To facilitate the terrible traffic in Ho Chi Minh City, the local government has allowed water taxis to operate on the Saigon River, which have been operating between District 1 and District 9 since 2017.
Originally intended for commuters, the water taxis are now mainly used by tourists.
We looked at the water taxis last weekend, and booked a ride to the terminus in Linh Dong and back. For now you should expect long waiting times or book in advance. We waited more than 3 hours to get hold of one of the coveted spots in Saigon Waterbus.
The 40-minute boat ride, which runs along the Saigon River and Thanh Da Canal, picks up passengers at a total of 5 stops belonging to Districts 1, 2, Binh Thanh and Thu Duc. There are five ships with 75 seats in operation. Every day from 8:30 am to 6:15 pm, 15 cruises are offered along the 10.8 km long route.
Taking a water taxi, and one of the best and cheapest transportation options for anyone wanting to explore the city's skyline, past District 1 into the city center, District 2's new emerging metropolitan area is turning into the quiet suburb of Thu Duc District.