Caves, Buddhist temples
Bali: Hindu temples, Mount Agung, Menjangan Island, surfing
Borneo: Considered "Asia's Galapagos" for its exotic wildlife and pristine landscapes
Indonesia: Cruise in luxury among these idyllic tropical Pacific islands
Cambodia: Siem Reap & Angkor Wat, Mekong River
cruises
Tibet: Everest Base Camp, Buddhist monasteries & the breathtaking Himalayas
India: luxury cruises to Mumbai, Goa, Galle, and Cochin combined with Colombo in Sri Lanka.

Asia's Top Small Ship Cruise Ships

Cruises in Asia range from tropical destinations like Australia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Thailand to the arctic regions of Russia and the Bearing Sea. Choose from one of Adventure Life's luxurious small cruise ships for the Asian adventure of a lifetime.

Ombak Putih a 42-meter-long traditional vessel shaped by highly skilled Indonesian craftsmen. She allows you to enjoy privacy and serene relaxation during your journey.

Le Soleal a 132 luxurious passenger French and Italian sophisticated megayacht. Le Soleal reflects a chic French style and elegance that is a signature of expedition vessels.

Aqua Mekong cruises the Mekong River in the lap of luxury. Spacious and indulgent, yet intimate enough to feel exclusive, it accommodates a maximum of 40 guests.

Top 11 Cruise Ports in Asia - Explore the Best Destinations & Experiences

Discover the top 11 cruise ports in Asia for an unforgettable travel experience.

Best Asia Cruise Lines for 2024-2025

Aqua Expeditions is the only river cruise service on the Mekong that offers complimentary flight extensions to Siem Reap during the low water season. Aqua Mekong, a premium river cruise ship with trained guides on board, plots a course across the scenic lower Mekong basin.
Sea Trek Sailing Adventures offers four cruises between Bali and Komodo along Indonesia's Ring of Fire aboard Ombak Putih, a fully equipped traditional Indonesian schooner with a capacity of 24 guests divided into 12 elegant cabins.
Coral Expeditions. The Coral Adventurer, a tropical expedition ship purpose-designed to access remote wilderness shores, takes you to some of the most beautiful and remote regions of the Asia Pacific, enabling you to explore enchanting small islands like Wayag in Raja Ampat.
Heritage Line. Heritage Line is a singular cruise line passionate about creating unforgettable and refined river voyages and operating luxurious ships on Southeast Asia’s most fascinating waterways. The Jayavarman and Violet offer unique luxurious experiences on the Mekong and Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.
Ponant sails to the shores of India, China, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Japan on select voyages, with engaging discussions led by Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Onboard the French-flagged ships Le Laperouse, Le Champlain, Le Bellot, and Le Boreal, enjoy the intimacy of an intimate cruise that allows you to explore an ever-growing choice of Asian locations in an ethnic chic ambiance and with five-star service.
Silversea Cruises. From Japan's neon whirlwind to the peacefulness of Sri Lanka, India's vibrant tapestry to the romance of Micronesia, Silversea offers 88 voyages to some of Asia's lesser-known but no less remarkable locations. The Silver Explorer and Silver Cloud boast some of the most luxurious suites in expedition cruising.
Lindblad Expeditions explore Vietnam, Angkor, Saigon, and Cambodia along the Mekong River aboard the 48-guest Jahan, an extraordinary new riverboat that offers a level of luxury previously unavailable on the Mekong.
Aurora Expeditions has a 2022 maiden expedition to West Papua that sails Raja Ampat. This region of Indonesia, part of the Coral Triangle, has some of the world's most diverse marine species. The Sylvia Earle features the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW®, enabling the ship to cross oceans more comfortably and efficiently.
AMA Waterways operates ten Mekong River cruises that sail from Vietnam to Cambodia. MS Amadara, its sole cruise ship for the Mekong River, features spacious staterooms and suites, two stylish restaurants, an inviting lounge, a fitness room, a hair salon, three spas, and a refreshing Sun Deck swimming pool.
CroisiEurope. One of the most seasoned and established river cruise lines, sails the Mekong on its luxury ships, the RV Indochine and RV Indochine II.

Top 11 Temples in Asia - Must-See Sacred Sites & Spiritual Experiences

Explore the top 11 temples in Asia and dive into a spiritual journey through ancient history, architecture, and culture.

Top 12 Things to Do and See in Japan - Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Discover the top 12 things to do and see in Japan, from bustling Tokyo to serene Kyoto and everything in between!

Best Times to Visit Thailand

In general, November to early April is the ideal season to visit Thailand. It is advised to avoid Thailand from May to October, regardless of geography. The rainy season is from July through October, but monsoons and storms can cause travel delays and cancellations as early as May. Here are some tips to figure out the best months for your travel to Thailand. Learn about typical weather, crowds, and other factors that may influence when you plan your trip to the "Land of Smiles."

Vietnam River Cruises

Vietnam is as rich in environmental wonders as it is in cultural expressions. From its complicated history to its inviting cities, Vietnam has a variety of attractions to satisfy any inquisitive traveler. This country will captivate you with its intriguing culture, unique cuisine, distinct geography, and so many more interesting characteristics.

Best Time to Visit Borneo

Borneo is a year-round travel destination. However, there are different seasons and weather patterns throughout the year that may influence your trip. Depending on your interests and desires, it is good to plan your travels accordingly. Learn what to expect during specific times in Borneo.

Thai Cuisine

Thai cuisine is sure to be a highlight of your trip. With a mix of salty, sweet, tangy, bitter, spicy, and sour, each bite explodes with deliciousness! By eating throughout Thailand, travelers can experience the local flavor of distinct regions and unique cultures. This is only a brief description of some of the dishes travelers can expect to sample.

China Overview

The Great Wall, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, pandas - these all come to mind when you think of China. However, there are so many other reasons to visit this booming country. Colorful festivals, delicious cuisine, & ancient traditions provide a unique experience. Learn why China is becoming a popular choice for inquisitive travelers.

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Asia Travel FAQs

Do I need a visa to travel to Asia?

Generally speaking, you will need a visa or a travel permit to visit most countries in Asia if you are traveling from North America or Europe. Tourist visas are not hard to get, and we can help point you in the right direction throughout the process. Check the visa requirements for more specific information.

Is tipping customary in Asia?

It all depends on where you are. As a general rule, tipping is appreciated when you receive excellent, friendly, or expert service. There are certain countries, like Japan, where tipping is countercultural, but otherwise, it is largely at your discretion. Each country has more specific norms for tipping as well.

What is internet access like in Asia?

On the whole, internet access throughout Asia is improving considerably, with WiFi available in many parts of the more developed cities and countries (like Beijing, South Korea, Japan, and Hong Kong), and prolific cybercafes throughout most major cities as well. The countries that are less developed tend to have less internet access across the board, but it is usually still offered at nicer hotels. The parts of rural Asia tend not to have internet access. There are several countries (China & Vietnam among them) that have reliable access but strict censorship rules.

Can I use my cell phone while in Asia?

While you can purchase international plans or stick to the WiFi networks, the most common option for people hoping to use their phones while abroad is asking their service provider to unlock their GSM-capable phone and then buying a SIM chip when they arrive at their destination airport, which allows access to the local network. You will probably be out of range of cell towers in certain parts of the Asian backcountry.

Do I need power adapters?

Asia has a diversity of outlets, but the most common are the US-style (A&B - two or three prongs, grounded) or various two round prong European styles (C, E, F). There are also a mix of other styles, so you should check each country page for more specific information. Power is generally 220-240v, but you probably won't need a converter for most 110v devices

Asia Fun Facts

Did you know...?

There are only two countries in the world that have populations greater than 1 billion people, and both of them are in Asia: India & China.
Because of the population density and the sheer size of the Asian continent, Asia is not only the biggest geographical continent in the world, it is the most populous.
Asia is also home to the world's tallest mountain, measured from sea level - Mt. Everest.
There are hundreds of languages spoken throughout Asia, the most prominent of which are Mandarin Chinese, Arabic, and English, depending on where you are.
Nine of the top 10 tallest buildings in the world can be found in Asia.
There are more than 50,000 people in Japan who are over 100 years old.
China decided to have only one time zone, even though it is geographically large enough to encompass several.

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