Ben Tre stands out as a top destination for boat tours and cruises thanks to its tranquil waterways, lush coconut groves, and small villages that offer a glimpse into daily life along the Mekong Delta. Unlike busy tourist hubs, Ben Tre’s tours tend to focus on authentic experiences, such as exploring narrow canals, enjoying local cuisine, and meeting community members. For example, the Ben Tre Mekong Zig Zag: Scooter, Sailboat, and Food lets you zigzag through villages on motorbikes and sail quiet tributaries, giving you a personal touch and avoiding the crowds. If relaxation is your style, the Mekong relaxing boat cruise through quiet canal offers a peaceful way to unwind on gentle waters, with a sunset view that’s hard to beat. For those with a half-day to spare, the Ben Tre Half Day Tour with Scooter, Sailboat, and Mekong Food provides a perfect combination of exploring rural villages and enjoying local flavors. Lastly, if you’re looking for a full-day experience from Ho Chi Minh City, the Saigon: Mekong Delta Day Cruise offers a comprehensive, all-inclusive trip that showcases the best of the waterway.
Quick Overview
This list includes full-day, half-day, and relaxing cruises, each highlighting something unique. Whether it’s the thrilling motorbike adventures and local dining of the Zig Zag tour, the serene sailboat rides on quiet tributaries, or the comprehensive Mekong experience from Saigon, there’s a trip suited for different interests and schedules. Now, let’s dive into each one to see what makes them special.
1. Ben Tre Mekong Zig Zag: Scooter, Sailboat, and Food
At number 1, the Ben Tre Mekong Zig Zag offers a full-day deep dive into authentic Mekong life. For around $59, you’ll spend approximately 6 to 7 hours exploring villages, cruising on local ferries, and savoring traditional dishes. What makes this tour stand out is its combination of motorbike rides through rural villages and sailing quiet canals. Your day begins with an early pickup in Ben Tre, where experienced drivers take you zigzagging through lush coconut groves, passing by villagers working their land. You’ll visit a traditional Mekong house, gaining insight into local customs and daily routines.
One of the highlights is the authentic Mekong lunch, prepared by a local family, where you indulge in dishes made from fresh ingredients, complemented by coconut juice and kumquat. The guides are praised for their warmth and knowledge, and reviews highlight the intimacy and spontaneity of the experience—no large crowds or tourist traps here. If you’re after a personalized journey that combines adventure, culture, and cuisine, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom line: For a full-day, adventure-packed experience that mixes motorbiking, sailing, and local food, this tour offers incredible value and genuine interactions.
2. Ben Tre Half Day Tour with Scooter, Sailboat and Mekong Food
At number 2, the Ben Tre Half Day Tour is perfect if you want a shorter but still richly authentic experience. For just $49, you get about 4.5 hours exploring villages, cruising on a unique sailboat, and sampling Mekong cuisine. This tour is especially good for travelers with limited time who still want a taste of local life.
The itinerary emphasizes off-the-beaten-path villages, like Nhơn Thạnh, where you’ll visit a mat-weaving family and see how locals make their living. The sailboat cruise along winding tributaries offers a peaceful contrast to the busy streets, with lush greenery all around. The guide’s warmth and attentiveness is often mentioned in reviews, and participants enjoy the chance to avoid tourist-heavy spots.
This tour’s blend of rural exploration and culinary delights makes it a great value. It’s well-suited for those who want a quick immersion into Mekong life without a full-day commitment.
Bottom line: If time is tight but you want authentic sights, local food, and a peaceful boat ride, this half-day tour packs a lot into a short trip.
3. Mekong Relaxing Boat Cruise through Quiet Canal
Number 3 on our list, the Mekong relaxing boat cruise is all about unwinding. For $35, it lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering a calm, scenic ride ideal for those who want to soak in the peaceful side of the Mekong. This tour is designed for relaxation, with a small group cruising on gentle waters surrounded by green foliage and coconut palms.
Start with a short motorbike pickup, then glide along narrow waterways that rarely see travelers—except for this boat. The experience includes local snacks, fresh coconut water, and tea, all while enjoying the sunset. Many reviews praise the intimacy and tranquility, making it a perfect option for families or couples seeking a quiet moment amid nature.
What makes this cruise stand out is its focus on serenity rather than activity-packed excursions. It’s simple but authentic, giving you a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the Mekong in a peaceful setting.
Bottom line: Ideal for relaxation and enjoying scenic waterside views, this cruise is best suited for travelers craving calm and quiet.
4. Saigon: Mekong Delta Day Cruise
Finally, the Saigon: Mekong Delta Day Cruise provides a full-day adventure originating from Ho Chi Minh City. Priced at around $39.90, it’s perfect if you prefer a guided, all-inclusive experience with transportation included. This tour runs roughly 10 hours and covers highlights like a boat trip on the Tien River, visits to local islands, and traditional folk entertainment.
The tour begins early with hotel pickup, then takes you to My Tho, where you’ll enjoy a boat ride passing fishing ports, stilt houses, and several islets. A major advantage is the comprehensive itinerary—plus, all logistics like transportation and lunch are handled for you. It’s packaged for convenience, especially appealing to first-time visitors unfamiliar with the area.
What makes this trip special is its blend of scenic river cruising, local fruit sampling, and cultural insights. Reviews note the well-paced itinerary and friendly guides. It’s especially suited for those looking for a stress-free day that combines sightseeing and comfort.
Bottom line: For a full-day, guided experience with everything taken care of, this tour offers great value and convenience.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Ben Tre
When selecting your boat experience, consider your budget, time availability, and what you want most from the trip. If you’re after an adventure with motorbikes and local dining, the Zig Zag tour is unbeatable. Want a relaxing, scenic cruise? The quiet canal cruise offers tranquil waters and stunning sunsets. For those pressed for time but seeking a rich taste of local life, the half-day tour strikes a good balance. And if you prefer a guided, all-inclusive day from Saigon, the full-day cruise might be your best bet.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, and consider combining a tour with a stay in Ben Tre for the most immersive experience. Each offers a different window into the Mekong’s charms—so choose what fits your curiosity, schedule, and comfort level.
In summary, whether you want an adventurous day on motorbikes, a relaxing boat ride, or a comprehensive guided trip, Ben Tre has a boat tour that will meet your needs. Exploring these waterways provides a wonderful way to see authentic Vietnam, away from the crowds, and at your own pace. Once decided, don’t wait—these trips fill up fast!