Overview
Two iconic Hoi An boat experiences in one magical afternoon. Begin at Cam Thanh Village where you board a traditional circular bamboo basket boat (thuyền thúng). Your boatman navigates through the water coconut palm forest — a serene, otherworldly landscape — and performs the famous spinning dance that will have everyone laughing and gripping the sides. Transfer back to the ancient town where, as darkness falls, you step onto a decorated lantern boat for a gentle cruise along the Thu Bon River. Release flower lanterns and soak in the reflected glow of the old town.
Tour Highlights
- Bamboo basket boat through the water coconut palm forest
- Watch (and experience!) the legendary spinning boat dance
- Private lantern boat cruise at sunset / dusk
- Release flower lanterns on the Thu Bon River
- Traditional fishing village visit
- Small coconut husking demonstration
- Free shuttle from Ancient Town to Cam Thanh Village
What's Included & Excluded
Bamboo basket boat experience (60 mins)
Lantern boat cruise (30 mins)
Shuttle transfer to/from Cam Thanh Village
3 flower lanterns to release
Life vests for all passengers
English-speaking guide
Hotel pickup
Food and drinks
Travel insurance
Tour Itinerary
3:30 PM
Meet your guide at the Ancient Town meeting point. Shuttle transfer to Cam Thanh Village (approx. 15 min).
4:00 PM
Board the bamboo basket boat (thuyền thúng) and enter the magical water coconut palm forest. Your boatman paddles through the narrow green waterways and performs the famous spinning dance — 60 minutes of pure fun!
5:00 PM
Visit to the traditional fishing village. Watch a coconut husking demonstration and learn about daily life in Cam Thanh.
5:20 PM
Return shuttle to the Ancient Town and walk to the lantern boat jetty on Bach Dang Street.
5:45 PM
Board the decorated lantern boat as dusk settles over the Thu Bon River. Cruise past the illuminated ancient town facades, release flower lanterns onto the water, and enjoy the golden-hour glow (~30 min).
~6:15 PM
Tour ends at Bach Dang Jetty in the heart of the Ancient Town.
Important Information
- The basket boat ride is wet-friendly — wear clothes you don't mind splashing
- The spinning dance is performed by the boatman — guests can try if they wish!
- Shuttle departs from a central Ancient Town meeting point — contact us for exact location on booking
- Operates daily in all weather conditions (mild rain adds to the atmosphere)
- Life vests are provided for both the basket boat and lantern boat portions
Common Questions
What exactly is a bamboo basket boat?
A thuyền thúng (basket boat) is a traditional circular Vietnamese boat woven from bamboo and coated in tar to make it waterproof. They've been used by Vietnamese fishermen for centuries. They're perfectly stable and wonderfully fun — especially when your boatman spins one in circles using just a single paddle. It's a uniquely Vietnamese experience you won't find anywhere else.
Will I get wet on the basket boat?
There's a chance of some light splashing, especially during the spinning dance. We recommend wearing clothes you're comfortable getting a little damp, and keeping phones and cameras in a pocket or dry bag during the spins. Sandals or shoes that can get wet are ideal.
Is the basket boat safe for children and elderly passengers?
Yes — the basket boat sits very low and stable in the calm, shallow water of the coconut forest. Life vests are always worn. Children love it. Elderly guests and those with limited mobility can participate; just let us know in advance and our boatman will take extra care.
