Luxury Dinner on Saigon – Ben Thanh Princess Cruise with 3 Course

If you’re after a blend of luxury, scenic views, and a taste of Vietnamese cuisine, the Luxury Dinner on Saigon aboard the Ben Thanh Princess offers a compelling option. This 2-hour cruise takes you along the Saigon River, showcasing the city’s dazzling skyline at night while serving up a thoughtfully curated dining experience. With its modern yet classic European design spanning four floors, this cruise promises a unique atmosphere that’s perfect for romantic evenings, special celebrations, or simply indulging in a memorable night out.

One thing we love about this cruise is its stunning vantage points—the top deck’s 360-degree skyview allows for fantastic photos of landmarks like Landmark 81, Bitexco Tower, and the vibrant riverbank lights. However, potential travelers should consider that the cruise is relatively short, at about two hours, which might feel a bit rushed for those wanting an extended experience. Still, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of elegance and scenic beauty in a manageable timeframe. It’s well suited for couples celebrating anniversaries, groups of friends, or anyone wanting an immersive yet comfortable introduction to Saigon’s nightscape.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The cruise offers panoramic vistas of Saigon’s illuminated skyline, perfect for photography.
• Luxury Atmosphere: The elegant European-inspired decor combined with modern furniture creates a sophisticated setting.
• Diverse Decks: Four floors, including a sky-deck for 360-degree views, offer versatile spaces for relaxation or entertainment.
• Cultural Cuisine: Enjoy a 3-course Vietnamese meal with traditional flavors, served in a refined setting.
• Flexible Experiences: Suitable for romantic dinners, celebrations, or casual meetups.
• Convenient Pickup: Hotel or Saigon Port pickup included enhances ease of access to the cruise.

An In-Depth Look at the Cruise Experience

The Setting and Design

The Ben Thanh Princess is a visual treat with its sleek white exterior and delicate European touches. Its modern furniture and classic touches mean you’ll feel both comforted and transported to an elegant setting. The cruise’s four levels each have a purpose: the basement houses crew and kitchen staff, the main decks are places to dine and socialize, and the top deck is a highlight, offering a 360-degree sky view.

Guests often remark on how beautiful the ship looks at night, especially when lit up against the dark river and city backdrop. The top deck, in particular, becomes a versatile space—by day, a peaceful retreat to enjoy the river, and by night, a lively dance floor or fashion stage, as some reviews have noted.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise begins with pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point at the Saigon Port Maritime Service Center. From there, you’ll be driven to the dock, where the Indochina Junk awaits. Boarding is smooth, with friendly staff guiding you to your seat and setting the tone for a relaxed evening.

Once aboard, we loved the way the cruise glided gracefully along the Saigon River, giving ample time to admire the city’s skyline. Notable landmarks like Vinhomes Central Park, Vinhome Golden River, and Landmark 81 are particularly photogenic from the water. The gentle movement of the boat means you’re not tossed around, making it comfortable even for those prone to seasickness.

The Dining Experience

The highlight of this cruise is, of course, the 3-course Vietnamese dinner. The menu offers a taste of local flavors elevated with a touch of elegance. Guests have described the meal as both authentic and well-presented, perfect for those who appreciate traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a refined setting.

As you dine, you can listen to a curated playlist of relaxing music, blending classic and modern tunes, which enhances the ambiance. Reviewers have appreciated the service, noting that the staff is attentive without being intrusive, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.

The Views and Atmosphere

What makes this cruise stand out is its stunning scenery—the city lights reflecting on the river, the illuminated skyscrapers, and the peaceful flow of water create a picture-perfect backdrop. Some travelers have mentioned they took numerous photos from the top deck, where the view is unobstructed and panoramic.

The mood can shift from tranquil during the day to lively at night, especially if the top deck is used as a dance floor or stage. This flexibility makes the Ben Thanh Princess suitable for a variety of occasions, from romantic dinners to celebratory gatherings.

Duration and Group Size

The cruise lasts approximately two hours, making it a manageable outing that doesn’t feel overly long or rushed. Since the tour is private, only your group participates, which allows for a more personalized and intimate experience. This setup ensures that you can relax and enjoy the views without the hustle of large crowds.

Cost and Value

At $79 per person, this experience offers good value considering the scenic views, the quality of the meal, and the convenience of pickup and drop-off. While it’s a bit pricier than some casual dining options, the exclusivity, ambiance, and picturesque setting justify the expense. Many reviews highlight that the experience feels luxurious without being overly expensive, especially when compared to other river cruises or dinner options.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for romantic couples seeking a memorable night out with stunning city views, friends celebrating special occasions, or travelers wanting an elegant introduction to Saigon’s luminous skyline. It’s also a good option for anyone wanting a relaxing, scenic dinner with minimal fuss. If you’re after a longer or more activity-packed tour, you might find this cruise a little brief, but for a taste of luxury and scenic beauty, it hits the mark.

Practical Information

• Meeting point: Saigon Port Maritime Service Center
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours
• Price: $79 per person
• Included: Pickup and drop-off, English-speaking guide, dinner
• Excluded: Personal expenses, tips, small extra fee ($7-10 USD) for other districts pickup
• Booking: Usually booked around 24 days in advance
• Accessibility: Suitable for most travelers; most can participate

FAQs

Is pickup included in the price?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at hotels or Saigon Port are included in the ticket price, making it convenient to start your evening without logistical worries.

What kind of meal will I get?
You’ll enjoy a 3-course Vietnamese meal that combines traditional flavors with elegant presentation, perfect for a fine dining experience on the water.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about two hours, providing enough time for sightseeing, dining, and relaxing without feeling rushed.

Can I go alone or is it for groups?
This experience is private for your group, so it’s ideal whether you’re alone, a couple, or a small group of friends or family.

What can I expect to see from the boat?
The cruise offers stunning views of Saigon’s illuminated skyline, including landmarks like Landmark 81 and the Bitexco Tower, along with reflections on the river.

Is the top deck suitable for daytime and nighttime?
Absolutely. During the day, the top deck is a peaceful spot to enjoy the river, and at night, it transforms into an energetic space for dancing or socializing.

What’s the dress code?
While there’s no strict dress code, smart casual attire is recommended to match the elegant surroundings.

Are drinks included?
No, the package includes only the meal. Drinks are typically available for purchase onboard.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking an elegant, scenic, and culturally enriching dining experience in Ho Chi Minh City, the Ben Thanh Princess cruise ticks many boxes. Its combination of breathtaking skyline views, luxurious decor, and delicious Vietnamese cuisine makes it a memorable outing, particularly for those celebrating special moments or simply wanting to see Saigon from a different perspective.

While it might not suit travelers looking for a lengthy or action-packed tour, those craving a relaxed, romantic, and visually stunning dinner will find this cruise highly rewarding. The attentive service, convenient pickup, and beautiful setting create a hassle-free experience that adds a touch of class to your stay.

In the end, this cruise offers genuine value for those who appreciate quality, scenery, and a peaceful, intimate atmosphere. It’s a clever way to combine sightseeing, fine dining, and relaxation in one elegant package.

Choose this experience if you want a beautifully curated night with unforgettable views and delicious food—perfect for creating lasting memories in Saigon.