• Chan May Cruise Port: Best Things to Do in One Day

Vietpower Travel welcomes cruise guests to this complete guide to Chan May Cruise Port, one of the best gateways to explore Central Vietnam in a single day. Thanks to its location between Hue and Da Nang, the port offers easy access to cultural landmarks, coastal scenery, and popular day tours. This guide highlights what travelers can expect upon arrival, the best shore excursions, and practical tips for a smooth visit. Whether you enjoy history, nature, or local food, Chan May is an excellent starting point for your journey.

1. About Chan May Cruise Port

Chan May Cruise Port serves as a welcoming gateway for cruise travelers exploring Central Vietnam. Positioned along a scenic coastal region with mountains, lagoons, and wide open beaches, this Deep-water port offers convenient access to cultural and natural landmarks across Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An. As one of the rising maritime points in the region, the port contributes significantly to the cruise travel experience in Vietnam.

Where Exactly Is Chan May Cruise Port Located?

Chan May Cruise Port is located in Binh An Village, Loc Vinh Commune, Phu Loc District, Thua Thien Hue Province, set between the major cities of Hue and Da Nang. This coastal setting is particularly attractive for cruise guests who want to enjoy both cultural heritage and natural scenery in just one day.

How far is it from Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An?

  • The journey to Hue typically ranges from 50–60 km.
  • Da Nang lies approximately 45–55 km from the port.
  • Hoi An is the farthest at around 80 km, yet still suitable for a full-day shore excursion.

Why Chan May Is One of Southeast Asia’s Key Cruise Ports

Chan May Port Vietnam has earned noticeable recognition due to its strategic role in regional tourism and maritime transport. It was selected by the Asia Cruise Association (ACA) as one of the 46 significant cruise ports in Southeast Asia, an achievement that reflects its growing presence on international cruise itineraries.

Located on a popular maritime corridor linking Singapore – Philippines – Hong Kong, the port sits along a convenient route used by many cruise lines. Its position between Hue and Da Nang places travelers within easy reach of UNESCO attractions, peaceful beaches, and charming historic towns. This combination of accessibility and varied shore excursion options makes Chan May a favored stopping point for cruise passengers seeking meaningful travel experiences.

Chan May Cruise Port

Discover more posts on the same topic and dive deeper into Vietnam’s beauty, culture, and landmarks. Explore our Vietnam tourist attractions category to find new destinations worth adding to your travel list.

2. Best Things to Do in One Day from Chan May Cruise Port

Thanks to its convenient position between Hue and Da Nang, Chan May Cruise Port allows travelers to explore some of Central Vietnam’s most iconic destinations within a single day. Below are the five most practical and enjoyable shore excursions, each suitable for cruise

Option 1: Hue Imperial City Tour 

Hue is the former imperial capital of Vietnam and sits about 50–60 km from Chan May Cruise Port. This destination is ideal for travelers who enjoy history, culture, architecture, and a calm pace of exploration.

Imperial Citadel (The Complex of Hue Monuments – UNESCO World Heritage Site)

  • Address: 23/8 Street, Thuan Thanh Ward, Hue City
  • Ticket price: 200,000 VND/adult (official published rate)

The Imperial Citadel is the center of the ancient Nguyen Dynasty. Travelers can explore monumental gates, traditional royal buildings, peaceful lakes, long corridors, ancient walls, and the Forbidden Purple City area. It is the most essential stop in any Hue excursion.

Imperial Citadel

Khai Dinh Tomb

  • Address: Thuy Bang Commune, Huong Thuy Town, Hue
  • Ticket price: 150,000 VND/adult

This tomb is famous for its unique mix of Vietnamese and European motifs. Inside the main hall, you will find beautifully decorated ceilings, porcelain mosaics, and bronze statues that reflect some of the most elaborate craftsmanship in Vietnam’s imperial architecture.

Khai Dinh Tomb

Thien Mu Pagoda

  • Address: Nguyen Phuc Nguyen Street, Kim Long Ward, Hue
  • Ticket: Free entry

Thien Mu Pagoda is one of the most iconic religious sites in Vietnam. Its seven-story Phuoc Duyen Tower stands beside the Perfume River and provides excellent photo opportunities.

Thien Mu Pagoda

Perfume River Viewpoint

The Perfume River adds charm to every Hue journey. Many visitors enjoy taking pictures along the riverbank or stopping for a quiet moment at a viewpoint near Thien Mu Pagoda.

Perfume River Viewpoint

Option 2: Hoi An Ancient Town Walking Tour

Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most picturesque destinations and sits about 80 km from Chan May. It is a wonderful choice for travelers who enjoy walking streets, shopping, trying local food, and taking photos.

Japanese Bridge

  • Address: Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An
  • Viewpoint: Free to photograph from outside

This wooden-covered bridge is the symbol of Hoi An. It connects two old neighborhoods and reflects Japanese influence in the port town.

Old Houses

Popular houses include Tan Ky Ancient House and Duc An House.

  • Hoi An sightseeing ticket: 120,000–150,000 VND/person

 The ticket allows access to multiple heritage buildings, temples, and old houses in the town.

Lantern Streets

Lantern alleys become especially beautiful in the evening when hundreds of colorful lanterns light up the streets.

