Vietnam’s waterways offer some of the most rewarding boat experiences in Southeast Asia. The evening dinner cruises on the Saigon River stand out for their excellent combination of local food and city views. My favorite excursions are the overnight trips to Lan Ha and Ha Long Bays – these limestone-studded waters are simply stunning, and the boat crews do a great job with activities like kayaking and Vietnamese cooking demonstrations.
For nature lovers, the boat rides through Trang An’s cave network and around Cat Ba Island are unforgettable. The scenery is spectacular, and the smaller boats get you close to local life on the water. These tours hit the sweet spot between comfort and authentic experiences.
Let’s look at our recommended boat tours that showcase the best of Vietnam’s waterways.
Key Points
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Saigon River dinner cruises offer 2-3 hour sightseeing and dining experiences featuring Vietnamese cuisine, live music, and iconic landmarks for $27-$56 per person.
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Luxurious 2-day cruises through Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay from Hanoi include accommodations, meals, activities, and transportation for around $160 per person.
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2-day tours from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay feature cruising, exploring a fishing village, hiking, and water activities for €174 per person.
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Private tours from Hanoi to Trang An and Mua Cave include a bamboo boat trip through water caves, a bicycle ride, and a climb to panoramic viewpoints for $212 per group.
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Vietnam’s diverse range of river and bay cruises provide immersive cultural experiences, culinary delights, and natural scenery for various budgets and durations.
Dinner on Cruise With Buffet and Live Music
For a delightful evening spent on the tranquil waters of Vietnam’s rivers and bays, many cruise operators offer dinner cruises featuring a bountiful buffet spread and live music performances.
These cruises, often ranging from 2 to 3 hours, provide visitors with the opportunity to savor a variety of authentic Vietnamese dishes while enjoying the scenic views and atmospheric sounds of traditional music.
Theres some good an array of freshly prepared seafood, grilled meats, and vegetarian options, complemented by an assortment of local desserts.
As the boat glides along, passengers are entertained by skilled musicians playing a repertoire of classic Vietnamese songs and contemporary tunes.
These dinner cruises offer a unique and memorable dining experience, allowing travelers to enjoy Vietnam’s rich culinary and cultural heritage while appreciating the serene beauty of the country’s waterways.
Read our full review: Dinner on Cruise With Buffet and Live Music Review
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Dinner on Cruise Along Saigon River and Sightseeing
Many visitors to Ho Chi Minh City take the opportunity to experience a delightful dinner cruise along the Saigon River.
These cruises typically last 2-3 hours and offer a scenic sightseeing experience combined with a delicious buffet dinner. Guests can enjoy views of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the iconic Saigon Opera House and the historic Reunification Palace, while indulging in a variety of local and international cuisine.
The cruises often feature live music or traditional Vietnamese entertainment, providing a well-rounded cultural experience. Prices for these dinner cruises range from $27-$56 per person, making them an affordable and enjoyable way to explore the city from a unique perspective.
With high ratings of 4.4-4.7 and thousands of positive reviews, these Saigon River cruises are a popular and recommended activity for visitors looking to combine sightseeing, dining, and entertainment during their time in Ho Chi Minh City.
Read our full review: Dinner on Cruise Along Saigon River and Sightseeing Review
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Luxurious 2-Day Cruise: Lan Ha & Ha Long Bay
Visitors seeking a more luxurious experience can embark on a 2-day cruise through the stunning landscapes of Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay. Priced from $160.01 per person, this all-inclusive cruise offers a range of amenities and activities.
Guests will be picked up from Hanoi’s Old Quarter and transported to the Tuan Chau International Cruise Port, where they’ll board the Le Journey Cruise.
The itinerary includes exploring the Surprising Cave and Titop Island, a sunset party, a cooking class for fresh spring rolls, and night fishing for squid.
On the second day, guests can enjoy a morning kayaking session at Pearl Village before an early check-out and lunch.
The cruise package includes one night’s accommodation, all meals, and activities such as visiting Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island, as well as Wi-Fi on board.
Roundtrip transfers from Hanoi and a solo traveler surcharge are available for an additional fee.
Read our full review: Luxurious 2-Day Cruise: Lan Ha & Ha Long Bay Review
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From Hanoi: 2-Days Tour Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay Cruise
Departing from Hanoi, this 2-day tour offers an immersive exploration of Cat Ba Island and the serene Lan Ha Bay. Priced from €174.11 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, roundtrip transportation, and an English-speaking guide.
Highlights include cruising through Lan Ha Bay, visiting the Cai Beo fishing village, and experiencing the local culture in Viet Hai. Guests can also enjoy activities like swimming, kayaking, and a sunset party.
The second day features a trek through Cat Ba National Park, a visit to Ngu Lam peak for panoramic views, and an exploration of Trung Trang Cave.
The tour includes one night’s stay at a 3-star hotel on Cat Ba Island, as well as two lunches and one breakfast. Exclusions cover dinner on the first day, extra drinks, and tips for the guide, driver, and boatman.
This tour provides a comprehensive experience of Vietnam’s stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking an immersive adventure.
Read our full review: From Hanoi: 2-Days Tour Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay Cruise Review
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Private Tour From Ha Noi – Trang an Boat – Mua Cave – Biking
For those seeking an immersive experience in Northern Vietnam, this private tour from Hanoi offers a captivating exploration of the Trang An Landscape Complex and Mua Cave. Priced from $212.94 per group (up to 2 participants), the 9-hour tour includes a bamboo boat trip through Trang An’s water caves and filming locations from “King Kong,” as well as a bicycle ride around the village to observe local wildlife and culture.
Visitors can then climb Mua Cave for panoramic views of the rice fields and rivers before enjoying a local Vietnamese lunch. The tour package includes round-trip transportation, entrance tickets, bicycle rental, and tips for the guide and driver.
Guests should bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, and be aware of restrictions, such as no shorts in temples. With the option to skip the biking segment, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive glimpse into the natural and cultural wonders of Northern Vietnam.
Read our full review: Private Tour From Ha Noi – Trang an Boat – Mua Cave – Biking Review
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The Sum Up
Vietnam offers a variety of incredible cruising and boat tour experiences. Travelers can enjoy dinner cruises with live music, explore the Saigon River, or embark on luxurious multi-day excursions through the stunning Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay. For those seeking a more comprehensive adventure, private tours are available that combine boat rides, cave exploration, and cycling. Whether seeking a relaxing evening or a multi-day journey, Vietnam’s waterways provide endless opportunities for memorable experiences.