Cruises to/from Ba Ria - Vung Tau
Ba Ria - Vung Tau - a resort gem on Vietnam's southern coast and a new maritime gateway to Ho Chi Minh City. The city sits on a narrow peninsula jutting into the South China Sea, more than 100 kilometres southeast of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Natural beaches, a hill topped with a French-built lighthouse, and colonial-era architecture have shaped the city's character for decades — first drawing French colonists and holidaymakers, then Australian and American troops on rest and recreation, and today a 32-metre statue of Christ rising above the bay draws ever more visitors, including cruise passengers. π’
For a cruise traveller, Ba Ria - Vung Tau is above all a convenient gateway to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis, while also being a resort destination in its own right, with its own history, beaches and character. Ships do not dock in the city bay itself but roughly 35 kilometres away, at the deep-water port of Phu My, part of the Cai Mep - Thi Vai port cluster, Vietnam's largest deep-water port complex. In 2024, around 65 cruise ships and approximately 287,000 passengers passed through the cluster's terminals; in 2025, amid a shift toward larger vessels, calls temporarily dipped to 48 ships and about 180,000 guests, while 2026 is forecast to bring a strong rebound — up to 118 ship calls and more than 260,000 passengers.
π Before setting sail from Ba Ria - Vung Tau, or stepping ashore for a few hours during a port call, here's what to know:
π»π³ Country: Vietnam
π Region: since 1 July 2025 — part of the Ho Chi Minh City metropolitan area (before the administrative merger, Vung Tau was a separate city within Ba Ria - Vung Tau province)
π₯ Population: around 465,000 residents within the former city of Vung Tau (2022 data, before the merger with Ho Chi Minh City)
π Area: 141.1 km²
π£οΈ Languages: Vietnamese (official); English is common in tourist areas
πΆ Currency: Vietnamese dong (VND)
π Time zone: ICT (UTC+7), no daylight saving — 4 hours ahead of Kyiv when Ukraine is on summer time, and 5 hours ahead when Ukraine is on winter time
βοΈ Climate: tropical monsoon, with a dry season (November–April) and a rainy season (May–October); average daily temperature around +27°C
βοΈ Nearest airport: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City — about 90 km from the cruise terminal
β Official name of the cruise port: Phu My International Port, part of the Cai Mep - Thi Vai cluster
πΊοΈ Port scale: Cai Mep - Thi Vai is Vietnam's largest deep-water port complex, capable of receiving vessels of up to 160,000 DWT
ποΈ The history of Ba Ria - Vung Tau: from a quiet bay to Vietnam's resort gem
β³ A bay known to sailors for millennia
The name “Vung Tau” translates as “anchorage” — and rightly so: archaeological finds show people settled on this coast as far back as the 2nd millennium BC, and European trading ships regularly called at the sheltered bay by the cape as early as the 14th–15th centuries. Portuguese and other European sailors of the time called the place “Cinco Chagas” (“Five Wounds”). The modern city's historic core grew out of three fishing villages — Thang Nhat, Thang Nhi and Thang Tam — and Vung Tau received official settlement status in 1822, under the Nguyen dynasty.
βοΈ French resort development, war, and the oil era
During French colonial rule the town was known as “Cap Saint-Jacques”, and it was then, between 1885 and 1934, that resort development with villas and administrative buildings sprang up along Front Beach. Between 1898 and 1902, the Bach Dinh summer residence was built for the Governors-General of French Indochina — and it was here that Vietnamese Emperor Thanh Thai was later held under house arrest, from 1907 to 1916.
In the 1960s–1970s, during the Vietnam War, Vung Tau became the main rest and recreation (R&R) base for Australian and American troops stationed in the neighbouring PhΖ°α»c Tuy province — an air base operated here too. After 1975, when the giant Bach Ho (“White Tiger”) oil field was discovered on the continental shelf, the city became Vietnam's oil and gas capital: commercial extraction began in 1986, led by the joint Vietnamese-Soviet venture Vietsovpetro, still headquartered in Vung Tau today. The city's newest chapter opened on 1 July 2025, when Vung Tau and the whole of Ba Ria - Vung Tau province joined the newly merged Ho Chi Minh City metropolis.
β Phu My Port and the Cai Mep - Thi Vai cluster — the maritime gateway to southern Vietnam
π Scale and structure of the port
The Cai Mep - Thi Vai port cluster has operated since early 2011 and is today Vietnam's largest deep-water port complex: total container berths run to 890 metres (plus another 270 metres of barge berths), and a 55-hectare container yard holds nearly 51,500 TEU at a time. In 2024, around 152 million tonnes of cargo passed through the cluster's terminals — representing 34% of Vietnam's total container throughput. This deep-water channel is what allows the country's largest vessels to call directly, without the need to transship cargo via Singapore.
Cruise ships dock at the Phu My International Port terminal in Phu My town, roughly 35 km from central Vung Tau and about 80 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Unlike Europe's dedicated passenger terminals, cruise guests here exit through a working cargo terminal — the walk from the gangway to the transport pick-up area takes 15–20 minutes, though the terminal itself is equipped with waiting areas, luggage storage, currency exchange, and small cafés.
π’ How many ships the port receives, and future plans
On peak days, the terminal can simultaneously receive several large ships carrying up to several thousand passengers each. Beyond the current terminal, Ba Ria - Vung Tau authorities are developing plans for a dedicated Vung Tau International Cruise Port near Front Beach — an investment of about VND 8 trillion (roughly USD 315 million), designed for ships of up to 228,000 gross tonnage and up to 6,000 passengers on board. As of 2026 the project is at the pre-feasibility and investor-selection stage, so a final construction timeline has not yet been set.
π’ Which cruise lines call at Ba Ria - Vung Tau
Phu My Port receives ships from most of the world's leading cruise brands — Royal Caribbean International, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line, as well as the luxury lines Silversea Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, and Windstar Cruises. Most calls are part of Southeast Asia itineraries and world cruises, for which Ba Ria - Vung Tau serves as the gateway to Ho Chi Minh City. π
π‘ Interesting facts about Ba Ria - Vung Tau and its port
A few details worth knowing before you visit:
β The name “Vung Tau” literally means “anchorage” — long before the city itself existed, this bay served as a shelter for trading ships.
βοΈ The Christ the King statue above the city stands 32 metres tall (36 metres including its pedestal) and was completed in 1994; inside are 133 steps, and since 2012 it has been considered the largest Christian statue in Asia.
π‘ The lighthouse on Nui Nho (“Small Mountain”) was built by the French in 1862 — one of Vietnam's oldest lighthouses, its light is still visible from 35 nautical miles away (about 65 km).
π’οΈ Vung Tau is the country's only “oil capital”: Vietsovpetro, operator of the largest oil field on Vietnam's southern shelf, is headquartered here.
πͺ In the 1960s–1970s the city was the main rest resort for troops during the Vietnam War — thousands of Australian and American soldiers came here for a few days' break.
π’ The walk from the ship's gangway to the exit of Phu My Port passes through a working cargo terminal — passengers should allow an extra 15–20 minutes on foot.
β The Cai Mep - Thi Vai cluster removed the need to transship Vietnamese container cargo via Singapore — direct services now run from here to ports in the US and Europe.
ποΈ On 1 July 2025, Vung Tau officially ceased to be an independent city — it is now made up of wards (phΖ°α»ng) within the merged Ho Chi Minh City metropolis.
π Top sights in Vung Tau and Ho Chi Minh City — must-sees for cruise passengers
A cruise ship's call at Phu My Port usually lasts from 8 to 12 hours, so most passengers choose one of two directions — either a sightseeing day in Vung Tau itself, or a trip into Ho Chi Minh City. A detailed list with addresses, prices, and opening hours can be found in the “Landmarks and Points of Interest” section; below is a brief overview.
βοΈ Christ the King Statue — a 32-metre statue atop Nui Nho (Small Mountain) with a panorama over the whole city and port, one of the tallest Christian statues in Asia.
ποΈ Bach Dinh Villa — the former summer residence of the French governors and the place where Emperor Thanh Thai was held under arrest; today a museum with a collection of period artefacts.
π‘ The lighthouse on Nui Nho — a working lighthouse dating from 1862, with the best viewpoint over the bay and coastline.
ποΈ Back Beach and Front Beach — Vung Tau's main city beaches, lined with seafood restaurants and a seafront promenade.
π Thich Ca Phat Dai — a large Buddhist temple complex on a hillside with numerous statues of the Buddha.
ποΈ Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) — about 80 km from the port: Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, the Reunification Palace (formerly the Independence Palace), Ben Thanh Market, and the War Remnants Museum.
π³οΈ Cu Chi Tunnels — an underground network from the Vietnam War era, a popular day trip from the port.
β¨ Why choose a cruise to/from Ba Ria - Vung Tau
Ba Ria - Vung Tau combines resort-style relaxation with easy access to one of Asia's largest metropolises.
First, the logistics are convenient: Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City receives direct and connecting flights from Europe, and from there it's about a two-hour drive to Phu My Port. βοΈ
Second, it's a gateway to Southeast Asia itineraries and world cruises — the port appears increasingly often in the schedules of the world's leading cruise lines. π
Third, Vung Tau itself is already a resort destination in its own right: beaches, a hill with a lighthouse and the Christ statue, colonial architecture, and delicious Vietnamese cuisine make it worth setting aside a day to explore the city, even if the main goal is a trip to Ho Chi Minh City. π
The cruise specialists at Four Gates Group can help you choose the right ship, itinerary and cabin, take care of flight and ground transfer details, and offer exclusive rates from Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and other leading brands we work with as a priority partner in Ukraine. π€
βΉοΈ Please note: the information on this page is provided for general guidance and was accurate at the time of publication. Prices, schedules, routes, and visiting conditions may change without notice. Please confirm current details with your Four Gates Group cruise specialist or on the official websites of the relevant venues.
FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals
How to Get to the Cruise Terminal in Ba Ria - Vung Tau Port
Ba Ria - Vung Tau Port — is one of the few cruise ports in the world where the «pier» and the «city» are separated by dozens of kilometres, and a dedicated passenger terminal in the classic sense doesn't exist yet. Large ocean liners heading to Vietnam dock not in Vung Tau itself, nor in Ho Chi Minh City, but at the cargo container berths of the industrial Cái Mép – Thα» VαΊ£i cluster, located dozens of kilometres from both cities. This is a temporary, though officially approved, arrangement by the Vietnamese authorities that will remain in place until a dedicated passenger port is built in Vung Tau itself. Below is a detailed, verified guide on how to reach the pier from the airport, from downtown Ho Chi Minh City and from Vung Tau, how much it costs, and what to keep in mind in advance. π―
π Where exactly the Ba Ria - Vung Tau Port cruise pier is located
Currently (as of mid-2026), international cruise liners are received at several cargo terminals of the Cái Mép – Thα» VαΊ£i cluster, located in Phú Mα»Ή town, Ba Ria - Vung Tau province — roughly 60–70 km southeast of Ho Chi Minh City. The Vietnamese authorities most recently extended the permit for these terminals to receive passenger liners until 30 June 2026, after which either a further extension or a transition to new arrangements is expected — so the exact pier should always be confirmed in your cruise voucher.
πΉ Liners most often dock at the Tan Cang – Cai Mep International Terminal (TCIT) and Cai Mep International Terminal (CMIT), and less frequently at SP-PSA International Port or other berths within the cluster.
π Approximate GPS address: Tan Cang – Cai Mep International Terminal, Phú Mα»Ή, Bà Rα»a – VΕ©ng Tàu, Viα»t Nam
πΆ Distance to the nearest city (Vung Tau): about 33–40 km
πΆ Distance to Ho Chi Minh City (centre, District 1): about 80–90 km
β An important feature: these berths are working cargo container terminals, not tourist infrastructure. There is no promenade, cafés or waiting area here, and exiting the restricted-access zone to reach the area where cars wait takes 15–20 minutes on foot or via the port's internal shuttle. You cannot simply «walk out into town» from here — a transfer must be arranged in advance.
ποΈ Looking ahead: in Vung Tau, in the Bãi TrΖ°α»c (Bai-Chuoc) waterfront area, a dedicated international passenger port has been approved, featuring two berths with a combined length of 840 metres, designed to accommodate ships of up to 225,000 GT and handle up to 1.5 million passengers a year. The project is currently at the pre-feasibility study stage (expected completion around 2026), so over the next few years liners will most likely continue calling at Cái Mép – Thα» VαΊ£i. π§
βοΈ From Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) to the cruise pier
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Tân SΖ‘n NhαΊ₯t, SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City is the main gateway to southern Vietnam and the closest airport to the port, with direct and connecting flights from Ukraine (typically via Istanbul, Doha, Dubai, Singapore or Bangkok). The distance from the airport to the pier is about 79–90 km, and the drive takes 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific terminal.
π Taxi and Grab — possible, but not guaranteed
Official taxis (Vinasun, Mai Linh) wait outside the airport terminal exits, and the Grab app is the most popular way to book a car in Vietnam. However, a few nuances are worth keeping in mind:
• most drivers do not speak English — it's best to have the pier's name written in Vietnamese or shown on a map on your phone
• not every driver is willing to drive onto cargo port grounds and wait at the entry checkpoint
• Approximate cost: around 65–75 USD one way (sedan)
π‘ Tip from Four Gates: treat taxis or Grab as a backup option only for reaching the cruise pier — it's far more reliable to book an organised transfer in advance.
π Private transfer — the recommended option
A private transfer with a meet-and-greet in the arrivals hall, a name board and a driver who knows the check-in procedure for the terminal grounds is the safest and most predictable way to reach your ship.
• Sedan (1–3 people): from 65–70 USD
• Minivan (4–7 people): from 80–90 USD
• Minibus (8–16 people): from 100–115 USD
• Travel time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes
• Advantages: fixed price, free flight-monitoring wait time (usually up to 60–90 minutes), driver familiar with the port entry procedure
π€ Four Gates Group arranges private transfers for its clients — simply provide your flight number when booking your cruise.
π Shuttle bus from the cruise line
Some liners offer their own airport-to-port shuttle for passengers flying in on embarkation day. The cost is usually around 55–65 USD per person one way; seats should be booked in advance through the cruise line, as availability may be limited.
π« Looking ahead — Long Thanh Airport: a new international airport, Long Thành, is being built 40 km east of Ho Chi Minh City, considerably closer to Ba Ria - Vung Tau province. Commercial flights are planned from Q4 2026; as of mid-2026 the airport has not yet started regular international flights, so all travellers currently arrive via Tan Son Nhat. Once Long Thành opens, the journey time to the Cái Mép – Thα» VαΊ£i pier should shorten significantly.
β΄οΈ Hydrofoil Vung Tau – Ho Chi Minh City — an alternative for those staying overnight in the city
If you arrived early and are spending the night in Vung Tau or Ho Chi Minh City, a convenient alternative to the road journey is the hydrofoil that runs between the Bach Dang (BαΊ‘ch ΔαΊ±ng) pier in downtown Ho Chi Minh City and the Vung Tau waterfront.
• Travel time: about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1.5 hours
• Cost: around 10–13 USD one way
• Frequency: several sailings a day (the timetable should be checked in advance, as it varies by season)
β οΈ Important: the hydrofoil arrives in Vung Tau town itself, not at the Cái Mép – Thα» VαΊ£i cargo pier, so you will still need an additional transfer from the dock to the ship (taxi or private car, 40–60 minutes).
ποΈ From downtown Ho Chi Minh City to the cruise pier
If you spent a night or several days at a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, there are a few ways to reach your ship:
π Taxi/Grab from your hotel — 1.5–2.5 hours on the road depending on your hotel's district and traffic, roughly 55–70 USD. It's most convenient to book a car through the Grab app — you'll see a fixed fare immediately and won't need to haggle.
π Private transfer or group coach from the cruise line — most liners calling at Cái Mép – Thα» VαΊ£i offer an organised transfer from downtown Ho Chi Minh City (usually as part of a shore excursion or as a standalone service). Cost is roughly 55–65 USD per person one way, with a travel time of 1.5–2 hours.
π« Public transport — there are no direct buses or trains from downtown Ho Chi Minh City to the Cái Mép – Thα» VαΊ£i berths. Travelling independently by public transport is impractical and not recommended.
π‘ Tip from Four Gates: since the journey takes up a significant part of the day, those flying into Ho Chi Minh City the evening before embarkation should plan an early departure from their hotel — at least 3–3.5 hours before the required boarding time.
π From Vung Tau (the nearest resort town) to the cruise pier
The resort town of Vung Tau is located considerably closer to the pier than Ho Chi Minh City, which is why many passengers choose to spend the night here before boarding — enjoying a calmer, more affordable base.
• Taxi/Grab: 45–60 minutes on the road, roughly 25–35 USD
• Private transfer: from 30–40 USD, at a fixed price with hotel pickup
• Distance: about 33–40 km
π‘ Tip: an overnight stay in Vung Tau before boarding offers the best balance between budget, travel time to the pier, and a chance to stroll along the coastal town.
π Renting a car or hiring a driver
β οΈ Important: international driving licences are not officially recognised in Vietnam, so classic self-drive car rental (Avis, Hertz, Europcar and the like) is essentially unavailable to foreign tourists. All car rental companies in Ho Chi Minh City and Vung Tau offer a «car with driver» service instead, which effectively functions as a private transfer.
There is no official paid parking for private visitors directly at the Cái Mép – Thα» VαΊ£i berths — the area is restricted, and private vehicle access must be arranged in advance through the terminal operator or the cruise line.
βΏ Accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility
Cruise-specific infrastructure at Cái Mép – Thα» VαΊ£i is still limited, as the berths were designed as cargo facilities rather than passenger ones:
β οΈ Ramps, lifts and specialised transport within the port grounds are not always available and depend on the specific terminal.
β
Most cruise lines arrange embarkation and disembarkation for passengers with reduced mobility individually, upon prior request.
β
Private transfers can be booked with a wheelchair-accessible vehicle — be sure to mention this in advance when booking.
π‘ Tip: if you or your travelling companions have limited mobility, be sure to inform your cruise line and your cruise manager at the booking stage — this is the only reliable way to secure the assistance you need at this port.
β° When to arrive at the cruise pier
π΅ If Ba Ria - Vung Tau Port is a port of call (one-day stop):
The ship's call here usually lasts 8–12 hours. Since even Ho Chi Minh City is 1.5–2.5 hours away by road, and traffic entering the megacity is hard to predict, returning to the ship deserves special attention.
π Plan your departure from Ho Chi Minh City back to the pier at least 3 hours before sailing
π Be back on board no later than 60–90 minutes before the announced sailing time — this is the standard boarding deadline for most cruise lines
β If you're travelling independently (without a ship-organised excursion), build in extra time — if you're delayed on the road back to the pier, the ship will not wait for you.
π’ If Ba Ria - Vung Tau Port is a port of embarkation (start or end of the cruise):
Check-in for boarding usually opens 3–4 hours before the ship's departure. Since the journey from the airport or downtown Ho Chi Minh City takes 1.5–2.5 hours, and processing at the cargo terminal's entry point (security, customs and immigration formalities) can take longer than at regular passenger ports, it's recommended to:
π fly into Ho Chi Minh City at least a day before boarding and avoid planning a transfer straight «from the plane's wheels to the ship's gangway»
π leave your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City for the pier 4–5 hours before the announced departure time
π carry your passport, cruise voucher and a printed, confirmed terminal address in Vietnamese
β Boarding deadline: usually 60–90 minutes before departure. All Four Gates Group vouchers include the exact time and exact terminal address for your specific cruise — confirmed 48–72 hours before boarding, as the berth can occasionally change.
π‘ Insider tips from the Four Gates Group experts
From years of arranging cruises through Vietnam, our specialists have gathered several practical pieces of advice:
π
Fly into Ho Chi Minh City a day or two before boarding. This is not a «one-day» port like European cities — a flight delay or a customs hold-up here can cost you the entire cruise.
πΌ Book your transfer in advance and confirm the pier's address in writing. Because terminals within the Cái Mép – Thα» VαΊ£i cluster rotate regularly, even experienced taxi drivers can get the berth wrong — specify the exact terminal name from your voucher.
πΆ Carry cash in US dollars and Vietnamese dong (VND). Not all drivers and small businesses along the way accept cards, and there is no currency exchange directly at the port.
π± Install the Grab app in advance and link a card or set up cash payment — it's the easiest way to book a car in Ho Chi Minh City and Vung Tau without a language barrier.
π£οΈ Have the pier's name and address written in Vietnamese (for example, on a sheet of paper or saved on your phone) — most drivers do not speak English.
π« Don't count on self-drive car rental. International driving licences are not valid in Vietnam — only a car with a driver can be hired.
π¨ When choosing a hotel, weigh the trade-off: Ho Chi Minh City offers more sights and leisure options, while Vung Tau means a significantly shorter and cheaper transfer to the pier on boarding day.
β Plan your route with a buffer. The port has no cafés or a comfortable waiting area — it's an industrial site, so it's best to spend all your remaining time in town rather than at the terminal.
π Useful contacts
Vietnam Police: 113
Ambulance: 115
Fire Department: 114
Four Gates Group cruise specialists (24/7 for clients):+38 097 653 05 53
Cruise logistics from Ba Ria - Vung Tau Port are more complex than at most European ports — which is exactly why preparation matters more here than anywhere else. The cruise experts at Four Gates Group support clients at every stage: from choosing the best flight to Ho Chi Minh City, to arranging a private transfer with a name board in the arrivals hall, to confirming the exact berth with the cruise line. Contact our manager — and your journey to the ship in Vietnam will go off without unnecessary stress. π³οΈβ¨
βΉοΈ Please note: the information on this page is provided for general guidance and is accurate as of the date of publication. Berths, schedules, routes, transfer rates and the conditions of entry onto port grounds may change without notice — especially given the temporary status of cruise liner reception within the Cái Mép – Thα» VαΊ£i cluster. Please confirm current details with a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or on the official websites of the relevant facilities.
FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises from Professionals
Landmarks and Places of Ba Ria-Vung Tau: A Complete Guide for Cruise Travelers
Ba Ria-Vung Tau is a province on Vietnam's southern coast that welcomes cruise liners at the modern Phu My terminal, but the real experience lies further away: in the beach city of Vung Tau, 33 km away, or in the megacity of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), 80 km away. Unlike many European ports, there is no single historic center just «beyond the gate» here — there are two different directions, and realistically only one of them can be properly explored during a single call. Below is a verified guide to the main sights of both directions, with up-to-date 2026 prices, opening hours, and precise instructions on how to get from the Phu My International Port cruise terminal to each site. π―
πͺͺ Important for Ukrainian citizens: Vietnam is not on the list of visa-free countries for Ukrainians. Before your cruise, you need to arrange an electronic visa (e-Visa) in advance at evisa.gov.vn — the cost is around 25 USD for a single entry, and processing takes 3–7 business days. There is no Vietnamese embassy in Ukraine; the nearest ones are in Bucharest and Minsk, so applying for an e-Visa online is the most convenient option. Without a visa or a confirmed shore pass, disembarking from the ship will not be possible.
βοΈ 1. Christ the King Statue (Tượng Chúa Kitô Vua)
π‘ Interesting facts and background:
This is the largest statue of Christ in Asia and one of the tallest in the world — taller than the «Christ the Redeemer» in Rio de Janeiro. It stands atop Mount Nho (Núi Nhα») and can be seen from almost anywhere in Vung Tau. β¨
πΉ The monument's total height is 32 meters (the statue itself) on a 4-meter pedestal, making 36 meters altogether. The arm span is 18.3 meters.
πΉ Inside the statue, a spiral staircase of 133 steps leads up to Christ's shoulders, where two small balcony viewpoints are set up.
πΉ Reaching the base of the statue from the foot of the mountain requires climbing more than 800 stone steps — the ascent takes 20–30 minutes at a comfortable pace.
πΉ From Christ's shoulders, a panorama unfolds over the entire Vung Tau coastline, the port, and the South China Sea — one of the best views in the region. πΈ
πΉ The statue receives about 1,000 tourists and pilgrims daily, with significantly more on weekends and holidays.
π History:
Construction began under the Vietnamese Catholic Church back in 1974, but due to wartime events and subsequent years, work was repeatedly halted. The monument was completed and officially consecrated on December 2, 1994, with a major restoration carried out in 1993. Today the statue is Vung Tau's main symbol and an important pilgrimage site for Catholics from across Vietnam.
π’ How to get there from Phu My Port:
• Private transfer or taxi: 45–60 minutes to the foot of Mount Nho, with an individual car costing roughly 800,000–1,000,000 VND one way
• Organized excursion: the most common option, since there is no regular public transport from the port
• From there — a walk up the steps (free of charge), or, for less mobile travelers, the statue can be admired from below without the climb
πΆ Cost and opening hours:
• Entry to the grounds and the climb up the steps: free
• Opening hours: daily 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
β οΈ Tip: covered shoulders and knees are appreciated, as this is an active religious site. The best time to climb is in the morning, before the heat sets in.
ποΈ 2. Bach Dinh — Villa Blanche (BαΊ‘ch Dinh)
π‘ Interesting facts and background:
This snow-white villa on a hill is one of the few well-preserved examples of French colonial architecture in Vietnam. The name «Bach Dinh» translates as «White Palace,» while the European name «Villa Blanche» was given in honor of its founder's daughter. π³οΈ
πΉ The building has three floors, including a basement, and the second-floor balcony offers views of the bay and beach.
πΉ Inside, a collection of antique artifacts is kept: Chinese porcelain, statues, portraits in an antique style, furniture, and cannons recovered from shipwrecks in Ba Ria-Vung Tau province.
πΉ This is one of the few buildings in Vietnam where an emperor was held under house arrest — a rare episode in the country's history.
π History:
The villa was built between 1898 and 1902 as a summer residence for Paul Doumer, Governor-General of French Indochina. It was named after his daughter, Blanche. From 1907 to 1916, it held Emperor Thanh Thai under house arrest — a Vietnamese monarch who opposed French colonial rule. After 1975, the building was converted into a museum, which it remains today.
π’ How to get there from Phu My Port:
• Private transfer/taxi: 50–60 minutes; address: 6 Tran Phu Street, 4 km from downtown Vung Tau
• It is most convenient to combine this visit with other Vung Tau sights on a single tour, as the villa lies almost directly on the way to the lighthouse and the Christ statue
πΆ Cost and opening hours:
• Admission ticket: about 15,000 VND
• Opening hours: daily 7:00–11:30 a.m. and 1:30–5:00 p.m. (closed on public holidays)
πΌ 3. Vung Tau Lighthouse (HαΊ£i ΔΔng VΕ©ng Tàu)
π‘ Interesting facts and background:
One of Vietnam's oldest working lighthouses stands atop Small Mountain (Núi Nhα»), about 1 km in a straight line from the Christ statue — both sights are often visited on the same trip. π‘
πΉ The tower stands about 18 meters tall, and its light is visible from up to 55 km away — it still serves its navigational function for ships in the South China Sea today.
πΉ The interior spiral staircase is currently closed to visitors — the lighthouse can only be viewed from outside and from the surrounding platform.
πΉ Cafés around the lighthouse serve local yogurt and light dishes with views over the sea and the port.
π History:
The lighthouse was built by the French back in 1862 — one of the first on the Indochinese coast. In 1913 the structure was rebuilt and relocated to its current site, preserving its original appearance. For over 160 years, the lighthouse has served as a landmark for mariners heading to the ports of Ba Ria-Vung Tau and Ho Chi Minh City.
π’ How to get there from Phu My Port:
• Private transfer/taxi: 45–55 minutes to the foot of the mountain, then about 3 km on foot (roughly 150 m elevation gain), or drive straight up to the platform
• It's optimal to combine this with the Christ the King Statue as part of a single southern Vung Tau tour
πΆ Cost and opening hours:
• Entry: free
• Car/motorbike parking: about 5,000 VND
• Viewing platform hours: daily 7:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
π‘ 4. Ho May Park (Hα» Mây Park)
π‘ Interesting facts and background:
Ho May is a large-scale amusement park on Big Mountain (Núi Lα»n) covering about 50 hectares, reached by cable car. It is Vung Tau's most «family-friendly» attraction, with rides, a water park, and even hotels right at the mountaintop. π’
πΉ The cable car carries guests up to a height of 250 meters and can transport up to 3,000 people per hour.
πΉ The park is divided into five themed zones: entertainment (rides, water park, paintball), ecology (waterfalls, a «cloud lake,» forest), culture (Buddhist statues and shrines), dining, and accommodation.
πΉ From the top, a panorama unfolds over the entire Vung Tau coastline and the South China Sea — one of the best viewpoints in the region.
π History:
The park grew from a small cable car up Big Mountain into today's multifunctional resort complex, built and equipped with the involvement of an Australian cable car operator. Today, Ho May is one of the most popular family destinations in southern Vietnam.
π’ How to get there from Phu My Port:
• Private transfer/taxi: 50–60 minutes; address: 1A Tran Phu Street, Vung Tau
πΆ Cost and opening hours:
• Full ticket (cable car + rides + shows): 500,000 VND (adults), 250,000 VND (children 1–1.3 m tall)
• «Cable car + garden» ticket: 100,000 VND (adults), 50,000 VND (children)
• Opening hours: Sun–Thu 8:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m., Fri–Sat and holidays 8:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. (entertainment zone open until 6:00 p.m.)
ποΈ 5. Bai Truoc and Bai Sau Beaches (Front Beach & Back Beach)
π‘ Interesting facts and background:
Vung Tau has two main city beaches with entirely different characters — a classic pairing of «quiet sunset» versus «active recreation.» π
πΉ Bai Truoc (Front Beach) — on the western side of the city, considered the «face» of Vung Tau. It offers the best sunset views and a promenade lined with restaurants and hotels.
πΉ Bai Sau (Back Beach) — the main swimming beach, stretching for more than 10 kilometers of fine sand. This is where both locals and tourists head on weekends.
πΉ Dozens of family-run seafood restaurants line the coast, serving freshly caught fish, crab, and shellfish right in front of guests.
π History:
Vung Tau (formerly known by its French name, Cap Saint Jacques) developed as a seaside resort back during French colonial times in the 19th century — wealthy Saigon residents came here on weekends much as Parisians traveled to the French Riviera. After 1975, the city remained the main beach destination for residents of Ho Chi Minh City and the busiest cruise port in southern Vietnam.
π’ How to get there from Phu My Port:
• Private transfer/taxi: 45–50 minutes to the waterfront
• Both beaches lie within the city, with taxis and motorbike taxis running between them (5–10 minutes)
πΆ Cost and opening hours:
• Beach access: free
• Sun lounger with umbrella: roughly 50,000–100,000 VND per day
• Seafood lunch on the promenade: from 200,000 VND per person
π§ 6. Niet Ban Tinh Xa Pagoda (NiαΊΏt Bàn Tα»nh Xá)
π‘ Interesting facts and background:
One of Vung Tau's most important Buddhist sanctuaries, set on a hill between two beaches. Here, a rare stillness and calm reign over this resort city. π
πΉ The main relic is a 12-meter reclining Buddha statue in a state of nirvana, set on a 2.6-meter pedestal.
πΉ The pagoda grounds cover more than 10,000 m², with 37 steps leading up to the main hall, which houses three large statues of a meditating Buddha.
πΉ The pagoda's viewing area offers views over the bay and Vung Tau's beaches.
π History:
The monastery was built between 1968 and 1974, funded by donations from Buddhist followers, monks, and nuns under the supervision of the abbot, Thich Thien Hue. Today it is an active monastery and one of the province's main spiritual sanctuaries.
π’ How to get there from Phu My Port:
• Private transfer/taxi: 50–55 minutes; address: 66/7 Ha Long Street, Vung Tau
• Easy to combine with a stroll along the Ha Long seafront promenade
πΆ Cost and opening hours:
• Entry: free (donations welcome)
• Opening hours: daily, approximately 7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
π Dress code: covered shoulders and knees, quiet behavior — this is an active temple.
π 7. Thang Tam Whale Temple (Δình ThαΊ§n ThαΊ―ng Tam)
π‘ Interesting facts and background:
An unusual site for a European traveler — a temple complex dedicated to whale worship, a tradition still alive among Vietnamese fishing communities. π
πΉ The temple holds an 18-meter whale skeleton that washed ashore in 1831, along with about 180 other whale bones and skeletons.
πΉ Local fishermen believe that the «Whale God» (Cá Ông) protects them at sea and brings good fortune — a tradition rooted in the ancient culture of Vietnam's coastal communities.
πΉ The complex consists of three shrines: the main temple, the Nam Hai whale shrine, and the Ngu Hanh shrine dedicated to the five elements.
πΉ The three-tiered gate is decorated with carved images of dragons, tigers, and mythological scenes.
π History:
The temple was founded in 1820, originally built of bamboo and palm leaves. The whale shrine was added in 1824, and the five-elements shrine in 1832. In 1835 the roof was replaced with tiles, and in 1865 the complex was completely rebuilt into the structure that stands today. Between 1845 and 1850, the temple received 13 imperial decrees of recognition, and in 1991 it was officially designated a national historical and cultural monument.
π’ How to get there from Phu My Port:
• Private transfer/taxi: 45–50 minutes; address: 05 Xo Viet Nghe Tinh Street, Vung Tau
πΆ Cost and opening hours:
• Entry: free
• Opening hours: daily, approximately 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
π³οΈ 8. Cu Chi Tunnels (Củ Chi Tunnels)
π‘ Interesting facts and background:
One of Vietnam's most world-famous landmarks — an underground tunnel network used by the Viet Cong during the war. This is no longer Vung Tau, but a separate trip toward Ho Chi Minh City, so you should choose either the tunnels or the city, not both. βοΈ
πΉ The tunnel network runs for about 121 kilometers in total, with the deepest levels reaching down to 12 meters.
πΉ The entrance closest to visitors is Ben Dinh, widened and reinforced with concrete specifically for tourists; the second entrance, Ben Duoc, lies further out and includes a memorial temple bearing the names of 44,000 fallen soldiers.
πΉ A short black-and-white documentary film from 1967 about the tunnels' history is shown on site.
πΉ Visitors can also try the shooting range at the entrance — firing historical weapons from that era (18+).
π History:
The tunnel network was first dug in the 1940s during resistance against French colonizers, and was significantly expanded in the 1960s during the Vietnam War. The tunnels served as shelters, hospitals, weapons depots, and even underground «towns» for thousands of people. Today it is one of the most visited war-history sites in Southeast Asia.
π’ How to get there from Phu My Port:
• Private transfer/excursion: 2.5–3 hours one way (via Ho Chi Minh City), so a visit is only feasible with a long call of 9–10 hours or more
• Getting there independently is practically impossible — only as part of an organized tour with a guide and transfer
πΆ Cost and opening hours:
• Admission ticket (Ben Dinh) with mandatory guide: about 125,000 VND; children under 7 — free
• Shooting range: from 60,000 VND per shot (minimum 10 shots)
• Organized tour with transfer and guide: from 400,000 to 650,000 VND per person
• Opening hours: daily 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (ticket counter closes at 4:00 p.m.), open every day of the year
ποΈ 9. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) — Full-Day Excursion
π‘ Interesting facts and background:
Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is Vietnam's largest city and its economic capital. It's an alternative to Vung Tau for those willing to spend most of the call driving in exchange for a glimpse of the megacity. The main sights are compactly clustered in District 1, so several landmarks can be seen on foot in sequence. ποΈ
πΉ Notre-Dame Cathedral — a neo-Romanesque basilica built by the French from brick imported from Marseille; its bell towers stand 57.6 meters tall and hold six bronze bells. It underwent a major restoration from 2017 to 2023.
πΉ Independence Palace (Reunification Palace) — the former residence of South Vietnam's president and a symbol of the war's end: on April 30, 1975, a tank crashed through its gates, marking the conflict's conclusion. The legendary tanks No. 843 and No. 390 still stand in front of the palace.
πΉ Ben Thanh Market — the main symbol of commercial Saigon, with its distinctive clock tower, founded in the early 17th century; the current building dates from 1912. The market welcomes over 10,000 visitors daily.
πΉ War Remnants Museum — one of the country's most-visited museums, displaying military equipment, weapons, and photographs from the Vietnam War; it opened in September 1975.
π History:
Saigon was founded on the site of an ancient Khmer settlement, and the French turned it into the administrative center of Cochinchina in the second half of the 19th century — hence the French colonial architecture found in the city center today. After Vietnam's reunification in 1976, the city was renamed Ho Chi Minh City in honor of the founder of the Communist Party, though the old name «Saigon» is still widely used, especially in reference to the central district.
π’ How to get there from Phu My Port:
• Private transfer: 1 hour 40 minutes – 2 hours one way, a distance of 80 km. A sedan (1–4 people) costs roughly 1,500,000 VND one way, a minivan (7 people) — from 2,300,000 VND
• Organized excursion with port transfer: the most reliable option, since there is no regular public transport from the port
• β οΈ Important: given the length of the drive (3.5–4 hours round trip), a Ho Chi Minh City trip should only be planned for calls of 9 hours or longer
πΆ Cost and opening hours of the main sights:
• Notre-Dame Cathedral: free entry, grounds open daily 8:00–11:00 a.m. and 2:00–4:00 p.m.
• Independence Palace: 40,000 VND (palace only), 65,000 VND (palace + exhibition hall), daily 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m., ticket counter until 3:30 p.m.
• Ben Thanh Market: free entry, daily 6:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. (day market), night market until 10:00 p.m.
• War Remnants Museum: 40,000 VND (adults), 20,000 VND (children), daily 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
π¨ 10. Other Places Worth Seeing
• β©οΈ Nha Lon («Big House») on Long Son Island — a unique religious complex covering about 2 hectares, built between 1910 and 1929 by the founder of a local religious community, Mr. Tran (Le Van Muu). It blends traditional Vietnamese architecture with the worship of Confucius, Heaven, and Buddha. It has been designated a national historical and cultural monument.
• πΎ Mekong Delta — a full-day excursion by boat through the canals, visiting local villages and sampling tropical fruit; a popular alternative for those who have already been to Ho Chi Minh City.
• ποΈ Ho Coc and Long Hai beaches — less crowded and wilder beaches outside Vung Tau city, popular with those seeking a calm getaway away from the city bustle.
• π Street food tour — sampling pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls at local eateries in Vung Tau or Ho Chi Minh City, often by motorbike with a guide.
πΊοΈ Three Self-Guided Itineraries for a 9-Hour Call
A cruise call at Phu My Port typically lasts 8–12 hours. Given the distance to both directions, it is realistic to choose either a comprehensive tour of Vung Tau or a trip to Ho Chi Minh City — combining both directions in one call is practically impossible. Below are three options depending on budget and preferences.
π₯ Route 1. Budget — Vung Tau on your own, up to 700,000 VND per person
β±οΈ Total time: 9 hours | π° Estimated budget: 500,000–700,000 VND + food
π 8:30 a.m. — Leaving the Phu My Port terminal, taxi to Vung Tau
Roughly 800,000 VND per car one way (worth splitting with cabin-mates), 45–50 minutes' drive.
π 9:20–10:30 a.m. — Christ the King Statue
Climb the steps (free), take in the view from Christ's shoulders, photos against the coastline.
π 10:30–11:15 a.m. — Vung Tau Lighthouse
On foot or in the same taxi (1 km from the statue), view from outside and a café serving local yogurt.
π¦ 11:15 a.m.–12:30 p.m. — Bach Dinh (Villa Blanche)
Admission ticket 15,000 VND, view the collection of antique artifacts and the bay.
π 12:30–1:30 p.m. — Seafood lunch on the Bai Sau promenade
A local seafood restaurant — from 200,000 VND per person.
π 1:30–3:30 p.m. — Bai Sau Beach
Swimming, a sun lounger (50,000–100,000 VND), a walk along the promenade.
π 3:30–4:30 p.m. — Return to the port by taxi
π° Cost breakdown (per person, for one of four passengers sharing a car):
• Round-trip taxi (split four ways): about 400,000 VND
• Bach Dinh: 15,000 VND
• Lunch: 200,000 VND
• Sun lounger: 75,000 VND
πΈ TOTAL: about 690,000 VND per person
π₯ Route 2. Optimal — private transfer around Vung Tau, 2,000,000–2,500,000 VND per person
β±οΈ Total time: 9 hours | π° Estimated budget: about 2,200,000 VND + food
π 8:30 a.m. — Meet your driver at the terminal exit
A private car for the whole day, English-speaking driver.
π 9:15–10:15 a.m. — Christ the King Statue
Climb the steps, view from the shoulder balconies, photos.
π€ 10:15–10:45 a.m. — Vung Tau Lighthouse
Drive straight up to the platform, a quick look around.
π 10:45–11:45 a.m. — Bach Dinh
Ticket 15,000 VND, view the collection and the villa's architecture.
π§ 11:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m. — Thang Tam Whale Temple
View the whale skeleton and temple complex, free admission.
π 12:30–1:30 p.m. — Seafood lunch at a restaurant on Bai Truoc
From 250,000–350,000 VND per person.
π 1:30–3:30 p.m. — Ho May Park
«Cable car + garden» ticket 100,000 VND, panorama from a height of 250 meters.
π 3:30–4:15 p.m. — Bai Sau Beach
A short walk along the promenade, coffee with a sea view.
π 4:15–5:00 p.m. — Return to the port
π° Cost breakdown:
• Private car for the day (split among 2–4 people): from 1,500,000 VND
• Bach Dinh: 15,000 VND
• Ho May (cable car + garden): 100,000 VND
• Lunch: 300,000 VND
πΈ TOTAL: about 2,000,000–2,500,000 VND per person
π‘ Adding the full Ho May ticket with rides (500,000 VND) increases the budget but leaves time for the water park too.
π₯ Route 3. Premium — private excursion to Ho Chi Minh City, from 3,500,000 VND per person
β±οΈ Total time: 9–10 hours | π° Estimated budget: from 3,500,000 VND + tickets and lunch
π What's included:
• β
A private driver holding a sign right at the terminal exit
• β
A comfortable car or minivan for the whole day
• β
A professional, licensed English-speaking guide in Ho Chi Minh City
• β
Skip-the-line tickets for every site on the program
• β
A flexible itinerary — part of the program can be swapped for the Cu Chi Tunnels
You can book through your cruise manager, or contact us however is most convenient for you:
Phone numbers:
• Office: +38 (044) 337 82 01
• Mobile (LifeCell): +380 93 653 05 53
• Mobile (Vodafone): +380 66 653 05 53
• Mobile (Kyivstar): +380 97 653 05 53
Email us
π 8:30 a.m. — Meet your driver and guide at the terminal, depart for Ho Chi Minh City
The drive takes 1 hour 40 minutes – 2 hours.
π 10:30–11:30 a.m. — Independence Palace
«Palace + exhibition hall» ticket 65,000 VND, private tour with a guide, view the legendary tanks No. 843 and No. 390.
π§ 11:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m. — Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office
View the French colonial architecture, free entry to the cathedral grounds.
π 12:30–2:00 p.m. — Lunch at a Vietnamese restaurant downtown
From 300,000–500,000 VND per person.
π 2:00–3:00 p.m. — Ben Thanh Market
Shopping, souvenirs, tasting local dishes.
π 3:00–4:00 p.m. — War Remnants Museum
Ticket 40,000 VND, guided tour of the exhibits.
π 4:15 p.m. — Depart back to Phu My Port
The drive takes 1 hour 40 minutes – 2 hours, arriving with time to spare before boarding.
π° Cost breakdown:
• Private driver and car (9–10 hrs): from 1,500,000 VND per car (best split among the group)
• Guide in Ho Chi Minh City (half day): from 1,200,000 VND
• Tickets (Independence Palace + War Remnants Museum): 105,000 VND
• Lunch at a local restaurant: from 300,000 VND
πΈ TOTAL: from 3,500,000 VND per person (for a group of 2+ — calculated per group, not per person)
π€ Four Gates Group arranges private excursions in Vung Tau and Ho Chi Minh City with licensed guides, transfer from the gangway, and a guaranteed return on board. Contact your cruise specialist — and your day in Vietnam will be perfectly planned to your taste. π³οΈβ¨
β οΈ Important to Know Before Going Ashore
π «All aboard» rule: you must return to the ship 60–90 minutes before departure. If you're late, the ship will not wait, and catching up with it at the next port will be at your own expense.
πͺͺ Documents: bring your passport (or a copy, per your cruise line's requirements), your Ship Card, and proof of your approved e-Visa.
π΅ Cash: Vietnamese dong (VND) is the main currency for payments outside tourist areas; carry 500,000–1,000,000 VND in cash, as cards are not accepted everywhere.
π Clothing: light, breathable clothing due to the heat and humidity; covered shoulders and knees for visiting temples and the Christ statue.
βοΈ Climate: tropical heat year-round, with temperatures of +28…+34 °C and high humidity — a hat, sunscreen, and water are essential.
π¦ Insect protection: it's worth carrying repellent, especially for excursions to the countryside or the Mekong Delta.
π¦ Traffic: Vietnam has extremely heavy motorbike traffic; cross streets slowly and confidently, without stopping abruptly.
π± Internet: it's worth buying a local SIM card or e-SIM in advance — Wi-Fi at Phu My Port is limited.
π Safety: Vietnam is generally a safe country for tourists, but keep an eye on your belongings at markets and in crowded places.
π« Transport from the port: there is no regular public transport from the Phu My terminal — plan your transfer in advance through your cruise line or a trusted local partner.
βΉοΈ Please note: the information on this page is for informational purposes and is accurate at the time of publication. Prices, schedules, routes, and visiting conditions may change without notice. Please confirm current details with a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or on the official websites of the relevant venues.
FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals