The historic city of Hue shines brightest from its waterways, where traditional dragon boats ply the peaceful Perfume River. The river cruises here are wonderfully efficient – you’ll float past the city’s greatest hits including royal tombs and Buddhist pagodas. I’m especially fond of the combination tours that mix river cruising with city exploration by car or bike. These give you the best of both worlds: water views and inland discoveries.
My favorite options are the small-group dragon boat excursions (intimate and authentic) and the sunset cruises (fantastic photo ops of the citadel). Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the standard day cruises, while those seeking something special can book private tours with afternoon tea service.
Check out our carefully selected top boat tours below.
Key Points
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Hue Dragon Boat Tours offer a serene journey along the Perfume River with visits to Thien Mu Pagoda and Royal Tombs, rated 5.0 with a 100% recommendation rate.
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Hue City Tours provide a comprehensive half-day experience, combining car travel and dragon boat rides to explore ancient temples, ruins, and the Imperial Citadel.
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Private Tours of Royal Heritage offer a 5.0-rated experience, with a dragon boat ride, lunch, and guided exploration of Khai Dinh Tomb, Tu Duc Tomb, and the Citadel.
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Unique Tombs Tour Experiences combine bike and boat cruise for an immersive adventure, visiting three tombs with lunch and water included, priced from €76.
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Evening and Specialty Cruises feature dinner with local delicacies, observing the Hoi An fish market, with an afternoon tea cruise option starting from $18.20.
Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Visit Thien Mu Pagoda and Royal Tombs
Serenity envelops visitors as they embark on the Hue Dragon Boat Tour, a captivating journey along the Perfume River.
This private excursion offers the chance to explore Thien Mu Pagoda, a revered Buddhist temple, and the impressive Royal Tombs, the final resting places of Hue’s former emperors.
Led by an expert English-speaking guide, travelers enjoy the convenience of a private air-conditioned vehicle and the flexibility to set their own pace.
With a 5.0 rating and 100% recommendation, this tour provides excellent value, from the scenic boat ride to the well-preserved historic sites.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a peaceful respite, the Hue Dragon Boat Tour promises an unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Visit Thien Mu Pagoda and Royal Tombs Review
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Hue City Tour Half Day by Car & Dragon Boat on Perfume River
Travelers eager to enjoy the rich history and cultural heritage of Hue will find the Hue City Tour Half Day by Car & Dragon Boat on Perfume River an enticing option.
This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the ancient temples, ruins, and the iconic Imperial Citadel. Highlights include a visit to the serene Thien Mu Pagoda and a scenic dragon boat ride on the Perfume River.
With knowledgeable local guides, visitors will learn about the city’s Buddhist influences and cultural significance. Priced at $29 per person, the tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and the option to customize the experience.
Positive reviews praise the informative guides and the opportunity to personalize the tour for a truly memorable Hue adventure.
Read our full review: Hue City Tour Half Day by Car & Dragon Boat on Perfume River Review
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Hue Private Tour: Royal Tombs, Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda by Boat
For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of Hue’s royal heritage, the Hue Private Tour: Royal Tombs, Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda by Boat provides an immersive experience.
Rated 5.0 out of 17 reviews, this private tour takes visitors to the Khai Dinh Tomb, Tu Duc Tomb, and Imperial Citadel, with a dragon boat experience on the Perfume River.
Along with an English-speaking guide, the tour includes lunch, mineral water, and all entrance fees. Priced from $70 per person, this experience is accessible to most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair-friendly.
With convenient pickup locations and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour offers a personalized way to discover Hue’s imperial treasures.
Read our full review: Hue Private Tour: Royal Tombs, Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda by Boat Review
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Hue Tombs Tour by Bike and Boat Cruise on Perfume River
Embarking on a captivating journey, the Hue Tombs Tour by Bike and Boat Cruise on Perfume River offers a unique way to explore the imperial legacy of this Vietnamese city.
With 18 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this tour promises an immersive experience. Priced from €76, it includes a Dragon Boat trip and visits to 3 tombs, along with lunch and water.
Travelers can expect an informative English-speaking guide, bicycle rental, and convenient hotel pickup. While a moderate fitness level is required, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this tour provides flexibility and value for money.
Read our full review: Hue Tombs Tour by Bike and Boat Cruise on Perfume River Review
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Hue City Tour 3 Tomb & Citadel Sightseeing Perfume River By Dragon Boat
Enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Hue, Vietnam, with the captivating Hue City Tour 3 Tomb & Citadel Sightseeing Perfume River By Dragon Boat.
This private full-day tour whisks you to key sites, including the Thanh Toan Bridge, Khai Dinh Tomb, Citadel, and Thien Mu Pagoda. Glide along the Perfume River on a scenic dragon boat ride, and experience local culture at a bustling market.
Travel in a private, wheelchair-accessible vehicle with an English-speaking driver, and enjoy hassle-free round-trip hotel transfers.
With mineral water, Wi-Fi, and a perfect 5-star rating, this tour promises an unforgettable day exploring Hue’s historical gems.
Read our full review: Hue City Tour 3 Tomb & Citadel Sightseeing Perfume River By Dragon Boat Review
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Private Shore Excursions From Chan Port – Basket Boat- Foot Massage- Hoi an City
Travelers seeking an enriching shore excursion from Chan Port in Hue, Vietnam, will delight in this comprehensive private tour.
Priced from $154 per person, the excursion includes a modern air-conditioned vehicle, English-speaking guide, and an authentic Vietnamese set menu lunch.
Activities range from a relaxing basket boat ride to a rejuvenating foot massage.
The tour also visits the vibrant Hoi An City, known for its historic architecture and lively markets.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before and rave reviews, this private shore excursion is an excellent way to experience the best of Hue and its surroundings.
Read our full review: Private Shore Excursions From Chan Port – Basket Boat- Foot Massage- Hoi an City Review
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Hue Night And Dinner On Cruise
An evening cruise along the serene Perfume River in Hue offers a delightful way to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife.
This tour includes a dinner served on board, allowing you to savor local delicacies as you take in the sights.
You’ll also get to observe the bustling Hoi An fish market and try a local breakfast specialty during a walking tour of the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town.
English-speaking guides are provided, and hotel pickup and drop-off in Hue city center are included.
The cruise departs at 5:30 PM and costs around €89.47 per person, with a maximum of 15 travelers.
Reviews are mixed, with a 3.5 rating from 2 reviews.
Read our full review: Hue Night And Dinner On Cruise Review
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Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Hon Chen Palace, Royal Tombs, Pagoda
The Hue Dragon Boat Tour provides a captivating journey along the Perfume River, offering visitors a chance to explore the city’s renowned landmarks.
This private transfer from Hue to Hoi An includes stops at the iconic Hon Chen Palace, the serene Royal Tombs, and a picturesque Pagoda.
Along the way, travelers can enjoy the scenic drive along the Hai Van Pass and visit the Marble Mountains.
With hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as included entrance fees and travel insurance, this tour is a convenient and engaging way to experience Hue’s cultural highlights.
Priced from $52 per person, the Hue Dragon Boat Tour is an excellent value for travelers seeking a comprehensive sightseeing experience.
Read our full review: Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Hon Chen Palace, Royal Tombs, Pagoda Review
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HUE CITY TOUR With Perfume River Cruise
Exploring Hue’s historical highlights and scenic Perfume River is effortless with this comprehensive city tour. Rated 5.0 out of 1 review, this private excursion whisks you around Hue’s top attractions in a comfortable private car.
Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Perfume River, admiring the city’s picturesque landscapes. The tour includes a tasty local lunch, entrance fees, and all necessary transportation, making it a hassle-free way to discover Hue.
With wheelchair accessibility, infant seats, and proximity to public transit, this tour caters to a wide range of travelers. At $97 per person, it’s an excellent value for the comprehensive experience.
Book with confidence, as confirmation is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability.
Read our full review: HUE CITY TOUR With Perfume River Cruise Review
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Huong River Afternoon Tea Cruise Tour Along Hue City
Embarking on a leisurely Huong River Afternoon Tea Cruise Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy Hue’s captivating ambiance.
This 90-minute cruise along the Huong River showcases the city’s serene beauty while guests indulge in a luxurious afternoon tea experience. Passengers can savor an array of pastries and herbal tea as they take in the scenic views.
The cruise departs at 4:00 PM from the Moon River Cruises location, with staff greeting and checking guests before boarding.
Wheelchair-accessible and stroller-friendly, the tour accommodates most travelers, including infants. Priced from $18.20 per person, the Huong River Afternoon Tea Cruise Tour provides a delightful and relaxing way to explore Hue’s waterways.
Read our full review: Huong River Afternoon Tea Cruise Tour Along Hue City Review
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Scenic Dragon Boat Trip On Perfume River – Hue City
Why not learn about the serene beauty of Hue’s Perfume River on a scenic dragon boat trip? This tour offers excellent value for money, starting from just $52 per person.
You’ll enjoy a day away from the city hustle and a romantic night, including a delicious dinner. The tour includes an English-speaking guide, boat trip, air-conditioned vehicle transfer, lunch, and entrance fees.
While personal expenses and tips aren’t included, this is still a great deal. With only 2 reviews averaging 3.5 stars, it’s important to manage expectations.
But if you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water in Hue, this dragon boat trip could be a fantastic option.
Read our full review: Scenic Dragon Boat Trip On Perfume River – Hue City Review
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Recap
Hue’s dragon boat tours and boat cruises offer a unique way to explore the city’s historical and cultural attractions. With options like visiting the Thien Mu Pagoda, Royal Tombs, and Perfume River, travelers can enjoy the region’s rich heritage. Whether you prefer a half-day excursion or a longer river cruise, Hue’s boat tours provide a relaxing and scenic way to discover this Vietnamese gem.