We’re checking local prices, boat operators, and other useful information to keep this guide up to date. Prices and services may change, so please confirm the details before booking.
Planning a basket boat ride in Hoi An? Before you go, there are a few things worth checking: the price, the best time to visit, and how to choose a reliable boat operator.
The basket boat ride takes place in Cam Thanh Coconut Village, around 4–6 km from Hoi An Old Town. Local rowers take visitors through the waterways of the Bay Mau Coconut Forest.
The ride is quite simple, but prices and experiences can be different depending on where and how you book. Here’s what you should know.
1. How Much Does a Basket Boat Ride Cost in Hoi An?
There isn’t one single price for every basket boat experience in Cam Thanh. The cost depends on the operator, ride duration, number of passengers, and included activities.
Basket Boat Prices in 2026
Here are some published reference prices to help you plan. They are not confirmed prices for every boat operator or departure point.
| Service | Reference Price |
|---|---|
| Coconut forest entrance ticket | 30,000 VND per person |
| Basket boat ride – around 45 minutes | 150,000 VND per boat |
| Basket boat ride – around 60 minutes | 180,000 VND per boat |
| Optional basket boat spinning | Around 100,000 VND per person |
The boat prices above generally refer to a boat carrying up to two passengers. Some operators offer different packages or charge per person. Please confirm the current price and capacity before booking.
Local tip: Always ask whether the price is per person or per boat, and whether the entrance ticket is included.
2. What Is Included in the Price?
A basic ride normally includes a local rower taking you through the nipa palm waterways. Depending on your operator and package, you may also enjoy:
- A ride through the coconut forest.
- Watching basket boat spinning performances.
- Trying to catch small crabs near the nipa palm roots.
- Watching traditional fishing demonstrations.
- Seeing small crafts made from coconut leaves.
Not every activity is included in every booking. Watching a spinning performance and sitting inside a spinning boat are different experiences. Joining the spinning may cost extra.
3. Are There Any Extra Charges?
- Entrance tickets: These may be included or charged separately.
- Basket boat spinning: Joining the spinning may require an additional payment.
- Photos and videos: Printed or digital photos may be offered for an extra charge.
- Transportation: Hotel pickup, taxis, and transfers may not be included.
- Tips: You can choose to tip your rower if you’re happy with the service. A voluntary tip is not the same as a required fee.
Confirm any extra costs before the ride to avoid unpleasant surprises.
4. When Is the Best Time for a Basket Boat Ride?
We recommend going in the early morning or late afternoon, when the weather is usually more comfortable.
Early Morning: Around 8:00–10:00 AM
Morning is a good choice if you prefer cooler weather. The light is often nice for photos, and some waterways may be less busy than later in the day.
Late Afternoon: Around 3:00–5:00 PM
Late afternoon is another good option. The temperature is often more comfortable than midday, and you can return to Hoi An Old Town afterwards for dinner or an evening walk. Check the operator’s last departure time first.
What About Midday?
You can still go around midday, but it may be hot. Some waterways are exposed to direct sunlight. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and drinking water.
5. What Is the Best Season to Visit?
Dry Season
From around February to August, Hoi An generally has more sunny days. This is a good period for outdoor activities, although summer can be very hot. Morning and late afternoon are often more comfortable.
Rainy Season
Hoi An’s rainy season generally falls between September and December, although conditions vary. Light rain may not always stop a ride, but heavy rain, strong winds, thunderstorms, flooding, or unsafe water conditions can affect operations.
Our tip: During the rainy season, contact your operator on the day of your visit to confirm whether the boats are operating safely.
6. How to Book a Basket Boat Ride
Book Directly with a Local Family
Many local families operate basket boat services. You can research a family or operator online, check recent reviews, and contact them directly. Ask about the route, price, activities, and exact meeting point before arriving.
Book Through Your Hotel or Homestay
Hotels and homestays in Hoi An can often arrange a ride, sometimes with transportation included. Compare the total price and what’s included.
Book Through an Online Travel Platform
Check recent reviews, package details, meeting location, and cancellation policy. Some packages include transport or other activities, while others only include the boat ride.
Book at the Coconut Village
You may be able to arrange a ride at a boat station. Before paying, confirm the price, duration, passenger count, and included activities.
7. Be Careful with Roadside Offers
Important booking advice: On the way to Cam Thanh Coconut Village, you may meet people standing along the road offering basket boat rides. Some offers may sound attractive, but the actual ride or included activities may not match what was promised. You could pay more than expected or miss the experience you wanted.
It’s better to choose a local boat family or operator in advance based on your own research and recent reviews. Go directly to the agreed meeting point. Don’t feel pressured to make a quick decision along the road.
Before getting into the boat, confirm the total price, ride duration, route, passenger count, and included activities.
8. How to Choose a Good Basket Boat Operator
- Recent reviews: Read comments about the actual experience, not only the star rating.
- Clear prices: The total cost should be explained before you book.
- Ride duration: Confirm how long you’ll spend on the water.
- Activities: Ask about crab fishing, spinning, and fishing demonstrations.
- Route: Choose a peaceful or lively experience depending on your preference.
- Safety: Check that suitable life jackets are provided.
- Meeting point: Save the exact location and operator’s contact details.
9. Should You Book in Advance?
Booking ahead is useful if you want a particular family, route, or combined tour. It can also help during busy periods or when travelling with children.
You don’t always need to book several days ahead for a normal ride. If your schedule is flexible, you can contact an operator the day before or on the same day, depending on availability.
During the rainy season, ask about cancellations and refunds in case the weather is unsafe.
10. Can You Combine the Ride with Other Activities?
A normal basket boat ride often takes around 40–60 minutes, so it can fit into a half-day trip.
Basket Boat Ride + Vietnamese Cooking Class
Some cooking classes in Cam Thanh include a local market visit, a basket boat ride, and a hands-on cooking session. This is a good choice if you enjoy Vietnamese food and local culture.
Basket Boat Ride + Countryside Tour
You can also combine the ride with a bicycle or motorbike tour around Cam Thanh and nearby villages. Depending on the route, you may visit rice fields, farms, and quiet countryside roads.
Our tip: Allow around 3–5 hours for a combined half-day experience, depending on activities and transportation.
11. Quick Booking Checklist
- Total price: per person or per boat?
- Is the entrance fee included?
- How many passengers can join one boat?
- How much time will you actually spend on the water?
- Are spinning, crab fishing, and other activities included?
- Do you want a peaceful or lively route?
- What is the exact meeting point and contact number?
- What happens if the weather is bad?
12. Frequently Asked Questions
Is the entrance fee included in the basket boat price?
Not always. Some operators include it, while others charge it separately. Ask before booking.
Is basket boat spinning free?
Watching a performance may be included. Joining a spinning boat yourself may cost extra.
How many people can sit in one basket boat?
Many tourist boats are arranged for up to two passengers plus the rower. Confirm the capacity with your operator, especially if travelling with children.
Is it cheaper to book directly?
Sometimes, but not always. A package may include transportation or other services. Compare the total cost.
What happens if it rains?
Light rain may not stop a ride, but unsafe weather can lead to delays or cancellations. Ask about the weather and refund policy.
Do I need to tip the rower?
Tipping is a personal choice if you’re happy with the service. It should not be confused with an unexplained required fee.
Final Thoughts
A basket boat ride in Cam Thanh can be a fun part of your Hoi An trip. The most important thing is not just finding the lowest price. It’s choosing the right operator, understanding what’s included, and visiting at a comfortable time.
Research your operator in advance, confirm the total cost, and avoid rushed decisions based on roadside offers. With a little planning, you can enjoy the nipa palm forest and have a better experience.
A Little More About the Nipa Palm Forest
The nipa palms in Cam Thanh are not only part of the beautiful coconut forest. Local people have long used their leaves for roofing, crafts, and other daily needs. Their flower stalks can also be tapped to collect naturally sweet nectar.
At Hoa Arika Hoi An, we use fresh nipa blossom nectar, together with coconut and arenga blossom nectars, to sweeten our drinks without refined sugar.
Learn more at Hoa Arika Hoi An.
Explore Hoi An with Hoa Arika — A sweet story from Hoi An.