Boat Adventures in Dong Thap: Explore the Mekong Delta’s Waterways

Nestled in the heart of the Mekong Delta, now part of Tien Giang Province, Dong Thap Ward is a serene destination known as the “Land of Pink Lotus,” attracting over 100,000 visitors annually. Its intricate canal system, lush lotus fields, and historical sites like Xeo Quyt Relic make boat trips the ideal way to explore this region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Legend Travel Group, a leading sustainable tour operator, offers eco-friendly boat tours that immerse you in Dong Thap’s waterways while supporting local communities. Start your adventure—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

As of July 1, 2025, Dong Thap Province has merged into Tien Giang Province, with My Tho as the administrative center. Dong Thap is now a ward, but its tourism appeal remains vibrant, enhanced by upgraded infrastructure like electric boat networks, cycling paths, and a VND600 billion flood control project. These improvements ensure seamless access to Dong Thap’s waterways and attractions, making it a must-visit Mekong Delta destination.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s premier sustainable tourism operator, dedicated to preserving Vietnam’s cultural and environmental heritage. Our Dong Thap boat tours use eco-friendly electric boats and are paired with sustainable activities like cycling, guided by local experts who share the region’s history and ecology. Supporting communities in Dong Thap, My Tho, and Sa Dec, we align with Tien Giang’s “Green Delta” initiative. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Book our tours via links on this page for an authentic, eco-conscious experience!

Located 160 km southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, Dong Thap Ward is a Mekong Delta gem defined by its extensive canal network and tropical monsoon climate, featuring a dry season (December–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) and a rainy season (May–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F, with peak rainfall of 100–400 mm in August–October). Boat trips, especially on electric vessels, offer a sustainable way to explore attractions like Tram Chim National Park and Tan Thuan Dong Floating Market, immersing you in the region’s biodiversity and cultural charm. Below, we detail how to take boat trips, top destinations, costs, and tips for a sustainable journey.

Boat trips are the quintessential way to experience Dong Thap’s waterways, with eco-friendly electric boats available for sustainable exploration. Here’s how to plan your trip:

Booking a Boat Trip

• Costs:

  • Shared boat tours: $5–$10/person (125,000–250,000 VND, 1–2 hours).

  • Private boat tours: $10–$25/boat (250,000–625,000 VND, 1–3 hours, up to 6 people).

• Where to Book:

  • Tram Chim Eco Tours: Tram Chim National Park entrance, Tam Nong. Tel: (+84) 936 789 456. Offers guided tours through wetlands.

  • Sa Dec River Tours: 45 Le Loi, Sa Dec. Tel: (+84) 930 234 789. Specializes in lotus field and market tours.

  • Tan Thuan Dong Floating Market: Book at the Tien River dock in Cao Lanh. Tel: (+84) 937 890 456.

  • Legend Travel Group: Includes boat tours in our Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

• Boat Types:

  • Electric sampans: Small, eco-friendly boats for narrow canals, ideal for 2–6 people.

  • Larger motorboats: Suitable for group tours in wider waterways like the Tien River.

• Tips:

  • Book morning tours for cooler weather and better wildlife sightings.

  • Confirm electric boats to minimize environmental impact.

  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching; pack a waterproof bag in rainy season.

  • Pre-book during peak season (December–April) or festivals like Thap Muoi Lotus Festival.

Why Boat Trips? They offer an eco-friendly, immersive way to explore Dong Thap’s canals, lotus fields, and historical sites, aligning with sustainable tourism goals.

1. Tram Chim National Park

A 7,000-hectare Ramsar wetland in Tam Nong, home to over 230 bird species, including rare Sarus Cranes. Boat tours through Muoi Nhe Canal showcase lotus fields and cajuput forests.

• Cost: Entry $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND); boat tours $10–$25 (250,000–625,000 VND).

• Hours: 6:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Birdwatching, lotus fields, Vong Canh observation tower (20m) for panoramic views.

• Tips: Visit from December to April for Sarus Cranes; included in our Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

2. Xeo Quyt Relic

A 50-hectare historical site in My Hiep and My Long, featuring a former revolutionary base amid cajuput forests. Boat tours navigate narrow canals, offering a blend of history and nature.

• Cost: Entry $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND); boat tours $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Mangrove forests, historical trails, serene waterways.

• Tips: Hire a guide for historical context ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND); included in our Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

3. Tan Thuan Dong Floating Market

A vibrant market on the Tien River in Cao Lanh, where vendors sell fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies from boats.

• Cost: Free entry; boat tours $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Hours: 5:00 AM–12:00 PM daily (peak activity 6:00–8:00 AM).

• Highlights: Local trade, street food like bánh xèo, lively atmosphere.

• Tips: Arrive early for the best market experience; try lotus-based snacks.

4. Sa Dec Lotus Fields

Cruise through the iconic lotus fields near Sa Dec Flower Village, especially stunning during the rainy season (August–November).

• Cost: Boat tours $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Pink and white lotuses, water lilies, local life along canals.

• Tips: Visit at sunrise for photography; included in our Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

Destination Tip: Combine boat trips with cycling or walking tours for a fully immersive experience, included in our eco-tours.

• Hotels and Homestays (Sa Dec or Cao Lanh):

  • Lotus Haven Homestay: Tan Quy Dong, Sa Dec. $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 939 123 456.

  • Mekong Charm Hotel: 120 Tran Hung Dao, Sa Dec. $25–$60/night (625,000–1,500,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 927 345 678.

  • Sen Vang Resort: Cao Lanh. $90–$180/night (2,250,000–4,500,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 913 789 123.

• Restaurants:

  • Nha Hang Sen Viet (Sa Dec): Lotus-based dishes, bánh xèo. $4–$15 (100,000–375,000 VND). Open: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM.

  • Pho Sa Dec (Sa Dec): Famous rice noodle soup. $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND). Open: 7:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• Cafes:

  • Sa Dec River Cafe: 45 Le Loi, Sa Dec. Riverside views, coffee $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND). Open: 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.

  • Lotus Bloom Cafe: Tan Quy Dong, Sa Dec. $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND). Open: 8:00 AM–9:00 PM.

• Pubs:

  • Mekong Moon Bar (Sa Dec): Local beers, cocktails. $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND). Open: 5:00 PM–11:00 PM.

Tip: Support local businesses to align with eco-tourism goals; carry VND for small vendors.

Pack these essentials for a comfortable, sustainable journey:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire for dry season; waterproof jacket ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season. Modest clothing for historical sites.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Footwear: Sandals for boat trips; waterproof shoes for rainy season.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone for photos; binoculars for birdwatching; waterproof phone case.

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, straw to support sustainability.

Tip: Use a waterproof backpack for rainy season; carry VND for boat fares and vendors.

• Boat Tours:

  • Shared: $5–$10/person (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Private: $10–$25/boat (250,000–625,000 VND).

• Attractions:

  • Tram Chim National Park: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Xeo Quyt Relic: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

  • Tan Thuan Dong Floating Market: Free (boat tours $5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND).

• Dining: Meals: $4–$15 (100,000–375,000 VND); drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Accommodation:

  • Homestays: $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND).

  • Hotels: $25–$60/night (625,000–1,500,000 VND).

  • Resorts: $90–$180/night (2,250,000–4,500,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Including Boat Travel):

• Budget: $20–$50 (shared boats, meals, free attractions).

• Mid-range: $50–$100 (private boats, paid attractions, dining).

• Luxury: $120–$250 (private boats, upscale lodging, guided tours).

Tip: Carry VND for boat fares and vendors; ATMs are available in My Tho and Sa Dec.

• Book Early: Reserve boat tours and eco-tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–4 weeks in advance, especially for December–April or festivals like Thap Muoi Lotus Festival.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for birdwatching; pack sunscreen.

  • Rainy Season (May–November): Best for lush lotus fields; bring waterproof gear.

• Sustainability: Choose electric boats; support local vendors to align with eco-tourism goals.

• Navigation: Save Tram Chim National Park on offline maps (Maps.me) for easy docking points.

• Safety: Wear life jackets (provided); secure valuables in waterproof bags.

• Cultural Respect: Greet locals with “xin chào” (hello); tip boat operators/guides $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Health: Stay hydrated ($0.50 or 12,500 VND per bottle); apply mosquito repellent near waterways.

Our eco-friendly boat tours showcase Dong Thap’s waterways and attractions:

• Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Electric boat tour in Tram Chim National Park, Sa Dec lotus fields, cycling through flower villages. Includes transfers, snacks, guide.

• Dong Thap Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Boat to Xeo Quyt Relic, walking tour of Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House, festival visits. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Boat to Tan Thuan Dong Floating Market, Sa Dec markets, lotus-based cooking class. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Boat tours in Dong Thap, Cai Be, and homestays ($15–$30/night). Includes meals, activities, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links around this page!

Dong Thap Province, a Mekong Delta gem 130 km from Ho Chi Minh City, offers an unparalleled way to explore its waterways through eco-friendly boat trips, weaving through lotus fields and historical relics, drawing thousands yearly. Navigate serene canals in Gao Giong Eco-Tourism Area ($3–$6, 75,000–150,000 VND) or Xeo Quyt Relic Area ($5–$15, 125,000–375,000 VND) to discover wartime history and vibrant ecosystems with over 60 bird species. Supported by sustainable practices like low-impact boats and community-led conservation, Legend Travel Group’s Dong Thap Tours ensure a responsible, immersive Dong Thap Travel experience, blending boat adventures with visits to Sa Dec Flower Village, Tram Chim National Park, and culinary delights like hủ tiếu Sa Đéc ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND). Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to cruise Dong Thap’s waterways? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in the Mekong Delta’s timeless beauty!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Dong Thap Boat Trips Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, mekong-delta-tours.com, vietnamamazingtours.com, scootersaigontour.com, tripadvisor.com