PHU MY (HO CHI MINH CITY)

If you are scratching your head wondering why your ship is going to Phu My, don’t worry, you’re not alone. You see, the Saigon River is too narrow to accommodate cruise ships, and Phu My is merely the closest point of access to one of Vietnam’s most infamous, culturally-rich destinations: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). 

Ho Chi Minh City is 40 mi/ 65 km northwest from the port (about 75 minutes), and is one of the most historically significant cities in Vietnam. Head to District 1 to marvel at the French Colonial Architecture, learn a new perspective by visiting the War Remnants Museum, and enjoy local cuisine, among other city highlights that are conveniently close together and walkable. Just be careful crossing the street, the city has a flooring 7.43 million motorbikes and heavy traffic that is unrelenting!

Most cruise lines will offer a transfer tour that takes you to a set drop off point in the city, and then you are free to explore on your own before meeting at the set pick up time later in the day. If you prefer to take your own transportation, you will find local drivers for hire outside the port gates. Be warned, there is a ring leader with a monopoly on prices, and be prepared for some heavy negotiating. 

If you have already been to Ho Chi Minh City and want to see something new, be wary that there are no sights of interest in the immediate Phu My area. However, you can travel 15 mi/ 25 km south to Vung Tao, a quaint beach town ideal for soaking up the sun, or you can take a guided tour to see the Cu Chi Tunnels for an interesting dose of war time history.