If you keep seeing reels on your Instagram of round bamboo boats spinning through palm-lined canals – that’s the famous coconut basket boat experience near Hoi An. Tourist-y? Yes. Fun? Also yes. Memorable? Absolutely.
This guide covers what coconut basket boats are, where to go, what to expect, and whether they’re actually worth it so you can decide if it deserves a spot on your Vietnam itinerary.
Where to stay in Hoi An
Luxury: Hoi An Beach Resort
Mid-Range: Emerald Hoi An Riverside Resort
Budget: Spring Breeze Hotel Hoi An
What Is the Coconut Basket Boat Experience?
Coconut basket boats (called thúng chai in Vietnamese) are traditional round bamboo boats that were originally used by local fishermen. Today, they’re most famous for their role in fun, guided rides through the water coconut forests just outside Hoi An.
The most popular place to do this is Cam Thanh Coconut Village, about 10–15 minutes from Old Town.
Check out this tour which includes a coconut boat ride here:
Da Nang/Hoi An: Market Tour, Basket Boat Ride, Cooking Class
Where Are the Coconut Boats Located?
Coconut basket boat tours run through the waterways of Cam Thanh, a lush area filled with water coconut palms that feel almost jungle-like.
Getting There:
- Grab / Taxi: Easiest option
- Scooter: Easy ride from Hoi An
- Organised tour: Often combined with fishing villages or cooking classes
Most hotels and tour desks in Hoi An can arrange this for you.
What to Expect on a Coconut Boat Ride
This isn’t a peaceful float – it’s more like a floating performance.
Typical Experience Includes:
- A guided ride through narrow coconut canals
- Local boat drivers demonstrating traditional fishing methods
- Spinning the basket boat (the highlight for most people!) Just bring cash as this experience is extra!
- Singing, laughter, and lots of splashing
- Plenty of photo opportunities
Some tours also include crab fishing, net throwing, or short cultural demos.
The Famous Spinning Boats (Yes, It’s as Wild as the videos!)
At some point, your boat driver may ask if you’re ready and then transfer to a specially designed coconut boat to then proceed to spin the basket boat at impressive speed. This costs about 200,000 Dong extra so bring cash if this is something you would like to experience!
- It’s safe
- It’s dizzying
- It’s very entertaining (que the Gangnam Style soundtrack!)
If spinning isn’t your thing, you can always say no, but most people end up loving it.
Is the Coconut Basket Boat Ride Worth It?
Here’s the honest verdict.
You’ll Love It If You:
- Enjoy fun, interactive experiences
- Don’t mind touristy activities
- Want something different from temples and Old Town wandering
You Might Skip It If You:
- Prefer authentic experiences
- Get motion sick easily
- Are short on time
It’s not an authentic, untouched experience but it was such a fun memorable one for me.
How Long Does the Coconut Boat Ride Take?
Most rides last 45 minutes to 1 hour, making it an easy half-day activity when paired with lunch, the beach, or Old Town exploring.
Best Time to Do a Coconut Boat Tour
- Early morning: Cooler, quieter, fewer boats
- Late afternoon: Softer light for photos
- Midday: Busiest and hottest
What to Wear & Bring
- Comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting splashed
- Hat and sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Camera or phone (waterproof case recommended)
- Cash for tips and the fast spinning boat experience
- You don’t need to bring the Vietnamese hat if you don’t have one, my guide provided one for me for the duration of the tour
Flip-flops or sandals are ideal.
Tips for a Better Experience
- Book through a reputable operator or your accommodation.
- Ask upfront what’s included (spinning, photos, fishing demos)
- Don’t feel pressured to tip but small tips are appreciated
- Pair it with a visit to nearby rice fields or the beach
Check out this tour which includes a coconut boat ride here:
Da Nang/Hoi An: Market Tour, Basket Boat Ride, Cooking Class
Coconut Basket Boats in Hoi An
The coconut basket boat experience is loud, lively, and unapologetically touristy but that’s part of the charm. It’s one of those activities that’s less about deep cultural insight and more about shared laughter and unforgettable moments.
If you’re looking to balance Hoi An’s peaceful lantern nights with something playful and interactive, a coconut basket boat ride is a fun addition to your Vietnam trip and a story you’ll definitely be telling later.
Planning a trip to Vietnam? Check out my 2-Week North & Central Vietnam Itinerary!
Vietnam Helpful Links
Where to stay in Hoi An
Luxury: Hoi An Beach Resort
Mid-Range: Emerald Hoi An Riverside Resort
Budget: Spring Breeze Hotel Hoi An
Top Tours from Hoi An
– From Da Nang/Hoi An: Golden Bridge Ba Na Hills Full-Day Tour
– Da Nang/Hoi An: Lady Buddha, Marble Mountains & Am Phu Cave
– My Son Sanctuary Tour by Van & Boat from Hoi An/Da Nang
– Da Nang/Hoi An: Market Tour, Basket Boat Ride, Cooking Class
– Hoi An : Hoai River Boat Trip by Night and Floating Lantern
How to Get Around Vietnam: Grab & 12Go
Getting around Vietnam is incredibly easy once you download the right apps.
Grab is Vietnam’s version of Uber and is hands-down the best way to get around cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. You can book motorbikes, cars, and even food delivery, all with upfront pricing (no haggling required).
For longer journeys between cities, 12Go is a lifesaver. It lets you book trains, buses, and ferries across Vietnam in advance – perfect for planning trips between places like Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, and Hoi An. I booked my VIP sleeper bus from Ninh Binh to Sapa and would definitely recommend.
👉 Check out 12Go here
Vietnam SIM Card: Airalo eSIM
Staying connected in Vietnam is a must for maps, transport apps, bookings, and Googling “best pho near me” (trust me). I used Airalo, an eSIM app that lets you download a Vietnam data plan before you even land.
There’s no need to swap physical SIM cards or hunt down a store at the airport. Just activate your eSIM and you’re online the moment you arrive – easy, affordable, and super convenient.
👉 Get your Vietnam eSIM with Airalo here
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links – at no extra cost to you
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