Phnom Penh Sunset Cruise: Beers, BBQ & My Review

Planning a trip to Phnom Penh? Looking for that unique way to cap off a day of temple hopping and market exploring? Then a Phnom Penh sunset cruise might be just your thing, and this write-up is really to talk about my experience on one. We will look a bit at the “unlimited beers & BBQ buffet” deal cruising along the Mekong – because hey, who doesn’t enjoy a sunset and some grilled goodies?

Setting Sail on the Mekong

Okay, so getting on board, there’s this kind of anticipation in the air. It’s almost like stepping onto a floating fiesta. You have got the city skyline slowly fading into the background, and the river itself is reflecting those golden hues. You find your spot, and the gentle sway starts immediately. Pretty calming. Anyway the cruise starts from near the Sisowath Quay; you could be forgiven for expecting complete mayhem to start there with boatloads and boatloads of tourists trying to board vessels.

You get tourists, locals, expats… pretty much every stripe. And yes, very soon the beer does start flowing; pretty cold Cambodian stuff – though, honestly, nobody’s complaining. I mean you can choose from local beers to really add to the experience of experiencing Cambodia!

The All-You-Can-Eat BBQ Spread

As if the sunset wasn’t a nice perk, there is the BBQ buffet. That sounds pretty good, huh? I thought so. Is that offering anything genuinely groundbreaking in cuisine terms? Arguably, no, it is not, yet it fills the spot. You have a selection of grilled meats — you got chicken, beef, some seafood if you’re lucky — with the local spices and marinades. You also have salads, rice, veggies, too it’s almost balanced. Really something for pretty much everyone. Obviously I would not pretend this is fancy eating; think of it like this; it is perfect socialising fuel with a gorgeous sunset backdrop. Pretty ideal in several ways. Plus, they keep refilling the buffet, so no stress for the ones who want seconds (or thirds!).

Sunset Views: Phnom Penh’s Golden Hour

Alright, the star really, of the show here is the sunset. Phnom Penh’s skyline takes on a really warm, golden color as the sun heads below the horizon. And, I am not kidding, that is gorgeous reflected on the Mekong; I mean, those images alone really make it worth the cruise. You get photo opportunities left, right, and center. Golden temples, the Royal Palace glimmering, the river traffic. Honestly you will find memories for keeps.

Now, I would be realistic, okay. The air might get smoky when they’re grilling — maybe a tiny bit irritating if you’re super sensitive. Yet that is quite fleeting, in fact — most people were enjoying the aromas mixing together along the breeze.

Ambiance and Onboard Entertainment

The setting varies relying a bit on the cruise operator, some providing a kind of mellow background soundtrack that might actually mix Cambodian tunes, Western pop, and, honestly anything! Sometimes you will see live performers on deck too — could be traditional dancers or live music. So I suppose it is really fair to state you will have just a bit of added local touch to make it distinctive.

On that note. It can become noisy. Not every traveler will appreciate this type of noise. I do recall, particularly as more of the drinks are consumed, noise tends to amplify quite a lot! Therefore it’s actually more for social butterfly sorts or really a fun-loving set of mates. Should you plan on some contemplative, introspective experience, you could be left a little bothered — bear in mind you have already been told.

Is it Worth the Money?

Well, let us get down to the actual questions now, shall we? Considering the money… should you go on a cruise in this type of boat, in this type of setting? I have thought this out properly — here is a couple of bits to chew over.

• Scenery: A fantastic, almost epic way of witnessing Phnom Penh slip off into night. Golden hour photos are a “must take.”
• Food and Drinks: BBQ can do the work. Booze tends to be flowing so a good trade if on a tight budget when touring.
• Ambiance: Will vary — possibly chilled, yet a little boisterous and fun — be ready.
• Value: Factoring in what you’re getting — really unlimited drinks, meal plus vista, it can offer rather good returns for money spent.

I believe I had an evening quite well spent; one where my memories of seeing Phnom Penh have, arguably been reinforced that bit. The sunsets are actually spellbinding; getting tasty BBQ, along cold beers under your belt helps and of course can offer moments of camaraderie between the different folks also on the same boat. If that is the buzz for you then absolutely go.

Alright then – let us weigh up some extra pointers for optimum enjoyment. You can actually book in advance just to get those top seat allocations, go ready — pack those insects repellent products because, frankly mosquitoes could start getting bad nearer dusk, but do manage your consuming properly — no one likes witnessing someone get a little “too much” onboard!!