Vinh Long, Vietnam

Vinh Long is a bustling city in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta.

Overview

Vinh Long, Vietnam Cruise Port

Vĩnh Long, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Vietnam's fertile Mekong Delta, serves as a quintessential stop for river cruises navigating the intricate waterways of this dynamic region. Situated on the Co Chien River (a distributary of the Mekong), Vĩnh Long is surrounded by a mesmerizing landscape of orchards, rice paddies, and an extensive network of canals and tributaries, offering an authentic glimpse into the daily life of the delta's inhabitants.

This bustling provincial capital is renowned for its lively floating markets, where local produce is traded directly from boat to boat, and its numerous fruit orchards that showcase the delta's agricultural bounty. A visit to Vĩnh Long provides an immersive cultural experience, inviting passengers to explore traditional crafts, savor local delicacies, and witness firsthand the enduring charm and resilience of life on the Mekong. It's a journey into the soul of southern Vietnam, far removed from the urban bustle.

Top Things to Do in Vinh Long, Vietnam

Explore Cai Be Floating Market (or a local equivalent)

Embark on a traditional sampan or local boat to experience the bustling Cai Be Floating Market, or a similar local floating market nearby. Witness the vibrant activity as local farmers and traders exchange fresh produce directly from their boats, offering a fascinating insight into the delta's unique commerce.

Tip: Go early in the morning for the most active trading. Your cruise line will typically arrange this boat trip, as it's a signature delta experience.

Visit a Local Fruit Orchard and Sample Fresh Produce

Take a tour of one of Vĩnh Long's many fruit orchards, where you can see various tropical fruits growing, such as rambutans, durians, longans, and pomelos. Enjoy a tasting of the freshly picked produce, often accompanied by traditional folk music.

Tip: This is a delicious and refreshing stop, especially on a warm day. Be open to trying fruits you might not have encountered before.

Discover Traditional Handcrafts and Candy Production

Observe local artisans at work in their workshops. Many excursions include visits to places where you can see the production of traditional Mekong Delta handcrafts, such as rice paper, coconut candy, or puffed rice cakes. You'll often have the opportunity to taste fresh samples.

Tip: These visits often include opportunities to purchase unique, freshly made souvenirs directly from the producers.

Ride a "Xe Lôi" (Motorized Rickshaw) Through Villages

Experience a fun and authentic mode of transport by taking a "Xe Lôi" (motorized rickshaw) ride through the narrow pathways of local villages. This allows you to explore the lush countryside, observe rural life, and see traditional Mekong Delta homes up close.

Tip: Hold on tight and enjoy the bumpy but exhilarating ride! It's a great way to get off the main roads.

Cruise the Network of Canals and Arroyos

Beyond the main river, enjoy a peaceful cruise on smaller boats through the intricate network of narrow canals (arroyos) that crisscross the delta. This offers a serene perspective of the lush vegetation, local houses on stilts, and the intimate relationship between people and water.

Tip: Bring insect repellent, especially for excursions into shaded, vegetated waterways.

Visit the Vĩnh Long Market (On Land)

If your itinerary allows, explore the Vĩnh Long local market (on land), near the main port area. This bustling market is a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells, offering a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, spices, and local goods, providing a genuine slice of Vietnamese daily life.

Tip: Be prepared for a crowded and lively atmosphere. It's an excellent place for photography and experiencing local interactions.

Overview