The Merchant River Cruise Sets Sail in May 2026 on the Thu Bon River, Hoi An, Vietnam | News
The Merchant River Cruise, Hoi An’s most anticipated luxury dinner cruise experience, sets sail this May 2026, bringing an entirely new dimension to evenings on the Thu Bon River. Equal parts signature dinner cruise, private events venue, and floating cultural celebration, The Merchant River Cruise, owned by Namia River Retreat, is set to become one of Central Vietnam’s most distinctive and sought-after experiences on the water.
Rooted in seasonal abundance and cultural storytelling, The Merchant River Cruise echoes Hoi An’s legacy as an ancient maritime trading port. Carrying the same mindful dining spirit of The Merchant Restaurant at Namia River Retreat, Hoi An’s first wellness-inclusive resort with all private pool villas, The Merchant River Cruise offers an intimate, elegantly curated 2.5-hour journey aboard a modern luxury vessel designed for both joyous gatherings and quiet, unhurried evenings.
A Spice Route Journey on the Water
As the afternoon softens into dusk, guests board the Cruise at Namia River Retreat’s private Merchant pier, and drift gently downstream along the Thu Bon River, past riverside villages, quiet islets, and the glowing sky of UNESCO-listed Hoi An Ancient Town.
The evening begins with sundowner cocktails and canapés on the open upper deck. Guests then settle in for a Five-course Spice Route inspired set menu, which celebrate market-fresh local ingredients, organic farm herbs, central coast seafood, and sustainably sourced meats. Cultural storytelling inspired by Hoi An’s ancient spice trade routes is woven throughout the journey, offering guests an intimate connection to the history of the Thu Bon River beneath them.
The return journey brings a quieter pace, with desserts inspired by the spice route, and a gentle passage past the distant lanterns as the river settles into evening calm. Guests disembark with a curated artisanal gift as a small token of the evening’s spirit.
Designed For Mindful Luxury
The Merchant River Cruise is available at four package levels, from a classic 5-course dinner with complimentary water, juices, kombucha, soft drinks and beers, to a premium experience inclusive of sustainable and sparkling wine, alongside vegetarian options, ensuring a considered experience for every occasion.
Guests are also invited to extend their evening with an exclusive post-cruise happy hour at The Merchant Riverside Restaurant, with 20% off all beverages from 20:00 to 22:00.
Bespoke Events and Private Charters
Beyond the signature dinner cruise, The Merchant River Cruise is available for exclusive private charter, offering a fully bespoke floating venue for weddings, anniversaries, proposals, family milestones, wellbeing events and corporate gatherings against the backdrop of the Thu Bon River and the glowing skyline of the Ancient Town.
The Floating Extension of Namia River Retreat
The Merchant River Cruise is an extension of The Merchant Riverside Restaurant, and of Namia River Retreat – Hoi An’s first wellness-inclusive resort and a proud member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and Virtuoso. Since opening in December 2024, the resort has established itself as one of Vietnam’s most celebrated wellness-inclusive destinations, recognized internationally for the wellness offerings inspired by Vietnamese herbology, genuine cultural celebrations, and heartfelt Vietnamese hospitality.
The Merchant River Cruise carries that same spirit of intention, luxury, and cultural depth onto the river, bringing Namia’s signature warmth and standards of care to guests who may be staying anywhere in Hoi An, and to those who simply feel the pull of the water.
Reservations are recommended as capacity is limited.
Website: www.merchanthoian.com
Email: [email protected]
#themerchantcruise, #dinnercruises, #hoian, #vietnam, #namiariverretreat
