The Best Boat Rentals in Vietnam

Prices vary by destination, boat size, and whether you book a shared cruise or a private charter. As an easy guide, shared day cruises in Hạ Long Bay often run about $50–$135 per person, while overnight cruises with cabins usually range from roughly $150–$400 per person with most meals included. Private speedboats along the coast (like Nha Trang or Phú Quốc) commonly start around $60–$150 per boat for short hops and $250–$600 for half-day outings, with snorkeling gear and drinking water often provided. Private yachts on the Sài Gòn River in Ho Chi Minh City typically cost about $300–$1,100 per hour depending on size and amenities, and include captain, crew, fuel within the agreed route, and basic refreshments. Group-only private junk or yacht charters in Hạ Long or Lan Hạ Bay can range from about $1,200 to $7,500 per boat per day or night based on capacity and service level. Exact inclusions vary by listing, but most charters include captain and crew, life jackets, fuel for standard itineraries, and chilled water; catering, alcoholic beverages, transfers, and entry fees may be extra.

You’ll find a wide mix that fits different group sizes and vibes. Classic wooden junks and modern overnight cruise ships ply Hạ Long, Lan Hạ, and Bái Tử Long bays for sightseeing with cabins. Along the central and southern coasts, fast speedboats are popular for island-hopping and snorkeling, while catamarans and motor yachts offer more space for lounging, parties, or upscale meals at anchor. On rivers such as the Sài Gòn and the Mekong, you can book modern cruisers or party boats for skyline cruises, dinners, and sunset events. Sailboats are less common but available in a few hubs; if you’re set on sailing, inquire early.

Most visitors book a captained charter, which requires no license from you. To legally operate a motorboat yourself on Vietnam’s inland waterways, you generally need a locally issued steersman/captain certificate that corresponds to the vessel’s passenger capacity and engine power, plus compliance with crew and safety rules. Foreign driver’s licenses or IDPs for cars or motorcycles don’t substitute for a Vietnamese boating credential. Because obtaining local certification isn’t practical for short trips, self-drive options are rare; plan on hiring a captain and crew.

Captained charters are the norm and the easiest path for stress-free planning. A local skipper handles navigation, port procedures, weather calls, and anchoring while a crew manages docking, gear, and service—so you can focus on your group. Self-operated rentals are uncommon and usually limited to small, low-horsepower boats in controlled areas with strict rules; they still require local qualifications. For most travelers, a captained boat is safer, smoother, and often better value once you factor in time and logistics.

In the north, Hạ Long Bay trips commonly depart from Tuần Châu International Marina and Hòn Gai. In central Vietnam, river and coastline cruises sail from DHC Marina in Đà Nẵng (near the Dragon Bridge) and from the Cửa Đại pier for Hội An. On the south-central coast, Nha Trang tours leave from the Nha Trang Tourist Wharf near Vĩnh Trường and the older Cầu Đá area. In the south, Sài Gòn River cruises board at Bạch Đằng Wharf in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City; Phú Quốc island-hopping typically begins at An Thới Port; and Mekong Delta excursions often leave from Ninh Kiều Wharf in Cần Thơ. Your Getmyboat listing will confirm the exact meeting point and pickup options.

Expect jaw-dropping scenery and lively cityscapes. In the northeast, boats weave between limestone karsts, caves, and floating villages in Hạ Long, Lan Hạ, and Bái Tử Long bays. In Đà Nẵng, evening river cruises time views of the Dragon Bridge’s weekend fire-and-water show, along with the neon-lit waterfront. Nha Trang and Phú Quốc specialize in clear water, coral gardens, and sandy islets perfect for swimming and snorkeling. In Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll glide past the skyline, historic wharfs, and new bridges, while the Mekong reveals early-morning floating markets, orchards, and tranquil canals.

Yes—Vietnam’s boat tours are family-friendly, and boats carry life jackets for all passengers, with child sizes available when requested in advance. Crews give a quick safety briefing before departure, and reputable operators provide additional gear like first-aid kits and ring buoys. For young children, bring sun protection and consider earlier or shorter outings when seas are calmer. If your plans include snorkeling or kayaking, ask about age and swim ability guidance. For everyone’s safety, life jackets may be required at certain times or on specific vessels, and it’s smart practice for kids to wear them while underway.

Policies vary by boat, but many charters allow you to bring snacks, birthday cakes, and soft drinks, sometimes with a small cleanup or corkage fee. Coastal trips and island-hopping often include a simple seafood lunch and bottled water, and some premium yachts and catamarans offer open bars, BBQs, or set menus. If you have dietary needs, message the owner in the app—Vietnamese crews are used to accommodating vegetarians, halal, and child-friendly menus with notice. For shared day cruises, outside alcohol may be restricted; for private charters, BYO is usually fine if you confirm in advance.

It depends on the vessel and itinerary. Small, well-behaved dogs may be accepted on private charters at the captain’s discretion, but pets are typically not permitted on shared cruises or overnight ships. Always ask first, share your pet’s size and temperament, and bring a leash, water bowl, and waste bags. For island landings and national park zones, additional restrictions may apply.

Vietnam’s climate shifts by region. Northern bays can be cool and misty from December to February, hot with afternoon storms in summer, and subject to occasional tropical systems from late summer into autumn. Central coastal areas (Đà Nẵng, Nha Trang, Hội An) generally have their driest boating from about January through August, with the highest storm risk in late September to November. Southern waters (HCMC, Mekong, Phú Quốc) have a dry season roughly November to April and a wetter, more humid period from May to October. Captains may adjust routes, delay, or cancel for safety; most listings outline reschedule or refund policies for weather-related changes. If your dates fall in a wetter month, morning departures usually see the calmest conditions.

Absolutely—boats are a great backdrop for celebrations. In cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Đà Nẵng, yachts and riverboats can host private dinners, sunset toasts, and DJ setups, and many crews can help with décor, flowers, and photo backdrops. In beach hubs such as Nha Trang and Phú Quốc, catamarans and speedboats are perfect for swim stops, floating snacks, and golden-hour photos. Share your headcount, timing, and any must-haves (cakes, playlists, speeches) so the owner can suggest the right boat, route, and add-ons.

For the smoothest weather, aim for March–May in the north (Hạ Long and Lan Hạ), January–August along much of the central coast (Đà Nẵng, Hội An, Nha Trang), and November–April in the south (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong, Phú Quốc). Big on-water moments to consider include the Đà Nẵng International Fireworks Festival (late May through mid-July), the Hạ Long Carnaval (around May 1), and Nha Trang’s Sea Festival (programming across April–June), all of which increase demand for boats and waterfront hotels. If you’re planning around U.S. travel periods like Memorial Day weekend, July 4th, or Labor Day, book early even though these aren’t Vietnamese holidays. Weekdays and morning departures are your best bet for calmer water, fewer crowds, and better rates; evenings are ideal in Đà Nẵng on Fridays–Sundays to catch the Dragon Bridge show by boat. In any season, reserve early for weekends and during local festivals.

Island-hopping with snorkeling in Phú Quốc’s An Thới archipelago is a favorite for clear water and coral gardens. In Hạ Long and Lan Hạ, private junks can detour to quieter coves, floating villages, and sea caves at a relaxed pace. Nha Trang’s bay combines sandy islets with swim stops and seafood lunches on board. For culture, book a very early Mekong tour from Ninh Kiều Wharf to see Cái Răng floating market at its liveliest. And in Đà Nẵng, time an evening cruise for the Dragon Bridge’s weekend spectacle—an unforgettable way to end a day on the water.