This is the enchanting picture of riverine tourism in the Mekong Delta of Southern Vietnam, where the Tien River—one of the major branches of the mighty Mekong—offers unforgettable experiences. If you're seeking an authentic Southern Vietnamese adventure, then a river cruise experience on the Tien River in Ben Tre is the perfect choice!
Today, Mekong Delta tours go far beyond simple sightseeing. They allow you to immerse yourself in the rhythms of river life, savor fresh garden produce, and discover a rare sense of peace amid the hustle of modern life. In particular, sampan rowing tours and cruising on the Tien River have become the most captivating highlights for visitors to Ben Tre—the famous "Coconut Land."
The Tien River – The Soul of the Mekong Delta
The Tien River (also known as Tien Giang) is the primary arm of the Mekong flowing through provinces like An Giang, Dong Thap, Tien Giang, Vinh Long, Tra Vinh, and finally reaching Ben Tre before emptying into the East Sea. This mighty river not only nourishes the fertile Mekong Delta but also shapes stunning islets famously called the "Four Mythical Creatures": Dragon (Long), Unicorn (Lân), Tortoise (Quy), and Phoenix (Phụng).
Aboard a river cruise, your guide will share fascinating stories about how these four islets formed—green "islands" floating amid vast waterways. The imposing Rach Mieu Bridge connects Tien Giang and Ben Tre, standing as a modern symbol amid this timeless landscape. In the distance, you'll spot floating fish farms and stilt houses along the banks, where life drifts peacefully yet poetically. This is the essence of riverine tourism that every visitor to the Mekong must experience at least once.
River Cruise on the Tien River, Ben Tre: More Than Just Scenic Views
Most tours depart from My Tho pier (Tien Giang) or directly from Ben Tre, taking you aboard spacious river cruise boats featuring open seating, shaded areas, and perfect photo spots. Journeys typically last 2–4 hours depending on the package, but time seems to slow down so you can fully savor every moment.
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Admire the Four Mythical Islands and Riverside Life: The cruise glides smoothly along the Tien River, offering stunning views of Rach Mieu Bridge, fish farms, and coconut groves on the islets. Fresh air and gentle waves create a deeply relaxing atmosphere.
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Combine with Sampan Rowing – A Must-Do Activity: The highlight comes when the cruise anchors, and you switch to traditional sampans (hand-rowed boats) to weave through narrow canals. Surrounded by dense water coconut forests, the canopy provides cool shade, while the soft splash of oars blends with birdsong. Sampan rowing tours deliver a gentle sense of adventure and closeness to nature—very different from staying on larger boats. Many travelers say that rowing a sampan through water coconut canals is their most cherished memory from any Mekong Delta tour.
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Enjoy Local Specialties Right on the River: On board, you'll be served fresh coconut water—the signature drink of Ben Tre. Premium tours may include honey tea, seasonal tropical fruits, or light meals featuring dishes like banh xeo (Vietnamese savory pancakes), mam (fermented fish) hotpot, grilled snakehead fish, and more...
Exploring Ben Tre Through the Tien River Journey
After cruising down the Tien River, boats often dock at famous islets in Ben Tre such as Con Phung (Coconut Island or "Dao Dua") or Con Thoi Son (often combined with nearby Tien Giang areas). Here, the adventure continues:
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Visit traditional coconut candy workshops: Watch artisans craft the famous "thọ" coconut toffee—a must-try souvenir from Ben Tre.
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Stroll through coconut groves and pick seasonal fruits: Durian, mangosteen, rambutan, mango, and more, depending on the time of year.
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Listen to Southern Vietnamese Don Ca Tai Tu folk music: Melodic traditional tunes performed live amid garden settings create a perfect harmony.
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Ride horse-drawn carts or electric vehicles along village paths: Feel the slow, peaceful pace of rural life in Coconut Land.
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Explore the unique Dao Dua relic site on Con Phung: Hear intriguing tales about "Mr. Coconut Dao"—a legendary local figure.
Together, these elements form a complete journey—from river cruising to sampan rowing, from scenic river views to deep cultural and culinary immersion.