Ben Thanh Princess Luxurious Dining Cruise in Ho Chi Minh City

Travelers seeking a memorable evening in Ho Chi Minh City often look for unique ways to see the city’s skyline while enjoying good food and entertainment. The Ben Thanh Princess Luxurious Dining Cruise offers just that—a scenic journey on the Saigon River paired with a delicious meal and vibrant live music. This experience has garnered a spotless 5.0 rating from 21 reviews, making it a popular choice among visitors.

What makes this cruise stand out? First, the stunning views of Ho Chi Minh’s illuminated skyline from the river are quite captivating—imagine seeing the city’s modern towers and historic landmarks glow against the night sky. Second, the quality of the food earns high praise; many reviewers mention the beautifully served, tasty dishes that range from local favorites to international fare.

However, one thing to consider is that drinks are not included, so you might want to budget for beverages separately. This cruise is best suited for those wanting a relaxed, elegant evening with a touch of romance or a special celebration. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or a partner, you’ll find this experience offers a comfortable blend of scenery, entertainment, and good food.

Key Points

• Great value for the price of $58 per person, including a 2-hour scenic cruise, live music, and a meal.
• Beautiful panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline at night.
• High-quality, delicious food with options for kids, vegans, and vegetarians.
• Relaxing atmosphere with live bands or magic shows creating an engaging ambiance.
• Good for families, couples, and groups looking for a memorable evening.
• Weather-dependent activity—cancellation due to poor weather might apply, but full refunds are available.

Contents

• Key Points
• A closer look at the experience
• The Setting and Scene
• The Itinerary and Duration
• The Food and Drinks
• Entertainment and Atmosphere
• Group Size and Accessibility
• Weather and Cancellation
• Authentic Feedback from Travelers
• Practical Tips for Travelers
• Who Should Book This Tour?
• The Sum Up
• FAQ
• Our Top Picks in Ho Chi Minh City
• More City Tours in Ho Chi Minh City
• More Boat Tours & Cruises in Ho Chi Minh City
• More Tour Reviews in Ho Chi Minh City
• Not for you? Here's more things to do in Ho Chi Minh City we have recnetly reviewed

A closer look at the experience

The Setting and Scene

Once onboard the Ben Thanh Princess, the scene immediately hints at understated luxury. The boat features a blend of modern tropical architecture, giving it a chic yet relaxed vibe fitting for a city like Ho Chi Minh. During the cruise, you’ll glide smoothly along the Saigon River, with the city’s skyline glowing in the distance. The city’s lights—both green and red beacons—flash across the river, creating a lively yet tranquil backdrop that’s perfect for photography or simply soaking in the moment.

The Itinerary and Duration

The cruise lasts about two hours, a generous window to enjoy the views, music, and food without feeling rushed. It begins at 7:00 pm at the designated meeting point on Nguyen Tt Thanh street in District 4, a convenient location in the heart of the city. The cruise ends back at the starting point, which makes logistics straightforward for travelers.

The Food and Drinks

A standout feature of this cruise is undoubtedly the dining experience. The menu includes a variety of local and international dishes—think Vietnamese staples alongside international fare, served in a beautifully presented style. Reviewers like Monica, who called the dinner “perfectly served and delicious,” highlight the high quality of the food, suggesting it’s more than just a snack; it’s an integral part of the experience.

For children or families, there’s the option of kids’ menu dinners, featuring characters like Donald Duck and Pluto, adding a playful touch. Vegan and vegetarian options are available if pre-requested, making it flexible to different dietary needs.

One aspect to note is that drinks are not included in the price, so you should plan to purchase beverages separately on board or before the cruise. This might seem like a small detail, but it’s worth considering when budgeting for the evening.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

Throughout the cruise, you’ll be serenaded by a live band or possibly a magic show, depending on the schedule. Reviewers often mention how the live music adds to the ambiance, creating a romantic or lively atmosphere that enhances the scenic experience. Whether you prefer gentle melodies or more upbeat tunes, the entertainment aims to complement the city’s vibrant nighttime energy.

Group Size and Accessibility

The cruise is designed for up to 100 travelers, making it a comfortably sized group without feeling crowded. Most travelers find the experience intimate enough to enjoy conversations or simply relax and take in the surroundings. The activity is suitable for most age groups, including families and older travelers, provided they’re comfortable with the timing and the boat environment.

Weather and Cancellation

Since the cruise is weather-dependent, it’s possible that poor weather might lead to cancellation. The policy states that if the cruise is canceled due to bad weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund. No partial refunds are available, so it’s best to plan this experience during clear evenings.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviewers express high satisfaction with the experience. Monica described her evening as “relaxing, entertaining, and wonderful,” praising the friendly staff and the delicious food. She also appreciated the beautiful atmosphere, reinforcing how the combination of scenery and entertainment creates a memorable night.

Another testimonial mentions the captivating views of Saigon’s vibrant lights, which make the cruise more than just a dinner—it’s a visual feast. The music, the city lights, and the gentle river movement combine to create an unforgettable ambiance.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early to allow time for check-in and to find a good spot for photos.
• Since drinks are not included, consider bringing cash or cards for beverages or souvenirs.
• If you have dietary restrictions, request vegan/vegetarian options in advance.
• Dress comfortably but smartly—smart casual is suitable for the elegant vibe.
• Check the weather forecast and plan for an alternative date if rain is expected.
• Consider combining this cruise with daytime sightseeing for a full Ho Chi Minh experience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is an excellent choice for couples seeking romance, families with children, or groups of friends wanting a relaxed evening with great views. Its affordable price point offers good value for the experience of a scenic river cruise combined with quality entertainment and food. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate live music and want a comfortable, upscale environment.

While not a full city tour, it offers a perfect nightcap to a day of sightseeing, adding a splash of elegance and relaxation to your Ho Chi Minh adventure.

The Sum Up

The Ben Thanh Princess Luxurious Dining Cruise delivers a genuinely enjoyable evening in Ho Chi Minh City. It combines stunning river views, tasty local and international cuisine, and the warm ambiance of live music—all at a reasonable price. This experience is best suited for those wanting a romantic or celebratory night with minimal fuss but maximum atmosphere.

Travelers looking for authentic, well-reviewed experiences that balance scenic beauty with good food will find this cruise a worthwhile addition to their Vietnam itinerary. The smooth blend of comfort, entertainment, and gorgeous vistas makes it a highlight for many visitors—no wonder it boasts a flawless 5-star rating.

For anyone eager to see Ho Chi Minh from a different perspective—by river, under the stars, with a glass of something special—this cruise is a solid choice. Just remember to plan your weather and beverage needs, and you’re all set for a memorable night on the Saigon River.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, there is a kids’ menu available, and the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere makes it suitable for children.

What is included in the price?
The $58 fee covers a 2-hour cruise, live band music or magic show, insurance, and a meal with options for dietary restrictions if requested.

Are drinks included?
No, beverages are not included in the price. You will need to purchase drinks separately on board or beforehand.

What time does the cruise start?
It departs at 7:00 pm from the specified meeting point.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, if the weather causes cancellation, you will be offered a new date or full refund.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, up to 100 travelers can participate, making it a comfortably sized experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak times.