Vung Tau is more than just a seaside town; it’s a gateway to some of the most engaging boat tours and cruises in Vietnam. Whether you’re arriving on a cruise ship or looking for a scenic way to explore Ho Chi Minh City’s highlights, this region offers options that blend culture, history, and local flavor. Of particular note are tours that include private guides, authentic meals, and flexible itineraries, making your day both informative and memorable. For example, the Private Ho Chi Minh City Tour for Cruise Passengers offers personalized service and hassle-free transfers, ideal for those who want a tailored experience without the stress of navigating on their own. Meanwhile, the Ho Chi Minh City Private Shore Excursion provides a budget-friendly yet rundown for travelers eager to see the main sights.
If you’re the type who loves a more cultural edge, the Shore Excursion: Saigon Highlights from any Cruise Port offers a customizable half-day tour with local insights. And for those wanting a truly local experience, the Ho Chi Minh City: Shore Excursion With a Local From Cruise Port combines history, street markets, and a short cyclo ride—all led by a local guide. Each of these options highlights the diversity of what Vung Tau and Ho Chi Minh City have to offer visitors arriving by cruise.
1. Private Ho Chi Minh City Tour for Cruise Passengers
At number 1 on our list, the Private Ho Chi Minh City Tour for Cruise Passengers emphasizes personalized attention. For about $185 per person, this full-day experience is tailored specifically for cruise visitors with limited time. It begins with hassle-free port transfers—whether from Phu My or SPCT ports—and takes you through key landmarks like the City Hall, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, the Opera House, and Notre Dame Cathedral. The tour also includes visits to Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum, giving you a concise yet comprehensive look at Ho Chi Minh City’s history.
What makes this tour stand out is the flexibility. Your guide adapts the itinerary to suit your pace, allowing extra time for shopping at Ben Thanh Market or relaxing over a local coffee. The private transport ensures comfort and efficiency, especially valuable after a long flight or prior travel fatigue. Guests consistently praise the personalized service and knowledge of the guide, with reviews like “Kain was over the top excellent… knowledgeable, kind, organized, and flexible.” This tour is perfect if you want a deep dive into Saigon’s sights without the hassle of self-planning.
Bottom Line: For cruise passengers wanting expert-led, flexible sightseeing with a personal touch, this private tour hits the mark.
2. Ho Chi Minh City Private Shore Excursion from Cruise Port
At number 2, the Ho Chi Minh City Private Shore Excursion is a solid choice for travelers seeking a full day of exploration at a more affordable rate—around $115 per person. This tour offers a well-rounded experience, starting with an easy pickup from your cruise port and covering highlights like the Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Reunification Palace. It also includes visits to the War Remnants Museum and a chance to enjoy authentic Vietnamese lunch.
What makes this tour especially appealing are the customer reviews praising guides like Hani and Barney, who were described as friendly, knowledgeable, and capable of taking guests to off-the-beaten-path spots. The tour’s itinerary is flexible, allowing you to spend more time shopping at Ben Thanh Market or exploring the Chinatown area. It’s ideal for those who want a personalized experience but with a shorter time commitment than a full day.
For travelers who value local insights combined with convenience, this option offers great value. The inclusion of a traditional Vietnamese lunch and the ability to customize your day makes it a strong contender.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for travelers wanting a flexible, affordable, yet comprehensive city experience in Ho Chi Minh City.
3. Shore Excursion: Saigon Highlights from any Cruise Port
Number 3 on our list is the Shore Excursion: Saigon Highlights from any Cruise Port. For $186.67 per person, this option is a good fit for travelers who want to focus on key sites within 8 to 10 hours. It includes visits to the Central Post Office, Reunification Palace, and the War Remnants Museum. It also features a Vietnamese-style lunch at a local restaurant and free time at Dong Khoi shopping street or Ben Thanh Market.
What sets this tour apart is its flexibility, with the ability to change activities based on your cruise schedule and weather. Guests appreciate the focus on highlights and the inclusion of a delicious meal to fuel your sightseeing. The tour is particularly suitable for those who want a balance of cultural sites and free time to explore on their own.
Given the high ratings and positive reviews, this tour offers reliability and convenience, making it a practical choice for cruise visitors with limited time.
Bottom Line: A flexible, highlight-focused tour perfect for travelers wanting to hit the main sights and enjoy local cuisine.
$186.67 per person
4. Ho Chi Minh City: Shore Excursion With a Local From Cruise Port
Our final pick, number 4, is the Ho Chi Minh City: Shore Excursion With a Local From Cruise Port. Costing only $20 per person, this tour offers an 8-hour deep dive into the city with the benefit of local insights. It includes visiting the Secret Weapons Cellar, a fascinating wartime relic, and hearing personal stories from a local guide about life during and after the war.
Highlights also include exploring Ho Thi Ky Flower Market—a sensory overload of colors and aromas—and a short cyclo ride around the city, giving a taste of local travel. The guide’s storytelling and focus on Vietnam’s past and present make this tour educational and intimate, especially appreciated by history buffs and cultural explorers.
One review states, “The guide explained the significance of each site and made the day unforgettable.” It’s perfect for travelers on a budget who want a genuine local perspective, without sacrificing depth or comfort.
Bottom Line: Best suited for curious travelers interested in Vietnam’s wartime history and local street life, all at an accessible price.
$20.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour or Cruise
When selecting your boat tour in Vung Tau, consider what kind of experience you’re after. If you crave a personalized, full-day exploration, the Private Ho Chi Minh City Tour offers tailored stops and expert guidance. For a more budget-conscious but still comprehensive journey, the Ho Chi Minh City Private Shore Excursion makes a compelling case, especially if you want to customize your day.
For those with limited time but a desire for a curated highlight reel, the Saigon Highlights Tour balances sightseeing with free time. And if you’re eager to connect directly with local life and history, the Shore Excursion With a Local provides an authentic, storytelling-rich experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, since these tours often fill up quickly. Think about your interests—history, shopping, culture—and pick the tour that best matches your pace and curiosity.
Final Thoughts
Vung Tau and Ho Chi Minh City present a variety of boat and shore excursions suited to different tastes and schedules. For travelers who want a private, customized experience, the Private Ho Chi Minh City Tour is a standout. If you’re budget-conscious but still want a well-rounded overview, the Shore Excursion with a Local offers excellent value. Those looking to maximize their limited port time will appreciate the Saigon Highlights tour’s efficiency.
No matter which you choose, each offers a chance to experience the fascinating history, lively markets, and vibrant streets of southern Vietnam. Be sure to compare itineraries, reviews, and prices to pick the best fit for your trip—and remember, booking early often makes travel smoother. Enjoy your adventure in Vung Tau and Ho Chi Minh City!