Phu My Port: Shore Excursion Mekong Delta My Tho – Ben Tre

Discovering the Mekong Delta from Phu My Port: A Practical Guide

If your cruise dock at Phu My Port and you’re craving a genuine taste of southern Vietnam, a day trip to the Mekong Delta offers a compelling mix of scenic boat rides, local flavors, and traditional crafts. For $189 per person, with a private guide and transportation arranged by Hiep Travel, you get to see the lush countryside, learn about local livelihoods, and enjoy a hearty Vietnamese lunch—all in about a day.

What we particularly love about this tour is the personalized experience it provides—your own guide ensures you see the highlights at a comfortable pace, avoiding the often crowded tourist spots. Plus, the boat trip along natural creeks and the chance to taste fresh fruits and honey directly from orchards make it both authentic and flavorful.

One consideration to keep in mind is the long transfer time—about four hours each way from Phu My Port to Ben Tre, which means you’ll need a good night’s sleep in Ho Chi Minh City before or after. This makes the tour better suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of a journey and want a comprehensive Mekong experience, rather than a quick peek.

If you’re interested in exploring Vietnam’s agricultural heartland, enjoy boat rides, local food, and crafts, this tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed day. It’s ideal for those who want a personal, in-depth look at life along the Mekong River without the chaos of large group tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: With a private guide, you get tailored insights and more flexibility.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Tasting fresh fruits, honey, and traditional Vietnamese dishes enhances the cultural experience.
• Beautiful Scenery: The boat rides through natural creeks and along the Mekong River offer picturesque views.
• Cultural Insights: Visiting orchards, honey farms, and coconut candy makers reveals local livelihoods.
• Long Travel Time: About 4 hours each way, so it’s best combined with an overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
• Value for Money: The price includes transportation, guide, lunch, and entrance fees, making it a comprehensive package.

A detailed walkthrough of the tour experience

Starting at Phu My Port

As your cruise docks, you’ll notice that the departure point is conveniently close—just about 500 meters from your ship. The guide, often holding a welcome board with your name, will meet you and lead you to the air-conditioned private car. This initial ride sets the tone: comfortable, stress-free, and ready for the journey ahead.

Transfer to My Tho City

The drive to Vung Tau, then onward to My Tho, takes around four hours, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenery—green rice paddies, distant industrial zones, and hints of life along the river. The lengthy trip might be a consideration if you prefer shorter excursions, but it also means you’ll get a real feel for the countryside that surrounds Ho Chi Minh City.

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Exploring My Tho

Once in My Tho, you’ll cruise along a tranquil creek leading to Phoenix Island, a peaceful spot where you’ll see daily Vietnamese river life. Your guide might share tidbits about how the town has shifted from Cambodian control to Vietnamese hands, adding historical context to your journey.

The Boat Ride on the Mekong

The highlight is undoubtedly the boat trip along the Mekong River, where you’ll enjoy magnificent views of lush riverbanks and traditional stilt houses. Many travelers appreciate this part as it captures the essence of Vietnamese rural life—residents tending to their orchards, fishing, and crafting. As one reviewer notes, “The boat ride was a real highlight, with peaceful scenes and friendly locals waving from the banks.”

Visiting Orchards, Honey Farms, and Coconut Candy Makers

Next, your group will stop at a local garden restaurant for a traditional Vietnamese lunch, often served with fresh herbs, rice, and seafood or chicken—simple but delicious. Afterward, you’ll visit orchards and a bee-keeping farm where you can taste natural honey and honey wine. The taste of fresh fruit straight from the trees is something many travelers find memorable—especially if you’re a fan of sweet, natural flavors.

You’ll see how coconut candy is made and even get to taste it, along with coconut pulp—an authentic craft that locals have perfected over generations. These hands-on experiences are often highlighted as the most authentic aspects of the tour, offering a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese livelihoods.

Bonsai Gardens and Return to Phu My Port

On the way back, you’ll stop at a bonsai garden in My Tho, a tranquil spot that showcases the artistry and patience involved in this ancient craft. The return journey completes your day, with a comfortable ride back to Phu My Port—ready to board your cruise with plenty of stories and photos.

Authenticity, Value, and Practical Tips

The entire day is designed to maximize authenticity while providing good value—your price covers guide fees, lunch, entrance fees, and private transportation. Many reviews praise the personalized approach and the quality of the local experiences. However, travelers should be prepared for the long drive, and those with limited mobility might find the trip challenging.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Mekong Delta trip is best suited for cruise passengers who don’t mind a long travel day and want an in-depth look at rural life and natural scenery. It’s perfect if you’re interested in local crafts, food, and landscapes rather than quick sightseeing. It also suits those who appreciate a personalized guide and a more relaxed, intimate experience rather than large bus tours.

Those planning to stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City will get the most out of this trip, as it involves significant travel time. If you prefer a shorter or more active experience, consider other options that focus on closer regions.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated encounter with Vietnam’s fertile delta—combining scenic boat rides, tasty local foods, and hands-on crafts. It’s a great way to see a different side of Vietnam beyond the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City, especially if you appreciate authentic experiences over touristy gimmicks.

The personalized guiding and focus on local livelihoods make it a meaningful outing, ideal for those who want to learn about Vietnam’s agricultural roots. The long drive might be a downside for some, but if you’re prepared for the journey, it rewards you with a genuine slice of Mekong life.

In the end, this experience provides solid value—transport, guiding, and meals all included—and a chance to connect with Vietnam’s vibrant river culture. It’s perfect for curious travelers willing to invest a day in understanding the countryside and its people.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most likely, yes. However, because of the long drive (about four hours each way), it’s better suited for adults or older children who can comfortably sit through the trip.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes, camera, light clothes, and cash for small personal expenses are recommended. Luggage or large bags are not allowed on the tour.

Will I see traditional Vietnamese crafts?
Yes, you’ll visit a coconut candy maker and a bonsai garden, giving you insight into local craftsmanship.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat cruise along the Mekong River and creek is a highlight, but the exact duration isn’t specified—expect to spend a good part of the day on the water.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Generally, yes, but keep in mind the long travel time and the need for mobility.

What does the lunch include?
A Vietnamese-style meal at a garden restaurant, typically featuring rice, herbs, and local proteins—simple and tasty.

Are drinks included?
Bottled water is provided, but other drinks are at your expense.

Is it easy to book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, which provides flexibility.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Would this tour suit someone interested in Vietnamese history?
While it offers cultural insights through local crafts and scenery, it’s more about the rural lifestyle than historical monuments.

This detailed review should help you decide whether a day exploring the Mekong Delta from Phu My Port matches your travel aspirations. For a memorable, authentic experience in southern Vietnam, it’s definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: