Exploring Ben Thanh Princess Dining Cruise in Ho Chi Minh

Taking a boat cruise through Ho Chi Minh City’s shimmering river at sunset offers a relaxing way to see the city from a different angle. The Ben Thanh Princess Dining Cruise promises a memorable night filled with scenic views, live entertainment, and a tasty three-course meal—all for just $49 per person. With a solid rating of 5.0 from seven reviews, it’s clearly an experience that resonates with many travelers.

What we love about this cruise is how effortlessly it combines sightseeing, entertainment, and a good meal into a single, well-organized package. The fact that it’s a small group (max 200 guests) means there’s plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy the journey comfortably. One consideration is that late arrivals aren’t refundable, so punctuality is key. This experience works particularly well for those seeking a relaxing evening with a touch of romance or family fun, especially if you appreciate good food and lively music.

Key Points

• Great value for money at $49, including a three-course meal and live entertainment
• Beautiful nighttime views of Ho Chi Minh’s skyline and landmarks like Thu Thiem Bridge and Vietcombank Tower
• Flexible dietary options available, including vegetarian, vegan, and kid-friendly menus
• Seamless boarding and organized schedule—arrive before 19:25 to avoid missing the cruise
• Authentic local and international cuisine served during the cruise, with some reviews highlighting the delicious food
• Good weather dependency—cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled

What to Expect on the Ben Thanh Princess Dining Cruise

The experience starts in the early evening, around 5:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to settle in before boarding at 19:25. The meeting point is conveniently located at 5 Nguyen Tt Thành, Phng 13, Quận 4, making it accessible whether you’re staying downtown or nearby. Once on board, you’ll be greeted and shown to your seat, ready for a scenic 2-hour cruise along the Saigon River.

The cruise itself is a leisurely ride designed to showcase Ho Chi Minh’s illuminated skyline and notable landmarks. From the deck, you’ll see impressive structures like the Thu Thiem Bridge and the Vietcombank Tower, which light up as night falls—perfect for photos and appreciating the city’s modern charm from the water.

The Scenic Views

The real highlight of this cruise is the chance to see Ho Chi Minh from a different perspective. The river offers a tranquil contrast to the busy city streets, and the skyline becomes a glittering backdrop for your evening. Reviewers mention the seamless boarding process and the fantastic views, which make the experience feel smooth and enjoyable.

The Food: A Three-Course Delight

One of the best parts of this tour is the three-course set menu, which features a mix of local and international dishes. Although the menu can change slightly based on what’s available, the quality and variety are generally praised. Vegetarian and kid-friendly options are offered, so be sure to inform the operator if you have dietary restrictions.

Guests have described the meal as delicious and well-portioned—a nice surprise considering the reasonable price point. During the cruise, you can enjoy your meal while listening to the live band, which adds a touch of romance or lively fun, depending on your mood.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

Live band music or a magic show creates an engaging backdrop for the cruise. The reviews highlight the seamless entertainment and how it enhances the overall experience. The atmosphere is relaxed but festive, making it suitable for couples, small groups, or families.

Timing and Punctuality

It’s important to arrive before 19:25, as later arrivals won’t be able to board and the ticket isn’t refundable. The cruise departs promptly to maximize your two hours on the water. Disembarkation is at 21:30, giving you ample time to enjoy the city afterward.

Why This Cruise Offers Good Value

While $49 might seem modest, the price covers not just the scenic 2-hour cruise but also the meal, entertainment, and insurance—an all-in-one package that minimizes extras or hidden costs. Drinks aren’t included, so if you want cocktails or beverages, you’ll need to purchase them separately. Still, the overall experience is seen as quite affordable compared to similar luxury cruises in other destinations.

Authentic Experiences

Reviewers like Trevor_M mention, “Great experience on a warm night. Seamless boarding, meal service and entertainment.” Such feedback suggests that it’s a well-organized, enjoyable outing with genuine value—especially as it combines sightseeing, dining, and entertainment in one affordable ticket.

The Ideal Audience for This Tour

This cruise is particularly suited for travelers wanting an affordable yet elegant evening activity. It’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic setting, families looking for a relaxed dinner with entertainment, or anyone curious to see Ho Chi Minh’s skyline from the water. If you appreciate good food and live music, you’ll find this cruise hits the right notes.

It’s probably best for those who are okay with weather-dependent plans, as poor weather could lead to cancellations. The cruise is also a great option for those who want a structured, organized experience with a set start time, rather than a flexible boat ride.

The Bottom Line

In terms of experience, the Ben Thanh Princess Dining Cruise offers a blend of scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and entertainment—all at an accessible price. The combination of a beautiful river ride, quality food, and lively music makes it a memorable way to spend an evening in Ho Chi Minh City.

The cruise’s highlights—such as the stunning nighttime skyline, well-curated menu, and smooth organization—are what make it stand out. It’s an especially good choice if you’re looking for a relaxed, low-stress way to see the city and enjoy a meal with friends or loved ones.

For those wanting a genuine taste of Ho Chi Minh’s vibrant night scene from the water without breaking the bank, this cruise is a solid pick. It’s best suited for travelers who value comfort, good food, and authentic local experiences over overly elaborate or touristy activities.

FAQs

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
There’s no strict dress code, but smart casual is recommended. Many guests dress relaxed but tidy, especially if you want good photos or a slightly more elegant vibe.

Can I bring my own drinks?
No, drinks are not included in the ticket price. You’ll have to purchase beverages separately on board if you wish.

What if I arrive late?
Arriving after 19:25 means you miss the cruise, as late arrivals are not refundable and the boat departs promptly. It’s best to plan ahead and arrive early.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, kids are welcome, and a kid-friendly menu is available. The lively atmosphere and scenic ride can be enjoyable for families.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, from departure at 19:25 to disembarkation at 21:30.

What weather conditions might affect the cruise?
Since the experience is weather-dependent, poor weather like heavy rain or storms could lead to cancellations. In such cases, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, the Ben Thanh Princess Dining Cruise offers a well-rounded, authentic Ho Chi Minh experience that combines scenic river views, tasty cuisine, and lively entertainment—all at a reasonable price. It’s best for those who seek a relaxed, enjoyable evening with good value, especially if you’re a fan of water-based sightseeing paired with local flavors and culture. Whether for a romantic night out or a fun family adventure, it’s a cruise worth considering on your Ho Chi Minh itinerary.