Picture yourself on a traditional fishing boat, the sky ablaze with the colors of sunset, the calm waters of the Gulf of Thailand stretching before you. For around $25 per person, this 4-hour experience offers a blend of natural beauty, local culture, and active adventure—perfect for those wanting more than just beaches during their stay in Phu Quoc. The tour starts at 5:00 PM, with pickup from your hotel in central Phu Quoc, and takes you out onto the sea where you can witness the stunning sunset and try your hand at night squid fishing.

What really makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to fish with local fishermen and enjoy freshly caught squid prepared right on the boat. The guides and crew are friendly and provide clear instructions, making the activity accessible even if you’re new to fishing. We especially love the authenticity of this experience—it’s not just a tourist attraction but a genuine chance to connect with local fishing traditions amid beautiful scenery.

One potential consideration is the wait time before starting to fish, as noted by one reviewer who felt “more time was needed for fishing.” However, if you’re patient and eager for a peaceful night on the water, this shouldn’t be a deal-breaker. The tour is suitable for most travelers, especially those interested in local culture and outdoor activities, and it’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers craving a unique sea evening.

Key Points

Authentic local experience with fishing demonstrations by seasoned fishermen.
Beautiful sunset views over the Gulf of Thailand.
Hands-on squid fishing with on-board equipment and bait provided.
Fresh seafood dinner prepared right on the boat, offering excellent value.
Relaxing cruise back under the stars, ending around 9:00 PM.
Small group size (max 15 travelers) enhances intimacy and interaction.

A Closer Look at the Experience

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The Itinerary: From Sunset to Seafood Feast

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in central Phu Quoc, making logistics straightforward for travelers staying nearby. At John’s Tours, the meeting point is easy to locate, and the overall organization seems smooth, thanks to the friendly local guide. Once aboard the traditional fishing boat, you’ll immediately notice the spectacular views of the sunset, a highlight that truly enriches the experience. The golden hour on the water offers perfect lighting for photos and a tranquil atmosphere to start the evening.

The first part of the tour involves a demonstration by local fishermen on how to fish for squid. This is more than just watching; it’s a chance to learn about traditional fishing techniques and get a sense of local livelihood. The crew is attentive and eager to assist, making even novices feel confident about handling the fishing gear.

The Fishing Experience: Patience and Practice

The two-hour window for squid fishing is where the activity takes on its most genuine character. You’ll drop a line into the dark waters, waiting quietly for the squid to bite. Many guests find it a relaxing, almost meditative activity, especially as they watch the surface for movement and feel the heaviness of a catch.

A reviewer, Kylie_B, noted that “more time was needed for fishing,” which hints at how patience can pay off. When a squid bites, the feeling of pulling it up from the depths is quite satisfying, and catching your own fresh seafood adds a personal touch to the meal.

The Feast: Freshly Caught Seafood

Once your catch is secured, the crew will prepare it right there on the boat. The set menu dinner features grilled or cooked squid, served with the backdrop of the night sky and gentle sea breeze. The freshness of the seafood is often highlighted as a key strength of this tour, with many travelers raving about how tasty and satisfying the freshly grilled squid is.

Return Journey: Relaxing and Reflecting

After the meal, the boat cruises slowly back toward the pier, giving you a chance to unwind and savor the peaceful night on the water. The tour concludes around 9:00 PM, with hotel drop-off included in the price. The calm, star-lit journey home leaves you with a sense of quiet fulfillment, having experienced a slice of local life in a natural setting.

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What We Love About This Tour

The authentic fishing experience is the biggest draw, offering a rare glimpse into local traditions that most travelers don’t get to see. The stunning sunset views create a magical atmosphere, perfect for photography and for feeling connected to the environment. The fresh seafood dinner eaten directly on the boat provides a sense of simplicity and genuine flavor that is hard to beat.

The Downsides

Some guests, like Kylie_B, mention that more time for fishing could improve the experience, as patience is required for a successful catch. Plus, because the activity is largely dependent on weather and sea conditions, there may be days when the experience is less active or delayed.

Who Would Enjoy This?

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic local activities, enjoy nature and quiet evenings, and want a hands-on experience that combines adventure with culinary delight. It’s also suitable for those with a flexible attitude about waiting times and weather, and for anyone interested in local traditions rather than just sightseeing.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Pickup and Meeting Point

Being picked up from your hotel in central Phu Quoc simplifies logistics. The meeting point at John’s Tours is easy to find, which is especially helpful after a day of exploring other attractions.

Sunset Viewing

The tour begins around 5:00 PM, so you’ll have plenty of time to settle in and acclimate before the sunset. The spectacular views over the Gulf of Thailand are a highlight, offering ideal lighting for photos and a peaceful start to the evening.

Demonstration and Fishing

The local fishermen demonstrate traditional squid fishing methods, giving a valuable cultural context. You then get to try your hand at dropping the line, which is both simple and engaging. The crew’s support and guidance are appreciated, especially for first-timers.

The Catch and Dinner

As the night deepens, patience is needed to wait for a squid to nibble the bait. When successful, you’ll feel a rush of satisfaction pulling the line up. The crew then prepares your catch on board, turning it into a delicious, freshly grilled meal. Many guests report that the freshness of the seafood makes it a memorable part of the experience.

Cruise Back and Drop-off

The return cruise offers a tranquil end to an active evening, with soft sea breezes and starry skies. The boat slowly makes its way back to the pier, arriving around 9:00 PM, just in time to relax after an adventure.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Dress comfortably: Evenings can be cool and breezy, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
Bring patience: Fishing can involve waiting, but the scenery and company make it worthwhile.
Dietary needs: If you have special dietary requirements, inform the booking provider in advance.
Small group size: The tour limits to 15 travelers, creating a more intimate experience.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for an authentic local activity in Phu Quoc that combines spectacular scenery, traditional fishing, and fresh seafood, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly well-suited for adventurous travelers eager to try something different, as well as those interested in cultural insights. The small group size fosters personal interaction with guides and locals, making it a memorable, genuine experience.

While it may not satisfy those seeking fast-paced activities or extensive fishing, it offers a balanced mix of relaxation and activity. Just be prepared for the possibility of waiting for a bite, and enjoy the chance to connect with nature and local traditions in a peaceful setting.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off in central Phu Quoc, an English-speaking guide and crew, a bottle of mineral water, the set menu dinner, and local fishing equipment and bait.

How long is the fishing part of the tour?
The fishing activity lasts about 2 hours, giving you ample time to attempt catching squid under the night sky.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s a good activity for families or couples. Just keep in mind that patience is needed during fishing.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for an evening boat trip, plus a light jacket or sweater for cooler temperatures.

Can I request a different hotel pickup location?
Yes, communication prior to the tour is encouraged, and requests for different pickup points are generally accommodated.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent, but the provider offers free cancellation if conditions prevent the activity from taking place.

Is tipping expected?
Tipping is not included but appreciated if you feel the crew provided excellent service.

This experience offers a genuine taste of Phu Quoc’s local fishing culture, combined with unforgettable sea views and fresh seafood. If you’re in search of a peaceful, authentic evening on the water that’s both active and scenic, this tour is worth considering.