Hoi An: Basket Boat, Lantern Making & My Son Sanctuary Tour

Planning a day in central Vietnam that combines culture, nature, and history? This full-day tour from Hoi An offers a well-rounded glimpse into local life, traditional crafts, and ancient wonders—all at a reasonable price of $49 per person. With a rating of 4.4, it’s a popular choice for travelers eager to experience authentic Vietnam beyond the usual tourist spots.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the chance to paddle a traditional basket boat through peaceful coconut forests, the hands-on lantern-making workshop with skilled artisans, and the guided exploration of My Son Sanctuary — a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Plus, the local cooking demo and delicious Vietnamese lunch add a flavorful touch.

The only potential downside? The tour’s duration of 9 hours might feel long for some, especially if you prefer shorter excursions or have limited stamina for outdoor activities. However, if you’re craving a comprehensive immersion into Hoi An’s rural culture, this journey is ideal. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, cultural insights, and scenic scenery—perfect for those who want more than just sightseeing.

Key Points

• Authentic rural experiences in Cam Thanh Coconut Village and My Son
• Hands-on activities like basket boating, fishing, and lantern making
• Cultural insights through traditional dance shows and guided ruins visits
• Value for money with included lunch, activities, and transportation
• Small group size limited to 12 participants enhances personalized attention
• Convenient pickup options from Hoi An and Da Nang, with a small extra fee for outside areas

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Hoi An Tour

Starting the Day: Pickup and Transport

The tour begins with pickup from two options: Da Nang or Hoi An. The convenience of being able to choose your pickup location means you can tailor the experience based on your accommodation. If you’re staying outside the city centers, be prepared for an additional 300,000 VND ($12.50) one-way fee — a small price for the hassle-free start.

Once onboard, you’ll settle into a comfortable van, usually with a small group of up to 12 people. The 15-minute transfer to Cam Thanh Coconut Village is quick but scenic, offering your first glimpse of Vietnam’s lush countryside.

Basket Boat Ride & Coconut Forest

The first major highlight is the traditional basket boat ride through the tranquil Cam Thanh Coconut Forest. These round, bamboo boats are a staple in Vietnamese rural life, and paddling one is surprisingly fun and accessible—no special skills required, just a little coordination.

Travelers have reported that guides are friendly and helpful, often demonstrating how local fishermen cast nets and catch crabs. As one reviewer noted, “The guides made it so easy and fun, and we loved seeing the coconut palms from a different perspective.” It’s a relaxing way to connect with the environment and observe rural livelihoods up close.

Lantern Making with Local Artisans

Next, you’ll get your hands dirty with lantern making. Under the guidance of skilled local artisans, you’ll craft your own colorful paper lanterns—a craft deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture. Many participants enjoy this activity, as it allows for a creative outlet and a tangible souvenir to bring home.

Reviewers mention the artisans are patient and willing to share their tips, making this workshop accessible even for beginners. “Creating my own lantern was surprisingly easy, and I loved the vibrant colors,” one traveler shared. This activity also offers a lovely break from more physically demanding parts of the day.

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Fishing Activities

Following the craft, it’s time for some hands-on fishing. The tour incorporates crab catching and net casting, giving an authentic taste of local fishing techniques. These activities stand out because they’re interactive and fun, providing insight into the daily routines of fishermen.

Guests have commented that the fishing experiences are well-organized, with safety and guidance prioritized. The novelty of catching crabs with your own hands is often a highlight, and it’s a great way to learn about traditional methods.

Vietnamese Cooking Class & Lunch

Next, you’ll head to a local fisherman’s house for a live cooking demonstration. Here, the chef prepares seven traditional Vietnamese dishes, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at local flavors and cooking techniques.

The lunch itself is considered delicious and generous, with many reviewers appreciating the home-cooked style meal that showcases regional ingredients. The chef’s fire show adds an entertaining element, and you might find yourself trying to replicate some of the dishes at home afterward.

My Son Sanctuary: UNESCO Heritage Site

Post-lunch, the journey continues to the ancient My Son Sanctuary. This archaeological site contains Cham ruins dating back centuries, set amidst lush jungle surroundings. Your guide will provide context about the Champa Kingdom’s history, making the visit both educational and awe-inspiring.

Many travelers have noted that the guided tour of My Son is thorough, with a focus on the history and significance of the site. You’ll explore the ruins, take photos, and enjoy a traditional Champa dance performance—a cultural highlight that adds a festive touch to the visit.

Scenic River Cruise & Sunset

The day concludes with a peaceful boat cruise along the Thu Bon River. Passing by rice paddies, villages, and scenic countryside, this relaxed trip offers one last chance to enjoy Vietnam’s natural beauty. If timed well, you’ll catch the sunset over the water, a perfect way to wind down after a busy day.

Practical Details & Tips

The full-day duration—around 9 hours—includes transfer times, activities, and meals. While a bit long, most reviews suggest it’s well-paced, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothes, bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, and have their camera ready for scenic shots. Since much of the tour is outdoors, being prepared for sun and outdoor activity enhances your experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a hands-on, authentic experience outside typical tourist traps. It’s perfect for those interested in local crafts, rural life, and historical sites, and who are comfortable with outdoor activities and walking.

Note that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the outdoor nature of activities and uneven terrain. If you enjoy immersive, culture-rich excursions that combine nature, history, and culinary delights, this tour will suit you well.

The Sum Up

This $49 full-day tour from Hoi An offers excellent value for travelers eager to experience Vietnam’s traditional crafts, rural landscapes, and ancient ruins in a single, well-organized package. The combination of basket boating, lantern making, fishing, local cuisine, and cultural exploration makes it a comprehensive and engaging option.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized touch, while the variety of activities keeps the day lively and memorable. Whether you’re a history buff, a craft lover, or simply looking for an authentic Vietnamese experience, this tour covers many bases.

Overall, it’s a thoughtfully curated way to get beneath the surface of Hoi An’s countryside, perfect for curious travelers wanting to connect with local traditions and natural beauty.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from designated locations in Hoi An and Da Nang, with an additional small fee for outside areas. The transfer is comfortable and efficient.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, including transfers, activities, and meals. It’s a full-day commitment but offers a variety of engaging experiences.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, along with a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water. Outdoor activities mean you should be prepared for sun and physical activity.

Are the activities suitable for children?
Most activities are family-friendly, especially the boat ride, lantern making, and fishing. However, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to outdoor terrain.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a 7-dish Vietnamese lunch is provided, featuring home-cooked style food. Personal expenses are not included, but the meal is generous and flavorful.

What happens at My Son Sanctuary?
You’ll explore ancient Cham ruins with a guide, learn about their history, and enjoy a traditional dance performance in the scenic jungle setting.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility to adapt your plans if needed.

You can check availability for your dates here: