Luxury Dinner on Saigon Ben Thanh Princess Cruise with 3 Course

A Night on the Water: The Luxury Saigon Dinner Cruise Experience

When visiting Ho Chi Minh City, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of motorbikes, markets, and street food. But for a different perspective, a luxury dinner cruise aboard the Saigon Ben Thanh Princess offers a peaceful, scenic escape along the Saigon River. For just $79 per person, you get approximately two hours of elegant dining, spectacular city views, and the chance to unwind with good food and live music.

Our first impression was the cruise’s bright white exterior and delicate European design, which immediately hints at a sophisticated experience. The boat has four floors, with the top deck providing a 360-degree panoramic view—perfect for soaking in the skyline or dancing under the stars. The main decks are tastefully furnished with a blend of modern comfort and classic style, creating an atmosphere that’s both relaxing and refined.

Two things we especially appreciate are the stunning views of landmarks like Landmark 81, Bitexco Tower, and Vinhome Golden River—these are the sights that define the modern skyline—and the live music that enhances the ambiance, making the entire evening feel both special and authentic.

A minor consideration is that if you’re not a fan of boats or have difficulty with movement, the 2-hour cruise might feel a bit brief. Also, while the cruise itself is quite a luxury, adding personalized drinks or extras outside the included meal could increase costs, so plan accordingly.

This experience suits travelers looking for a romantic night out, a celebration, or a unique way to see Ho Chi Minh City from the water. It’s also a great option for those who enjoy combining scenic views with good food and live entertainment.

Key Points

• Beautiful river views of Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline, including landmarks like Landmark 81.
• Luxury ambiance with classic European-style decor and modern comforts.
• Two-hour cruise offering relaxing dining, live music, and panoramic sky views.
• Includes a 3-course Vietnamese dinner prepared with care, served on a beautifully appointed boat.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off at your hotel or Saigon Port.
• Great for romantic evenings, celebrations, or a memorable introduction to Saigon from the water.

Exploring the Cruise: A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Setting and Atmosphere

What sets this cruise apart is its elegant design and the chance to enjoy Ho Chi Minh City’s illuminated skyline from a tranquil vantage point. The boat’s bright white exterior and European-inspired decor instantly suggest a luxurious experience. The four floors allow for varied experiences—whether you’re dining on the main deck, relaxing on the upper level, or enjoying the sky views from the sundeck.

From reviews, we see that travelers find the ambiance on the ship to be a major plus, with many mentioning how well the live music complements the setting. One reviewer called the vibe “great,” appreciating the surroundings and lights of the city from the water.

The Itinerary and Scenic Highlights

The cruise departs from Saigon Opera House, a central and convenient location. Once onboard, the boat glides along the Saigon River, offering breathtaking views of the modern riverside architecture. You’ll see landmarks such as Vinhomes Central Park, Vinhome Golden River, and the towering Landmark 81—the tallest building in Southeast Asia.

This part of the journey is particularly attractive at night when city lights shimmer across the water, creating a magical backdrop for your dinner. As one reviewer noted, “The ambiance on the ship was great. I enjoyed the live music, the surrounding buildings and lights!”

Dining Experience: Vietnamese Cuisine with a Touch of Elegance

The 3-course meal is described as typical luxury Vietnamese cuisine, prepared with care. While the menu specifics aren’t listed, reviewers highlight that “the food was very good,” and it’s served in a refined setting. The meal is complemented by a well-known selection of relaxing music, creating a true dinner and entertainment package.

Authentic flavors paired with the elegant surroundings make this a standout feature. Some travelers mention the delicious food and tapas-style dishes that allow for a leisurely dining experience without feeling rushed.

Live Music and Entertainment

The live music is a highlight according to reviews, with many mentioning how it enhanced the evening’s atmosphere. The music ranges from relaxing tunes to more lively selections, depending on the night. One reviewer said, “I loved the live music,” and many appreciated how it added a romantic or festive touch to the night.

The Top Deck: A 360-Degree Skyview

The sundeck is the star for those wanting a breathtaking view. It’s perfect during sunset or after dinner when the city lights are fully illuminated. Travelers say it’s a fantastic spot for photos and taking in the quiet beauty of the river at night. It can also serve as a dancing floor or fashion stage, making the cruise versatile for different occasions.

Practical Details: Comfort and Convenience

The cruise offers pickup and drop-off services from your hotel or Saigon Port, adding convenience especially after a night of indulgence. The tour lasts roughly 2 hours, a good length to enjoy the scenery without feeling fatigued.

The group size seems to be small, providing an intimate experience, and the private nature of bookings makes it suitable for couples, groups of friends, or small celebrations. The cost includes everything except personal expenses or tips, with a small extra fee ($7–$10) for additional district pickups.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

From genuine reviews, the guides are praised for their professionalism, with one reviewer noting “Luc our driver was very professional.” The views and ambiance consistently receive high marks, with comments like “lovely four-course meal on the top deck with live music and fantastic views.”

Plus, the value for money seems solid, given the included luxury setting, good food, live music, and scenic views—all bundled into a two-hour evening outing.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for romantic couples wanting a memorable night, small groups celebrating special occasions, or even solo travelers seeking a relaxed yet luxurious way to experience the city. It’s especially suitable if you appreciate dining with a view, enjoy live music, or want an authentic yet upscale way to see Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline from the river.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $79, this cruise offers a relaxing, scenic, and delicious way to spend an evening in Saigon. The combination of beautiful cityscape views, fine Vietnamese cuisine, and live entertainment makes it a worthwhile outing for those seeking a special night away from the busy streets.

While it may be a short experience, it’s packed with memorable moments—best suited for romance, celebration, or simply seeing the city from a different angle. The convenience of hotel pickup and the relaxed pace add to its appeal, making it accessible and enjoyable for most travelers.

If you’re after an elegant yet authentic way to enjoy Saigon’s nighttime charm, this cruise should be on your list.

FAQs

Is transportation provided for the cruise?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off services at your hotel or Saigon Port, making it easy to start and end your evening smoothly.

How long does the cruise last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy a meal, the views, and live music without it feeling rushed.

What is included in the meal?
A 3-course Vietnamese dinner is included, prepared to provide a luxurious dining experience with traditional flavors. Specific dishes aren’t listed, but reviews say the food is very good.

Can I see the city skyline from the cruise?
Absolutely. The cruise’s top deck offers a 360-degree sky view—ideal for photos and taking in landmarks like Landmark 81, Bitexco Tower, and Vinhome Golden River.

Is this experience suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While most travelers can participate, the 2-hour boat ride might be less suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children. It’s a peaceful, elegant experience primarily geared towards adults.

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 not eligible for a refund, so plan your schedule accordingly.

This luxury dinner cruise on the Saigon River offers a splendid blend of scenic beauty, fine food, and relaxing entertainment—truly a memorable way to see Ho Chi Minh City from a different perspective. Whether you’re celebrating, seeking romance, or simply want a peaceful retreat from the city’s energy, it’s an experience worth considering.