Cruising in Vietnam offers a unique way to explore the country’s stunning landscapes and rich culture. From the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay to the serene rivers of the Mekong Delta, this mode of travel provides an immersive experience that combines natural beauty, cultural encounters, and leisurely comfort. Here, we dive into the prominent cruising destinations in Vietnam and what they have to offer.

1. Ha Long Bay – The Jewel of Vietnam

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination for any cruise enthusiast. Cruises here typically range from day trips to multi-day excursions, taking travelers through breathtaking limestone karsts, hidden caves, and floating fishing villages.

• Activities: Kayaking through grottoes, visiting caves like Sung Sot (Surprise Cave), exploring floating villages, and enjoying sunset parties on the deck. Evening activities often include squid fishing and cooking classes.
• Highlight: The bay’s beauty is best experienced on a 2-day or 3-day cruise, offering a serene atmosphere as you wake up to the sight of the sun rising over the limestone islands.

Cruise in Ha Long Bay

2. Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay – Off the Beaten Path

Adjacent to Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay provide a quieter, less crowded alternative while offering similar stunning scenery. Cruises in these bays focus on natural exploration and often include less-visited spots.

• Activities: Cycling on Cat Ba Island, kayaking in secluded areas, and exploring unspoiled beaches. These cruises also offer opportunities to engage with local communities.
• Highlight: The tranquility of these bays, away from the busy routes of Ha Long Bay, allows for a more intimate connection with nature.

Cruise In Bai Tu Long Bay

3. Mekong Delta – A Journey Through Waterways

The Mekong Delta is known for its intricate network of rivers, swamps, and islands. Cruising here takes you through bustling floating markets, lush orchards, and small villages where life revolves around the water.

• Activities: Visiting floating markets like Cai Rang and Cai Be, exploring traditional workshops making coconut candy and rice paper, and enjoying local music performances. Small sampan boat rides through narrow canals offer a glimpse into the daily life of the delta’s inhabitants.
• Highlight: A day cruise on the Mekong River provides a vibrant cultural experience, allowing travelers to witness the unique lifestyle of the delta’s communities.

Mekong Cruise Ship deck in sunset

4. Hue – The Perfume River Cruise

The Perfume River in Hue offers a tranquil cruise experience that blends natural beauty with cultural heritage. Hue, the ancient capital, is home to historic pagodas, royal tombs, and the iconic Hue Citadel.

• Activities: Cruises often include visits to Thien Mu Pagoda, Hon Chen Temple, and the royal tombs along the riverbanks. Sunset cruises provide a romantic backdrop with traditional Vietnamese music and cuisine.
• Highlight: Watching the sunrise or sunset on the Perfume River while passing by ancient temples and palaces provides a peaceful yet culturally rich journey.

Cruise in Perfume river (Hue)

5. Han River, Da Nang – A Vibrant Nighttime Cruise

Da Nang’s Han River is known for its vibrant night cruises that showcase the city’s illuminated skyline. These cruises offer a unique perspective of Da Nang’s architectural landmarks, including the Dragon Bridge and the Han River Bridge.

• Activities: Evening cruises often feature live music, cultural performances, and onboard dining. During the annual International Fireworks Festival (June to August), cruises offer the best vantage point to watch the spectacular displays.
• Highlight: Experiencing Da Nang’s lively nightlife from the river while passing under the city’s iconic bridges, all lit up against the night sky.

Long exposure image of Da Nang city with Dragon bridge crossing Han River at sunset. Dragon bridge is one of the famous tourist attractions. Da Nang is one of the major port city and the biggest city in Central Vietnam

6. Saigon River, Ho Chi Minh City – Urban Sophistication

A cruise on the Saigon River offers a contrasting experience, blending the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City with moments of calm on the water. The river showcases the city’s blend of modern skyscrapers and colonial architecture.

• Activities: Dinner cruises offer a gourmet dining experience accompanied by live music and traditional performances. The cruise route often includes sights such as the Bitexco Tower and the bustling port area.
• Highlight: The contrast between the city’s dynamic skyline and the peaceful river setting creates a memorable experience for travelers.

Cruises in Sai Gon River

7. Inland Lakes and Rivers – Lake Ba Be and Ninh Binh, Quang Binh

Vietnam’s inland water destinations provide a variety of unique cruising experiences.

• Lake Ba Be: Located in Bac Kan, this is one of Vietnam’s largest natural freshwater lakes. Activities include kayaking, visiting ethnic minority villages, and exploring the national park.
• Ninh Binh: Known as “Ha Long Bay on Land,” it offers sampan boat tours through Tam Coc or Trang An, passing limestone mountains, rice paddies, and ancient temples.
• Quang Binh: Home to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, where boat tours take you through stunning caves like Phong Nha and Paradise Cave. The experience includes exploring underground rivers and breathtaking karst landscapes.
• Hoi An: The Bay Mau Coconut Forest (Rừng Dừa Bảy Mẫu) near Hoi An offers a unique water-based experience, where visitors can ride traditional basket boats through dense coconut groves, participate in local fishing activities, and enjoy cultural performances.
• Ho Thac Ba: Located in Yen Bai province, Thac Ba Lake is dotted with islands and surrounded by lush forests. A boat tour here takes you through calm waters, revealing serene landscapes and glimpses of ethnic minority villages.
• Ho Hoa Binh: This man-made lake in Hoa Binh province is surrounded by mountains and forests, offering a peaceful cruise experience. Activities include visiting local Muong villages, exploring caves, and enjoying water sports.

Phong Nha, Ke Bang cave, an amazing, wonderful cavern at Bo Trach, Quang Binh, Vietnam, is world heritage of Viet Nam, traveller visit by boat on water, wonderful place for travel

Trang An from high

The Unique Charm of Cruising in Vietnam

Cruising in Vietnam is not just about the destination; it’s about the journey itself. Whether you’re gliding over the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, navigating the narrow canals of the Mekong Delta, or watching the city lights of Da Nang from the Han River, each cruise offers a distinct experience. The combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and onboard luxury creates an unparalleled way to explore Vietnam.

Practical Tips for Cruising in Vietnam

• Best Time to Cruise: While cruises operate year-round, the best time for Ha Long Bay and the Mekong Delta is from October to April, avoiding the rainy season.
• Booking: Opt for reputable cruise operators and book in advance, especially during peak seasons. Vietnam Amusing Tours offers curated cruise experiences with added services such as event planning, guides, and transport arrangements.
• Additional Services: Apart from the set itineraries, many cruises in Vietnam offer private charters, shorter tour options, and flexible schedules to accommodate different preferences.

Discover Vietnam with Vietnam Amusing Tours

At Vietnam Amusing Tours, we provide a diverse range of cruise options across Vietnam’s waterways, from luxury cruises in Ha Long Bay to cultural tours on the Mekong Delta. Our expert guides and personalized services ensure a unique and memorable journey for every traveler. Contact us to plan your next adventure on Vietnam’s stunning waters.