Coconut Boat Ride Hoi An: A Thrilling Eco-Tour You’ll Love

What is a Hoi An Coconut Boat (Basket Boat)?

Hoi An Coconut Boat is a unique local transportation that has been part of life in Cam Thanh Village for generations. Known as the "basket boat," this traditional vessel was once used by local fishermen to navigate the winding waterways of the coconut forest in Hoi An.

As you float through this lush mangrove ecosystem, you’ll see locals expertly guiding their boats through narrow streams, giving visitors a chance to witness their deep connection to the water.

The coconut boat ride offers a fun way to explore Hoi An’s waterways.

Guide to Coconut Boat in Hoi An: Location, best time to visit, and entrance fee

When planning your Hoi An Coconut Boat adventure, knowing the best spots, ideal visiting hours, and ticket prices can enhance your experience. Here’s what you need to know before heading to Bay Mau Coconut Forest.

Location and How to get to Bay Mau Coconut Forest

The Seven Hectare Coconut Forest or Bay Mau Coconut Forest is located in Vong Nhi, Cam Thanh, just 7 km from Hoi An Ancient Town. You can reach it by:

• Bicycle or motorbike: A 20-minute ride from the town center along scenic countryside roads.
• Taxi or car: A quick 10-minute drive costing around 80,000 - 150,000 VND ($3-6).
• Tour packages: Many local agencies offer coconut boat rides with guided tours, including round-trip transport.

Bay Mau Coconut Forest is near Hoi An, easily reachable by car or bike.

Opening hours and Best time to visit Hoi An coconut village

The Hoi An Coconut Boat tours operate daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with activities starting at 8:00 AM. For a quieter experience, visit before 10:30 AM.

• The net-throwing performance ends at 4:30 PM, so if you want to see it, start your Hoi An boat ride before 4:00 PM.
• Other activities run until 6:00 PM. The last boat departs at 5:30 PM.
• While you can take a Hoi An basket boat as early as 6:00 a.m., most activities begin after 7:30 a.m. Private boats are available for early visits if needed.

The best time to visit Hoi An Coconut Village is from February to September when the weather is dry and cool, perfect for exploring. June and July can be hotter, but the clear river water makes them popular for sightseeing.

If you prefer a quieter experience, visit before 10:30 AM to avoid crowds. Another great time is after 15:30 when the heat eases. You might catch a beautiful sunset over the coconut forest. However, check the weather forecast, as rain may block the sunset view.

Visit early morning or late afternoon for a cooler, less crowded experience.

Ticket prices and How to book a Hoi An basket boat tour

The Hoi An Coconut Boat ride costs 90,000 VND per person. This price includes a basket boat and a local boatman to guide you through the coconut forest in Hoi An.

The coconut boat ride typically lasts about 55-60 minutes.

You can book a Hoi An basket boat tour by contacting the provider directly via phone or visiting their location. Below are three highly-rated tour providers on TripAdvisor: Hacoconut Coconut Basket Boat, Green Coconut Village and Tin Basket Boat Tour.

These tours offer a fun experience, paddling through coconut forests, watching traditional fishing demonstrations, and enjoying local performances. It's best to book in advance, especially during peak seasons!

What to expect when experiencing Coconut Boat in Hoi An

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as you glide through the lush coconut forest, enjoy thrilling boat performances, and experience the daily life of local fishermen. Here’s what you can look forward to on your Hoi An coconut boat ride!

1. Discover the heart of Bay Mau Coconut Forest

The Seven Hectare Coconut Forest (Bay Mau Coconut Forest) is a lush green oasis filled with towering nipa palm trees. As you glide through the calm waterways in a Hoi An basket boat, you’ll feel immersed in nature. The peaceful surroundings, fresh air, and rustling coconut leaves create a relaxing yet adventurous experience.

2. Experience the thrilling spins of a Hoi An basket boat

One of the highlights of the tour is the basket boat spinning performance. Local boatmen, with years of experience, showcase their skills by spinning the round boats in circles at high speed. The faster the spin, the more exciting it gets! Some performances even include music, creating a fun and energetic atmosphere.

If you’d like, you can even try casting the net yourself! However, if you’re prone to motion sickness, consider skipping this activity, as the spinning motion of the boat may cause discomfort. Tipping is common for this experience - around 50,000 VND per person if you choose to participate. If you prefer to watch, there’s no fee.

The boat drivers perform exciting spins, making the ride more thrilling.

3. See local fishermen skillfully throw their nets

The Hoi An boat ride also offers a chance to witness traditional fishing techniques. Skilled fishermen stand on their boats and cast large fishing nets into the river in a graceful motion. Watching the nets spread wide and fall into the water is a fascinating sight, showcasing a practice that has been passed down for generations.

Local fishermen demonstrate traditional net-throwing techniques.

4. Try crab fishing with a friendly boat guide

With a small bamboo fishing pole, you can try crab fishing during your ride. The boat driver will teach you how to lower the bait into the water and wait patiently for a crab to bite. It’s a simple yet fun activity, especially for kids and first-time visitors. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a few!

5. Craft unique souvenirs from coconut leaves

Locals are experts at crafting beautiful souvenirs from coconut leaves. During the tour, boatmen or villagers will demonstrate how to weave leaves into grasshoppers, fish, rings, or flowers. You can even make your own and take it home as a special memory of your trip.

Handmade souvenirs from coconut leaves make great keepsakes.

6. Join a cooking class paired with a basket boat tour

For a deeper cultural experience, many tours offer a basket boat ride combined with a cooking class from 4-5 hours. After your boat adventure, you’ll head to a riverside cooking school where local chefs will teach you how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes like Bánh xèo (crispy pancakes), fresh spring rolls, and grilled seafood. This is a great way to connect with local traditions and enjoy a delicious meal.

A cooking class with a boat tour adds a tasty cultural experience.

Tips to keep in mind before trying the coconut boat

To make the most of your Hoi An Coconut Boat experience, keep these key points in mind:

1. Check reviews before choosing a provider

Not all boat operators offer the same quality of service. If you pick a random provider, taxi drivers may take you to locations with poor service or overpriced rides.

Checking online reviews (Google, TripAdvisor, or Facebook) helps you find a reputable operator and avoid tourist traps.

2. Book in advance to avoid overpricing

It’s best to book your Hoi An basket boat tour in advance. This ensures a smoother experience and avoids sudden price hikes, especially during peak hours. Some providers allow you to reserve without prepayment, paying only when you arrive.

3. Check for hidden fees

Before booking, confirm the total cost and check if there are any hidden fees. Some operators may charge extra for services like boat spinning performances.

Ask if this is included or requires an additional fee to avoid unexpected costs.

4. Wear a life jacket for safety

Even if the river is calm, always wear a life jacket. The basket boat Hoi An is small and can rock when spinning or moving fast. Safety should be a priority, especially for children and non-swimmers.

5. Dress comfortably and prepare for water exposure

• Clothing: Wear light, breathable clothes since Hoi An can be hot. If visiting in the afternoon, a long-sleeved shirt or hat helps protect against the sun.
• Footwear: Choose waterproof sandals or slip-resistant shoes, as the boat floor can be wet.
• Extras: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a small towel in case you get splashed during the ride.

A coconut boat ride in Hoi An is a must-try experience, offering fun, culture, and adventure in one trip. Whether you're spinning in a basket boat or catching crabs, this journey through the coconut forest is unforgettable. Add it to your list of things to do in Hoi An for a truly unique local adventure!