Cruises to Nha Trang
Nha Trang — the resort jewel of Vietnam's coast and one of the leading cruise ship calls in Southeast Asia. The city sits on the south-central coast of the country, in Khanh Hoa province, where green mountains slope straight down to the turquoise waters of the South China Sea. Nha Trang Bay, ringed by nineteen islands, belongs to the exclusive “Club of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World”, and Tran Phu Beach, stretching over 7 km (4.3 mi), draws millions of travellers every year. Two thousand years of history — from the kingdom of Champa to the French colonial era — blend here with modern resort hotels, an over-the-sea cable car, and one of Vietnam's richest underwater worlds.
For a cruise passenger, Nha Trang is an important stop on Southeast and East Asia itineraries: ships calling here typically sail along the Vietnamese coast from Hong Kong, Singapore, or Bangkok. In 2025 the ports of Khanh Hoa province welcomed 25 cruise calls and around 30,000 passengers, and at least 33 calls are scheduled for 2026 — the province is steadily building its status as one of the region's cruise destinations. π’
π Before setting off on a cruise to Nha Trang, or going ashore for a few hours during a port call, here's what you need to know:
π»π³ Country: Vietnam
π Region: Khanh Hoa province (administrative centre after the 2025 reform)
π₯ Population: about 535,000 residents in the city proper (metro area – over 600,000)
π Area: 251 km² (97 sq mi)
π£οΈ Languages: Vietnamese (official); English is common in tourist areas
π° Currency: Vietnamese dong (VND)
π Time zone: ICT (UTC+7), no daylight-saving changes — 4 hours ahead of Kyiv time in summer and 5 hours ahead in winter
βοΈ Climate: tropical, with a dry season (January–August) and a wet season (September–December); average year-round temperature around +27 °C (81 °F)
βοΈ Nearest airport: Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) — 30 km (18.6 mi) from the city centre
β Official name of the cruise port: CαΊ£ng Nha Trang (Nha Trang Port), historically “Nha Trang – Ba Ngoi Port”; today's cruise calls are handled by the Ana Marina Nha Trang International Cruise Terminal
πΊοΈ Port area: the historic Cau Da terminal — 10.3 hectares (25.5 acres); the new international Ana Marina — 89 hectares/220 acres (68 ha/168 acres of water area)
ποΈ The history of Nha Trang — from the kingdom of Champa to a world-class resort
β³ Two thousand years at a crossroads of civilisations
The history of Nha Trang begins long before the modern city existed. As early as the 1st millennium, this territory, known as Kauthara, was settled by the Cham people, who founded one of the provinces of the powerful kingdom of Champa here. The spiritual heart of that era was the Po Nagar towers — a complex of Hindu sanctuaries on a hill at the mouth of the Cai River, built in the 7th–13th centuries in honour of the goddess Po Nagar, protector of the land and the harvest. The three towers that survive today remain an active place of worship, and in 1979 the complex was declared a national monument.
π«π· The French colonial era, and a doctor still revered in Vietnam
In the 19th century, when the Nha Trang coastline was still almost uninhabited, it became home to Alexandre Yersin, a Swiss-French bacteriologist and co-discoverer of the bacterium that causes bubonic plague. He lived in the fishing village of Xom Con for more than fifty years, treating local residents free of charge, and founded the Pasteur Institute in Nha Trang as well as the Indochina Medical School (now Hanoi Medical University). Yersin died in Nha Trang in 1943; today his tomb at Suoi Dau and the museum on Tran Phu Street are among the most cherished memorial sites in the city.
Nha Trang was officially designated a township on 30 August 1924 and gained town status in 1937. During the Vietnam War, the deep-water bay served as a rest and recreation spot for American sailors, and after 1975 the city was reborn as a resort: in 1999 Nha Trang was recognised as a second-class city, in 2009 as a first-class city, and in 2008 it even hosted the Miss Universe pageant. π
π The 2025 administrative reform
In July 2025, Vietnam carried out a sweeping administrative reform: Khanh Hoa province was merged with neighbouring Ninh Thuan province into an enlarged Khanh Hoa province covering nearly 12,000 km² (4,600 sq mi) with a population of about 1.88 million. Having lost its status as a separate city, Nha Trang became the administrative centre of this large coastal province.
β The Port of Nha Trang — gateway to cruise Vietnam
π Scale and structure of the port
The seaport of Nha Trang was founded on 9 February 1976. Historically its heart was the Cau Da terminal, covering 10.3 hectares (25.5 acres) on Tran Phu Street — the berth where cruise ships docked for decades. However, because of limited water depth, today's large cruise ships can no longer come alongside and instead anchor offshore, with passengers brought ashore by tender.
In May 2025, a few kilometres north of the city centre, Ana Marina Nha Trang officially opened — the country's first international-standard marina, with its own port code, VNANA. Covering 89 hectares/220 acres (68 ha/168 acres of water area), the complex is designed for 110 yachts under normal operation and up to 220 vessels at peak times, and together with the deep-water Cam Ranh port it now handles most of the province's cruise calls.
The largest modern cruise ships dock at the deep-water Cam Ranh International Port, 60 km (37 mi) — a 60–75-minute drive — south of Nha Trang, close to the airport of the same name. As a result, the province now effectively runs a “two-port” system: Cam Ranh for the largest ships, and Ana Marina plus the Cau Da terminal mainly for mid-sized vessels. β¨
π’ How many liners the port can handle
According to official figures from the Khanh Hoa tourism department, the province's ports welcomed 25 cruise calls and around 30,000 passengers in 2025. At least 33 calls are planned for 2026 — a notable increase that reflects Nha Trang's ambition to become one of the leading cruise destinations in Southeast Asia. Days with two liners in port at once are becoming more frequent during the high season (November–April).
π’ Which cruise lines call at Nha Trang
Nha Trang is regularly visited by ships from leading global brands: Princess Cruises (Diamond Princess, Coral Princess, Royal Princess), Costa Cruises (Costa Serena), Holland America Line (ms Westerdam), Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Explora Journeys, and StarDream Cruises. Most of these calls form part of longer Asia itineraries — from Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok, or Ho Chi Minh City. π
π‘ Interesting facts about Nha Trang and its port
A few lesser-known details make getting to know the city that much richer:
ποΈ Tran Phu Beach stretches for about 7 km (4.3 mi) along the entire central waterfront — one of the longest city beaches in Asia.
π Nha Trang Bay has officially belonged to the “Club of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World” since 2003 — together with Ha Long Bay and Lang Co Bay, it is one of only three Vietnamese bays to hold this honour.
ποΈ The Po Nagar towers were first built as early as the 7th century — a thousand years before the French ever set foot on this shore.
π¬ Alexandre Yersin is honoured in Nha Trang as one of the most significant foreigners in the city's history: streets in several Vietnamese cities bear his name, and the museum on the site of his home draws thousands of visitors every year.
π‘ The 3,320 m (10,900 ft) Vinpearl cable car links the mainland to Hon Tre Island over open water and is considered one of the longest over-sea cable cars in the world — the ride takes about 15 minutes.
π The Hon Mun Marine Protected Area in Nha Trang Bay is Vietnam's first official marine protected area, home to hundreds of species of coral and tropical fish.
π In 2008 Nha Trang hosted the Miss Universe pageant — still the only time the contest has been held in Vietnam.
β΄οΈ For nearly half a century, large liners docked exclusively at the historic Cau Da pier — the new deep-water Cam Ranh port and the Ana Marina have opened a new cruise era for Nha Trang.
π Top sights in Nha Trang — must-sees for cruise passengers
A cruise ship's call at Nha Trang usually lasts from 8 to 10 hours, so it pays to plan your route in advance. A detailed list with photos, addresses, and opening hours can be found in the “Landmarks and Places of Interest” section; below is a brief overview of the key locations that define the city.
ποΈ Po Nagar Towers — a complex of 7th–13th-century Cham Hindu sanctuaries on a hill at the mouth of the Cai River, the city's foremost historic landmark and still an active place of worship.
ποΈ Tran Phu Beach and promenade — over 7 km (4.3 mi) of white sand, a palm-lined avenue, parks, and cafés right by the sea, the heart of Nha Trang's tourist life.
π‘ Hon Tre Island and VinWonders — an entertainment complex with an amusement park, water park, and oceanarium, reached by an over-the-sea cable car.
π§ Thap Ba Hot Springs — a popular spa complex with mineral mud baths and hot springs at the foot of the mountains.
π Long Son Pagoda — a Buddhist temple with a 24 m (79 ft) seated Buddha statue on a hilltop, offering a panorama over the whole city.
π¬ Alexandre Yersin Museum — a house-museum on Tran Phu Street dedicated to the life and scientific discoveries of the renowned bacteriologist.
ποΈ The islands of Nha Trang Bay — Hon Mun, Hon Tam, and Hon Mot, with clear beaches, coral reefs, and opportunities for snorkelling and diving.
ποΈ Cho Dam Market — the city's largest covered market, offering tropical fruit, spices, silk, and souvenirs.
β¨ Why include Nha Trang in your cruise itinerary
Nha Trang — a rare blend of tropical resort and cultural depth that makes a call here one of the most memorable moments of an Asian cruise.
First, there is contrast: within a few hours you can see thousand-year-old Cham sanctuaries, a modern resort waterfront, and world-class white-sand beaches. ποΈ
Second, there is accessibility: Cam Ranh Airport receives direct flights from dozens of Asian hubs, and the deep-water port can accommodate even the largest modern cruise ships. βοΈ
Third, there is variety: from relaxing in the mud baths of Thap Ba to diving in the Hon Mun Marine Protected Area and taking in the panorama from Long Son Pagoda — every traveller will find a programme to suit them. π
The cruise specialists at Four Gates Group will help you choose the ideal Asia itinerary featuring Nha Trang as one of its highlights, and will provide up-to-date information on shore excursions, transfers, and the documents required for travel to Vietnam. π€
βΉοΈ Please note: the information on this page is for general guidance only and is accurate as of the date of publication. Prices, schedules, routes, and visiting conditions may change without notice. For up-to-date information, please consult a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or the official websites of the relevant venues.
FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals
How to Get to the Cruise Terminal in Nha Trang
Nha Trang is a resort city on Vietnam's south-central coast where liners call for only a few hours at a time — there is no cruise terminal “downtown.” Instead, passengers are received by two entirely different facilities — the deep-water Cam Ranh International Port dozens of kilometres south of the city, and the tender-based Ana Marina Nha Trang in the northern part of the bay. Which one your ship uses depends on its size, and the there-and-back logistics differ in each case. Below is a verified, step-by-step guide with every transfer option, current prices, and tips from the Four Gates Group cruise specialists. π―
π Where Exactly Is Nha Trang's Cruise Port
Unlike many European ports, Nha Trang has no single cruise terminal — ships use one of two facilities:
β Cam Ranh International Port — a deep-water cargo-and-passenger port where large and mid-size liners dock directly at the pier:
• Location: Cam Ranh Peninsula, 45–60 km (28–37 mi) south of downtown Nha Trang, next to Cam Ranh Airport
• Capacity: can simultaneously accommodate liners of up to 225,000 GRT
• π GPS address: Cam Ranh Peninsula, Bac Cam Ranh Ward, Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam
• β Important: the port borders a naval base zone and has restricted access, so private vehicles are not permitted to drive directly onto the pier — more details in the “By Private Car” section below
β Ana Marina Nha Trang — Vietnam's first international marina, where mid-size liners anchor offshore and tender passengers to shore by launch:
• Location: Nguyen Co Thach Street, Bac Nha Trang Ward, the northern part of the bay, 7–8 km (4.3–5 mi) from the city centre
• π GPS address: Nguyen Co Thach Street, Bac Nha Trang Ward, Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam
• Facilities: a tender berthing area, waterfront restaurants, a guarded car park
β Important: your ship's exact terminal (Cam Ranh or Ana Marina) is always listed on your cruise voucher. Check it 48–72 hours before the port call — it determines both the length of the drive into the city and how you'll board.
βοΈ From Cam Ranh Airport (CXR) to the Cruise Terminal
Cam Ranh International Airport (code CXR) receives direct and connecting flights from dozens of Asian hubs and sits 35 km (22 mi) from downtown Nha Trang and just 10–15 km (6–9 mi) from Cam Ranh Port — both facilities share the same peninsula. The airport is most useful for travellers extending their trip independently before or after the cruise.
π Taxis and ride-hailing apps
• To downtown Nha Trang: 30–40 minutes, approximately 220,000–300,000 VND
• To Cam Ranh Port: 15–20 minutes, approximately 150,000–220,000 VND (provided the driver drops you outside the port's controlled zone — see below)
• To Ana Marina: 50–60 minutes, about 45 km (28 mi)
• Apps: Grab and Xanh SM (Vietnam's electric taxi service) operate reliably in both Nha Trang and Cam Ranh, with the fare shown in the app in advance
• Official taxis: Mai Linh (green livery) and Vinasun are reputable operators — always ask the driver to switch on the meter
π Airport shuttle bus
Runs from a stop to the right of the terminal exit into downtown Nha Trang. The fare is about 70,000–80,000 VND, with a 45–60-minute journey and several stops along the way. There is no direct bus service to Cam Ranh Port.
π Private transfer
The best option for anyone flying in before or after the cruise with heavy luggage or family: a driver meets you in arrivals with a name board, at a fixed price regardless of traffic.
π€ Four Gates Group arranges private transfers between Cam Ranh Airport, Nha Trang hotels, and both cruise terminals — just share your flight number when booking your cruise.
π From Nha Trang Railway Station (Ga Nha Trang) to the Cruise Terminal
If you're combining your cruise with a train journey — say, an overnight Reunification Express service from Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang — you'll arrive at Ga Nha Trang station, 17 Thai Nguyen Street, next to the cathedral — essentially in the city centre.
π To downtown and the beach: 5–10 minutes, 30,000–50,000 VND by Grab or an official taxi
π To Ana Marina: 20–25 minutes, about 9–10 km (5.6–6.2 mi)
π To Cam Ranh Port: 60–90 minutes, about 55–60 km (34–37 mi) — book a transfer ahead of time, as taxis outside the station aren't always willing to run the meter that far
π‘ Tip: for a trip straight from the station to Cam Ranh Port, a pre-booked transfer is more convenient and cheaper than hailing a taxi on the spot.
ποΈ From Downtown Nha Trang to the Cruise Terminal
Most passengers spend their time in port right in the city centre — along Tran Phu promenade or April 2 Square — so the trip back to your terminal is the most common route of the day.
To Ana Marina (7–8 km / 4.3–5 mi from the centre):
• Taxi/Grab: 15–20 minutes, 60,000–150,000 VND depending on the pickup point
• Route: north along the coastal Pham Van Dong road, one of the city's most scenic drives
To Cam Ranh Port (55–60 km / 34–37 mi from the centre):
• Taxi: 60–90 minutes, roughly 500,000–700,000 VND one way depending on the company and traffic
• Private transfer: 125–175 USD per vehicle (sedan to minivan, priced per car rather than per person) — the better option for this distance
• β Important: because port access is restricted, most private drivers drop passengers off outside the port gate or at the CaraWorld Cam Ranh resort complex (~20 km / 12 mi from the pier), from where a free port shuttle continues to the gangway. Driving straight to the pier is possible only for an extra fee (roughly 25 USD per person) through an authorised operator
• Public transport: there is no regular bus service to Cam Ranh Port — your only options are a taxi, a private transfer, or an organised shore excursion through the cruise line
πΆ On foot: workable only within downtown Nha Trang itself; walking to Ana Marina (7–8 km / 4.3–5 mi along the coast), let alone to Cam Ranh Port (55–60 km / 34–37 mi), isn't practical.
π By Private Car — Parking Near the Port and Car Rental
Self-drive car rental in Vietnam comes with a major catch: international driving permits are not officially recognised, so rental companies typically offer foreign tourists a car with a driver rather than a self-drive vehicle. The same applies to trips to the cruise terminal.
π
ΏοΈ Ana Marina has its own guarded car park for guests, so a private driver or transfer company can pull up almost to the pier.
π
ΏοΈ Cam Ranh Port is a restricted-access area: personal or rented vehicles aren't allowed onto the pier without special authorisation. Drivers meet passengers outside the port's controlled zone or at CaraWorld Cam Ranh (~20 km / 12 mi from the pier), from where a free port shuttle runs to the gangway. If you're arranging your own transfer, always confirm the exact meeting point with the company beforehand — it changes depending on the day the ship calls.
π‘ Tip: for Cam Ranh Port it's far more reliable to book a transfer in advance through a cruise specialist or a trusted local company than to count on finding a taxi at the gate.
βΏ Accessibility for Passengers with Reduced Mobility
β
Cam Ranh Port berths ships directly at the pier, so boarding and disembarkation happen via a standard gangway or a terminal fitted with ramps
β οΈ Ana Marina operates by tender launch only — transferring to a tender can be difficult or impossible for wheelchair users; let your cruise line know about any assistance you need well before the port call
β
Official taxis (Mai Linh, Vinasun) can arrange a larger vehicle for a passenger with a wheelchair on request, but dedicated “eurotaxis” are relatively scarce in Nha Trang — it's best to book through your hotel or cruise specialist in advance
β
Every terminal has staff on hand to help with boarding — let your cruise line know your needs in advance
β° When to Arrive at the Cruise Terminal
Nha Trang functions solely as a port of call: passengers neither embark nor disembark here for the start or end of a cruise — the ship simply calls for a few hours. The one rule that always applies is to be back by the scheduled departure time, but exactly how you plan your return depends on how your ship is receiving guests that day.
π΅ Scenario 1 — the ship docks directly at Cam Ranh Port: the standard “all aboard” deadline applies, usually 60–90 minutes before departure. Since the drive from downtown Nha Trang takes 60–90 minutes even in good traffic, start heading back at least 3–3.5 hours before the ship sails, building in a cushion for traffic and finding transport.
π’ Scenario 2 — the ship anchors offshore and Ana Marina receives passengers by tender: what matters here isn't the ship's departure time but the time of the last tender — it stops running 60–90 minutes before departure and won't wait for latecomers. Tender service can also be suspended due to rough seas, so allow extra time to get back to shore.
β Boarding deadline: the exact time of the last tender or the “all aboard” deadline for your specific call is always listed in the ship's daily programme — check it every time, as it can differ from the standard figure.
π‘ Tips from the Four Gates Group Experts
Over years of working with Asian cruises, our specialists have gathered advice that will save you time, money, and stress specifically in Nha Trang:
πΌ Book your transfer to Cam Ranh Port ahead of time. It's the longest and most complex logistics of any Vietnamese port: 55–60 km (34–37 mi), restricted access, and no steady taxi queue at the gate make gambling on “catching a car on the spot” risky.
πΆ Carry small-denomination dong notes. Cards and dollars are rarely accepted at markets or by private drivers, and when they are, the exchange rate isn't favourable; keep 500,000–1,000,000 VND in small bills for a day in the city.
π± Install Grab and Xanh SM in advance and arrange mobile data (a local SIM card or an e-SIM) — without it, calling a taxi from the pier or downtown is far harder.
π Note the exact time of the last tender or “all aboard” as soon as you step ashore. That information lives in the ship's daily programme, not in general guidebooks, and it's what actually determines your time limit.
π Choose an organised shore excursion if your call is short. Given the distance to Cam Ranh Port, an independent round trip to the city takes 2–3 hours on the road alone — worth factoring in if your call is under 8 hours.
βοΈ Sun and humidity protection is a must. Nha Trang is warm and humid year-round; a hat, sunscreen, and drinking water for the road won't go to waste.
π Nha Trang Cruise Terminal Contacts
Cam Ranh International Port (TCPC):+84 258 385 8221
Ana Marina Nha Trang:+84 258 3901 888
Mai Linh Taxi (Nha Trang):+84 258 3838 383
Vinasun Taxi (Nha Trang):+84 258 3827 272
Vietnam Police: 113
Fire Department: 114
Ambulance: 115
Four Gates Group cruise specialists (24/7 for clients):+38 097 653 05 53
Getting to and from Nha Trang's cruise facilities is more involved than at a typical European port: two separate terminals, the considerable distance to Cam Ranh Port, and restricted access to its grounds call for a bit more planning than usual. With the right preparation, though, none of that will stand in the way of a wonderful day in Vietnam. The Four Gates Group cruise experts help our clients with every step — from choosing the right kind of transfer to arranging a private car with a driver right at the meeting point you need. Get in touch with your manager, and your call at Nha Trang will go off without a hitch. π³οΈβ¨
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 a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or on the official websites of the venues concerned.
FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals
Nha Trang Landmarks and Places of Interest: A Complete Guide for Cruise Travelers
Nha Trang is the resort capital of central Vietnam, set on the shore of a bay officially recognized by the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World as one of the planet's gems. It offers a 3.7-mile (6 km) city beach of fine sand, 19 islands just offshore, more than a thousand years of Cham heritage, and French colonial architecture standing alongside Buddhist pagodas and a modern entertainment complex on Hon Tre Island. For cruise passengers, Nha Trang is one of the most vibrant ports of call in Southeast Asia: a ship's call here usually lasts from 8 to 10 hours, so it pays to plan your route in advance. Below is a verified guide to the key landmarks, with up-to-date 2026 prices, opening hours, and approximate directions from the CαΊ§u Δá (Ana Marina) pier to each site. Larger ships that dock at the deep-water Cam Ranh International Port, about 31–37 miles (50–60 km) south of the city, should add roughly 45–60 minutes of driving time each way. π―
π 1. Long Son Pagoda (Chùa Long SΖ‘n)
π‘ Fun facts and background:
Long Son Pagoda is the main Buddhist temple of Khanh Hoa province and one of the first sights a cruise visitor sees heading into town: it sits practically in the center of Nha Trang, at the foot of Trai Thuy Hill.
πΉ Atop the hill stands a snow-white seated Buddha statue 79 ft (24 m) tall, set on a lotus 33 ft (10 m) in diameter. It is one of the largest Buddha statues in Southeast Asia and can be seen from many points around the city.
πΉ A staircase of 193 steps leads up to the statue. The 44th step holds a marble reclining Buddha, and the 54th holds the Great Bell (ΔαΊ‘i Hα»ng Chung), 7.2 ft (2.2 m) tall and weighing 1.5 metric tons (about 3,300 lb).
πΉ The temple itself houses bronze Buddha statues up to 5.2 ft (1.6 m) tall and weighing up to 1,540 lb (700 kg).
πΉ The viewpoint at the foot of the White Buddha offers one of the best panoramas in Nha Trang — over the city, the bay, and the islands.
π History:
The pagoda was founded in 1886 by the monk Thich Ngo Chi atop Trai Thuy Hill. After the structure was damaged by weather around 1900, the temple was moved closer to the foot of the hill, where it stands today. In 1936, Long Son officially became the headquarters of the Buddhist community of Khanh Hoa province. The great Buddha statue atop the hill was erected in 1963–1965, funded by the local Buddhist community — it became a symbol of peace and the region's spiritual revival.
π’ Getting there from the CαΊ§u Δá pier:
• Taxi/Grab: 10–15 minutes, about 60,000–90,000 VND. Address: 22 23 Thang 10 Street, Nha Trang
• As part of a walking route: the pagoda pairs well with a same-day visit to the Stone Church and Dam Market
πΆ Price and opening hours:
• Entry to the pagoda grounds: free
• Opening hours: daily, no days off; it's best to time the climb to the Buddha statue for morning or midday, avoiding early morning and late evening, when the monks are at prayer
π Dress code: shoulders and knees should be covered, and shoes should be removed before entering the prayer hall
π 2. Po Nagar Cham Towers (Tháp Bà Ponagar)
π‘ Fun facts and background:
The Po Nagar Towers are the most important monument of Cham civilization in Nha Trang and one of the best-preserved groups of Cham structures in Vietnam. In July 2025, the complex was officially designated a Special National Relic of Vietnam.
πΉ The towers were built from fired brick without any mortar — the method Cham builders used to bond the bricks together remains a mystery to scientists to this day.
πΉ The complex is dedicated to the goddess Thien Y A Na (Po Nagar, or “Mother of the Land”), who, according to legend, taught coastal peoples farming, weaving, and sewing.
πΉ Four of the original eight towers survive today, along with a gate and a mandapa (forecourt) with 22 sandstone columns.
πΉ Every year the complex hosts the Po Nagar Festival, held on the 20th–23rd day of the third lunar month (around May 6–9 in 2026), with traditional ceremonies and Cham cultural dances.
π History:
Construction of the tower complex spanned the 8th to 13th centuries, with each tower and annex built under a different reign of Cham kings. Located at the mouth of the Cai River, about 1.2 miles (2 km) north of downtown Nha Trang, the complex served as the main religious and cultural center of the Champa kingdom along this stretch of coast. The Hindu bas-reliefs on the tower walls still tell the story of Cham cosmology and mythology today.
π’ Getting there from the CαΊ§u Δá pier:
• Taxi/Grab: 15–20 minutes, about 90,000–120,000 VND
• As part of a route: pairs conveniently with the Stone Church and Dam Market, which lie along the way
πΆ Price and opening hours:
• Adults: 30,000 VND (free for ethnic Cham visitors)
• Opening hours: daily 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
π Dress code: this is an active temple complex, so overly revealing clothing should be avoided
π‘ 3. VinWonders Nha Trang and the Vinpearl Cable Car
π‘ Fun facts and background:
The VinWonders entertainment complex sits on Hon Tre Island, reached by a unique overwater cable car often described as the longest over-the-sea cable car in the world.
πΉ The cable car route is 2.06 miles (3,320 m) long, and its tallest tower reaches 377 ft (115 m), of which 131 ft (40 m) is below sea level.
πΉ The line is carried by seven Eiffel-style offshore towers, built right in the bay.
πΉ VinWonders park itself combines a water park, a zoo, an oceanarium, and rides in one location, and the cable car ticket is included in the park admission price.
πΉ The gondola ride over the bay takes about 15 minutes and offers a panorama of all 19 islands of Nha Trang Bay.
π History:
The cable car opened in the early 2000s as part of developing Hon Tre Island into the Vinpearl tourist complex. Since its launch, it has become a symbol of Nha Trang and one of the city's most photographed sights, while the park on the island is regularly updated and expanded with new rides and zones.
π’ Getting there from the CαΊ§u Δá pier:
• On foot/by taxi to the cable car station (CαΊ§u Δá – Hon Tre): the station is practically next to the pier, 5–10 minutes
• Alternative: a speedboat or ferry to the island runs when the cable car is closed for bad weather or maintenance
πΆ Price and opening hours:
• Full VinWonders ticket (park + round-trip cable car): adults (140 cm+) — 1,050,000 VND; children 100–140 cm and seniors 60+ — 800,000 VND
• After-4-p.m. ticket: adults — 700,000 VND; children/65+ — 550,000 VND
• Cable car only (no park), round trip: about 200,000 VND
• Children under 100 cm: free
• Opening hours: daily from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (later during peak season)
β οΈ Tip: it's cheaper and more reliable to book tickets online in advance at the official site vinwonders.com — especially in peak season, when the station queue can eat up to an hour of your time ashore.
π 4. Institute of Oceanography (National Oceanographic Museum)
π‘ Fun facts and background:
The Institute of Oceanography in Nha Trang is Vietnam's oldest and largest marine research institution and one of the leading ones in all of Southeast Asia.
πΉ The museum's collection holds more than 60,000 specimens of marine flora and fauna, including about 20,000 living organisms in its aquariums.
πΉ The centerpiece exhibit is a complete 59 ft (18 m) humpback whale skeleton, discovered in 1994.
πΉ The collection also includes hundreds of jars of specimens preserved in alcohol — fish, sea snakes, corals, and mollusks — some more than a century old.
πΉ At the entrance stands a sea turtle sculpture made entirely from recycled plastic bottles, a project supporting ocean plastic-pollution awareness.
π History:
The institute was founded by French marine biologists in 1922, making it one of Vietnam's oldest research institutions overall. It originally studied Indochina's fish resources for the French colonial administration and, over time, grew into the leading center for marine biology research across Southeast Asia. The museum attached to the institute opened to the public and today combines both a scientific and a tourist function.
π’ Getting there from the CαΊ§u Δá pier:
• On foot: the institute is literally a few hundred meters from the pier — 5–10 minutes on foot
• Taxi: not needed given the proximity to the port
πΆ Price and opening hours:
• Adults: 40,000 VND
• University students: 20,000 VND (with a valid student ID)
• School students: 10,000 VND
• Children under 6: free
• Opening hours: daily, including public holidays, 6:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
πͺ¨ 5. Hon Chong Promontory (Hòn Chα»ng)
π‘ Fun facts and background:
Hon Chong is a scenic cluster of granite boulders on the shoreline, designated a national relic of Vietnam back in 1998.
πΉ Atop the largest boulder is an imprint said to be a “giant handprint”, around which local lore has woven several romantic legends.
πΉ The formations were actually shaped by natural weathering of the coastal granite over millions of years — the legends simply add to the site's atmosphere.
πΉ Nearby stands the smaller Hon Vo rock, which together with Hon Chong forms a well-known scenic pair.
πΉ The promontory also preserves 20th-century defensive tunnels that visitors can explore.
πΉ The Hon Chong viewpoint offers one of the best views of Nha Trang Bay and Hon Tre Island with its cable car.
π History:
Hon Chong has long served as a landmark for local fishermen and a setting for legends along the Vietnamese coast. The promontory received official status as a national natural relic in 1998, after which the site was developed for tourists, with paths, viewing platforms, and the small Nha Trang Bay Club cultural center, which hosts performances of traditional Vietnamese instruments.
π’ Getting there from the CαΊ§u Δá pier:
• Taxi/Grab: 20–25 minutes, about 120,000–150,000 VND
πΆ Price and opening hours:
• Adults: 30,000 VND
• Children: 15,000 VND
• Opening hours: daily 6:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
βͺ 6. Nha Trang Cathedral (Nhà Thα» Núi / Stone Church)
π‘ Fun facts and background:
Nha Trang Cathedral is the city's best-known religious landmark and the cathedral church of the local Catholic diocese.
πΉ The church was built in the French Gothic style, with a soaring vault and characteristic ornate rose windows.
πΉ Reinforced concrete was used for the walls and roof, while cut stone was used for the pathways and detailing — the source of its popular name, the “Stone Church.”
πΉ The bronze bells in the bell tower were cast by the renowned French foundry Bourdon Carillond.
πΉ The church stands on small Bong Hill in the city center, so it's visible from many points around Nha Trang.
π History:
Construction began on September 3, 1928, at the initiative of French priest Louis Vallet (1869–1945) and was completed in 1933. In 1957, when the Diocese of Nha Trang was established, the church was designated its cathedral — the diocese's main church.
π’ Getting there from the CαΊ§u Δá pier:
• Taxi/Grab: 15–20 minutes, about 90,000–120,000 VND. The church is located near Nha Trang's railway station
πΆ Price and opening hours:
• Admission: free
• Building open to visitors: weekdays 5:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Sundays 5:00–7:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (services are held the rest of the day on Sundays)
• Weekday Mass: 4:45 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
π Dress code: shoulders and knees should be covered, and visitors should stay quiet and avoid disturbing worshippers during services
β¨οΈ 7. Thap Ba Hot Spring (Mud Bath)
π‘ Fun facts and background:
Thap Ba is Nha Trang's most popular mineral and mud bath complex, set on the bank of the Cai River amid mountains and tropical greenery.
πΉ The complex covers about 7.4 acres (three hectares) and combines mud tubs, mineral pools, jacuzzis, and man-made waterfalls.
πΉ The therapeutic mud is mineral-rich, and the center states it is beneficial for skin and joints.
πΉ The facility offers both communal mud baths for large groups and private baths for parties of 2 to 8 people.
π History:
The mineral springs in the Cai River valley have long been known to locals, but the modern tourist complex built around them is a more recent development, turning the natural springs into a popular wellness resort about 2.5 miles (4 km) north of downtown Nha Trang.
π’ Getting there from the CαΊ§u Δá pier:
• Taxi/Grab: 25–30 minutes, about 150,000–180,000 VND. Address: 15 Ngoc Son, Ngoc Hiep, Nha Trang
πΆ Price and opening hours:
• Communal mud bath, adults: 120,000 VND (session of about 15 minutes)
• Communal mud bath, children: 60,000 VND
• Private bath for two: from 500,000 VND
• Opening hours: daily, roughly morning to evening (it's best to confirm the exact schedule before visiting, as it can vary by season)
β οΈ Tip: bring a change of clothes and a small towel — you'll want a shower after the mud bath.
π° 8. Bao Dai Villas
π‘ Fun facts and background:
Bao Dai Villas is a complex of former royal residences on a hill overlooking Nha Trang Bay, blending French colonial architecture with traditional Vietnamese elements.
πΉ The complex covers 29.7 acres (12 hectares) at an elevation of about 164 ft (50 m) above sea level.
πΉ It comprises five villas, each named after a native plant.
πΉ Stone steps lead from the villas through a coconut grove down to the private Hoang Hau (“Queen's”) Beach.
πΉ Queen Nam Phuong, who lived here, became the first and only woman in Vietnamese history to marry a king in a Catholic rite.
π History:
The villas were built by the French in 1923 as housing for scientists at the local Institute of Oceanography. From 1940 to 1945, the complex served as the private residence of Emperor Bao Dai — the thirteenth and last monarch of the Nguyen dynasty — and his wife, Queen Nam Phuong. After France's defeat at Dien Bien Phu in 1954, President Ngo Dinh Diem used it as a retreat for a time. After Vietnam's reunification in 1975, the complex opened to visitors and was later redeveloped into an upscale resort hotel while preserving the villas' historic appearance.
π’ Getting there from the CαΊ§u Δá pier:
• Taxi/Grab: 10–15 minutes, about 70,000–100,000 VND — the complex sits close to the port, on a neighboring hill
πΆ Price and opening hours:
• Grounds admission: 21,000 VND
• Opening hours: daily 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
π¨ 9. Other landmarks worth a visit
• π¬ Alexandre Yersin Museum (10 Tran Phu St.) — honors the Swiss-French bacteriologist who co-discovered the plague bacterium and founded the Pasteur Institute in Nha Trang. 20,000 VND (adults), 10,000 VND (students), free for children under 1.2 m (about 4 ft). Mon–Sat 7:30–11:30 a.m. and 2:00–5:00 p.m., Saturday mornings only, closed Sundays.
• ποΈ Dam Market (Chợ ΔαΊ§m) — a round covered market with a lotus-shaped roof, known for fresh seafood, souvenirs, and a food court of local dishes. Free admission, daily 5:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
• ποΈ Nha Trang City Beach — about 3.7 miles (6 km) of fine sand along Tran Phu Boulevard, one of Vietnam's most beautiful city beaches. Free admission, open 24 hours.
• π€Ώ Hon Mun Island — part of the Nha Trang Bay marine protected area, a popular spot for snorkeling and diving among coral reefs. Access is only by organized boat tour, from 400,000 VND per person.
πΊοΈ Three Self-Guided Nha Trang Itineraries for a 9-Hour Call
A cruise call in Nha Trang usually lasts 8–10 hours. Realistically, you can see 3–5 top landmarks if you plan your route well. Below are three options depending on budget and preferences.
π₯ Route 1. Budget — up to 400,000 VND per person
β±οΈ Total time: 9 hours | π° Estimated budget: 300,000–400,000 VND + food
π 8:00 a.m. — Leave the CαΊ§u Δá pier
Walk 5–10 minutes to the Institute of Oceanography.
π 8:10–9:10 a.m. — Institute of Oceanography
40,000 VND; see the whale skeleton and the aquariums.
π 9:30–10:15 a.m. — Long Son Pagoda
Taxi 10–15 minutes (~70,000 VND). Climb to the Buddha statue, take in the viewpoint.
π¦ 10:30–11:15 a.m. — Nha Trang Cathedral
Taxi 10 minutes (~50,000 VND). Free look inside and outside the cathedral.
π 11:30 a.m.–12:15 p.m. — Dam Market
Walk 10 minutes from the church. Lunch at the market food court — local pho or banh canh noodles, 60,000–100,000 VND.
π 12:30–1:30 p.m. — Po Nagar Towers
Taxi 10 minutes (~50,000 VND). 30,000 VND; explore the Cham towers and museum.
π 1:45–2:30 p.m. — Nha Trang City Beach
Taxi 10 minutes (~50,000 VND). Stroll along Tran Phu Boulevard.
π 2:45–3:15 p.m. — Return to the pier
Taxi 15 minutes (~80,000 VND).
π° Cost breakdown:
• Taxis (total): ~250,000 VND
• Admission fees: ~70,000 VND
• Lunch: 60,000–100,000 VND
πΈ TOTAL: about 380,000–420,000 VND per person
π₯ Route 2. Balanced — 1,200,000–1,500,000 VND per person
β±οΈ Total time: 9 hours | π° Estimated budget: 1,300,000 VND + food
π 8:00 a.m. — Leave the pier, walk to the CαΊ§u Δá cable car station
5–10 minutes on foot.
π 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. — VinWonders Nha Trang
Full ticket 1,050,000 VND: the over-bay cable car, water park, oceanarium, rides. Lunch in the park — 150,000–250,000 VND.
π§ 12:30–1:00 p.m. — Cable car back to the mainland
π 1:15–2:00 p.m. — Po Nagar Towers
Taxi 15 minutes (~90,000 VND). 30,000 VND admission.
π 2:15–3:00 p.m. — Long Son Pagoda
Taxi 10 minutes (~60,000 VND). Climb to the Buddha statue.
π 3:15–3:45 p.m. — Nha Trang Cathedral
Taxi 10 minutes (~50,000 VND). Free visit.
π 4:00–4:30 p.m. — Return to the pier
Taxi 15 minutes (~90,000 VND).
π° Cost breakdown:
• VinWonders: 1,050,000 VND
• Po Nagar Towers: 30,000 VND
• Taxis (total): ~290,000 VND
• Lunch: 150,000–250,000 VND
πΈ TOTAL: about 1,520,000–1,620,000 VND per person
π‘ Swapping VinWonders for a standalone cable car ride without the park (~200,000 VND) saves more than 800,000 VND.
π₯ Route 3. Premium — private tour from 4,500,000 VND per group
β±οΈ Total time: 9 hours | π° Estimated budget: from 4,500,000 VND per group (2 people) + admission
π What's included:
• β
Private driver meets you with a name sign right at the gangway
• β
Comfortable car/minivan for the full day
• β
Professional English- or Ukrainian-speaking licensed guide
• β
Priority entry and skip-the-line ticket booking
• β
Private mud bath at Thap Ba (no waiting in the communal line)
• β
Table reserved at a seafood restaurant
• β
Flexible itinerary — adjusted on the go
You can book through your cruise specialist, or contact us directly using any of the options below:
Phones:
• 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 pier
π 9:00–10:00 a.m. — Long Son Pagoda with your guide
Private tour, an explanation of the Buddha statue's symbolism, an unhurried climb.
π 10:15–11:15 a.m. — Po Nagar Towers (fast-track)
Drive over (10 min). Private guided tour on the history of Cham civilization.
π§ 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. — Lunch at a seafood restaurant
For example, a restaurant on Tran Phu Boulevard's waterfront — from 400,000–600,000 VND per person. Reservations handled by your guide.
π 1:15–2:45 p.m. — Thap Ba Hot Spring (private bath)
A private mud bath for your party, no queue, from 500,000 VND for two.
π 3:00–3:45 p.m. — Bao Dai Villas
A private walk through the former royal residence, overlooking the bay.
π 4:00–4:30 p.m. — Return to the pier in comfort
π° Cost breakdown:
• Private guide (9 hrs): from 1,800,000 VND
• Driver with car (9 hrs): from 1,500,000 VND
• Admission (Long Son free + Po Nagar + Bao Dai): ~60,000 VND per person
• Private mud bath: from 500,000 VND for two
• Lunch at a seafood restaurant: from 400,000–600,000 VND per person
πΈ TOTAL: from 4,500,000 VND per group (2 people) — priced per group, not per person
π€ Four Gates Group arranges private tours of Nha Trang with licensed guides, transfer from the gangway, and a guaranteed return to the ship. Contact your cruise specialist, and your day in Nha Trang will be planned perfectly to your taste. π³οΈβ¨
β οΈ Good to know before you go ashore
π The “all aboard” rule: be back on board 60 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 a photocopy of your passport and your cruise Ship Card; check Vietnam's current visa requirements for your nationality well before the trip.
π΅ Cash: carry 500,000–1,000,000 VND in small bills for incidentals (market purchases, restrooms, tips, mud baths).
π Clothing: wear comfortable shoes — you'll cover several miles in a hot tropical climate. Shoulders and knees should be covered for Long Son Pagoda, the Po Nagar Towers, and the Cathedral.
π± Internet: free Wi-Fi is available at the port and in most cafés. Download an offline Google Maps of Nha Trang and the Grab app for taxis.
π¦ Road safety: motorbike traffic in Nha Trang is very heavy — cross the street slowly and steadily without stopping abruptly, as drivers are used to weaving around pedestrians.
βοΈ Sun protection: tropical heat reaches +90…+95 °F (+32…+35 °C) year-round. A hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water are a must.
π¦ Insects: in humid areas (Thap Ba, parks) it's worth bringing insect repellent.
βΉοΈ Please note: the information on this page is for general guidance and reflects conditions at the time of publication. Prices, schedules, routes, and visiting conditions may change without notice. Please confirm up-to-date details with your Four Gates Group cruise specialist or on the official websites of the venues listed.
FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals