Ben Thanh Princess Luxurious Dining Cruise in Ho Chi Minh City

If you’re looking for a way to see Ho Chi Minh City from a different perspective, the Ben Thanh Princess cruise offers a 2-hour scenic journey along the Saigon River that combines elegance, entertainment, and tasty food. It’s a relaxed yet memorable way to wind down after a busy day exploring the city, or to start an evening with a touch of glamour.

We love that this cruise provides a luxurious setting to enjoy the city’s sparkling skyline, especially when paired with a tasty meal and live music. The fact that it’s so well-rated—receiving a flawless 5-star from all reviews—says a lot about its appeal. However, it’s worth noting that drinks aren’t included, so budget for that if you’re planning to toast or indulge further. This experience suits couples, families, or groups seeking an elegant, relaxed evening with authentic touches of Ho Chi Minh’s vibrant atmosphere.

Key Points

• Stunning River Views: Enjoy panoramic sights of Ho Chi Minh City’s lights and skyline from the comfort of a luxurious cruise ship.
• Quality Dining: Feast on a variety of local and international dishes, with the option for kids’ meals, served during the 2-hour cruise.
• Live Entertainment: Be serenaded by a live band or magic show, adding an engaging soundtrack to your evening.
• Ideal for Upscale Gatherings: The modern tropical design and elegant ambiance make it a perfect spot for special occasions.
• Great Value: At $52 per person, the experience offers a memorable combination of scenery, food, and entertainment, all within a manageable time frame.
• Book in Advance: Most travelers reserve their spots about 6 days ahead, indicating its popularity.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setting and Atmosphere

The Ben Thanh Princess cruise boat is designed to reflect a blend of tropical modernity and comfort. Its architecture echoes Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant culture while offering a sleek, upscale feel. As you step aboard, you’re greeted by a spacious deck that’s perfect for soaking in the views and chatting with your travel companions.

The scenic ride along the Saigon River is a highlight itself. From the water, the city’s skyline appears particularly stunning at night, with buildings and bridges lit up in a vibrant display of reds, greens, and golds. One reviewer mentioned that the “vibrant lights of Saigon, green and red beacons, the urban landscape gleaming with vitality and glamor” create an atmosphere that feels both glamorous and tranquil.

The Dinner Experience

A major draw of this cruise is the dining options. For $52, you get a well-curated spread of local and international dishes served during your journey. While the menu details aren’t exhaustively listed, reviewers have appreciated the high quality and deliciousness of the food, noting that dinner was served perfectly.

There’s also an option for kids’ menus, featuring familiar characters like Donald Duck and Pluto, which can make the experience more family-friendly. Since the cruise lasts only about two hours, the meal is timed to be satisfying without feeling rushed.

Live Music and Entertainment

Throughout the cruise, you’ll be serenaded by a live band, which adds a layer of charm and authenticity. One reviewer described the music as “entertaining,” emphasizing that it added to the overall beautiful atmosphere.

In some cases, there’s also a magic show, which can be a nice surprise and keeps both kids and adults entertained. The live performances help set a romantic and lively tone, perfect for couples celebrating a special night or groups looking to enjoy a lively, yet relaxed setting.

Group Size and Booking

The cruise accommodates up to 100 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate enough to enjoy the scenery and entertainment but large enough for a lively atmosphere. The recommended booking window is about 6 days in advance, pointing to its popularity, especially among visitors seeking a unique evening activity.

Practicalities and Tips

• Meeting Point: The cruise departs from 5 Nguyen Tt Thanh, Quận 4. Arriving a little earlier than the 7:00 pm start time can give you time to settle in and find a good spot for viewing.
• Weather Dependence: Since it’s an outdoor experience on a river, poor weather can lead to cancellations, but the operator offers full refunds or alternative dates if this occurs.
• Drinks: Be aware that drinks aren’t included, so you might want to bring cash or cards for additional beverages.
• Duration: With a roughly 2-hour schedule, it’s ideal for those wanting a relaxed, manageable evening without committing to a full-day tour.

What Reviewers Highlight

One guest described the experience as “relaxing, entertaining, wonderful,” praising the attentive service from staff like My and Dien. The food’s quality and presentation received particular praise, with comments on how well it was served and how delicious it was. The combination of great views, good music, and tasty food makes this cruise stand out as a charming way to enjoy Ho Chi Minh City from a different vantage point.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who appreciate upscale, scenic experiences with a relaxed vibe. It’s perfect for couples looking for a romantic night, families wanting a comfortable, entertaining evening, or small groups celebrating special occasions. If you enjoy live music, delicious food, and beautiful cityscapes, this cruise checks all those boxes.

However, if you’re seeking a fully inclusive experience with drinks included or prefer a more adventure-filled activity, this might feel a bit tame. It’s also ideal if you’re short on time but still want to enjoy the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City’s nightlights from the water.

Final Thoughts

The Ben Thanh Princess cruise delivers a refined way to experience Ho Chi Minh City. With its combination of stunning waterfront views, quality dining, and engaging entertainment, it offers excellent value at just over $50 per person. It’s an experience that balances elegance with authentic local character, making it ideal for travelers who want to indulge a little while soaking in the city’s vibrant glow.

The attention to detail—like the live music, kid-friendly options, and modern tropical architecture—shows that this cruise was designed for comfort and memorable moments. Most guests leave with a sense of having enjoyed a peaceful, beautiful evening that highlights the city’s lively spirit in a relaxed setting.

If you’re after a well-organized, enjoyable river cruise that emphasizes good food, great views, and lively entertainment, this experience is well worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who want a taste of Ho Chi Minh City’s nightlife without the hustle and bustle of busy streets—just good food, good music, and a spectacular backdrop.

FAQ

What is included in the price of $52?
The fare covers a 2-hour cruise, insurance, live band music or a magic show, and a kids’ menu option if needed. Drinks and personal expenses are not included.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 6 days ahead, which ensures you secure a spot during peak times.

Where does the cruise start?
It departs from 5 Nguyen Tt Thanh in Quận 4, Ho Chi Minh City.

Is this experience suitable for families?
Yes, especially since there’s a kids’ menu available, and the entertainment is family-friendly.

What should I expect to see during the cruise?
Expect scenic views of Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline illuminated at night, with floating lights and vibrant city beacons creating a lively backdrop.

Are drinks available onboard?
Not included in the ticket price. You’ll need to purchase drinks separately if desired.

What is the cancellation policy?
The experience is non-refundable. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a full refund or an alternative date.

This cruise offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Ho Chi Minh City’s lively nights with a touch of class. Whether you’re celebrating, relaxing, or simply wanting a unique vantage point, you’ll find this experience provides good value and memorable moments.