Exploring Ben Thanh Princess Dining Cruise in Ho Chi Minh

If you’re after a way to see Ho Chi Minh City from a different angle, the Ben Thanh Princess Dining Cruise offers a delightful blend of sightseeing, good food, and entertainment. This two-hour cruise along the Saigon River promises a relaxing evening that combines scenic views with a taste of local and international cuisine. The experience is perfect for couples, families, or groups wanting to enjoy the city’s vibrant nightscape from the water.

What makes this cruise particularly appealing is the combination of a luxurious setting, live entertainment, and a well-curated menu. We love that it offers a chance to unwind after a busy day exploring, with a backdrop that’s both picturesque and lively. The value for money is also noteworthy, especially considering the included three-course meal and live music.

One aspect to consider is that timing is crucial—arrive before 19:25 to avoid missing the boat, as latecomers aren’t refunded. Also, drinks aren’t included, so you’ll need to budget for beverages separately. This cruise suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic experience with the added bonus of a tasty meal and entertainment, particularly those who want to see Ho Chi Minh illuminated at night.

Key Points

• Beautiful city views along the Saigon River, especially at night.
• Three-course dinner with local and international options.
• Live band or magic show for entertainment.
• Good value considering the cruise, meal, and entertainment.
• Arrive early to avoid missing the embarkation.
• Vegetarian, vegan, and kid menus available on request.

Overview of the Ben Thanh Princess Dining Cruise

This two-hour cruise is based in Ho Chi Minh City and offers a relaxing way to witness the skyline from the water. It’s operated by DN Tour, a reputable provider, and priced at $49 per person. It includes insurance, a 2-hour cruise, a set three-course meal, and live entertainment. Drinks, however, are not included, so plan ahead if you want to toast your evening with a drink.

The cruise departs from 5 Nguyen Tt Thanh, Quận 4, and the embarkation begins at 19:25, with the cruise starting shortly after at 19:30. It wraps up around 21:30 back at the starting point, making it a perfect evening activity after a day of sightseeing or shopping.

What to Expect on the Cruise

Scenic Waterway Views and Landmarks

Once aboard, you’ll be treated to a view of Ho Chi Minh’s skyline that’s both dazzling and informative. Keep your eyes out for landmarks like Thu Thiem Bridge and the Vietcombank Tower, which stand out against the night sky. The vantage point from the deck is ideal for photos, especially as the city lights shimmer on the river.

Several reviewers mention the seamless boarding process—“Great experience on a warm night. Seamless boarding, meal service and entertainment,” said Trevor_M, highlighting how smooth the whole process is. The cruise isn’t just about pretty views; it’s an engaging way to see the city from the water without the hustle of street traffic.

Dining Experience

The set three-course menu is a highlight for many guests. The menu can vary slightly depending on availability but generally offers a mix of local and international dishes. Vegetarian and kid-friendly options are available, which is a thoughtful addition for families or vegetarians. Guests have praised the delicious food and good portion sizes, with one reviewer noting it was “worth it” and describing the experience as “great value for money.”

While drinks aren’t included, you can purchase beverages onboard or bring your own—just check the policy before departure. The meal service usually begins before the cruise departs, so arriving early will give you ample time to enjoy your food without rushing.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

Throughout the cruise, a live band or magic show provides entertainment, adding a festive and romantic touch to the evening. Guests have enjoyed the music, describing it as “serenading” and enhancing the overall mood. The lively tunes and show keep the atmosphere upbeat, making it suitable for couples seeking romance or families wanting a fun night out.

Timing and Group Size

Most travelers find the timing of the cruise ideal—starting around 7:25 pm and ending before 9:30 pm. The group size is limited to a maximum of 200 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and intimate setting. The experience is designed to suit most travelers, with confirmation provided at the time of booking.

Practical Tips

• Arrive before 19:25 to prevent missing the boat—lateness isn’t refundable.
• Dress smart-casual; the evenings can be warm but slightly breezy on the water.
• Consider bringing a camera or smartphone for sunset and cityscape photos.
• If you’re vegan or vegetarian, notify the operator after booking for tailored options.
• Remember, drinks are not included, so plan on purchasing your own onboard or elsewhere.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

Guests have shared that the boardings are smooth, and the entertainment adds a lively touch. One reviewer, Trevor_M, described the evening as “Worth it,” emphasizing the seamless experience and the enjoyment of good food and music. A common theme is the value for money, especially considering the included meal, entertainment, and scenic views.

Interestingly, some guests mention the importance of timing—“Don’t get there too early or you’ll have finished dinner before you’ve departed the wharf,” illustrating that the cruise is best enjoyed with a relaxed start rather than rushing through meals. The presence of different menus, including vegetarian options, shows attention to diverse dietary needs, which adds to the overall inclusiveness of the experience.

Why This Cruise Stands Out

The combination of good value, scenic beauty, and engaging entertainment makes this cruise a worthwhile activity for many travelers. Unlike daytime sightseeing, which can be crowded or rushed, this evening cruise offers a peaceful, picturesque setting to unwind. The live music and magic show elevate the experience, turning an ordinary dinner into a memorable event.

The moderate price point is especially attractive considering what’s included—two hours of scenic cruising, a three-course meal, and entertainment—making it an accessible luxury. It’s particularly suitable for couples looking to add some romance, families wanting a relaxed night out, or anyone keen to see Ho Chi Minh City from the water in style.

Who Should Consider This Experience

This cruise is perfect if you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic experience with good food and entertainment. It suits travelers who appreciate city views at night and want a hassle-free way to enjoy a meal while watching the skyline. It’s also a good pick for those on a budget, as it offers considerable value with its inclusions.

However, if you dislike waiting or need flexibility with timing, be sure to arrive early. Also, if you’re a drinks connoisseur, remember drinks aren’t included, so plan accordingly. For families, the availability of kid menus makes it a family-friendly activity.

The Sum Up

The Ben Thanh Princess Dining Cruise offers a charming way to view Ho Chi Minh City by night, combining scenic waterway views, a delicious multi-course meal, and lively entertainment. It’s an experience that emphasizes comfort, good value, and authentic enjoyment, making it a highlight for many visitors.

For those who want to enjoy the city’s illuminated skyline from a relaxed setting, this cruise delivers. It’s especially suited for travelers looking to unwind after a day of exploring, couples seeking a romantic outing, or anyone eager for an authentic yet comfortable river cruise experience in Vietnam’s bustling metropolis.

If you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable evening with beautiful views and tasty food, the Ben Thanh Princess Dining Cruise should definitely be on your list.

FAQs

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
While not strictly enforced, smart casual attire is recommended. The evenings can be warm but slightly breezy, so dress comfortably but neatly.

What time should I arrive for boarding?
You should arrive before 19:25 to ensure you don’t miss the boat, as late arrivals are not eligible for refunds.

Are vegetarian and kid menus available?
Yes, vegetarian and kid-friendly options are available. It’s best to notify the operator after booking if you have specific dietary needs.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included. You can purchase beverages onboard or bring your own, but check the policy beforehand.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, from around 19:30 to 21:30.

What landmarks can I expect to see?
You’ll see Ho Chi Minh’s skyline and landmarks like Thu Thiem Bridge and Vietcombank Tower from the river.

Can I expect entertainment onboard?
Yes, there is live band music or a magic show provided throughout the cruise, enhancing the overall experience.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether the Ben Thanh Princess Dining Cruise fits your travel style. With its blend of scenic views, delicious food, and lively entertainment, it’s a memorable way to experience Ho Chi Minh City from the water.