VIP Tour to Dragon Floating Temple by Speed Boat

Traveling through Ho Chi Minh City often means enjoying its bustling streets, neon lights, and energetic vibe. But for those wanting to escape the city’s hustle and get a glimpse of Vietnam’s tranquil rural side, this VIP tour to the Dragon Floating Temple offers a fascinating contrast. Over approximately 1.5 hours, you’ll cruise in style via speedboat, passing scenic islands and visiting iconic sites like the Phu Chau Floating Temple and Thanh Da Island.

One aspect we truly appreciate is how smoothly the tour combines scenic river cruising with cultural visits, giving you a well-rounded experience. The opportunity to wander around Binh Quoi Village and enjoy fresh air away from the city’s chaos is a noteworthy highlight.

A minor consideration is that the tour is designed for small groups, which is ideal for intimacy but might mean limited availability during peak seasons. This experience is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, authentic slice of Vietnam’s countryside, especially those interested in local religion and rural life.

Key Points

• Authentic Rural Experience: Wander through peaceful villages and scenic landscapes away from Ho Chi Minh City’s busy streets.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the floating Phu Chau Temple and learn about local religious practices.
• Comfortable & Compact: Small group size with knowledgeable guides enhances the personalized feel.
• Ideal Timing: Choose from morning or afternoon departures based on your schedule and weather considerations.
• Value for Money: At $234, it offers a unique mix of scenery, culture, and comfort with included amenities like drinks and guide service.
• Easy Logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make the experience hassle-free.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point & Ease of Access

The tour kicks off at Bach Dang Quay 10B in Ho Chi Minh City, conveniently close to public transportation, including waterbus stations. This location is perfect if you’re staying downtown or nearby, keeping travel time minimal. The pickup service, included in the price, means you can relax from the moment your adventure begins, without the stress of organizing transport.

The Speedboat Ride: A Scenic Flight in Water

Cruising in a luxury speedboat makes this experience feel exclusive yet accessible. The boat is equipped with safety features such as insurance and life jackets, which adds peace of mind. The ride itself is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, during which you’ll pass Saigon Bridge and Saigon Port, offering a glimpse of the city’s river infrastructure from a new perspective.

Guests have mentioned enjoying coconut juice and fresh fruits on board, which adds a refreshing touch—perfect for beating the heat on a sunny day. The boat’s moderate speed allows plenty of time to admire the scenery, with the option to take photos or simply soak in the tranquility of Vietnam’s river life.

Thanh Da Island & Binh Quoi Village

After cruising past Thanh Da Island—a lush, quiet area—your journey takes you to Binh Quoi Village, often referred to as the city’s own version of the Mekong Delta. Here, you can stroll through peaceful paths, observe traditional homes, and appreciate the untouched rural atmosphere.

Reviewers highlight how wandering in Binh Quoi offers a reprieve from urban life, with one noting, “It’s a great little excursion for smaller children,” emphasizing how family-friendly and relaxed the environment is. It’s a chance to step back in time and see Vietnam’s countryside without leaving the city.

Visiting Phu Chau Floating Temple

The highlight for many is the Phu Chau Floating Temple, a floating shrine that exemplifies local religious practices. Your guide will share insights into the temple’s significance, giving you a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s spiritual landscape. Visitors have described the temple as a “floating cathedral”, noting how special it feels to witness such a unique religious site on the water.

Authentic Local Encounters & Cultural Insights

Reviewers like Glynis O. speak highly of guides who are kind, knowledgeable, and attentive—they often take interest in children and make the trip engaging for all ages. The guides’ stories about local beliefs and history add depth to the experience, transforming a simple cruise into an educational outing.

Duration & Group Size

The tour lasts around 1.5 hours, making it a perfect quick escape without feeling rushed. With a maximum of 15 travelers, the group size fosters a more intimate, personalized atmosphere. This is ideal for travelers who prefer meaningful interactions over large tour groups.

Price & Value

At $234 per person, the tour may seem a little pricey at first glance, but it includes many thoughtful touches: hotel pickup and drop-off, insurance, guides, refreshments, and wet towels to stay fresh. The combination of scenic cruising, cultural visits, and comfortable transportation makes it a worthwhile investment for those seeking an authentic, relaxed day out.

Weather & Seasonal Tips

The tour operates year-round, with recommendations to carry an umbrella from May to October and a light jacket from November to February. Since weather can influence the experience, especially the boat ride, clear, sunny days will give you the best views and comfort.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides combined with cultural exploration in a relaxed setting. Families with small children will appreciate the gentle pace and engaging guides. Those interested in religious sites and local villages will find the floating temples and rural scenery particularly meaningful.

It’s also well-suited for day-trippers staying in Ho Chi Minh City who want a quick escape into Vietnam’s countryside without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. If you’re after a more immersive or adventurous experience, you might find this tour a bit tame, but for a calm, scenic outing, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This VIP speedboat tour to Dragon Floating Temple offers a wonderful way to see a different side of Vietnam—away from the busy city streets and into peaceful rural landscapes. It combines scenic river cruising, cultural insights, and small-group intimacy, making it a memorable outing suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a calm, authentic experience.

The guides’ friendliness and knowledge, along with the included refreshments and easy logistics, add to the overall value. While the price might seem high for some, the unique combination of scenery, culture, and comfort makes it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting to see Vietnam’s countryside in style.

If you’re after a gentle, culturally rich day out with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxed wandering, this tour will not disappoint.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at the Saigon Waterbus Station (Bach Dang pier), making logistics smooth and convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, blending boat cruising with stops at key sites.

Can I choose between morning and afternoon departures?
Absolutely, you can select morning or afternoon options based on your schedule or weather preferences.

Are refreshments provided?
Yes, guests enjoy coconut juice and fresh fruits on the boat, along with Lavie water and wet towels.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s considered family-friendly, with many reviewers noting children enjoyed the gentle boat ride and the relaxed atmosphere.

What are the main sights visited?
The highlights include Thanh Da Island, Binh Quoi Village, and the Phu Chau Floating Temple.

What should I bring?
An umbrella from May to October and a light jacket from November to February are recommended. Comfortable shoes for wandering are also suggested.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

This tour offers a rare peek into Vietnam’s rural waterway life, all wrapped in comfort and guided expertise. Whether you’re a culture buff, a family, or just seeking a peaceful day away from the city, it’s a memorable way to connect with Vietnam’s water-bound traditions.