Red River Private Tour : Sunset and Night Squid Fishing

Sunset and Night Squid Fishing Tour in Phu Quoc: An Authentic Adventure

If you’re looking to get a true taste of local life on Phu Quoc Island, this Red River Private Tour offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and hands-on experience. For about $150 per person, you’ll spend roughly five hours exploring the coast, enjoying a stunning sunset, and trying your hand at night squid fishing. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, this tour combines the serenity of a wooden boat cruise with the excitement of catching your own seafood.

What we love about this experience are two key details: first, the chance to watch the sunset over the sea while on a traditional boat — a mesmerizing sight that makes the trip worthwhile. Second, the thrill of learning local fishing techniques, which gives you a behind-the-scenes look at an age-old tradition. A small drawback to consider is that, as some reviews mention, not everyone catches a squid, but even spectating can be fun, and the included seafood dinner compensates nicely.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy authentic, hands-on experiences and don’t mind getting a little their hands wet. Families, couples, or solo explorers who appreciate good value for money, tasty food, and cultural stories will find this trip a highlight of their stay.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience of traditional squid fishing at night
• Stunning sunset views during a peaceful boat cruise
• Delicious seafood barbecue cooked on board, featuring fresh catches
• Friendly, informative guides who share local stories and fishing tips
• Flexible private tour, suitable for families and small groups
• Great value for a memorable 4-hour adventure on the water

A Practical Guide to the Sunset and Night Squid Fishing Tour

This tour begins in the late afternoon, with hotel pickups in Phu Quoc’s Duong Dong area. For about $150 per person, you get an immersive experience that’s as much about the journey as the destination. The five-hour itinerary is well-paced, starting with a shuttle to the harbor, followed by an enjoyable sunset cruise on a traditional wooden boat. This initial part is especially captivating, as the sky shifts from golden hues to twilight, offering perfect photo opportunities and a chance to settle into the gentle rhythm of island life.

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of natural beauty and cultural authenticity. You’ll cruise along the coastline, taking in views of lush islands and fishing villages. Many reviews highlight how peaceful and scenic this part of the trip is, with some describing it as a highlight. As the sun dips below the horizon, the atmosphere shifts from tranquil to lively, as everyone prepares for the night’s main event: squid fishing.

The Itinerary Breakdown: From Sunset to Squid

Stop 1: Sunset Cruise (17:00)
Your journey begins with hotel pickup and a ride to the harbor, where a traditional boat awaits. As you set sail, you’ll enjoy the spectacle of the setting sun, turning the sky into a canvas of warm colors. The boat is equipped for comfort, with an air-conditioned vehicle to keep you cool during transfers.

Stop 2: Night Squid Fishing (Post 18:00)
Once the sky darkens, everyone shifts gear — from sightseeing to fishing. Your local squid fishing equipment is ready, and guides will demonstrate techniques and secrets that seasoned fishermen use. Many reviews mention guides like Phong, Brian, or Peter as being particularly knowledgeable and friendly, often helping even beginners to catch a squid or octopus.

The thrill of trying to catch your own squid is why many travelers choose this tour. Even if you don’t succeed, you will appreciate the atmosphere of camaraderie and patience. The guides are attentive, and some reviews mention how they speak good English, making the experience accessible and fun for everyone.

Stop 3: Seafood Dinner on Board (around 19:00)
The highlight for many is the fresh seafood barbecue, cooked right on the boat. Whether you catch a squid or not, you’ll indulge in delicious local delicacies, including shrimps and other seafood. Several reviews praise the tasty food, emphasizing the value of having a well-prepared meal included in the price.

Return to Hotel (around 21:00)
After a memorable evening, the tour winds down with a gentle cruise back to the harbor and a shuttle back to your hotel. Many mention the timeliness and comfort of the transportation, making the whole experience seamless.

What You Can Expect at Each Stop

Sunset Cruise

Imagine floating along the calm waters with the sun setting behind the islands, casting a warm glow. The boat is cozy and traditional, letting you feel connected to the local fishing culture. You may also see coastal lights flickering on as night falls.

Night Squid Fishing

Guides will provide local equipment and tips on how to catch squid. You’ll likely see the techniques used by fishermen, such as light attracting the squid, and learn about the fishing traditions that have persisted for generations. Many reviews mention guides like Tia and Brian as being attentive and engaging, often making sure everyone gets a turn.

Dinner on Board

The seafood barbecue is one of the best value aspects of this tour. It’s fresh, flavorful, and hearty, often including shrimp, grilled squid, and local condiments. Even if you don’t catch your own seafood, you’ll enjoy the meal as a reward for your efforts.

Return Journey

The journey back to your hotel is smooth, often with beautiful night views of the coastline illuminated by lights. Some travelers mention that even if they didn’t catch a squid, they appreciated the peaceful night breeze and the stunning scenery.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted in Reviews

Many past travelers express how friendly and helpful the guides are, often highlighting specific guides like Phong or Brian as making the experience memorable. One reviewer said, “He was absolutely lovely, informative and helped me catch an octopus,” which shows how engaged the guides are.

The scenic sunset is repeatedly praised — many say it’s “beautiful” and “a must-see” — making the cruise not just about fishing but also about enjoying the natural beauty of Phu Quoc.

The food consistently receives high marks. Several reviewers note that the seafood was “incredible” and well worth the price, turning what might seem like a simple fishing trip into a culinary highlight.

The Authenticity and Family-Friendliness

The tour seems suitable for families with kids, as one review mentions babysitting and helping children participate in squid fishing. The short duration (around 4 hours) makes it a manageable adventure, especially for families or those with busy schedules.

The Value for Money

Considering the included dinner, private boat, guide services, and transportation, the tour offers good value. Many say it’s “inexpensive fun” and worth every penny for the experience and memories created.

Possible Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention that not everyone catches a squid — but even as observers, travelers seem to enjoy the atmosphere and scenery. If catching a squid is a must-do for you, be prepared for some unpredictability.

Plus, the pickup and drop-off fee for hotels outside Duong Dong town can add $5-$10 USD, so plan accordingly. The tour is weather-dependent, so poor weather could mean cancellation or rescheduling.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see local fishing traditions firsthand and enjoy a beautiful sunset. It’s also ideal for families or couples looking for a memorable night on the water with delicious food and friendly guides. If you’re interested in authentic island life and don’t mind getting a little wet or waiting for the catch, this tour really hits the mark.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from hotels in Duong Dong town. For hotels outside this area, there may be an additional fee of $5-$10 USD.

What should I wear for the trip?
Light, comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather is recommended. Bring a jacket or sweater for the evening, as it can get cooler after sunset.

Can children participate?
Yes, reviews indicate that the tour is family-friendly, with guides like Tia babysitting and helping children enjoy the experience.

What if I don’t catch a squid?
That’s quite common, but many travelers enjoy watching others catch squid or just soaking up the atmosphere. The included seafood dinner compensates even if the fishing isn’t successful.

How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts about five hours, starting around 17:00 and returning around 21:00.

Is the tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Most guides speak good English, making it accessible for international travelers. The explanations and assistance are generally clear and friendly.

Final Thoughts

This Red River Private Tour combines the best of scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and culinary delight in one evening adventure. It’s not just about fishing — it’s about connecting with local traditions and enjoying the peaceful rhythm of island life. The delicious seafood barbecue, friendly guides, and stunning sunset views make it a worthwhile choice for anyone seeking a genuine, memorable experience in Phu Quoc.

Ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate authenticity, good value, and scenic beauty, this tour is a perfect way to spend an evening on the water, creating stories and tastes to remember. Just keep in mind that success with the catch varies, but the overall experience remains a highlight that captures the spirit of Phu Quoc.