The Mekong Delta’s Ben Tre region offers some of Vietnam’s most rewarding boat experiences. The waterways here provide an authentic glimpse into riverside life, with countless small canals perfect for intimate exploration.
Several standout tours combine water and land activities. My favorite is the half-day scooter and sailboat combo – it’s practical and gives you just the right mix of sightseeing and culture. The 1.5-hour canal tour is perfect for travelers seeking a quieter, more contemplative experience. For food lovers, the small-group tour with coconut candy demonstrations and traditional music hits all the right notes.
These are our top-rated boat tours in Ben Tre, carefully selected for their value and authentic experiences.
Key Points
- The Ben Tre Half Day Tour offers a personalized scooter ride along the Mekong River and scenic boat rides, showcasing authentic Mekong Delta dishes.
- The Ho Chi Minh: Mekong Delta Group Tour provides an intimate experience with a visit to Vinh Trang Pagoda and a boat trip through My Tho.
- The Mekong Relaxing Boat Cruise is a 1.5-hour cruise through quiet canals in Ben Tre, suitable for relaxation and accommodating infants and service animals.
- The Mekong Delta Small-Group Tour is an affordable 8-hour comprehensive exploration of the Mekong River, including a Coconut Candy Workshop and traditional music performance.
- The HCMC – Ben Tre Authentic Day Tour offers an 8-hour immersive experience with a cruise on the Mekong River, rowing boat exploration, cycling, and a 5-course riverside lunch.
Ben Tre Half Day Tour With Scooter and Sailboat and Mekong Food
This immersive half-day tour in Ben Tre, Mekong Delta, offers a unique blend of cultural experiences.
Over the course of approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, you’ll explore the local community, embark on scenic boat rides, and savor authentic Mekong Delta cuisine.
The tour begins at the Ben Tre Post Office, a yellow building situated next to a bridge and the local market. From there, you’ll hop on a scooter and sail along the Mekong River, taking in the picturesque surroundings.
Interact with friendly residents and learn about their traditional practices, all while enjoying a personalized experience with a maximum of 8 travelers.
The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to taste the region’s authentic cuisine. Enjoy the local culture and leave with a deeper appreciation for the Mekong Delta’s vibrant community.
With convenient pickup and drop-off, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an immersive Mekong experience.
Read our full review: Ben Tre Half Day Tour With Scooter and Sailboat and Mekong Food Review
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From Ho Chi Minh: MEKONG DELTA GROUP TOUR WITH ROWING BOAT
For those seeking a more comprehensive Mekong Delta experience, the From Ho Chi Minh: MEKONG DELTA GROUP TOUR WITH ROWING BOAT offers an immersive day-long adventure. Priced from $45.09 per person, this small-group tour (limited to 12 participants) departs from Ho Chi Minh City and includes a 1.5-hour journey by air-conditioned van.
Highlights include visiting the Vinh Trang Pagoda, a boat trip through My Tho, and activities on Thai Son Island such as a honey farm, traditional music, and a rowing boat experience.
Lunch featuring local cuisine is provided, with an optional cycling or walking tour of the village afterward.
Convenient pick-up and drop-off services, as well as an English-speaking guide, are included. Complimentary amenities such as bottled water, cold towels, and fresh fruits, honey tea, and coconut juice are also part of the package.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a hassle-free way to explore the Mekong Delta.
Read our full review: From Ho Chi Minh: MEKONG DELTA GROUP TOUR WITH ROWING BOAT Review
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Mekong Relaxing Boat Cruise Through Quiet Canal (1.5hrs)
Escape the bustle of daily life and embark on a serene Mekong Relaxing Boat Cruise Through Quiet Canal, a 1.5-hour journey that immerses you in the tranquil beauty of the region.
This scenic boat cruise departs from Ben Tre City in the Mekong Delta, offering a relaxing experience in a natural setting. You’ll navigate through quiet canals, surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle rhythm of the water.
With a maximum of 8 travelers per tour, you’ll enjoy an intimate experience. Infants are welcome to sit on laps during the cruise, and service animals are permitted onboard.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can comfortably participate. Cancellation is fully refundable if made 24 hours in advance, and the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.
Capture your memories with the opportunity to share and view traveler photos, and read verified 5-star reviews to gauge the quality of this immersive Mekong Delta experience.
Read our full review: Mekong Relaxing Boat Cruise Through Quiet Canal (1.5hrs) Review
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Mekong Delta Small-Group Tour and Boat Ride 1 Day
Embark on an 8-hour Mekong Delta Small-Group Tour and Boat Ride from Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll explore the picturesque Mekong River and its surrounding coconut-lined canals.
At just $32.41 per person, this small-group tour offers a comprehensive experience, including boat rides, guided tours, and cultural activities.
You’ll visit the Coconut Kingdom of Ben Tre, where you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a Coconut Candy Workshop and witness a traditional Vietnamese music performance.
Savor a delicious lunch featuring Vietnamese cuisine, including vegan options, and enjoy tropical fruits and a refreshing coconut drink.
Throughout the day, you’ll have the chance to paddle along the small canals, cruise the Mekong River, and learn about local honey bee keeping.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and you can check availability for different starting times.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this Mekong Delta adventure is a flexible and accessible way to learn about the vibrant culture of this iconic region.
Read our full review: Mekong Delta Small-Group Tour and Boat Ride 1 Day Review
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HCMC – Ben Tre: Authentic Day Tour With Lunch and Cruise
Venturing on this HCMC – Ben Tre: Authentic Day Tour with Lunch and Cruise allows you to learn about the captivating essence of Ben Tre, known as the “Coconut Island” of the Mekong Delta.
The 8-hour journey departs from Ho Chi Minh City and takes you to this picturesque region, where you’ll cruise the Mekong River, explore canals by rowing boat, and cycle through local villages and rice fields.
Along the way, you’ll visit a coconut processing business, meet a local farmer, and observe the traditional production of rice paper.
The highlight is a 5-course lunch of regional specialties served at a private riverside restaurant. Throughout the tour, you’ll interact with a former Vietcong soldier and enjoy fresh fruits and tea at a local house.
With free cancellation and a pay-later option, this authentic day tour is an excellent choice for individuals and groups seeking an immersive Mekong Delta experience.
Just be sure to bring comfortable clothing, water, and sun protection to make the most of this captivating adventure.
Read our full review: HCMC – Ben Tre: Authentic Day Tour With Lunch and Cruise Review
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The Sum Up
You’ll find a variety of boat tours and cruises in Ben Tre, from half-day scooter and sailboat adventures to relaxing 1.5-hour canal cruises. Whether you’re seeking a group tour or a more personalized experience, there are options to explore the Mekong Delta‘s serene waterways and sample local cuisine. With so many choices, you’re sure to discover the best boat tour to suit your interests and preferences.