Discover Ho Chi Minh City By Boat With These Unique Tours

With so many big-hitting sights, it can be hard to get a fresh look at Ho Chi Minh City. These handpicked tours and experiences take you away from the crowds and show Vietnam’s largest city in a whole different light.

One of the best ways to escape the crowds in Ho Chi Minh City, while still seeing the best of the city, is by boat. From sunset cruises to dragon temples, we’ve picked these unique and exhilarating tours, taking you to places that a taxi simply couldn’t reach.

1. The History of Cu Chi Tunnels by Luxury Speedboat

Tours

Located about 70 kilometres (105 miles) to the north-west of HCMC, the Cu Chi tunnels were built during the Vietnam War, serving as hiding spots and routes for supplies and ammunition for the Viet Cong. The tunnel system was significant in helping the Viet Cong to hold back American forces and it subsequently became a historic site. This is a unique and incomparable wonder with 250 kilometres (155 miles) of tunnels spreading like cobwebs underground, was used for trenches, docks, fighting places, eating, sleeping, meetings, activities, military, food storage, water wells and Hoang Cam stoves among others.

2. Dinner Cruise on Saigon River by Bonsai Cruise

Admission

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind dinner cruise on our uniquely crafted Indochinese river vessel Bonsai Legacy by Bonsai Cruise. This fully staffed & authentic 1 hour 45 minutes dinner cruise allows you to discover the heart of Saigon from a different angle. We deliver a new level of special that is unsurpassed in local cruises. A haven for multi-sensory surprises with an innovative menu and beverage concepts. We empower local artisans, traders, chefs and artists to promote the traditional crafts and arts of South East Asia especially those in Vietnam. A place where ancient Indochina meets French savior-faire all colliding with fast paced Ho Chi Minh City. Elegance, elevation and experience – The Bonsai way.

3. Can Gio Biosphere Reserve Tour by Luxury Speedboat

Tours

Take a scenic journey by luxury speedboat to the mangrove forests of the UNESCO-listed Can Gio Biosphere Reserve. This full-day eco-adventure takes you from Ho Chi Minh City past canals of the Mekong Delta, stopping at a lively riverside market. You’ll explore Giant Bat Lagoon by rowboat, visit a crocodile reserve, trek through mangrove jungle, observe gibbons and monkeys, and enjoy bird watching with a knowledgeable guide. A chef serves a traditional Vietnamese lunch. Numbers are limited to 14 people, ensuring an informative experience with a small group.

4. SMALL GROUP Luxury Sunset Mekong With LUNCH ON CRUISE With Enjoy Fishing

Tours

SMALL GROUP Luxury Sunset Mekong Delta full-day guided tours are highly recommended for guests who wish to learn more about the values of Mekong region like the beautiful natural landscape, the daily life of friendly local people and traditional culture. You will also enjoy a lesser-seen glimpse into rural Vietnam as it trundles along a slow tempo, as it has done for centuries.

5. Dragon Floating Temple Sightseeing by Luxury Speedboat

Tours

Explore the exotic swath of land outside of Ho Chi Minh City with this luxury speedboat excursion up the Saigon River. Get acquainted with various villages to see what rural life is like outside of the city that locals still call Saigon. Hop off the boat and do some wandering by foot, as you discover another side of Vietnam. Visit Phu Chau Floating Temple, where your guide will share details about the local religious beliefs and practices.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.