Source: Using the map created in 1864 by hydraulic engineers F. VIDALIN & G. HÉRAUD

In 1623, this was one of two tax collection posts established by Lord Nguyen, marking the first Vietnamese administrative base in Saigon. In 1865, the French built a maritime operations center here, which became an early heritage symbol of the city’s development along the Saigon River.

3. Thu Ngu Flagpole

Cho Vai Canal was a key waterway connecting the Saigon River to the bustling commercial center, including the original Ben Thanh Market. In the early 20th century, the canal was filled in to create today's Nguyen Hue Boulevard.

2. Cho Vai Canal
(Present-day Nguyen Hue Street)

Inspired by a bundle of bamboo, Landmark 81 stands at 461.3 meters tall and is one of the tallest buildings in the world. Designed and built by Vietnamese hands, it symbolizes the prosperity and development of modern Saigon.

7. Landmark 81

Gia Dinh Citadel, built in 1790 during the reign of Nguyen Anh, was the administrative and military center of Southern Vietnam. Designed in a unique octagonal Vauban style, it was an impressive blend of Western fortification techniques.

5. Gia Dinh Ancient Citadel
(Present-Day Da Kao District)

Built in 1863, Nha Rong Pier was a key trade hub and gateway for economic and cultural exchange between Vietnam and the world. On June 5, 1911, President Ho Chi Minh departed from this pier to seek a path for national liberation, marking a historic turning point for the country.

4. Nha Rong Pier

Originally established as a naval shipyard by Lord Nguyen Anh in 1791, Ba Son produced powerful warships and thousands of vessels. It also built long-distance ships that helped the Nguyen Dynasty assert its sovereignty over the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa archipelagos.

6. Gia Dinh Shipyard
(Ba Son Yard)

Saigon – A Historical Perspective.

Saigon Art Cruise takes you on a voyage through “key milestones” in the formation of Ho Chi Minh City, from the first footsteps of the Vietnamese settlers on this land to the turning points that shaped today’s vibrant metropolis.

This was the first landing site of Vietnamese settlers in Saigon. Our double-deck cruise boat departs once known as Thuy Cac—a riverside pavilion built for the King to relax, work, observe, and defend the city.

1. Bach Dang Pier

HAT BOI – The Essence of Traditional Vietnamese Stage Art

Hát Bội, with a long history from the 13th century, is a valuable intangible cultural heritage of Vietnam, deeply embodying the national spirit and aspirations for goodness and beauty. This art form once flourished in Saigon.

The image of traditional boats gliding gently on the water, bringing the melodies of Hát Bội to the people, has become an indispensable part of the cultural life of the old Saigon residents..

Ngu Sac - Imperial Cake from Hue

Few people know that Saigon carries the legacy of Phu Xuan—ancient Hue. It was from this former imperial capital that the ancestors explored the South, bringing with them cultural, architectural, and culinary excellence.
As a reminder of the enduring connection between the two regions, Saigon Art Cruise is pleased to introduce to guests Huế's royal Pháp Lam cake - a delicate gift from the ancient capital.

Ngu Sac cakes reflect the aristocratic garden culture of ancient Hue, made from pure garden fruits. The five vibrant colors of the cake fillings represent the five elements and inspire the design of the cake box. These five colors also echo the primary hues of the Hat Boi art you are experiencing on the cruise.

Ingredients: Glutinous rice flour, sugar, fruit jams.
If you have any allergies to these ingredients,
please inform us inadvance so we can accommodate your needs.
To ensure the best quality and flavor, the cakes should be consumed within a day.
Please store them in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.

Location

Bach Dang Pier, 10B Ton Duc Thang Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

Contact

Mail: booking@saigonwatergo.com
Phone: 1900 636978