Hoi An: Discover CamThanh Eco Water Coconut Village

Imagine gliding through peaceful coconut waterways aboard a bamboo basket boat, learning local fishing techniques, and chatting with friendly fishermen—all for just around $13 per person. This tour, offered by Thien Hoang Travel, lasts between 75 minutes and 3 hours, depending on your chosen schedule, and whisks you away from the busy streets of Hoi An to a quieter, more authentic slice of rural life in Cam Thanh Village.
What we love most about this experience is how it combines hands-on activities—like net fishing and paddling— with a genuine look into daily village life. You get to see how local fishermen live, paddle traditional boats, and even try your hand at crab catching. Plus, the lunch featuring seven local dishes offers a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a relaxed setting. The only potential hiccup? Communication with boat drivers can be limited, as they typically speak only Vietnamese, so some patience and a sense of adventure are needed.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy interactive cultural experiences and want an affordable, family-friendly outing. If you’re curious about traditional Vietnamese fishing methods or love exploring water routes away from crowded tourist spots, this offers real value—and plenty of fun.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic local life: Meet fishermen and see their daily routines firsthand.
- Hands-on activities: Try net fishing, paddling a bamboo basket boat, and crab catching.
- Scenic waterways: Glide through peaceful coconut forests, away from busy streets.
- Cultural insight: Briefly learn about the area’s history and traditional floating village life.
- Family-friendly: Boats fit two adults and one child, making it suitable for families.
- Affordable value: At just $13, it offers a rich, interactive experience that’s hard to beat.
Planning more time in Cam Thanh? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
An In-Depth Look at the CamThanh Eco Water Coconut Village Tour

Starting with the Pick-Up and Introduction
Your day begins with a hotel pick-up in Hoi An, setting the tone for a hassle-free transition to rural Vietnam. The drive to Cam Thanh Village takes you through scenic countryside, giving a glimpse of the lush landscape before arriving at the water village. Your guide, whose name isn’t specified but who is generally friendly and informative, introduces you to the area’s history and lifestyle—an essential context that elevates the experience beyond just boat rides.
Meeting Local Fishermen and Learning Daily Life
Once in the village, the tour offers the chance to meet local fishermen and observe their routines. This part is especially engaging because it connects you directly to the community, highlighting how traditional livelihoods are sustained today. Several reviews mention enjoying the authenticity of these interactions, with one saying, “We loved the way it was not commercialized but still organized well.”
More Great Tours NearbyBamboo Basket Boat Ride Through Coconut Forests
The core activity revolves around paddling a Vietnamese bamboo basket boat. These boats are tiny, round, and surprisingly stable—once you get used to the paddle, you’ll enjoy moving quietly through the coconut waterways. The brief introduction to the boat’s history and technique makes it accessible, even for first-timers.
The scenery is tranquil, with tall coconut palms lining the waterway and birds calling overhead. The boat ride typically lasts about 45 minutes, but can extend depending on your schedule. Travelers love the peacefulness and the chance to really slow down from the usual hustle.
Hands-On Fishing Experiences
One of the most memorable parts is the hands-on fishing with round nets and cast nets. Local fishermen demonstrate these traditional techniques, and then you get the chance to try. It’s surprisingly fun—and sometimes hilarious—especially when your net catches more water than fish! Several reviews emphasize how this activity offers a glimpse into authentic fishing methods.
Basket Boat Race and Waterway Exploration
For a dash of friendly competition, you’ll often be encouraged to join in a basket boat race. This is light-hearted and designed to be inclusive, suitable for all ages. Afterward, you can explore the waterways, catching crabs or dropping nets to see what you can find—all in the peaceful setting that feels worlds away from Hoi An’s busy streets.
Returning to the Fisherman’s House and Lunch
After the water activities, the group heads back to a local fisherman’s house for a welcome drink—a refreshing local beverage—and, depending on your option, a hearty lunch featuring seven traditional dishes. The menu includes favorites like Hoi An spring rolls, rice pancake, and clay pot fish. The food is adaptable for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets, which is a thoughtful touch.
Final Transfer Back to Hoi An
The tour wraps up with a return transfer to your hotel, typically around mid to late afternoon. Travelers who appreciate a mix of activity, culture, and authentic local cuisine find this tour offers excellent value for the price.
Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is ideal for those craving an authentic visit to rural Vietnam, away from the crowded tourist spots. It’s perfect if you’re interested in local livelihoods and want a hands-on approach to Vietnamese waterway life. Families with children also find it accommodating, thanks to the small boats that fit two adults and a child comfortably.
The cost of $13 is quite reasonable considering the variety of activities, the inclusion of lunch, and the hotel transfer. It offers a genuine insight into fishing culture and traditional watercraft, making it more than just a simple boat ride.
Practical Considerations

- Limited English communication from boat drivers may mean you need to rely on your guide or gestures.
- The tour is flexible, with morning and afternoon options, giving you flexibility in your itinerary.
- Bring sun protection—a hat, umbrella, and sunscreen—since you’ll be outdoors most of the time.
- The boats accommodate small groups, enhancing the personalized feel but also meaning bookings should be made in advance.
- The food ingredients can be adapted, making it suitable for many dietary needs.
Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rare chance to see Vietnamese village life from a waterway perspective, combining cultural insights with interactive fun. For travelers who enjoy hands-on experiences and want to learn about traditional fishing, it’s a rewarding outing that doesn’t break the bank. The relaxed pace, scenic views, and friendly local fishermen make it a genuine highlight of any trip to Hoi An.
If you’re seeking a meaningful, affordable, and family-friendly activity that takes you off the beaten path, then this CamThanh Eco Water Coconut Village tour will meet your expectations—and perhaps even surprise you with how much you can learn and enjoy in just a few hours.
FAQs
Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it a stress-free experience.
How long does the tour last?
The duration ranges from 75 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the schedule you choose and activities you participate in.
What activities are included?
You will experience bamboo basket boat riding, net fishing, crab catching, and possibly a boat race, plus enjoy a local lunch.
Can children join this tour?
Yes, boats are suitable for two adults and one child, making it family-friendly.
What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, umbrella, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during outdoor activities.
Is the food suitable for special diets?
The menu can be adapted to accommodate vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or other dietary needs, based on your preferences.
This tour combines a relaxed pace, authentic culture, and interactive fun—something that will leave you with meaningful memories of Vietnam’s waterways and its people.
You can check availability for your dates here: