An Expert Guide to Finding the Best Cruise in Vietnam

Navigating Vietnam’s waters offers a unique magic, connecting travelers to the country’s ancient pulse. A cruise here is not merely transportation; it is an immersive experience that unlocks landscapes and cultural perspectives utterly inaccessible by land. From the emerald-green, dragon-like karsts of the north to the sprawling, life-filled deltas of the south, Vietnam reveals its true soul upon the water. The journey itself becomes the destination, whether one is seeking the awe-inspiring silence of a hidden lagoon or the vibrant chaos of a floating market. For those looking to explore the legendary Halong Bay, a variety of exceptional tours by cruise is provided by Little Charm Hostel.

1. The Icons: Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay Cruises

For most travelers, the conversation about the best cruise in Vietnam begins and ends in the north. This is the home of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that truly defies description. It is a landscape of thousands of limestone karsts and islets, sculpted by time, rising majestically from the emerald-green water. This region is a living museum, a landscape that has sheltered ancient peoples and witnessed centuries of history. A typical overnight cruise here is a package of magic: kayaking through quiet lagoons, exploring vast grottoes like Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), and trying Tai Chi on the sundeck as the sun rises.

In recent years, many travelers have gravitated towards the adjacent Lan Ha Bay. Technically part of the Cat Ba archipelago, Lan Ha Bay offers the same staggering beauty as its famous neighbor but is often far less crowded. Its waters are more pristine, perfect for swimming, and the cruises here often include a visit to a floating fishing village or a bike ride on Cat Ba Island. Whether one chooses classic Halong or tranquil Lan Ha, the experience of waking up surrounded by these silent giants is unforgettable.

2. The River of Life: Cruising the Mekong Delta

While the north offers drama and scale, the south offers life and culture. A cruise in the Mekong Delta is a complete, vibrant contrast. This is the “rice bowl” of Vietnam, a sprawling maze of thousands of tributaries, canals, and waterways that pulse with human activity. Here, the water is not a backdrop; it is the main street, the marketplace, and the source of all life. A multi-day river cruise, perhaps starting from Can Tho, is a deep cultural immersion. You will wake early to witness the organized chaos of the Cai Rang floating market, where vendors trade mountains of pineapple and watermelon from boat to boat. Later, you’ll glide in a small sampan (a traditional wooden boat) through narrow canals shaded by coconut palms, stopping at local workshops to see how coconut candy and rice paper are made. This is not a cruise for silent contemplation; it is a joyous, fascinating journey into the heart of Vietnam’s agricultural soul.

3. Your Departure Points: A Guide to Key Vietnam Cruise Ports

Knowing where to begin the journey is crucial for a smooth experience. The country’s main cruise hubs are concentrated in the north and south, and these Vietnam cruise ports serve very different itineraries.

3.1. Ports for Halong & Lan Ha Bay

Tuan Chau International Marina: Located in Ha Long City, this is the largest and most modern gateway for cruises to Halong Bay. It’s a bustling, well-organized port with large waiting lounges and facilities. Most cruises heading for the classic Halong Bay route depart from here.
Got Pier (Bến Phà Gót): Situated in Hai Phong city, this is the primary departure point for cruises to Lan Ha Bay. A key advantage of this port is its location; thanks to the Hanoi–Hai Phong expressway, the transfer time from the capital is often significantly shorter, allowing travelers to get on the water faster.

3.2. Ports for the Mekong Delta

Ninh Kieu Wharf: Located in the heart of Can Tho, the delta’s largest city, this is the main port for longer, overnight river cruises. It’s a beautiful, bustling riverfront area, perfect for starting a journey to the Cai Rang floating market or for multi-day trips deeper into the delta.
My Tho / Ben Tre: These smaller ports are much closer to Ho Chi Minh City (about 1.5 to 2 hours by car). They are the main departure points for popular day trips and shorter excursions, offering a fantastic, concentrated taste of the Mekong Delta experience.

4. How to Choose Your Perfect Cruise: An Insider’s Checklist

Finding the best cruise in Vietnam for any traveler depends on matching the cruise to their travel style. This choice generally comes down to three factors:

Budget: Cruises in Vietnam fall into three main categories. Budget-friendly options cover the basics well. Mid-range cruises, which are a great fit for most travelers, offer more comfortable cabins, better food, and well-planned itineraries. Luxury cruises are truly opulent, featuring private balconies, fine dining, and five-star service.
Duration: A day trip is possible for Halong Bay, but it can be a long, rushed day. The 2-Day, 1-Night itinerary is the most popular and provides a balanced experience. However, the 3-Day, 2-Night option allows travelers to get to the quieter, more remote parts of the bay and truly unwind.
When to Go: For Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, the best weather is during Spring (March-April) and Autumn (September-October). Summer can bring storms, and winter can be surprisingly cold and misty. For the Mekong Delta, the dry season (December to April) is the most comfortable and pleasant.

5. The Unforgettable Soul of Vietnam’s Waterways

A cruise in Vietnam offers one of the most profound travel experiences available. Whether one finds themselves navigating the majestic, silent karsts of the north or weaving through the vibrant, life-sustaining arteries of the south, they are witnessing the country’s heart. The magic of watching the world drift by from the deck of a boat—a limestone giant appearing through the mist or a local family smiling from their sampan—is unforgettable. Travelers are encouraged to not just see Vietnam, but to truly immerse themselves in its timeless beauty by setting sail on its iconic waterways.