Vietnam is home to many amazing beaches and waterways, making it an ideal heaven for cruises. Boats in Vietnam are an integral part of the country’s culture and rich history, given their economic and tourism importance. Boat trips are one of the best ways to discover spectacular landscapes, floating markets, islands and caves around Vietnam, so here are the most prominent destinations where you can take a cruise and the types of cruises.
Cruises in Ha Long Bay
One of the most beautiful natural landscapes you can see and visit in the world is Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the bay includes more than 1,900 towering limestone, Slate islands, and small islands that stretch over an area of 1,500 square kilometers, and many caves.
Halong Bay cruise is the perfect way to explore the bay, but you will find many trips that vary based on budget and duration, you can choose the most suitable and closest to your taste and needs, which are:
Day trips: These trips are usually 4 to 8 hours long, and this type of tour allows you to discover the most prominent landmarks of the islands and caves in the bay, and indulge in tasting local Vietnamese cuisine on the boat as you enjoy the surrounding natural scenery. These trips may be in the morning or at night to enjoy the sunset view, and this type of tour may include some different activities such as fishing or kayaking around the islands.
Long trips: If you have plenty of time, this type of trip will be perfect, as you can spend at least two days/night in the Bay. These trips are in large-sized ships and include cabins, meals and entertainment tours, there are two types of these trips: The first is luxury trips, and this type is ideal if you are looking for a luxury cruise in Vietnam where ships are equipped with the highest standard, luxury type food and swimming pools. The second type is budget trips, which is ideal if you want to explore the bay but on a limited budget.
Cruises in the Mekong River
One of the most important areas you shouldn't miss while in Vietnam is the Mekong Delta. In this region, you will meet the warmest Vietnamese people, and you will feel the splendour of the local vibes. with an opportunity to enjoy the sightings of colourful cities spread on both sides of the Mekong River, Visit floating markets, and eat local Vietnamese meals and tropical fruits, whether in Can Tho, Cai Be, Chau Doc, Sa Dec, or Ben Tre.
Mekong Delta Cruise will definitely be great to discover all of the above, and the types of Mekong River tours range to include
Floating Market Tours: This type of tour will be a favourite if you like traditional shopping or want to indulge in the local culture of the country, where you spend about half a day or a whole day among the locals who sell fruits and vegetables. The Mekong River Delta is famous for this type of market such as Cai Rang Market in Can Tho City.
Traditional Samban Boat Tours: This type of tour allows you to sail in the calm waterways and interact with the locals for an hour or two amid the spectacular landscape.
Day trips: These are mostly trips coming from Ho Chi Minh City, ranging in duration from 6 to 10 hours most of the time. This type of trip includes many tours, such as visiting floating markets, coconut candy factories, and local villages.
Overnight cruises: This type of trip lasts for two or more days and allows you to discover the Mekong Delta at your own Pace instead of exploring it in one day. During these trips, you can stay on board or spend a night in a local house on the banks of the river or what is known as huts.
Cruises in Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc Island, also known as Pearl Island, is Thailand's largest island with its white sandy beaches, turquoise water, lush greenery, and warm atmosphere, making it a beloved destination for domestic and international tourists in recent years. Phu Quoc Island is famous for several reasons, most notably fishing and many other water activities such as rowing, snorkelling, diving and exploring small islands through cruises such as:
Island hopping trips: Phu Quoc Island is famous for having many charming islands within it such as Gam Ghi Island, FingerNail Island, May Rut Island and Mong Tay Island. This type of trip allows you to visit these islands in one trip and relax on their beaches, swimming.
Snorkelling and diving trips: If you're a fan of diving and snorkelling, you'll find trips in Phu Quoc Island dedicated to diving in order to explore coral reefs, and marine life and see colourful fish. These trips are on Hon Thom Island and An Thoi Island.
Fishing trips: These trips are usually at sunset and after fishing a meal of these fresh seafood is prepared to enjoy on board the boat.