Hoi An: Basket Boat Ride, Fishing, and Crab Catching Tour

Exploring Hoi An’s waterways on a bamboo basket boat isn’t just another tourist activity — it’s a lively, authentic look into local life. For just $13 per person, you get about 75 minutes of hands-on adventure, weaving through coconut groves, trying traditional fishing, and even catching crabs with nets.

What we love most: First, the chance to learn about the history of the water coconut forest directly from a local guide — it makes the experience feel rooted in the place. Second, the interactive fishing and crab catching gives a taste of the daily life of fishermen, something you don’t often find on more generic tours.

A possible consideration: The communication with local guides in English can be limited, and the boats are small, fitting only two adults and a child, which might be tight for families or larger groups. Still, if you’re looking for an affordable, active, and authentic experience, this tour suits travelers wanting a genuine peek into Vietnam’s traditional waterway culture.

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers, family travelers, or anyone curious about local livelihoods. If you enjoy hands-on activities and learning from locals, you’ll find much to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: You get to paddle a traditional bamboo basket boat and learn about the coconut water forest directly from locals.
• Hands-On Participation: Try fishing with round and cast nets, and catch crabs with nets — no passive sightseeing here.
• Affordable Value: At $13, this tour offers a lot of activity and insight for a very reasonable price.
• Limited Communication: Guides speak English, but interaction may be limited, adding an authentic, unpolished charm.
• Ideal for Active Travelers: The tour involves physical activity and gets you on the water, making it suitable for those who enjoy outdoor, interactive experiences.
• Family Friendly (but small boats): The boats fit two adults and a child, making it a cozy family outing, but not suitable for larger groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting the Journey: From Hotel to Waterways

Your day begins with hotel pickup, which is included if you’re staying in Hoi An, streamlining the process and avoiding the hassle of finding the meeting spot. The transfer to Cam Thanh village takes about 15 minutes, giving you a brief glimpse of the local scenery along the way.

If you’re staying outside the designated pickup zones, like in Da Nang or some resorts, extra fees apply for transport — so plan ahead if you want to join this tour.

Arrival at Cam Thanh Village: Setting the Scene

Once in the small, lively village, you’ll meet your local guide, who will introduce you to the water coconut forest’s history. This area was once a busy hub for fishing and water transportation, now a peaceful sanctuary lined with towering coconut palms.

The village itself offers a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life — if you’ve seen rice paddies or fishing nets drying in the sun, you’ll recognize the authenticity here.

The Bamboo Basket Boat Ride: A Unique Vietnamese Craft

The highlight is of course the bamboo basket boat ride — a traditional craft that’s been used by fishermen for generations. You’ll learn to paddle this tiny vessel, which often feels more like balancing than rowing.

We loved the way the guide explained the significance of this boat type — it’s not just a tourist gimmick but a genuine part of local livelihood. The ride takes about 45 minutes and explores the calm waterways among coconut groves, giving you a close-up view of how water shapes life here.

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Learning to Fish and Catch Crabs

Next, you get a chance to try fishing with traditional methods. Local fishermen demonstrate how to cast nets using round and cast techniques — and yes, you get to give it a shot yourself. A review mentioned, “It’s an interactive experience that’s surprisingly accessible,” which many appreciated.

Crab catching is another favorite. With nets, you’ll explore the shallow waters and try to catch crabs, experiencing a small-scale, traditional form of fishing that’s both fun and educational. It’s a hands-on activity that appeals to kids and adults alike.

The Basket Boat Race and Local Culture

To add some friendly competition, you’ll participate in a basket boat race — a lively, laughter-filled moment that breaks down barriers and introduces the local sense of fun.

Throughout the tour, your guide shares stories about the daily lives of fishermen, giving context to the activities and revealing how the river sustains their families. It’s these personal stories that elevate the experience beyond mere sightseeing.

Returning and Reflecting

After the adventure, you’ll visit a fisherman’s house to see traditional fishing tools and perhaps sample some local snacks (though food and drinks aren’t included). Then, a short transfer takes you back to your hotel, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s newfound understanding of rural Vietnamese waterway life.

Why This Tour Works Well

Compared to larger boat trips or more commercialized tours, this experience feels more intimate and authentic. It’s not overly polished, which adds to the charm. The price point makes it accessible, and the focus on participation and learning makes it memorable.

While it’s not a deep dive into the entire history of Vietnam, the personal interactions and hands-on activities provide genuine insight into the local fishing traditions and water coconut forest ecology.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Adventurous travelers who enjoy getting their hands wet and trying new things.
• Families with children eager for a fun, interactive outing.
• Those interested in local livelihoods and traditional Vietnamese watercraft.
• Budget-conscious visitors seeking authentic experiences without a hefty price tag.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable outdoor clothes and a sun hat, as much of the activity is outdoors.
• Bring sunscreen and a camera to capture the scenic waterways and lively moments.
• Carry water — though included, having extra helps if it’s hot.
• Keep in mind, the boats are small and seats are limited, so larger groups should consider timing and availability.
• The tour does not include food or drinks, so plan to eat before or after.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for children, especially since it involves active participation. Keep in mind that boats are small and fit one child with two adults.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s best to eat beforehand or plan to find local cafes afterward.

How long is the boat ride?
The bamboo basket boat ride lasts approximately 45 minutes. The entire experience, including transfers and activities, takes about 75 minutes.

Is the tour accessible for non-swimmers?
Yes, as you stay in the boats and don’t need to swim. However, the small boats may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

What language is the guide speaking?
The guide speaks English, but communication might be somewhat limited, adding an authentic, rustic feel to interactions.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you’re staying in Hoi An. Extra charges apply if you’re outside designated pickup zones.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for your travel plans.

Is this experience suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems?
No, the physical nature of paddling and the small boat size make it unsuitable for pregnant women or those with back issues.

Final Thoughts

This basket boat adventure in Cam Thanh offers an engaging and authentic glimpse into Vietnamese waterway life. For travelers who love interactive activities, learning about local traditions, and exploring natural scenery, it’s a worthwhile investment — especially at such a budget-friendly price.

While it’s not a comprehensive tour of Vietnamese history or culture, it’s a memorable window into the daily lives of fishermen and the unique craft of basket boating. Its charm lies in its simplicity, authenticity, and the chance to actively participate rather than just observe.

If you’re after a fun, educational, and local experience that fits into a half-day itinerary, this tour provides plenty of value — and some great stories to tell back home.

You can check availability for your dates here: