Hoi An: Basket Boat, Lantern Making & My Son Sanctuary Tour

Hoi An: Basket Boat, Lantern Making & My Son Sanctuary Tour

Imagine paddling a traditional basket boat through lush coconut palms, then creating your own colorful lantern, all before exploring the ancient ruins of the My Son Sanctuary. For $49 per person, this 9-hour journey offers a well-rounded taste of rural Vietnamese life, culture, and history—guided by friendly local experts.

What we love most? The hands-on fishing activities—crab catching and net casting—bring you closer to everyday life here, and the lantern-making workshop lets you take home a bright souvenir of your day. The culinary highlight is a Vietnamese lunch cooked at a local fisherman’s house, complete with a live fire demo.

A potential downside? The tour involves several long van rides—around 1.5 hours between stops—and outdoor activities, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some physical movement and variable weather.

This experience suits those eager to go beyond the typical tourist spots, seeking authentic rural encounters, cultural crafts, and historical sites. If you enjoy interactive, full-day adventures that mix learning with fun, this tour will likely fit your travel style.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic rural immersion in central Vietnam, including basket boat rides and fishing.
Creative hands-on activity with lantern-making, guided by local artisans.
Cultural discovery at UNESCO-listed My Son Sanctuary with traditional dance show.
Delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local fisherman’s house, with a live cooking demonstration.
Scenic river cruise at sunset, passing through peaceful countryside.
Small group size ensures personalized attention and an engaging experience.

A Rich Day of Vietnam’s Countryside and Culture

If you’re looking for a full-day tour that combines nature, craft, history, and food, this Hoi An experience offers a well-balanced package. At just $49, it delivers more than just sightseeing—it’s about participation, connection, and seeing Vietnam from the perspective of its locals.

Starting in Cam Thanh Coconut Village, you’ll hop onto a traditional basket boat—a uniquely Vietnamese vessel—paddling through serene coconut groves. We loved the chance to learn simple paddling techniques and feel the gentle movement of the boat as our guide pointed out various wildlife and palm trees. The calm water and lush scenery make for a peaceful beginning, and it’s a fun way to get a feel for local transportation methods.

Next, you’ll join local fishermen in practical activities like crab catching and net casting. This hands-on part of the tour stands out because it offers more than just observation—you’re actively participating in rural livelihoods. One reviewer shared, “We had so much fun trying to catch crabs, and it felt like we’d stepped into a local fishing village.” These activities give you a genuine sense of daily life, not just a staged experience.

Lantern Making: Brightening Up Your Day

Following the boat ride, the tour shifts gears to craftsmanship. Guided by skilled artisans, you’ll create your own colorful lantern, an iconic symbol of Vietnam. This workshop isn’t just about making pretty crafts—it’s a meaningful way to connect with local traditions. The artisans are patient and eager to share their skills, making it an enriching, creative experience. Multiple reviews mentioned how satisfying it was to leave with a handmade lantern that’s both a souvenir and a story of your day.

A Tasty Vietnamese Lunch

Midday, the tour moves to a local fisherman’s house, where you’re treated to a live cooking demo and a seven-dish Vietnamese meal. The lunch is a highlight, with hearty flavors and fresh ingredients. Watching the chef prepare the dishes over an open fire adds authenticity, and the relaxed setting makes it feel like sharing a meal with family. This part of the experience emphasizes local hospitality and culinary traditions.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring My Son Sanctuary

After lunch, the focus turns to history and archaeology with a visit to the UNESCO-listed My Son Sanctuary. The site features ancient Cham Hindu temples, set in a lush jungle backdrop. Your guide will help you understand the significance of the ruins and the Cham civilization that built them. A traditional Champa dance performance adds cultural flavor and is well worth watching—many visitors found it a captivating way to end the exploration.

The walk through the ruins is manageable, but be prepared for some uneven ground—comfortable shoes and a bit of energy are recommended. The site is peaceful, and the combination of ancient architecture and lush surroundings makes for memorable photos.

Sunset River Cruise: A Calm End

The day concludes with a scenic boat cruise along the Thu Bon River. As the boat glides gently through the water, you’ll witness the countryside passing by, and if timing aligns, catch a beautiful sunset. It’s a tranquil way to round out a busy day—perfect for unwinding and reflecting on your experiences.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is designed for small groups—limited to 12 participants—ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience. Pickup is included from centrally located Hoi An hotels and Da Nang, although a small fee applies if you’re staying outside these areas. The total duration is 9 hours, making it a full-day commitment, ideal for travelers wanting an immersive experience.

The tour is perfect if you enjoy interactive outdoor activities and want to see a different side of Vietnam—away from crowded touristy spots. It’s especially suitable for those comfortable with walking, some physical activity, and outdoor weather.

For those with mobility concerns, note that wheelchair users are not accommodated. Also, bring essentials like comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, camera, and water. The experience’s outdoor nature means weather can impact your day, so check the forecast beforehand.

Value and Overall Impression

At $49, this tour offers a compelling combination of cultural activities, historical exploration, and scenic relaxation. The inclusion of lunch, activities, and guided visits provides excellent value, especially given the small group setting and authentic encounters. Many travelers describe it as a “fantastic way to spend a full day” with memorable hands-on moments and culturally enriching experiences.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers eager to see local life up close and participate actively in crafts and fishing. It’s great for those who enjoy history and culture, but also want plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and try hands-on activities. If you prefer quick, passively guided tours, this might feel a bit full; but if you’re looking for a balanced, authentic day in Vietnam, it’s a solid choice.

FAQ

Is transportation provided? Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from designated locations in Hoi An and Da Nang, but there’s a small fee if you’re outside those areas.

How long is the van ride? Expect about 15 minutes from Da Nang to Cam Thanh, and around 1.5 hours between major stops.

What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, water, and light outdoor clothes.

Is lunch included? Yes, a 7-dish Vietnamese meal at a local house is part of the day.

Are there any physical limitations? The tour involves outdoor activities and walking; wheelchair users are not accommodated.

Can I cancel? Yes, with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

How many people are in a group? Small groups of up to 12 participants ensure more personalized attention.

What is the main focus of the tour? A combination of cultural crafts, rural activities, and historical site visits.

Is the tour suitable for families? Yes, especially those with children who enjoy hands-on activities and outdoor experiences.

This tour offers a lively, authentic taste of Vietnam’s countryside, culture, and history—all packed into a memorable 9-hour day. Whether you’re a history buff, a craft lover, or just curious about rural life, it’s a well-rounded experience that’s both fun and meaningful.

You can check availability for your dates here: