We’re working on this article and adding more local information, photos, and useful tips. This is not the final version yet, but we hope it helps you plan your visit to Cam Thanh Coconut Village. Thank you for reading!
If you’re planning a trip to Hoi An, you’ve probably seen videos of tourists riding round bamboo boats, spinning on the water, and laughing together.
This is the famous Hoi An basket boat ride, one of the most popular activities in Cam Thanh Coconut Village. But is it really worth trying? And what should you expect?
Here’s a simple guide to help you decide.
What Is a Basket Boat Ride in Hoi An?
A basket boat, called thuyền thúng or thúng chai in Vietnamese, is a traditional round boat usually made from woven bamboo.
These boats have been used by fishermen along Vietnam’s central coast for many generations. Even today, they are still used at sea, especially for fishing near the shore. Fishermen also use them to travel between the beach and larger fishing boats.
Sometimes, larger fishing boats carry several basket boats out to sea. Fishermen then use these small boats to fish in the surrounding waters before returning to the main boat.
In Cam Thanh, local people use these traditional boats in a different way: taking visitors through the waterways of the Bay Mau Coconut Forest.
The forest is filled with nipa palms, locally called dừa nước. Unlike ordinary coconut trees, these palms grow along rivers and brackish waterways. It’s a green, peaceful-looking landscape, quite different from the streets of Hoi An Old Town.
Where Is Cam Thanh Coconut Village?
Cam Thanh Coconut Village is around 4–6 km from Hoi An Old Town, depending on your starting point. You can get there by bicycle, motorbike, electric car (e-car), GrabBike, taxi, or as part of an organized tour.
The main attraction is the Bay Mau Water Coconut Forest. Several local operators offer basket boat rides from different departure points, so routes and activities can vary.
What Can You Experience During the Ride?
1. Riding Through the Nipa Palm Forest
A local rower takes you through waterways surrounded by nipa palms. Some sections are wide and busy, while others are narrow and quieter. It’s a good chance to enjoy the scenery and take photos.
2. Watching Basket Boat Spinning
Boat spinning is probably the most famous activity here. Skilled operators can make their round boats spin quickly, sometimes with tourists sitting inside. It’s fun to watch and popular for short videos.
If you want to try spinning, ask first whether it’s available and whether there is an extra charge. It may not be comfortable for people who get dizzy or seasick.
Good to know: Spinning is optional. You can still enjoy a basket boat ride without joining this activity.
3. Trying Crab Fishing
Crab fishing is a fun activity, especially for families with children. Your rower may show you how to catch small crabs living among the roots of the nipa palms. You may get to try using a simple line and bait.
Not every trip includes crab fishing, so check with the operator before booking.
4. Learning About Local Fishing
Some operators demonstrate traditional fishing methods, such as casting a fishing net. These short demonstrations help visitors learn a little about local life on the waterways.
5. Seeing Coconut Leaf Crafts
You may see local rowers making small items from nipa palm leaves, such as rings or flowers. It’s a simple but interesting part of the trip, especially for children.
Activities depend on the operator, route, and conditions on the day. Ask what is included before you book.
How Long Does a Basket Boat Ride Take?
Many rides take around 40–60 minutes, although some are shorter or longer. The time may also depend on whether you join activities such as crab fishing or spinning.
Before booking, ask how much time you’ll actually spend on the water and what is included in the price.
Is It a Peaceful Ride or a Party Experience?
Not all basket boat rides in Cam Thanh feel the same.
Some areas are lively, with music, spinning performances, and many visitors. Other routes are quieter, where you can enjoy the nipa palms and the sound of paddles on the water.
If you prefer a relaxing nature experience, ask for a quieter route. If you enjoy music and exciting performances, the busier areas may suit you better.
When Is the Best Time to Go?
Early morning and late afternoon are usually more comfortable, especially on hot days. The light can also be nicer for photos.
Midday may be quite hot in open sections of the waterway. Heavy rain, strong winds, or thunderstorms can affect boat trips, so check the weather and confirm with your operator.
Make It a Half-Day Trip: Basket Boat Ride & More
A basket boat ride usually takes less than an hour. If you have more time, you can combine it with another activity for a half-day trip around Hoi An.
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. You can explore the coconut forest and learn to prepare a few Vietnamese dishes.
This is a good option for visitors who enjoy food and local culture. Check the exact schedule, as not every class includes all these activities.
Basket Boat Ride + Hoi An Countryside Tour
You can also combine your boat ride with a bicycle or motorbike trip through the countryside. Depending on the route, you may pass rice fields, small villages, local farms, and quieter roads around Cam Thanh.
It’s a nice way to see another side of Hoi An beyond the Old Town.
Our tip: Allow around 3–5 hours for a combined half-day experience, depending on the activities and travel time. You can book a package or arrange the activities separately.
A Few Useful Tips Before You Go
- Confirm the total price. Ask whether the boat ride, entrance fees, and optional activities are included.
- Wear a life jacket. Follow the operator’s safety instructions throughout the ride.
- Keep your phone safe. A waterproof pouch can be useful near the water.
- Bring sun protection. A hat and sunscreen are helpful on sunny days.
- Choose your preferred atmosphere. Ask for a quieter route if you don’t enjoy loud music or crowds.
- Be respectful. Ask before taking close-up photos of local residents.
So, Is the Hoi An Basket Boat Ride Worth It?
We think it’s worth trying, especially on your first visit to Hoi An.
It’s a fun way to explore the nipa palm forest, ride in a traditional Vietnamese fishing boat, and learn a little about local life in Cam Thanh. You can also combine it with a cooking class or countryside tour for a fuller half-day experience.
However, if you expect a completely quiet nature tour, the busy areas may surprise you. Choosing the right operator and route can make a big difference.
For us, the most interesting part is not only the spinning performance. It’s also the coconut forest, the traditional boats, and the local people who know these waterways so well.
A Little More About the Nipa Palm
The nipa palm is part of daily life in Cam Thanh. Its leaves have been used for traditional crafts and building materials, and its waterways support local fishing activities.
Nipa palms also produce a naturally sweet nectar that can be collected from their flower stalks.
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. It’s one more way to discover the plants and local stories around Hoi An.
Explore Hoi An with Hoa Arika – A sweet story from Hoi An.