Ben Tre, Vietnam
Located in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Ben Tre is lush, peaceful, and full of local life.
Located in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Ben Tre is lush, peaceful, and full of local life.
4.9/5 ⭐Google 600+ Reviews | A+ Better Business Bureau
Overview
Ben Tre is a charming and authentic town located in the heart of Vietnam's fertile Mekong Delta, nestled on the Ham Luong River, one of the main branches of the Mekong. It serves as a key river cruise port for vessels exploring the intricate waterways of this vital agricultural region, particularly on itineraries between Vietnam and Cambodia. Known as the "Land of Coconuts," Ben Tre province is famed for its vast coconut plantations and the myriad of products derived from this versatile palm.
A call at Ben Tre offers cruise passengers a captivating glimpse into the daily life and traditional industries of the Mekong Delta, often providing a more tranquil and less-touristy experience compared to other delta stops. Visitors can explore lush fruit orchards, witness local cottage industries, navigate serene canals by sampan, and truly immerse themselves in the laid-back rhythm of rural Vietnamese life. It's an ideal destination for those seeking cultural immersion, local craft experiences, and a deeper connection with the natural beauty of the Mekong.
Embark on an iconic boat trip (often a motorized sampan or smaller rowboat) through the dense network of narrow canals that crisscross the coconut groves. This is the quintessential Ben Tre experience, allowing you to witness local life along the waterways and appreciate the lush, green landscape from a unique perspective.
Tip: Many tours include a ride in a traditional hand-rowed sampan down smaller, shaded arroyos, offering a peaceful and intimate experience.
Discover why Ben Tre is called the "Land of Coconuts" by visiting a local coconut candy workshop. Witness the fascinating process of making kẹo dừa (coconut candy) from scratch, from husking and grating coconuts to boiling, molding, and wrapping the delicious, sticky sweets. Samples are usually offered.
Tip: This is a great opportunity to purchase fresh, authentic coconut products and souvenirs directly from the source.
Gain insight into traditional delta industries by visiting a local brick kiln or a mat-weaving factory. Observe the age-old methods used to produce bricks from clay found in the riverbanks or watch skilled artisans meticulously weave colorful sleeping mats from reeds.
Tip: These visits offer a fascinating look into the manual labor and traditional techniques that are still vital to the local economy.
Stop at a local fruit orchard to taste a variety of fresh, exotic tropical fruits, often accompanied by traditional Vietnamese folk music (Don Ca Tai Tu). Common fruits include rambutan, longan, pomelo, and the pungent durian.
Tip: The Mekong Delta is Vietnam's fruit basket, so this is a chance to enjoy incredibly fresh produce directly from the source.
Depending on your tour, enjoy a gentle bicycle ride or a fun trip on a xe loi (motorized rickshaw/tuk-tuk) through quiet village roads. This allows for closer interaction with local people and provides a charming perspective on the rice paddies, small hamlets, and verdant surroundings away from the main waterways.
Tip: This is an excellent way to see daily rural life up close and observe the tranquil pace of the delta.
Savor the unique flavors of Ben Tre's cuisine, heavily influenced by coconuts. Try dishes like coconut rice, coconut-braised shrimp, or delicious sticky rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves. Also, look for other Mekong Delta specialties like fresh spring rolls (gỏi cuốn) and rice noodle soups.
Tip: Many tours include a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local home or restaurant, offering an authentic taste of the region.
Our expert consultants and customer service teams are standing by to help with all of your cruising needs.
I was having some trouble finding the right cruise for the right price as a single traveler, but thanks to [our Cruise Expert] I was able to find it with Cruise Web. Thank you very much [our Cruise Expert]!
Camille G.
We have worked with [our Cruise Expert] several times and she makes it so easy and a pleasure to work with. She is very knowledgeable.
Linda F.
[Our Cruise Expert] was informative and very pleasant to work with. I'm not familiar with booking travel online and he made my experience pleasant.
Sharon E.
I would like to mention that for many years I really appreciate to have [our Cruise Expert] taking care of my cruises in the states. So, i'm glad to give five stars for him
Rudi D.
I am working with [our Cruise Expert] as my travel agent...he has been very helpful...he is very informative and knowledgeable about the places that I want to go on my Cruise....I would use [our Cruise Expert] and Cruise Web again to book another cruise...thank you...
Priscilla B.
[Our Cruise Expert] does an exceptional job of planning (with you) and coordinating a trip of your dreams! I can't wait to get started on the next one.
Sheralyn H.
Great working with [our Cruise Expert]! He was a tremendous help and steered us in the right direction every time! Helped us make memories for a lifetime!
Wendy F.
[Our Cruise Expert] always works hard to secure the bookings we have chosen and guides us through the process. She is always available to help and her advise is spot on.
James C.
We are residents in another country, and have used [our Cruise Expert] for years as we try to cruise around the entire world. She offers great service and stellar communication.
Dave O.
[Our Cruise Expert]does a wonderful job for me. I have had no glitches and I can count on things running smoothly when [our Cruise Expert] makes my arrangements.
Barbara H.