Local Foods to Try

  • Cao Lau → 40,000–50,000 VND
  • Mi Quang → 35,000–45,000 VND
  • Banh Mi Phuong / Madam Khanh → 25,000–40,000 VND

Hoi An Ancient

Option 3: Da Nang Highlights Tour

Da Nang is a modern coastal city located 45–55 km from Chan May. It offers mountains, beaches, Buddhist sites, and city life—all within a short distance.

Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son)

  • Address: 81 Huyen Tran Cong Chua Street, Da Nang
  • Ticket: 40,000–60,000 VND depending on the area

 This cluster of five limestone mountains includes caves, pagodas, tunnels, viewpoints, and stone sculptures.

Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son)

Linh Ung Pagoda & Lady Buddha

  • Address: Son Tra Peninsula, Tho Quang Ward
  • Ticket: Free

 The 67-meter Lady Buddha statue overlooks Da Nang Bay. The temple grounds are clean, peaceful, and scenic.

Linh Ung Pagoda & Lady Buddha

Dragon Bridge

  • Address: An Hai Tay Ward, Danang
  • Free access

Popular for photos, especially during sunset when the river sparkles with city lights.

Dragon Bridge

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Option 4: Golden Bridge & Ba Na Hills

Ba Na Hills is a mountaintop entertainment complex located about 70–75 km from Chan May. It features mountain views, cool temperatures, and many attractions.

Golden Bridge (Cầu Vàng)

The famous two giant-hands bridge that appears in countless travel photos worldwide.

Cable Cars

  • Ticket with cable car:
    • Adults: 950,000 VND
    • Children (1.0–1.39 m): 750,000 VND

 These cable cars hold world records and offer stunning views over forests and valleys.

French Village

A European-style village with stone buildings, squares, and cathedrals—ideal for photography.

Flower Gardens & Viewpoints

Beautifully maintained gardens and viewpoints provide peaceful walking spots and wide landscape panoramas.

Ba Na Hills

Option 5: Nature Route — Lang Co Beach, Hai Van Pass & Lap An Lagoon

This route is perfect for travelers who prefer a gentle, relaxing day with nature and local food.

Lang Co Beach

  • Address: Lang Co Town, Phu Loc District
  • Ticket: Free

 Known for white sand, turquoise water, and peaceful beachfront restaurants.

Lang Co Beach

Hai Van Pass

  • Ticket: Free

 One of Vietnam’s most beautiful mountain roads. The top of the pass offers sweeping views of Lang Co Bay and the ocean.

Hai Van Pass

Lap An Lagoon

  • Ticket: Free

 A calm lagoon surrounded by mountains. It is also famous for fresh seafood, especially oysters.

Lap An Lagoon

3. What Services Are Available at Chan May Port?

Chan May Port is mainly a working harbor, so facilities for cruise guests are simple. Travelers will find the basics needed to exit the ship smoothly, but should not expect a full-scale tourist terminal.

Essential Facilities Cruise Travelers Should Expect

When a ship arrives, a few temporary souvenir stalls appear along the walkway from the pier to the parking area. These stalls usually offer small items like magnets, conical hats, and simple handicrafts.

The Visitor Information & Assistance Center—opened in 2024—is the most useful service for guests. It provides maps, brochures, and basic travel support. Staff can also help in situations such as misplaced items or issues encountered during your shore trip.

Security procedures at the port are straightforward. A small security and immigration zone helps guide passengers from the ship to the exit gate. The process is generally quick and well-organized on cruise days.

What You WON’T Find at the Port (Must-Know Tips)

Because the port is still developing, several services are unavailable:

  • No ATM: withdraw cash before leaving the ship or in town.
  • No public WiFi: use mobile data or portable WiFi.
  • Limited taxis: most taxis wait outside the port gate, about 600 meters from the pier—so pre-book transport in advance.
  • No restaurants or cafés: for food, you must travel to Lang Co, Hue, Da Nang, or Hoi An.

Practical Tips Before Starting Your Shore Excursion

To enjoy a smooth day ashore, keep these simple tips in mind:

  • Bring cash: useful for snacks, shopping, or small payments.
  • Pre-book transportation: ensures a safe, punctual return to your ship.
  • Dress appropriately: temples and tombs require covered shoulders and knee-length clothing.
  • Keep belongings secure: use a front-facing bag and allow extra time for the return drive.

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4. What Can Travelers Do on a Shore Excursion?

From Chan May Cruise Port, travelers have a full range of one-day experiences that fit cruise schedules and offer a clear look into Central Vietnam’s culture, landscape, and local life. Most guests choose between exploring Hue’s imperial landmarks, walking through Hoi An Ancient Town, enjoying Da Nang’s coastline and mountain views, or relaxing at Lang Co Beach and Hai Van Pass. Each option is easy to complete within a few hours and includes well-known attractions, scenic stops, and convenient transport routes from the port. Whether travelers enjoy history, photography, nature, or food, Chan May offers shore excursions suitable for every style of travel.

5. Conclusion

With its convenient coastal position and many flexible day-trip options, Chan May Cruise Port provides cruise travelers with an easy and enjoyable way to discover Central Vietnam. From imperial heritage in Hue to vibrant city life in Da Nang and the lantern charm of Hoi An, every traveler can find an itinerary that fits their limited port time. If you need help arranging transfers or private tours, Vietpower Travel is ready to assist with reliable local expertise. Explore more shore-excursion ideas in our Vietnam Cruises category and plan a memorable stop during your voyage.