Imagine gliding smoothly along the Saigon River as the city lights flicker into life around you, a plate of delicious buffet food in front, and live traditional music filling the air. That’s exactly what the Deluxe Dining Cruise offers—a 3.5-hour journey that combines scenic views, good food, and lively entertainment in a relaxed, comfortably-paced setting.
For just $59 per person, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in District 1 or 3 and whisked away to Nha Rong harbor, where the cruise begins. We love how this experience provides a chance to see Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline from a different perspective—on the water—and to enjoy a well-rounded evening that balances sightseeing, good eats, and a touch of local culture.
A couple of things to keep in mind: the cruise lasts around 1.5 hours, which is ideal if you’re after a short, scenic outing rather than a lengthy tour. Also, the included buffet is a real highlight, but drinks and personal expenses are extra, so plan accordingly. This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing, intimate experience with stunning river views, tasty food, and a friendly guide to help you navigate.
Key Points

- Beautiful Views: See Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline and river sights from a unique vantage point.
- Delicious Buffet: Enjoy a variety of inspired cuisine that’s highly praised for value and flavor.
- Live Entertainment: Traditional music performances add a cultural touch to the evening.
- Convenient Pickup: Hotel pickup and drop-off in districts 1 and 3 make logistics easy.
- Short and Sweet: 3.5-hour duration fits well into most travel plans.
- Authentic Experience: The combination of scenery, food, and music offers a true taste of local ambiance.
A Detailed Look at the Experience

Location and Timing
The adventure begins at 210 Le Thanh Ton Street in District 1, a lively area close to many hotels and attractions. The meeting time is usually around 6:30 pm, so you’ll want to be ready in your hotel lobby or at the meeting point a bit earlier. The activity lasts about 3.5 hours, wrapping up back at the same meeting location, making it a straightforward evening outing.
Transportation & Convenience
Your experience includes air-conditioned transport from your hotel, which is a big plus, especially after a day of sightseeing in the humid Saigon heat. For travelers staying outside districts 1 and 3, the guide suggests arriving 10 minutes early at the meeting point—so plan your arrival accordingly.
What You’ll Do and See
Once onboard at Nha Rong harbor, you’ll be welcomed and shown to your table. The cruise lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, during which you’ll cruise along the Saigon River, passing by some of the city’s most iconic sights—though the reviews don’t specify exactly which sights, the river’s skyline and cityscape are the main attractions. The views are described as “amazing,” and many travelers find this perspective more relaxing and scenic than walking around on busy streets.
Dining Experience
The buffet menu has received high praise. One reviewer called it “excellent,” and others appreciate the value for money, especially considering the variety and quality of the food. You’ll find inspired dishes, likely a mix of Vietnamese favorites and international touches—perfect for diverse palates. Keep in mind, beverages are not included, so you might want to bring some cash or buy drinks onboard.
Music and Entertainment
The live music performance features traditional tunes that enhance the ambiance and lend an authentic Vietnamese flavor to your evening. While some reviews mention the music as “nice,” one traveler suggested including more entertainment such as comedy or magic shows, which could spice things up further.
Customer Feedback & Authentic Insights
The reviews give us a well-rounded picture. One traveler praised the “informative guide” who looked after the group professionally, enhancing the overall experience. Another appreciated the “stunning views” of the city from the river, calling it “a wonderful experience.” The buffet’s quality also garners consistent praise, confirming that this cruise offers good value for money.
A few minor points to consider: some reviews mention that bottled water would be a nice addition, and the activity isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments. Still, for most able-bodied travelers, the cruise is accessible enough, especially with the hotel pickup included.
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What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of scenic river views, delicious buffet, and live traditional music makes this cruise a well-rounded evening activity. It’s not just a sightseeing trip; it’s an opportunity to relax by the water, savor local flavors, and enjoy some cultural entertainment—something that’s often missing from more hurried city tours.
This experience particularly suits travelers who want an authentic yet laid-back way to experience Ho Chi Minh City, especially after a busy day exploring. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a memorable, peaceful evening will find plenty to love here.
Who Should Consider This Cruise?

If you enjoy scenic waterway views, good value buffet meals, and local cultural entertainment, this cruise will hit the spot. It’s especially suitable if you prefer a shorter, relaxing activity that doesn’t require a lot of walking or standing. It’s also a good choice for those interested in seeing the city from the river rather than on crowded streets.
However, if you’re seeking a lively party scene or more extensive entertainment, you might find this cruise a bit subdued. And if mobility is a concern, check with the provider beforehand, as it isn’t designed for people with mobility impairments.
Practical Tips for Your Cruise

- Bring your camera to capture the city skyline and river scenes.
- Cash is useful for beverages and personal expenses.
- Arrive at least 10 minutes early if you’re outside the designated pickup zones.
- Dress comfortably—smart casual is perfectly fine.
- Remember that drinks are not included, so plan to purchase what you want onboard.
- Be prepared for a relaxed, scenic 1.5-hour cruise, perfect for winding down after a busy day.
FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Pickup and drop-off from hotels in districts 1 and 3, a buffet dinner, an English-speaking guide, and transport by air-conditioned vehicle are included.
Are beverages included?
No, beverages are not included. You may want to bring cash to purchase drinks during the cruise.
What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, within a total experience of about 3.5 hours including transportation and boarding.
Is this activity suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for most able-bodied adults. The activity isn’t recommended for people with mobility impairments.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 210 Le Thanh Ton Street, District 1, and ends back at the same location.
The Deluxe Dining Cruise offers a charming way to see Ho Chi Minh City from a fresh vantage point while enjoying good food and cultural entertainment. It’s a relaxing, hassle-free option that balances scenic views, tasty buffet, and lively music—all within a comfortable 3.5-hour window. Perfect for travelers wanting a taste of local life on the river without a long, complicated tour.
Whether you’re celebrating a special evening, looking for a peaceful way to unwind, or simply want an authentic experience that combines sightseeing with local flavor, this cruise is worth considering. Just remember to bring your camera, some cash for drinks, and your appetite for a memorable night on the Saigon River.
While in Ho Chi Minh City, here are other experiences we've covered
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- Experience Dinner On Luxury Cruise Along Saigon River
- Ho Chi Minh: Enjoyable Dinner on Cruise with Live Music
- Ho Chi Minh: Private City Tour and Dinner Cruise with Buffet
- HCM: Night Experience Dinner Cruise on Saigon River
- Da Nang City Sightseeing And Dinner Cruise On Han River Tour
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- Saigon at Sunset: Ultimate Street Food Experience
- Ho Chi Minh: Authentic Vietnamese Dinner & Water Puppet Show
- Da Nang City Sightseeing And Dinner Cruise On Han River Tour
- HCM: Night Experience Dinner Cruise on Saigon River
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