Bến Tre Cruise Port
Ben Tre Hung Vuong Pier
Bến Tre, Vietnam Port
UN/LOCODE VNTRE Port of call
Bến Tre Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Vietnam |
| UN/LOCODE | VNTRE |
| Contact | |
| Address | Hung Vuong Street, Ward 2, Ben Tre City, Vietnam |
| Port phone | +84 275 382 2324 |
| Website | bentre.gov.vn |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 10.23333, 106.38333 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The main cruise pier at Hung Vuong sits directly on the banks of the Ham Luong River, placing you in the heart of Ben Tre city, though the real experience lies in the rural canals 15 minutes away by boat. Located in the Mekong Delta region of southern Vietnam, this province is famously known as the 'Land of Coconuts.' You are approximately 85 km (53 miles) southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, a journey that takes roughly 2 to 2.5 hours by road depending on the heavy traffic at the Rach Mieu Bridge. Nearby, the city of My Tho is just 15 km (9 miles) north, while the larger Delta hub of Can Tho is 110 km (68 miles) to the west. This is strictly a river cruise port; ocean-going vessels are too large for the narrow channels of the Ham Luong River and must dock at distant deep-water ports. Be aware that Ben Tre rewards the early riser who leaves the urban center to explore the artisanal brick kilns and coconut processors. However, it punishes those who expect polished western infrastructure or air-conditioned shopping malls. You are here for the humidity, the scent of simmering coconut caramel, and the rhythmic thrum of long-tail boats. If you cannot tolerate uneven paths and high heat, stay on the ship's sun deck.
Bến Tre — Port Overview
History
Ben Tre came to prominence during the French colonial era as a strategic agricultural outpost, but its identity was forged in the fires of the 20th century. Originally a Khmer territory known as 'Srok Treay,' the region was integrated into Vietnam in the 1700s. Its strategic location between the Ham Luong River and the Tien River made it a vital corridor for rice and coconut trade. However, Ben Tre is most famous—or infamous—for being the 'Cradle of the Revolution' during the Vietnam War. In 1960, the Dong Khoi (General Uprising) began here, led by Madame Nguyen Thi Dinh. This history led to the controversial quote from an American major in 1968 that it 'became necessary to destroy the town to save it.' Today, you will see very few colonial-era buildings because of that intense conflict. The city you walk through is largely a post-war reconstruction. You will find that the resilience of the local population is best seen in the vast coconut plantations that were replanted by hand in the 1970s. When you visit the Dong Khoi Monument today, you are seeing the literal and figurative heart of the province’s resistance and rebirth, a sentiment that still defines the proud, hardworking locals you will meet in the riverside markets.
The Verdict
Those who make the most of Ben Tre tend to be the ones who arrive with a plan and the flexibility to adapt it when the humidity peaks. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. No two travelers want the same day in the Mekong Delta.
Things to Do & See in Bến Tre
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Riverside Promenade | Landmark | Hung Vuong Street, Ben Tre City | Open 24 hours | Not available | Free | |
| Ben Tre Museum | Museum | 146 Hung Vuong Street, Ward 3, Ben Tre | +84 275 382 2324 | 7:30 AM – 11:00 AM, 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM | Not available | USD 20,000 VND |
| An Khanh Coconut Workshops | Tourist Attraction | An Khanh Village, Chau Thanh District | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Not available | Free |
The Riverside Promenade · Landmark
FreeStretching along the northern bank of the Ham Luong River, this promenade is the city's living room. It was measured at roughly 1.5 km (0.9 miles) long, offering an unobstructed view of the river traffic—massive barges filled with rice and coconuts fighting the current. Most visitors walk past the various war memorials without stopping, but these statues provide the essential context for Ben Tre's fierce local pride. You will see elderly couples practicing Tai Chi and children flying kites in the evening breeze. It's the best place to decompress after the humidity of the canal tours. The visit offers a sense of 'real' Vietnam that isn't staged for tourists.
Hung Vuong Street, Ben Tre City ·Open 24 hours ·Not available
Ben Tre Museum · Museum
USD 20,000 VNDThis museum is housed in a pale-yellow French colonial building that once belonged to the province's governor. It stands as a rare survivor of the heavy bombing during the 1968 Tet Offensive. Inside, the focus is squarely on the military history of the region, specifically the role of women in the resistance. You will see gritty, black-and-white photography of local guerrilla fighters and an array of homemade weaponry. Outside, the lush tropical gardens house American tanks and artillery pieces. It’s a somber, thought-provoking stop that contrasts with the idyllic scenery of the canals. The experience delivers a deep, if one-sided, understanding of the Vietnam War's legacy.
