Hoi An: Basket Boat and fishing Crabs Tour

Discover Vietnam’s Coastal Charm with the Basket Boat and Crab Fishing Tour

If you’re wandering through Hoi An and curious about local fishing life, this Basket Boat and Crabbing Tour offers a simple, authentic glimpse into a working fishing village. Priced at just $6 per person and lasting about 1.5 hours, this tour is ideal for travelers eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots. Guided by friendly locals, you’ll paddle a traditional bamboo basket boat, learn about fishing techniques, and even try catching crabs yourself.

What we loved about this experience is how it combines hands-on activities with informative storytelling. First, the chance to ride a bamboo basket boat through the coconut forest offers both a fun and scenic outing, giving you a sense of how fishermen use these boats daily. Second, the opportunity to fish for crabs with a pole is unexpectedly engaging — a real taste of local livelihood.

A potential consideration? Since the tour involves some light physical activity and being outdoors, it might not suit everyone, particularly those with mobility issues or who dislike heat and sun exposure. Still, for those who enjoy authentic, small-group experiences and are comfortable in casual settings, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience is perfect for adventure-seekers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a low-cost, genuine look at Vietnamese coastal life. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate interactive activities and prefer exploring with local guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Insight: Learn fishing techniques directly from local fishermen.
• Scenic Adventure: Explore coconut forests by traditional bamboo basket boat.
• Wildlife and Ecosystem: Spot birds and animals native to the coconut ecosystem.
• Interactive Experience: Try fishing for crabs with a pole yourself.
• Affordable Price: At only $6, this tour offers great value.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

An In-Depth Look at the Hoi An Basket Boat and Crabs Tour

When we first heard about this tour, we appreciated its simplicity and focus on local life. For just $6 per person, it’s an incredibly budget-friendly way to step into the daily routine of Vietnamese fishermen, away from the crowds and commercialized attractions. The 1.5-hour duration strikes a good balance — long enough to enjoy multiple activities but short enough to fit into a busy travel schedule.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Most tours start with a meeting at the designated address or hotel pickup (for an extra fee). One noteworthy detail from reviews is that hotel pickup isn’t included in the base price, but the $6 fee makes up for it with its affordability. If you prefer, you can also go directly to the tour location via Google Maps — Hao Coconut Basket Boat Tour.

First Stop: Walking Through the Fishing Village

Once we met our local host — who was friendly and eager to share insights — we began by strolling along the coconut fishing village. This area is a living snapshot of traditional fishing life, with humble boats, nets, and local chatter. The guide explained how fishing methods like rolling net, throwing net, and lifting net are used, which gave us a newfound appreciation for the skills involved.

The walk itself is a gentle introduction, setting the stage for the activities to come. It’s a chance to see the everyday routines and witness the vibrant community that still depends heavily on fishing.

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The Bamboo Basket Boat Ride

The highlight for many is the bamboo basket boat ride. These boats are iconic — circular, light, and easy to paddle, often made from woven bamboo. We loved the way our guide navigated us through the coconut forest, which during the Vietnam War was well-known for strategic importance.

The boat spins and glides quietly, providing a peaceful, almost meditative experience. As we floated, our guide pointed out various bird species and explained how the ecosystem functions. From the wild birds to the occasional small animal, the coconut forest is teeming with life. These moments of wildlife spotting, combined with the boat’s gentle rocking, made it feel like a true escape to nature.

Crab Fishing at Water Coconut

Next, we stopped at a designated spot called Water Coconut, where we could fish for crabs with a fishing pole — a surprisingly active activity! The guide showed us how to bait the crab traps and then handed us the poles to try our luck. The reviews mention that this part of the tour is especially fun, and it definitely adds a hands-on element to the experience.

One reviewer shared, “Your was fun. It’s touristy but still fun to go,” which captures the spirit of this segment. It’s a playful, interactive way to connect with the local livelihood, and if you’re patient, you might even catch a crab or two.

Ecosystem and Wildlife Observation

Floating the boat around the coconut forest isn’t just scenic — it’s educational. The guide pointed out birds and other animals**, highlighting their roles in the local ecosystem. Being outdoors in this environment, you gain a better understanding of how fishermen work with nature rather than against it.

Concluding with Vietnamese Coffee

After our aquatic adventures, we returned to the Coconut Restaurant for a Vietnamese iced coffee. Sitting with a view of the coconut forest, it’s a perfect way to unwind, reflect on the morning, and savor a local specialty. It’s a small but meaningful gesture — a reminder that even simple experiences can be deeply satisfying.

What to Know Before You Go

This tour is designed for private groups, making it more personalized and flexible. It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those prone to seasickness, as the activities involve some light physical effort and boat rides.

Plan to bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, camera, water, and insect repellent — outdoor gear is essential. The tour is conducted in English and Vietnamese, so communicate your needs if language barriers exist.

The pickup option is available for 100,000 VND, but most find it easier to go directly to the meeting point using the provided Google Maps link. Remember, cancelation is free up to 24 hours before, making it easy to keep your plans flexible.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re after an authentic, affordable, and interactive experience that shows the real side of Vietnamese fishing life, this tour is a winner. It’s especially good for adventurous travelers who enjoy hands-on activities and scenic outdoor settings. The small-group nature means you’ll get personalized attention and insights from local guides, making it a memorable, engaging experience.

However, if you prefer more comfortable, less physically involved activities, or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit. The tour’s outdoor, sometimes rustic setting is part of its charm but may also be a drawback depending on your preferences.

In short, this tour delivers solid value — an authentic, fun, and scenic look into Vietnam’s coastal life for just a few dollars. It’s a lovely way to add a local flavor to your trip and meet friendly guides eager to share their world.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the price?
No, hotel pickup is not included in the $6 tour price, but there is an option for pickup at 100,000 VND in a small car. Many guests opt to go directly to the tour location using the provided Google Maps link.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a quick but meaningful experience that can easily fit into a day’s itinerary.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, camera, water, and insect repellent. It’s an outdoor activity, so prepare for sun and some physical activity.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities are generally child-friendly, especially the boat ride and crab fishing. However, consider your child’s comfort with water and outdoor environments.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it possible to reserve without paying upfront?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or who are wheelchair users, due to the outdoor nature and physical activities involved.

This Basket Boat and Crabs Tour offers a genuine slice of Vietnamese coastal life — a simple, budget-friendly way to experience local fishing traditions and the natural beauty of coconut forests. Whether you’re a curious traveler or an adventure lover, it’s a small but memorable part of any trip to Hoi An.

You can check availability for your dates here: