A small range, explained in full

Every trip page shows the hours

Each trip states when you are collected, how long the road takes in each direction, when you are back, and how much walking there is. The times are typical windows; your own times are on your written confirmation. Where we rely on published schedules or route-planner distances, the page names the source and the date we checked it.

Join-in and private are compared honestly

We sell both, so we have no reason to push either. For one or two travellers on a budget, we usually suggest join-in. For four or more, or for families, we usually suggest private. When you are undecided, we price both and say which we would choose.

We say what has faded

The floating markets of the delta have shrunk. Cai Rang still trades, smaller than it was; Cai Be's market has largely gone. We tell you before you book, and we do not sell a day trip on the promise of a market it cannot reach.

Prices are in writing, line by line

Every quote is per person, for your date and party, and lists what is not included as clearly as what is. Payment details appear only on your written confirmation.

• Large groups. Above eight travellers we need a different vehicle and two guides; we can quote, but it is not what our trips are designed around.
• Languages other than English. Our guides speak English. If you need another language, ask; we will say honestly whether we can arrange it for your date.
• Same-day bookings. We need time to confirm a vehicle, a guide and the boats.
• Long journeys through the delta. If you want three days or more, or to continue to Chau Doc or Cambodia, we are the wrong people to plan it.

We do not publish testimonials or star ratings here. Reviews on a company's own site are chosen by the company, and you cannot check them. Instead, every page tries to give you the facts you would otherwise look for in reviews: how long the day really is, how many boat changes there are, what the market looks like now, and who the trip does not suit.

If you have a question that a review would answer, such as whether the guide on a join-in day can be heard at the back of the boat, ask us in the form. We would rather answer it directly.

• Life jackets on every boat for every passenger, including the rowing boats
• Workshop visits where buying is optional and the guide does not press you
• Small notes for tips, paid directly to boat crews and rowers
• No promise of a crowded floating market, which would only push more tourist boats onto a shrinking one
• Weekday travel suggested where you have the choice, to spread the load on the roads and jetties