146 Hung Vuong Street, Ward 3, Ben Tre ·+84 275 382 2324 ·7:30 AM – 11:00 AM, 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM ·Not available
An Khanh Coconut Workshops · Tourist Attraction
FreeThis is where the 'Land of Coconuts' becomes a business. You will stand in an open-air shed and watch the rhythmic, lightning-fast hands of local women wrapping individual candies in edible paper. The scent is intoxicating—pure coconut cream boiling in giant copper woks. It is well established that while these workshops are tourist-oriented, the techniques used are identical to the home-based production found elsewhere in the province. Look for the 'ruou dua' (coconut wine) being fermented in large ceramic jars. It's a loud, sticky, fascinating window into local industry. This stop gives you the 'taste' of Ben Tre literally and figuratively.
An Khanh Village, Chau Thanh District ·8:00 AM – 5:00 PM ·Not available
Eating & Drinking in Bến Tre
Ben Tre's culinary identity is inseparable from the coconut. Unlike the spicy flavors of Central Vietnam or the herbaceous notes of the North, the food here is sweet, creamy, and heavy on fats from the river and the grove. The regional definitive dish is 'Ca Tai Tuong Chien Xu' (Elephant Ear Fish), which is deep-fried whole until the scales are crispy, then rolled in rice paper with herbs. What makes it different here is the dipping sauce, which always incorporates local lime and coconut water. To drink, you must try 'Ruou Dua' (Coconut Wine), served in a decorative coconut shell; it is mild, sweet, and surprisingly potent. For street food, look for 'Banh Phong', a giant, toasted rice cracker that locals buy from roadside stalls in Son Doc. A common misconception is that locals drink coconut water for every meal; in reality, they treat it as a medicinal tonic and prefer hot jasmine tea or strong iced coffee with condensed milk during the day.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nam Son Restaurant | Phan Ngoc Tong Street, Ward 2, Ben Tre | +84 275 382 2873 | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM | 150,000 – 250,000 VND (~$5.50 – $9.50 USD) | |
| Ben Tre Riverside Resort Restaurant | 708 Nguyen Van Tu, Ward 7, Ben Tre | +84 275 354 5454 | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM | bentreriverside.com | 300,000 – 500,000 VND (~$11.00 – $18.50 USD) |
| Iced Coffee at Riverside Cafe | Hung Vuong Promenade (near the statue) | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM | 25,000 – 40,000 VND (~$0.95 – $1.50 USD) |
Nam Son Restaurant
150,000 – 250,000 VND (~$5.50 – $9.50 USD)Located just a five-minute Xe Loi ride from the pier, Nam Son is a classic Vietnamese eatery: fluorescent lights, plastic chairs, and world-class food. Order the Hu Tieu; the broth is clear and intensely savory, made with dried squid and pork bone. The Banh Xeo here is massive, crispy, and stuffed with fresh river shrimp. The honest limitation is the noise—it’s a bustling, echoing space, not a romantic retreat.
Phan Ngoc Tong Street, Ward 2, Ben Tre ·+84 275 382 2873 ·10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Ben Tre Riverside Resort Restaurant
300,000 – 500,000 VND (~$11.00 – $18.50 USD)If the heat of the market eateries is too much, this is your sanctuary. The restaurant overlooks the Ham Luong River with floor-to-ceiling windows. The specialty is rice steamed inside a whole coconut—the rice absorbs the sweet oil and water, resulting in a fragrant, creamy side dish. It is more expensive than the market, but you are paying for the comfort and the view. The service is attentive, and the menu has English descriptions.
708 Nguyen Van Tu, Ward 7, Ben Tre ·+84 275 354 5454 ·6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Iced Coffee at Riverside Cafe
25,000 – 40,000 VND (~$0.95 – $1.50 USD)This isn't a fancy cocktail bar; it's a row of low plastic chairs along the river wall. Order the 'Ca Phe Sua Da' and watch the world go by. The coffee is thick, dark-roasted with chicory, and served over plenty of ice to combat the Delta humidity. It's the most authentic 'drink' experience in the province.
Hung Vuong Promenade (near the statue) ·6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Getting There & Around
Movement in Ben Tre is defined by the water. Once you step off your vessel at Hung Vuong Pier, walking is suitable for the immediate Ward 2 market area, but the terrain is uneven. For anything beyond three blocks, you must use a 'Xe Loi'—a uniquely Ben Tre motorized rickshaw. The cost is roughly 75,000 VND (~$2.80 USD) for a 15-minute ride to the outskirts. Do not expect Uber or Grab to be reliable here; while the apps may show cars, drivers often cancel if they don't speak English or if the route is too rural. Taxis (Mai Linh) are available but struggle with the narrow village lanes. If you are comfortable on two wheels, bicycle rentals are available at most guesthouses for 100,000 VND (~$3.70 USD) per day. However, one navigation tip most guides omit: the canal bridges often have steep, slippery metal ramps designed for motorbikes—be extremely careful if crossing these on foot or a bike during the rainy season.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Bến Tre
Artisanal Brick Kilns of Nhon Thanh
8:30 AM (45 min)
Watch locals hand-molding bricks and baking them in massive, beehive-shaped kilns fired by rice husks. The orange dust and smoke create an incredible atmosphere. It is hot and dusty, so keep your camera covered when not shooting.
- 15-minute boat ride from Hung Vuong Pier (Included in tour (~200,000 VND / $7.50 USD private))
- Entry: Free (donations encouraged) (Free)
- Walk to the very back of the kiln area to see the rice husk storage—the scale of the fuel needed is staggering.
Family Coconut Candy Workshop (Keo Dua)
9:30 AM (60 min)
See the entire process from husking to boiling the coconut cream in giant woks. You will be invited to try the warm candy before it is wrapped in edible rice paper. It's sensory overload—the smell of caramel and the sound of the 'clack-clack' wrapping process.
- 20-minute boat ride through narrow canals (Part of boat tour)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Skip the packaged candy in the front; ask to buy a bag of the 'scraps'—the irregular pieces are often fresher.
Lunch Recommendation
Huynh Thao Garden Restaurant
While most tours go to the overcrowded 'Con Phung' island, Huynh Thao offers a peaceful garden setting where the fish is prepared traditionally at your table. The coconut shoot salad is a local delicacy you won't find better elsewhere.
Order: Elephant Ear Fish (Ca Tai Tuong Chien Xu), Coconut Shoot Salad (Goi Cu Hu Dua)
D5 Street, Ward 6, Ben Tre
Cost: 350,000 VND (~$13.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Bến Tre
Ben Tre Central Market
8:00 AM (60 min)
An intense, wet-market experience. See river fish still jumping in buckets and exotic fruits like mangosteen and durian. It is messy, loud, and brilliant for people-watching.
- 5-minute walk from pier (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Look for the women selling 'Banh Phong Son Doc' (giant rice crackers)—buy one to snack on.
Ham Luong River Boat Circuit
9:30 AM (120 min)
Navigate the wider Ham Luong River before ducking into the narrow, palm-fringed 'Xep' canal. This is the quintessential Mekong Delta experience.
- Boarding from the riverside (500,000 VND (~$18.50 USD) for private boat)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Ask the boatman to stop at a 'Mat Weaving' house in Nhon Thanh—it’s quieter than the candy shops.
Museum of Ben Tre (Bao Tang Ben Tre)
2:30 PM (60 min)
Housed in a former French colonial governor's residence, this museum focuses on the province's revolutionary history. The building itself is one of the few surviving colonial structures.
- 10-minute Xe Loi ride (50,000 VND (~$1.85 USD))
- Entry: 20,000 VND ($0.75)
- Don't miss the outdoor display of captured American aircraft and tanks from the war.
Getting back to the ship
The latest safe departure time for your return to the Hung Vuong Pier is 60 minutes before the scheduled all-aboard. If you are in the An Khanh canals, allow 30 minutes for the boat transit back to the city. A taxi from the outskirts will cost approximately 150,000 VND (~$5.50 USD) and take 20 minutes. Public transit is not a reliable return option. If you are running late, contact the port agent or the ship's emergency number immediately; because Ben Tre is a river port with specific tidal departure windows, ships often cannot wait. Passengers who miss the ship here typically have to hire a private car for approximately 1,500,000 VND (~$55.00 USD) to catch the vessel at its next stop, likely Can Tho or Sa Dec, a journey of 3 to 4 hours.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Bến Tre
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: September to April
26°C to 34°C (79°F to 93°F). Humidity averages 80%. Tropical downpours occur almost daily in the afternoon from May to October.
What to wear: Lightweight, moisture-wicking cotton or linen is essential. You will sweat significantly. Wear closed-toe sandals with good traction for slippery boat decks and muddy paths. A lightweight, breathable rain poncho is better than an umbrella, which is useless in a Delta wind. Avoid white clothing, as the red alluvial mud from the Ham Luong River will stain it permanently. Sunglasses and high-SPF sunblock are non-negotiable for the river transit.
Weather risks: Heavy morning fog can delay river navigation in December and January. Extreme heat advisories are common in April.
The 'flood season' (September-October) actually makes boat travel easier as the smaller canals become more navigable, though land paths may be submerged.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Season (November–April) | Low humidity and clear skies with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). | Dust on unpaved village paths can be irritating to the eyes. High UV index on the open Ham Luong River boat transfers. | All open-air river boat routes and rural cycling paths in Nhon Thanh. | Wear a wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap—wind on the river will blow it off. Use a buff or scarf to cover your nose on Xe Loi rides. |
| Rainy Season (May–October) | Heavy, predictable afternoon downpours with high humidity and temperatures around 30°C (86°F). | Canal-side paths become extremely muddy and slippery. Small wooden sampans can be unstable during sudden squalls. The 'cau khi' (monkey bridges) are dangerous when wet. | The narrow paths of An Khanh and the entrance to the Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary. | Skip the bird sanctuary entirely during heavy rain. Wear sturdy sandals with grip—do not wear expensive sneakers that you aren't prepared to ruin in the mud. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
In Ben Tre, a nod and a smile are the most common greetings. While a handshake is acceptable for men, wait for a woman to offer her hand first. Dining customs are communal; dishes are placed in the center, and you should use the clean end of your chopsticks to transfer food to your bowl—never eat directly from the serving platter. Photography is generally welcomed, but always ask 'Duoc khong?' (May I?) before photographing elderly locals or people in their homes. You will find that locals do not queue in the strict Western sense; if you wait for a gap at a market stall, you will never be served. Be assertive but polite. Tipping is not expected in local eateries but is increasingly common for private guides ($5–$10 USD per day) and Xe Loi drivers (round up the fare). One common misunderstanding is the 'monkey bridge'—if a local offers to help you cross, it is a genuine gesture of hospitality, not a scam for money. Accepting with a smile earns immense goodwill.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Spending the entire day in Ben Tre City center. |
Mistaking My Tho for Ben Tre. |
Wearing expensive white sneakers. |
Not bringing mosquito repellent for canal tours. |
Practical tips
Ben Tre is a cash-first economy. While the Riverside Resort and larger hotels accept Visa and Mastercard, the markets, Xe Loi drivers, and boatmen require Vietnamese Dong (VND). It is best to carry at least 1,000,000 VND (~$37.00 USD) in small denominations (20k, 50k, 100k) as change is often a problem. Tipping 10% in restaurants is generous but not mandatory; for taxis, simply round up to the nearest 10,000 VND. Five essential phrases: 'Xin Chao' (Hello), 'Cam On' (Thank you), 'Bao Nhieu?' (How much?), 'Dat qua' (Too expensive!), and 'Khong duong' (No sugar—essential if you want pure fruit juice). Pickpockets are rare here compared to Saigon, but be vigilant in the Ward 2 market. Dress code is casual, but keep shoulders covered if entering local pagodas. The best strategy to avoid crowds at the candy workshops is to arrive before 9:00 AM, as the day-trip buses from Ho Chi Minh City typically arrive between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM.
Cruise Lines Visiting Bến Tre
Port of Call
Why Book With Waterways Cruise?
Four decades of expertise, one dedicated advisor, and every detail handled, from your front door to the gangway and back.
Personal Service — Your Own Cruise Concierge
Tailor-Made — 100% Custom-Built
Expertise — 40+ Years in Travel
Price Watch — Book With Total Confidence
Signature Sailings
All Cruise Lines at Bến Tre (A–Z)
Nearby Ports
FAQ — Bến Tre
Can I visit Ben Tre as a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City?
Yes, but it is a long day. The road journey takes 2.5 hours each way via the QL1A highway. The actual 'exploration time' takes only 3 to 4 hours if you return the same day. For cruise passengers, Ben Tre is best experienced as a dedicated port of call on a river cruise, which avoids the grueling highway traffic entirely. If you must go by road, leave HCMC by 7:00 AM to beat the Rach Mieu Bridge congestion. Private transfers from Saigon that maximize your time in the Nhon Thanh canals can be arranged in advance.
Is the water in Ben Tre safe for swimming?
Absolutely not. The Ham Luong River and its connecting canals carry significant silt, agricultural runoff, and industrial waste. While you will see local children swimming, Western travelers are at high risk for skin infections and gastrointestinal distress. Stick to the swimming pool at the Ben Tre Riverside Resort if you need a dip. Even on boat tours, avoid trailing your hands in the water palm canals, as the alluvial mud is extremely difficult to wash off clothing and skin.
What is the 'Coconut Monk' and is it worth seeing?
The Coconut Monk (Dao Dua) was a religious leader who founded a sect on Con Phung (Phoenix Island). Today, the site is a kitschy tourist park with old architectural remnants and giant statues. It is often considered overly commercial and crowded. For most Waterways Cruise clients, it feels 'manufactured.' You are better off spending your 45 minutes and 50,000 VND (~$1.85 USD) exploring the active, working brick kilns of Nhon Thanh where real local industry is still happening daily.
Are there many mosquitoes in the Ben Tre canals?
Yes, particularly in the shaded water palm areas of An Khanh and during the rainy season (May-October). While malaria is not a major concern for short port calls, Dengue fever is present in the Mekong Delta. Visitors should apply repellent before leave the ship. If you are sensitive, wear long, lightweight linen trousers. Most riverside restaurants use mosquito coils under the tables, but your own protection is the only way to guarantee comfort during the 2-hour boat circuits.
How much should I pay for a Xe Loi ride?
A standard 15-minute Xe Loi (motorized rickshaw) trip within Ben Tre city should cost between 50,000 and 80,000 VND (~$1.85 – $3.00 USD). For a 2-hour rental to explore the Nhon Thanh orchards, expect to pay around 250,000 VND (~$9.25 USD). Always agree on the price before you sit down. If the driver asks for more than 100,000 VND for a short city hop, they are quoting a 'tourist price.' Negotiate firmly but stay polite; 70,000 VND is usually the fair settling point.
Is English widely spoken in Ben Tre?
Only in the major hotels and by professional tour guides. Shopkeepers in the Ward 2 market and Xe Loi drivers generally speak very little English. It is a good idea to download the Vietnamese offline file on Google Translate. However, Ben Tre locals are exceptionally patient and will use hand gestures and calculators to communicate prices. Having your ship's name and the pier address written in Vietnamese on a card is essential for getting back if you wander too far into the residential wards.
What is the best souvenir to buy in Ben Tre?
Coconut wood kitchenware is the most durable and authentic choice. A high-quality spatula or bowl costs about 120,000 VND (~$4.50 USD). Another unique find is 'coconut oil soap' from the local cooperatives. Avoid buying large 'Coconut Monk' statues; they are heavy, fragile, and often made of low-quality resin rather than wood. For something edible, a bag of 'Goc' brand coconut candy is the gold standard, though it will melt if left in a hot suitcase for too long.
Is it safe to eat street food in the Ben Tre market?
For experienced travelers, yes, but exercise caution. Stick to food that is cooked at high heat in front of you, such as 'Banh Xeo' (crepes). Avoid 'Goi Cuon' (fresh spring rolls) if they have been sitting in the sun, and never have ice in your drinks at market stalls. The consistent feedback from visitors is that the Hu Tieu noodle soup at Nam Son is the safest and most delicious 'near-street' experience for Western palates.
Do I need a visa to visit Ben Tre on a cruise?
Yes, all foreign travelers require a visa for Vietnam. Most river cruise lines (Viking, AMA, etc.) handle the group visa process for you and charge it to your onboard account. If you are traveling independently, you must secure an e-visa (approx. $25 USD) at least 7 days before arrival. Ensure your e-visa lists the correct entry point—though for river cruises, the 'port' is often processed as a land border at the river crossing. Check advisors for the specific requirements of your itinerary.
What is the 'Monkey Bridge' and can I walk on it?
A 'Cau Khi' (Monkey Bridge) is a traditional Delta bridge made of a single bamboo log with a shaky handrail. They are designed for agile locals, not tourists. Avoid attempting to cross them, especially if you are wearing sandals or have limited balance. A fall into the muddy canal is a quick way to ruin your port call. Most modern tours now use wider, concrete bridges, but you will still see the traditional versions in the deeper Nhon Thanh orchards.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated October 12, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.