Hoi An Full Lantern Making Class , Basket Boat , Crab Fishing And Food

Introduction:

If you’re after an experience that mixes hands-on craft, local traditions, and a good dose of fun, the Hoi An Full Lantern Making Class, Basket Boat, Crab Fishing, and Food tour delivers just that. It’s a well-rounded way to spend about five hours exploring some of the most charming aspects of Vietnamese life, all with a small group vibe that ensures personal attention.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to create your own Hoi An lantern—a memorable souvenir you can carry home easily. Second, the basket boat ride through the coconut groves feels uniquely Vietnamese and exciting. Lastly, the delicious local food served at the end is a real highlight, showcasing fresh ingredients and authentic flavors.

The only thing to consider is the limited group size—although it feels intimate, bookings tend to fill up 18 days in advance, so plan ahead. This experience suits travelers who enjoy cultural crafts, outdoor activities, and authentic food, especially those eager to connect a little deeper with local life.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size (max 9 travelers) ensures an engaging, less rushed experience.
• Authentic Crafting: Making your own lantern is simple, fun, and a great souvenir.
• Cultural Connection: Dressed in traditional Ao Dai, you’ll get a real taste of Vietnamese customs.
• Interactive Activities: From crab fishing to rowing basket boats, every activity offers hands-on fun.
• Stunning Scenery: The Bay Mau Nipa forest and Coconut Village offer picture-perfect views.
• Tasty Local Food: The included meal, prepared at a local home, is fresh and flavorful.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour kicks off with a convenient hotel pickup, arranged either from Hoi An or optionally from Da Nang for an extra fee (around $17 USD). Once aboard, your guides—friendly, knowledgeable locals—will lead you through each step of the adventure.

Stop 1: Lantern Making at a Local Workshop
Your first stop is a hands-on lantern making session. Guided by a skilled lantern maker, you’ll learn every detail, from fabric selection to folding techniques. Reviewers mention that despite some initial doubts, everyone ends up with a beautiful, foldable lantern to take home—perfect for souvenirs or future decorations. One guest called it “an enjoyable, hands-on souvenir,” emphasizing how simple it is to fold and pack.

Stop 2: Bamboo Basket Boat Ride
Next, you’ll don a traditional Ao Dai and hop into a bamboo basket boat from the Coconut Water Village, floating through the scenic canals of the Bay Mau Nipa forest. The view here is truly special—immersed in greenery, you’ll see locals going about their daily routines, and the boat ride itself is both relaxing and thrilling, especially when your boatman spins the vessel for fun. Several reviews highlight how fun and memorable this activity is, with comments like “thrilling” and “so much fun,” making it a highlight for families and adventurous travelers alike.

Crab Fishing & Coconut Village Photo Stops
Following the boat ride, the guide will take you to a fisherman’s house, where you learn how to catch crab—an authentic activity, not just a demonstration. Many reviewers appreciate this opportunity to connect with local fishermen, with one describing it as “a great way to experience real life in the countryside.” Plus, plenty of photo opportunities in the Coconut Village and bay area ensure you’ll come away with stunning shots of Vietnam’s lush landscapes.

Authentic Vietnamese Food

The tour wraps up with a home-cooked meal or dinner prepared at a local residence. The food is praised for its freshness and flavors, with guests mentioning that ingredients are very fresh and the experience offers a true taste of local cuisine. This is not a touristy buffet but a genuine home-cooked meal, making it even more memorable.

Transportation & Group Size

All transportation is included, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel, which simplifies logistics. The group is limited to 9 travelers, providing a more attentive experience and plenty of opportunity to interact with guides and fellow travelers. The small size also enhances the chance to ask questions and get personalized recommendations.

The Real Value of This Tour

At just over $32 USD per person, this tour offers impressive value. You’re not only getting multiple activities—lantern making, basket boat riding, crab fishing—but also a culture that feels authentic and fun. The inclusion of a local home-cooked meal adds a layer of genuine hospitality, often missing in more commercial tours.

Many reviewers have noted how well-balanced the experience is—each activity flows naturally into the next, and the guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. For example, one guest shared that the guides were “friendly, helpful, and made the experience much more enjoyable,” which speaks to the personalized touch.

Timing & Flexibility

With options for both morning (8:30 am to 1:00 pm) and afternoon (2:00 pm to 6:30 pm), you can tailor the experience to your schedule. Pickup from Da Nang is available but costs an extra $17 USD per person, which is a good deal considering the convenience.

Booking & Planning Tips

Because the tour is popular—booked on average 18 days in advance—early reservation is advisable. The tour’s duration of around five hours makes it manageable even for those with tight schedules, and it can be comfortably combined with other activities in Hoi An or Da Nang.

Why This Tour Works for Different Travelers

Culture Seekers: The lantern making class and traditional dress (Ao Dai) experience deepen your understanding of Vietnamese customs.
Adventure Lovers: The basket boat ride and crab fishing offer engaging, hands-on activities that break the usual sightseeing mold.
Foodies: The home-cooked meal, made with fresh ingredients, provides a delicious, authentic taste of Vietnam.
Photo Enthusiasts: The scenic coconut forest and canal views make for fantastic photos—plus, you get a handmade lantern to photograph.

Final Thoughts

This tour is a fantastic pick for travelers who want a well-rounded, authentic glimpse of life outside Hoi An’s bustling streets. It’s especially suited for those who love a mix of cultural activities, outdoor adventures, and delicious food—all presented in a relaxed, small-group setting.

While it’s a great value, booking early is a must considering how popular it is. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making every activity informative and fun. The combination of scenic views, local craftsmanship, and genuine hospitality makes this a memorable experience that genuinely connects you with Vietnamese traditions.

If you’re craving an intimate, authentic, and joyful adventure in Vietnam, this tour ticks those boxes perfectly. It’s not just about sightseeing; it’s about creating stories and souvenirs that will last long after your trip.

FAQ

Is pickup from Da Nang available?
Yes, pickup from Da Nang is available for an extra fee of approximately $17 USD per person.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts around 5 hours, depending on the group and activity pace.

What is included in the price?
Pickup and drop-off at your hotel, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, transportation, a bottle of water, life jackets, umbrellas/raincoats, a basket boat ride, crab fishing, and a home-cooked meal or dinner.

Can I choose between morning and afternoon sessions?
Yes, there are both morning (8:30am–1:00pm) and afternoon (2:00pm–6:30pm) options, offering flexibility depending on your schedule.

How many people are in each group?
The group is limited to a maximum of 9 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is there any special attire required?
You’ll be dressed in traditional Vietnamese Ao Dai for the basket boat ride, which is provided or can be worn during the activity.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of hands-on lantern making, scenic boat rides, crab fishing, and local cuisine, all led by friendly guides, offers a genuine taste of Vietnamese life.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews mention that families, including children, find the activities fun and engaging. The small group size and varied activities make it family-friendly.

In essence, this Hoi An tour offers a delightful mix of culture, adventure, and local flavors—perfect for travelers seeking meaningful memories and authentic experiences in Vietnam.