Question 1

Where does the cruise depart from?

Accepted Answer

The cruise departs from the private pier at The Merchant River Cruise & Restaurant, Namia River Retreat at 232 Tran Nhan Tong Street, Hoi An. You can see our location on Google Maps here.

Question 2

What is the dress code?

Accepted Answer

Smart casual. Collared shirts and trousers, sundresses, or elegant separates are ideal. Swimwear, athletic wear, and flip flops are kindly not permitted. A light outer layer is recommended for the open deck after sunset.

Question 3

What should I bring for the cruise?

Accepted Answer

Please bring a photo of your passport for registration upon check-in, required by local river authorities. We recommend arriving at the pier 15 minutes prior to check-in time to allow for boarding and photos.

Question 4

What is included in the cruise?

Accepted Answer

All our cruise packages include:
Sunset cocktails and canapés as you cruise the Thu Bon River
Five-course Spice Route Menu inspired by Hoi An’s soils and coastal waters
Locally caught lobster, free-range duck, and herbs from Tra Que Village
Seasonal menu updates guided by Hoi An’s markets at their peak
Elegant river cruise with air-conditioning and modern comforts
Cultural storytelling shaped by centuries of trade and exchange
Complimentary birthday or anniversary cake for pre-booked special occasions
20% off post-cruise happy hour at The Merchant Riverside Restaurant on all beverages from 20:30 - 22:00
Artisanal departure gift

Question 5

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We are happy to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements. Please inform us of any needs at the time of booking so our culinary team can prepare accordingly.

Question 6

What are the rates for children?

Accepted Answer

Children aged 12 and above are charged at the adult package rate. Children aged 6 to 11 receive 50% off the selected package rate. Children aged 5 and under join complimentary.

Question 7

Can I book a private cruise for a special occasion?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Merchant River Cruise is available for private charters for anniversaries, proposals, family celebrations, and corporate events. Please contact our team at book@merchanthoian.com to discuss bespoke arrangements.

Question 8

Is there a complimentary cake for special occasions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A complimentary birthday or anniversary cake is included for special occasions that are pre-booked and confirmed with our team in advance.

Question 9

Is the cruise safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Merchant River Cruise is operated by Namia River Retreat, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, and adheres to the highest standards of maritime safety and guest care. The vessel is a modern, fully certified and insured river cruise boat equipped with all required safety equipment, life jackets, and emergency protocols in compliance with Vietnamese maritime regulations.

Question 10

What happens in the event of bad weather or unsafe river conditions?

Accepted Answer

In the event of adverse weather, high water levels, or any conditions that may affect the safety of the cruise, we reserve the right to modify the route, delay departure, or reschedule the experience entirely. Affected guests will be notified as early as possible and offered alternative arrangements or a full refund in accordance with our cancellation policy.

Frequently asked questions