Dinner on Cruise with Buffet/Set menu with live music

Taking a dinner cruise in Ho Chi Minh City offers a uniquely relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective. While it’s a popular choice for visitors craving a blend of scenic views, good food, and entertainment, a well-reviewed experience like this promises more than just sightseeing. It’s a chance to unwind, indulge, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Saigon after sunset.

What makes this cruise special? First, the stunning night views of the city’s iconic riverside landmarks. Second, the live music performance adds a lively, cultural touch that elevates the entire evening. Third, the cozy, atmospheric dining setting makes for an intimate, romantic experience.

That said, some travelers might want to consider the cost—at $62 per person, this experience leans toward the premium side, especially since drinks are not included. Still, for those seeking a well-rounded, engaging night out with excellent value for what’s offered, this cruise ticks many boxes.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates authentic experiences with a touch of elegance—without sacrificing the local flavor—this dinner cruise is likely to suit your style.

Key Points

• Scenic Night Views: Perfect for seeing Saigon’s riverside landmarks illuminated after dark.
• Authentic Cultural Entertainment: Live music, Vietnamese dance, and occasional Filipino performances.
• Gourmet Dining: Over 30 international and Vietnamese dishes, either buffet or set menu options.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance your experience and ensure comfort.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Good Value for Money: A memorable experience that combines sight, sound, and taste at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

How the Evening Unfolds

The adventure starts with a hotel pickup at 17:30 or 18:30, depending on your schedule, which is a nice touch—no need to worry about transportation logistics. The transfer takes you to the Indochina Queen dock at 05 Nguyễn Tt Thành Street, District 4, near Nhà Rng. Once there, you’ll check in and get a chance to explore the boat, snap photos, or simply soak in the pre-cruise atmosphere.

Pre-Cruise Relaxation

From about 18:15 to 19:00, you’ll have some free time onboard to relax and enjoy the ambiance. This is a great time to settle into your seat, take in the view, or grab a quick drink (note: drinks are not included in the tour). The light entertainment before dinner adds to the anticipation, helping you unwind and prepare for the evening ahead.

Dining with a View

At around 19:00, the buffet or set menu opens, offering a diverse selection of over 30 dishes. The buffet typically features Vietnamese staples and international favorites, allowing you to sample local flavors alongside more familiar options. The dinner service lasts until about 19:45, giving you ample time to savor your meal while enjoying the river scenery.

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Cruising the Saigon River

The highlight begins at approximately 19:45 when the boat departs for a scenic cruise along the Saigon River. As you glide past notable sights like Nha Rng, Nguyn Hu Street, and the Thu Thiem Bridge, you’ll appreciate the city’s skyline illuminated in the evening glow. Many reviews, including that of Aurea, emphasize the cruise as a very unique way to see Ho Chi Minh City from the water, offering perspectives you simply can’t get from land.

Entertainment Aboard

Between 20:00 and 21:00, the boat is alive with live music performances—from guitar and violin acts to traditional Vietnamese dance and even Filipino acts. Flair shows also add lively moments, making the cruise feel festive. Aurea mentioned, “The entertainment and the guide made the evening fantastic,” highlighting how engaging the performances can be.

Wrapping Up the Night

The cruise concludes around 21:15, with the boat returning to dock. Disembarkation is straightforward, and the transfer back to your hotel wraps up a well-rounded evening. The entire experience lasts roughly 4 hours, blending sightseeing, dining, and entertainment in a seamless package.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This cruise package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, cruise tickets, and a dinner with a buffet or set menu. A professional bilingual guide (Vietnamese/English) is also part of the experience, ensuring you understand what’s happening and can ask questions.

Drinks, however, are not included, so if you plan to enjoy a cocktail or beer, be prepared for additional costs. Also, personal expenses like souvenirs or extra beverages are on you.

Booking Flexibility and Value

One of the appealing aspects of this tour is the reserve and pay later policy, which keeps your plans flexible. Plus, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—an excellent feature for spontaneous travelers or those with uncertain schedules.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

The only review available gives high praise: “The whole evening was fantastic, the food, the entertainment, and a lovely guide named Tai who made sure we were comfortable and settled.” This highlights the importance of a friendly, attentive guide and the overall quality of the experience.

The reviewer, Aurea, also appreciated the good value for money and the personalized care from guides like Tai, which can make a big difference in how relaxed and enjoyable your night feels.

Why This Cruise Is Worth It

This experience balances scenic beauty, cultural entertainment, and delicious dining into an evening that feels both special and genuine. Unlike typical land-based dinners, being on the water offers a tranquil, scenic backdrop that enhances the meal and entertainment.

It’s particularly suited for couples seeking a romantic evening, families wanting a fun and scenic outing, or anyone interested in experiencing Saigon’s vibrant nightlife from a different vantage point. The combination of good food, lively entertainment, and impressive views makes it one of the more memorable ways to spend an evening in Ho Chi Minh City.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy dining with a view and want a blend of entertainment and cultural flair, this cruise is a solid choice. It’s great for those who appreciate live music and authentic performances and want a hassle-free experience with hotel transfers included.

However, if your budget is tight or you prefer more casual, land-based dining options, this experience might feel like a splurge. Also, if you’re not a fan of cruises or get seasick easily, you might want to consider other evening activities.

The Sum Up

This dinner cruise on the Saigon River offers a compelling mix of scenic night views, engaging live entertainment, and diverse cuisine. It’s a well-organized, authentic way to enjoy Ho Chi Minh City from a different angle, especially if you value cultural performances and a cozy dining atmosphere. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide and the flexibility of booking make it accessible and convenient, adding to its appeal.

While it might not be the cheapest option, the overall experience delivers good value for money—making it ideal for travelers looking to indulge in a memorable, scenic night out. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a relaxing evening, this cruise promises a beautiful, lively, and tasty journey along the Saigon River.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the evening stress-free and more convenient for travelers.

What type of dinner is served?
Guests can enjoy a buffet or set menu with over 30 international and Vietnamese dishes, giving a variety of flavors to choose from.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included. You might want to bring extra cash if you plan to purchase beverages onboard.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience, from pickup to return, lasts around 4 hours, with the cruise itself taking about 1.5 hours.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Is live entertainment available during the cruise?
Absolutely. The cruise features live music, traditional Vietnamese dance, and occasionally Filipino performances, enhancing the festive atmosphere.

This dinner cruise offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to see Ho Chi Minh City from the water, making it an experience worth considering for your stay.

You can check availability for your dates here: