Boat tours in Hue cut right to the heart of this historic Vietnamese city, with the Perfume River serving as your gateway to imperial landmarks. Simple half-day cruises (from $28) offer good value and efficiently connect you to key sights like Thien Mu Pagoda. For serious cultural enthusiasts, I’m particularly fond of the combination bike-and-boat tours – they allow you to experience both the river perspective and intimate backroads leading to the royal tombs. Private dinner cruises, while pricier, give you a peaceful evening escape from the city’s bustle.
Our favorite tours include expert local guides who speak good English, hassle-free transport, and reasonable cancellation terms. These are our top picks for experiencing Hue from the water.
Key Points
- Hue offers a variety of scenic Perfume River cruises that showcase the city’s historical landmarks, including the Imperial Citadel and royal tombs.
- Dinner cruises on the Perfume River provide an immersive cultural experience with local cuisine and live music performances.
- Combination bike and boat tours allow visitors to explore Hue’s iconic tombs by bike before transitioning to a relaxing river cruise.
- Shore excursions from nearby ports, such as Chan May and Tien Sa, include Perfume River cruises as part of a broader itinerary that explores Hue and nearby Hoi An.
- Many Hue boat tours and cruises boast high customer satisfaction, with most offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Hue City Tour 1 Day With Dragon Boat From Hue, Danang, Hoi an
For those looking to explore the historic city of Hue, the Hue City Tour 1 Day with Dragon Boat is a comprehensive and convenient option.
Starting from $40 per person, this highly-rated tour includes private transportation, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, and a delicious Hue beef noodle soup lunch.
The highlight is a relaxing dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, allowing you to take in the city’s landmarks from the water.
With free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling, this tour provides hassle-free sightseeing in Hue.
The tour also offers pickup services from Danang and Hoi An, making it an accessible choice for travelers in central Vietnam.
Read our full review: Hue City Tour 1 Day With Dragon Boat From Hue, Danang, Hoi an Review
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Hue City Tour Half Day by Car & Dragon Boat on Perfume River
Exploring the historic city of Hue through a half-day tour by car and dragon boat on the Perfume River provides travelers a comprehensive and convenient way to experience the city’s top attractions.
Rated 5.0 with a 98% recommendation from previous guests, this tour includes visits to the Citadel, Pagoda, and up to 3 royal tombs.
The tour offers private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees.
Travelers can conveniently be picked up from their city center hotel or the Hue Train Station.
With moderate physical fitness required, this wheelchair and stroller-accessible tour offers great value starting at €28.08 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Hue City Tour Half Day by Car & Dragon Boat on Perfume River Review
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Hue Tombs Tour by Bike and Boat Cruise on Perfume River
This immersive Hue Tombs Tour by Bike and Boat Cruise on the Perfume River offers travelers an enriching way to discover the city’s renowned royal tombs.
The experience starts with an informative English-speaking guide leading a bicycle tour, providing access to the tombs. Afterward, guests enjoy a relaxing dragon boat trip on the Perfume River, with lunch and sightseeing included.
With a 100% recommendation rate from previous travelers, this private tour is an excellent value at $79 per person. It’s suitable for moderately fit participants, but not recommended for those with medical conditions.
Convenient hotel pickup and free cancellation up to 24 hours make this an exceptional Hue adventure.
Read our full review: Hue Tombs Tour by Bike and Boat Cruise on Perfume River Review
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Full-Day Hue City Private Guided Cultural Tour With Boat Trip
Travelers seeking a comprehensive Hue experience can embark on the Full-Day Hue City Private Guided Cultural Tour with Boat Trip. Priced from $140 per person, this private tour provides a full-day exploration of Hue’s cultural highlights.
Travelers will be picked up from their hotel and transported in a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide. The tour includes entrance tickets, lunch, and a boat trip on the Perfume River.
While drinks and personal expenses are excluded, the tour offers a convenient way to discover Hue’s history, architecture, and natural beauty. Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though infant seats are available.
Read our full review: Full-Day Hue City Private Guided Cultural Tour With Boat Trip Review
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Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Visit Pagoda and Royal Tombs
A private dragon boat journey along the serene Perfume River provides an immersive glimpse into Hue’s captivating heritage.
The Hue Private Dragon Boat, Thien Mu Pagoda & Royal Tombs Tour is a highly-rated, half-day experience praised by 100% of travelers. Cruising by private boat, guests visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and explore the imperial tombs, accompanied by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
The tour includes round-trip transportation and entrance fees, making it a convenient and comprehensive way to discover Hue’s UNESCO-listed landmarks.
With a 5.0 rating from 33 reviews, this tour offers an engaging and memorable experience for visitors seeking to enjoy Hue’s rich cultural and historical significance.
Read our full review: Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Visit Pagoda and Royal Tombs Review
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Hue City Tour 3 Tomb & Citadel Sightseeing Perfume River By Dragon Boat
Set out on a captivating journey through Hue’s rich cultural tapestry with the Hue City Tour 3 Tomb & Citadel Sightseeing Perfume River By Dragon Boat.
This 5-star rated tour allows you to explore the city’s top attractions, including three imperial tombs and the iconic Citadel, all while enjoying a serene dragon boat ride along the Perfume River.
Priced from $77 for up to 3 travelers, the tour includes private car transfers, boat rental, and water.
While meals, guide, and entrance fees aren’t included, you can secure your spot with a reserve now, pay later option.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, this tour is suitable for most travelers.
Read our full review: Hue City Tour 3 Tomb & Citadel Sightseeing Perfume River By Dragon Boat Review
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Hue in a Day From Chan May Cruise Harbor
For travelers on a cruise ship docking at Chan May, the “Hue in a Day From Chan May Cruise Harbor” tour presents an unparalleled opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of Hue.
This private tour, rated 5.0 out of 3 reviews, includes private transfers, a private guide, and all taxes, lunch, and drinks. Pickup is available at the cruise ship’s foot, and the tour starts at 8:00 AM.
Wheelchair-accessible transportation is provided, and passengers must provide their passport details at booking. With a confirmation received upon booking and dietary requirements accommodated, this tour offers a seamless and accessible way to explore Hue’s highlights in a single day.
Read our full review: Hue in a Day From Chan May Cruise Harbor Review
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Hue Private Tour Royal Tombs, Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda by Boat
Travelers seeking a more comprehensive exploration of Hue’s renowned landmarks can opt for the “Hue Private Tour: Royal Tombs, Citadel, and Thien Mu Pagoda by Boat.”
This highly-rated 5.0-star tour takes visitors on a journey through the city’s cultural and historical highlights. Priced from $70 per person, the tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, and admission to key sights like the Khai Dinh Tomb, Tu Duc Tomb, and Imperial Citadel.
Guests will also enjoy a relaxing dragon boat ride and lunch. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this private experience is ideal for those who want a personalized and informative day in Hue.
Read our full review: Hue Private Tour Royal Tombs, Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda by Boat Review
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HUE CITY TOUR With Perfume River Cruise
Visitors to Hue can experience the city’s rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty on the “HUE CITY TOUR With Perfume River Cruise.”
This highly-rated 5.0-star tour takes guests on a comprehensive journey, featuring private car transportation, a local lunch, and a private river cruise along the picturesque Perfume River.
The tour includes all entrance fees, gratuities, and travel insurance, making it a hassle-free experience.
With wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as infant seats available, the tour is suitable for most travelers.
Priced at €93.92 per person, the private tour ensures an intimate experience, with only your group participating.
Read our full review: HUE CITY TOUR With Perfume River Cruise Review
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Thien Mu Pagoda and Tombs Tour by Boat and Car
Embarking on the “Thien Mu Pagoda and Tombs Tour by Boat and Car,” guests explore Hue’s iconic spiritual and historical landmarks.
This half-day private tour takes them by boat to Thien Mu Pagoda, an impressive Buddhist temple on the Perfume River.
They’ll then visit the Dong Khanh Tomb, the final resting place of a 19th-century emperor.
Throughout the journey, travelers enjoy the convenience of an air-conditioned vehicle and bottled water.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and a 5-star rating, this tour provides an immersive experience for those interested in Hue’s rich heritage.
Most travelers can participate, though it’s not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
Read our full review: Thien Mu Pagoda and Tombs Tour by Boat and Car Review
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Scenic Dragon Boat Trip On Perfume River – Hue City
For those seeking a more serene and picturesque experience, the Scenic Dragon Boat Trip on the Perfume River in Hue City offers a delightful opportunity.
This private tour takes you on a scenic boat ride, providing excellent value for your money. You’ll enjoy aerial views and a romantic night, including dinner.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, boat trip, air-conditioned transportation, lunch, and entrance fees.
While reviews are mixed, with no 5, 4, or 3-star ratings, the tour still presents a chance to explore Hue’s natural beauty.
Priced at $99 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this experience may be worth considering for those interested in a relaxing day on the Perfume River.
Read our full review: Scenic Dragon Boat Trip On Perfume River – Hue City Review
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HUE NIGHT and DINNER ON CRUISE
As the sun dips below the horizon, travelers aboard the cruise boat are treated to a captivating Hue night experience.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Hue City Center, as well as air-conditioned transportation. Guests can enjoy a delicious dinner while taking in the scenic views of the Perfume River.
The tour also includes English-speaking guides, with other languages available upon request for a surcharge. With a maximum of 15 travelers, this intimate dinner cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore Hue at night.
Priced from $93 per person, the tour provides excellent value for the experience.
Read our full review: HUE NIGHT and DINNER ON CRUISE Review
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Hue City Private Tour and River Cruise
This private Hue City tour and Perfume River cruise provides travelers with a comprehensive exploration of the historic city’s key landmarks and natural beauty.
Priced from €94.35 per person, the tour includes round-trip hotel transfers, English-speaking guide, dragon boat ride, and lunch. Guests can expect an air-conditioned vehicle, all taxes, and gratuities covered.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with infants permitted. Travelers should dress respectfully, covering knees and shoulders.
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and a pay later option. This 5-star rated experience showcases Hue’s cultural treasures and scenic Perfume River in a convenient, all-inclusive package.
Read our full review: Hue City Private Tour and River Cruise Review
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Hue City Full-Day Tour With Boat Trip on Perfume River and Lunch
Why not explore the historic city of Hue on a comprehensive full-day tour that includes a boat trip along the picturesque Perfume River and a delightful lunch?
This private tour offers a hassle-free experience with round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off in Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An.
You’ll visit key attractions, enjoy a 30-minute boat ride, and savor a local lunch, all while an English-speaking guide provides insightful commentary.
The tour includes all entrance fees, bottled water, and private transportation in a modern vehicle.
With a moderate fitness level required, this tour is a great way to discover the highlights of Hue efficiently.
Read our full review: Hue City Full-Day Tour With Boat Trip on Perfume River and Lunch Review
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Charming Dinner Cruise and Music Show on Perfume River
Travelers seeking an enchanting evening on the Perfume River in Hue, Vietnam can indulge in a charming dinner cruise and music show.
The experience includes a private pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and a sharing boat. The menu features a delightful spread of starters, main courses, and desserts, accompanied by a soft drink and an additional drink.
The cruise also includes a captivating music show. With a maximum of 10 travelers, this intimate experience is priced from $112.83 per person.
Guests can enjoy free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the start time, making it a flexible and convenient option.
Read our full review: Charming Dinner Cruise and Music Show on Perfume River Review
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Private Full-Day Tour to Hue Citadel With Boat Trip and Lunch
For those looking to explore the historical and cultural riches of Hue, Vietnam, the Private Full-Day Tour to Hue Citadel with Boat Trip and Lunch offers a captivating and comprehensive experience.
Priced from $130 per person, this private tour includes a modern vehicle, English-speaking guide, all entrance tickets, a local lunch, and a 30-minute boat trip on the Perfume River.
Pickup and drop-off at Hue City hotels are provided, and the tour runs from 8 AM to 5 PM. Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
Read our full review: Private Full-Day Tour to Hue Citadel With Boat Trip and Lunch Review
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Shore Excursion:CHAN MAY or TIEN SA Port to Da Nang Hoi An City&Basket Boat Ride
This shore excursion from the CHAN MAY or TIEN SA port offers visitors a guided tour to the captivating Marble Mountains, a tranquil basket boat ride, and an exploration of the historic city of Hoi An.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, lunch or dinner, all necessary tickets, and private transportation. Passengers will be picked up from their hotel in Da Nang or Hoi An.
Moderate physical fitness is required, and specific dietary needs can be accommodated. This private tour ensures an intimate experience, with a minimum of 2 people per booking.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior and the lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion:CHAN MAY or TIEN SA Port to Da Nang Hoi An City&Basket Boat Ride Review
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Dinner Cruise on Perfume River and Forbidden City Visit
One of the most captivating experiences in Hue is the Dinner Cruise on the Perfume River and the visit to the Forbidden City. Priced from $106.67 per person, this tour accommodates up to 10 travelers and includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a sharing boat for dinner.
The menu highlights delectable dishes like royal spring rolls, beef lolot leaf rolls, and passion fruit mousse. Travelers will also enjoy entrance fees, one soft drink, and gratuities.
With free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours before the start, this tour offers flexibility. The experience departs at 5:00 PM, operated by VietnamCheapPackages, which provides a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Dinner Cruise on Perfume River and Forbidden City Visit Review
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Cruise Ship to GOLDEN BRIDGE From CHAN MAY or TIEN SA Port
From the ports of Chan May or Tien Sa, travelers can embark on a captivating cruise to the renowned Golden Bridge. This private tour allows only your group to participate, with a professional English-speaking guide providing commentary.
The experience includes a private car or minivan for pickup and drop-off, a buffet lunch at Ba Na Restaurant, and access to the Ba Na Cable Car and attraction tickets.
Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with stroller access and infant seats available.
Flexibility is key, with free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours prior. Priced at $158.47 per person, this cruise offers a memorable journey to one of Vietnam’s iconic landmarks.
Read our full review: Cruise Ship to GOLDEN BRIDGE From CHAN MAY or TIEN SA Port Review
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Private Shore Excursions From Chan Port – Basket Boat- Foot Massage- Hoi an City
For those disembarking at the Chan May Port, a private shore excursion offers an opportunity to immerse in the local culture.
This tour includes a basket boat ride, a rejuvenating foot massage, and a city tour of Hoi An. Priced from $154 per person, the excursion features air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking guide, and an authentic Vietnamese set menu lunch.
With a 5.0 rating based on 2 reviews, the tour allows for free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours before the experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. Guests can conveniently meet the tour guide at the Chan May Port Joint Stock Company upon disembarking.
Read our full review: Private Shore Excursions From Chan Port – Basket Boat- Foot Massage- Hoi an City Review
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Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Hon Chen Palace, Royal Tombs, Pagoda
The Hue Dragon Boat Tour offers a captivating opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of Hue, Vietnam. The tour takes visitors on a private boat ride to the Hon Chen Palace, Royal Tombs, and a Pagoda.
Located in Hue, the tour includes hotel pickup, one-way transfer to Hoi An, and an English-speaking guide. Priced from €50.35 per person, the tour also covers entrance fees, travel insurance, and drinking water.
Highlights include sightseeing along the way to Hoi An, a drive over the scenic Hai Van Pass, and visits to the Marble Mountains and Thanh Toan Bridge. Travelers can also relax at the beautiful Lang Co Beach.
Read our full review: Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Hon Chen Palace, Royal Tombs, Pagoda Review
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Common Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Hue for Boat Tours?
The best time to visit Hue for boat tours is during the dry season from March to August. This ensures pleasant weather and calm waters for an enjoyable experience on the river.
Can I Customize the Boat Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, you can often customize the boat tour itinerary to your preferences. Many tour companies are willing to adjust the route and activities to suit your interests and needs, within reason. This allows for a more personalized and enjoyable experience.
Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Be Aware of on the Boat Tours?
Boat tour operators generally follow safety protocols, but passengers should still wear life jackets and be aware of weather conditions. It’s also important to listen to the guide’s instructions and not wander off the boat during the tour.
Do the Boat Tours Accommodate Special Dietary Requirements?
Many boat tour companies in the area accommodate special dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Guests should inform the tour operator of their needs when booking to ensure the appropriate arrangements are made.
What Is the Refund Policy for Boat Tour Reservations?
The refund policy typically allows for full refunds if reservations are cancelled at least 24 hours in advance. Partial refunds may be available for last-minute cancellations, though this varies by tour operator. It’s best to check the specific policy when booking.
The Sum Up
Hue offers a variety of boat tours and cruises showcasing the city’s rich history and natural beauty. From half-day dragon boat rides along the Perfume River to full-day excursions visiting the royal tombs, these tours provide an immersive experience. Travelers can also enjoy dinner cruises and shore excursions from nearby ports. Whether you’re interested in culture, nature, or leisure, Hue’s boat tours cater to diverse preferences.