Chan May Shore Excursions: Visit Hue City or Danang & Hoi An

If you’re planning a cruise stop at Vietnam’s Chan May port, you’ll want a tour that balances stunning scenery, cultural insights, and convenience. This particular excursion, offered by Adventure Journey, offers three different options—each tailored to different interests and travel styles—making it a versatile choice for many travelers.

What stands out immediately are the high ratings (5.0/5 from 24 reviews) and the consistent praise for knowledgeable guides and breathtaking views. You’ll appreciate that the tour is private, ensuring personalized attention, and that pick-up and flexible options cater to your specific preferences.

One thing to consider is the cost—at $79 per person, it might seem on the higher side for some, but given the value of the sites, guides, and flexibility, it’s generally seen as a good investment. This tour suits travelers who want a well-organized, enriching day without the hassle of planning every detail themselves—perfect for cruise passengers eager to maximize their limited time ashore.

Key Points

• Flexible options allow tailored experiences including Hue, Danang, and Hoi An.
• Private, guided tours ensure personalized attention and in-depth local insights.
• The scenic drives through Hai Van Pass and along Lap An Lagoon are highlights for many travelers.
• Authentic cultural visits like Hue’s Imperial City and Thien Mu Pagoda provide meaningful insights.
• Reviews consistently mention knowledgeable guides, like Hung, who enhance the experience.
• The tour offers good value considering the sites visited and the personalized service.

An Overview of the Tour Options

This tour is truly flexible, giving you a choice between visiting the imperial capital of Hue or exploring the lively sights of Danang and Hoi An. Each option promises a full day of sightseeing, with typical durations around 7 hours, including transfers and site visits.

Option 1: Discover Danang & Hoi An

This route, lasting around 7 hours, is perfect if you’re craving a mix of scenic drives and bustling markets. It includes stops at Lap An Lagoon and the fishing village, offering authentic glimpses into local life. The drive through the Hai Van Pass—often called the most beautiful scenic road in Vietnam—is a standout feature, with many travelers noting the amazing views of the coast and mountains.

In Hoi An, you’ll have time to wander through the Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with charming streets, lantern-lit shops, and vibrant markets. One reviewer, Mary_M, raved about the “fabulous sites” and the overall wonderful experience, highlighting how the guide’s local knowledge made a big difference.

Option 2: Explore Hue’s Imperial Heritage

If history and culture appeal more to you, this 7-hour option is a gem. It includes a walk through the Imperial Citadel—home to 13 emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty—and the Forbidden City, where Vietnamese royalty once resided. You’ll also visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, renowned as Hue’s most famous and oldest pagoda, and a symbol of the city’s spiritual life.

The highlight for many travelers is the Dragon Boat cruise on the Perfume River, which adds a relaxing and scenic element to the historical sightseeing. Reviewers like David_S praised their guide Hung, noting his perfect English and impressive knowledge of Vietnam’s royal past, making this route especially enriching.

Option 3: Custom Private Car Service

For those who prefer a completely personalized experience, this option allows you to craft your own itinerary with an English-speaking driver. Whether you want to spend more time at a particular site or add extra stops, this flexibility ensures a tailored day.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Hue Imperial City (The Citadel)

As the former capital and seat of Nguyen emperors, the citadel exudes history. You’ll walk through grand walls, explore ancient palaces, and learn about the lives of emperors, their wives, concubines, and eunuchs. The guide’s storytelling brings the past vividly to life—something that reviewers consistently appreciated, noting Hung’s impressive historical knowledge.

Thien Mu Pagoda

This pagoda, over 400 years old, is more than just a religious site; it’s an emblem of Hue’s spiritual heart. Visitors often comment on its tranquility and the scenic views over the Perfume River, making it a perfect photo stop and a moment of reflection.

Dragon Boat Cruise on Perfume River

Many travelers find this cruise a peaceful way to see Hue from a different perspective. The boat gently glides past temples and green banks, providing a calming contrast to the busy city streets. Reviewers mention that this cruise adds a relaxing element to the tour and enhances understanding of Hue’s cultural landscape.

Danang & Hoi An Highlights

In Danang, the Lap An Lagoon offers stunning, postcard-worthy views of the lagoon and surrounding mountains. The drive through Hai Van Pass is often called a must-see, with its dramatic, winding roads and panoramic vistas. Hoi An’s Ancient Town is a bustling hub of lantern-lit streets, local shops, and delicious street food, perfect for a leisurely walk and some shopping.

Travelers like Mary_M mentioned the fabulous sites and the great guide, which made the experience memorable.

Transportation and Duration

The tour includes round-trip transfers, with options for a shared group or private vehicle, depending on your booking choice. For the best comfort and flexibility, the private car option is ideal, especially if you have specific sites you want to focus on or prefer not to be on a strict schedule.

The typical duration is 7 to 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks. Most reviews highlight the well-paced itinerary, allowing enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Value for Money

While $79 might seem steep at first glance, considering the private transport, guide expertise, and admission tickets included at sites, many travelers find it worthwhile. They appreciate the personalized experience and the chance to explore Vietnam’s highlights in one day, especially for those with limited time during a cruise.

Authentic Review Highlights

Many guests, including Mary_M and David_S, have noted how the guides elevate the experience. Hung, in particular, stood out for his perfect English and deep knowledge of Vietnamese history. Reviewers also appreciated the scenic drives—especially the Hai Van Pass—and the chance to see local life in fishing villages and at Lap An Lagoon.

Several travelers mentioned how the tour exceeded expectations—from the beautiful vistas to the insightful storytelling—making it a highlight of their trip.

Final Thoughts

This shore excursion offers a comprehensive and flexible way to experience Vietnam’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you choose the cultural depth of Hue, the scenic wonders of Danang, or a custom route, you’ll benefit from expert guides, beautiful landscapes, and a well-organized itinerary.

If you’re a traveler who values authentic experiences with a touch of comfort and convenience, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suitable for cruise passengers wanting to see the highlights without the stress of planning or driving, and for anyone eager to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s royal and rural life.

In short, this tour offers good value, authentic moments, and expert guidance—a memorable way to spend your limited time in central Vietnam.

FAQ

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $79 per person, which includes most site admissions and transfers, offering good value for the comprehensive experience.

Can I choose a different itinerary?
Yes, there’s a private car option that allows you to customize your sightseeing and focus on the sites that interest you most.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and with private arrangements, it’s customizable for different needs, including family groups.

How long is the tour?
Each option lasts about 7 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and breaks, making it a full but manageable day.

Are meal options included?
Meals are not mentioned as part of the tour, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for lunch on your own.

Are tickets to sites included?
Yes, admission tickets for the Hue Imperial City and Thien Mu Pagoda are included in the tour price.

What is the pickup process?
Pickup is offered, with an optional $25 fee if inside the port, making the experience seamless from your cruise.

Is there a restroom break during the tour?
While not explicitly stated, most tours include breaks, and guides are usually happy to accommodate restroom needs along the way.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking are recommended, along with sun protection like hats and sunscreen.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. In case of poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In essence, this shore excursion offers a thoughtfully curated mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and personalized service. Perfect for those wanting to make the most of their brief visit to Vietnam.