Boat tours in Hoi An offer travelers practical ways to experience both culture and nature along Vietnam’s central coast. The evening Hoai River lantern tour stands out as a must-do, illuminating the ancient town’s waterfront with hundreds of glowing lanterns. I especially recommend the combined bike-and-boat tours through the countryside – they’re well-organized and let you see daily Vietnamese life up close. The traditional basket boat rides near fishing villages are authentically local and great fun, though expect to get a bit wet. For food lovers, several excellent cooking classes include market visits and scenic boat rides, making them a smart two-for-one cultural experience. Check out these top-rated water tours to make the most of your Hoi An visit.
Key Points
- The Coconut River Basket Boat Tour offers an 80-minute experience with traditional basket boat rides and demonstrations of local fishing techniques.
- The Hoi An Boat Lantern Experience provides a 20-minute enchanting boat tour on the Hoai River, including a lantern and beverage.
- The Night Boat Trip and Floating Lantern Experience is a 20-minute small group adventure with a lantern release ceremony on the Hoai River.
- The My Son Sanctuary and Thu Bon River Boat Tour combines a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site with a scenic river cruise.
- The Private Hoi An Bike and River Cruise offers a half-day private exploration, including cycling through the countryside and a Thu Bon River cruise.
Hoi an Eco Cooking Class(Local Market, Basket Boat, Crab Fishing& Cooking Class)
For those seeking an immersive cultural experience in Hoi An, the Hoi An Eco Cooking Class offers a comprehensive journey through the city’s vibrant local market, tranquil waterways, and traditional cooking traditions.
During this 5-hour adventure, participants explore Hoi An’s fresh produce market, sail in a bamboo basket boat, and partake in a hands-on cooking class focusing on beloved Vietnamese dishes.
With a maximum group size of 12, the class provides personalized attention and an opportunity to learn from knowledgeable guides.
While some participants felt the market tour lacked depth, the majority praised the class for its fun, interactive nature and the delicious results of their culinary efforts.
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Hoi An Boat Lantern With Release Flower Hoai River At Night
Along the tranquil Hoai River in the heart of Hoi An, visitors can embark on an enchanting boat tour that culminates in the release of colorful flower-adorned lanterns.
Priced from $5.54 per person, this 20-minute activity allows participants to make wishes, soak in the old town’s scenic night views, and enjoy a relaxing boat cruise.
The experience includes a boat lantern release ticket, a flower lantern, and a non-alcoholic beverage.
Bookings can be made in advance with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and the meeting point is located at 153 Trần Phú.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5, this cultural activity is a highlight for many visitors to Hoi An.
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Private Hoi An Bike, Thu Bon River Cruise & Dinner Experience
Exploring Hoi An’s cultural tapestry takes on a new dimension with the Private Hoi An Bike, Thu Bon River Cruise & Dinner Experience.
This half-day tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the historic town and its surroundings. Guests will cycle through the countryside and Tra Que Vegetable Village, cruise along the scenic Thu Bon River, and indulge in a local family-style dinner.
With a 4.5-star rating and a Badge of Excellence, this experience promises an immersive journey into Hoi An’s traditions, from farming practices to cuisine.
Guided by an English-speaking local, travelers can expect a seamless and informative outing, complete with hotel pickup, dinner, and transportation back to the city center.
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Hoi An: Explore My Son Sanctuary & Thu Bon River Boat
Delving into Hoi An‘s cultural tapestry, the Hoi An: Explore My Son Sanctuary & Thu Bon River Boat experience offers a captivating adventure.
Embarking on a 5.5-hour journey, visitors explore the ancient My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring Hindu temples from the Champa civilization.
After the sanctuary visit, a boat trip along the scenic Thu Bon River immerses guests in the region’s natural beauty.
This tour package, priced from $23.59 per person, boasts a 4.9-rating from 1,138 reviews, promising an enriching cultural experience.
Whether seeking historical insights or scenic river vistas, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover Hoi An’s remarkable heritage.
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Hoi an Countryside Biking Tour(Vegetable Village -Basket Boat – Fishing Village)
For those seeking to explore Hoi An’s picturesque countryside, the Hoi An Countryside Biking Tour is an exceptional choice.
Rated 5.0 with a Badge of Excellence, this tour takes visitors through a vegetable village, a basket boat experience, and a fishing village.
Highlights include engaging guides, beautiful scenery, and delicious local cuisine. The tour is family-friendly, though not wheelchair accessible.
With morning and afternoon options, the tour includes a bicycle, lunch, and all necessary entrance fees. Priced from $45 per person, it’s an incredible value for the experience.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible and convenient option for travelers.
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From Da Nang: Bay Mau Cooking Class, Basket Boat and Market
Departing from Da Nang, the From Da Nang: Bay Mau Cooking Class, Basket Boat and Market tour provides a captivating glimpse into the rural life of Vietnam.
Over 5-5.5 hours, guests visit a local market, engage in bargaining, and explore a coconut palm forest by bamboo boat. The highlight is a hands-on cooking class to prepare traditional dishes like Banh Xeo and Pho.
The tour includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, ingredients, and either a lunch or dinner. Guests should bring a camera, hat, and comfortable shoes, but large bags aren’t allowed.
This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, but dietary restrictions can be accommodated.
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Full Experience Tour: Cooking Class & Basket Boat at Eco-Village
The Full Experience Tour: Cooking Class & Basket Boat at Eco-Village provides travelers with an immersive insight into Vietnam’s rural landscapes and culinary traditions.
Operated by the renowned Tra Que Water Wheel, this 5-star rated tour includes a range of activities such as a farm visit, rice paper making, and a cooking class. Guests can also enjoy scenic bike rides, water buffalo riding, and a peaceful bamboo boat row.
The tour culminates with an authentic Vietnamese meal featuring spring rolls, Vietnamese pancakes, and a delectable fish dish.
With private transportation, wheelchair accessibility, and a maximum of 20 travelers, this experience delivers a well-rounded and unforgettable introduction to the charms of Hoi An.
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Hoi An: Coconut Forest Basket Boat Ride
On the scenic ThuBon River, travelers can embark on a captivating Coconut Forest Basket Boat Ride in Hoi An. The 50-minute experience costs $8.21 per person and includes paddling through the Bay Mau Coconut Forest, watching a spinning boat performance, learning local crab catching techniques, and enjoying folk singing.
Reservations can be made with no upfront payment, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. The tour includes a bamboo basket boat, entrance to the coconut village, and a complimentary coconut.
While not suitable for those over 95 or wheelchair users, the activity has received excellent reviews for its value, friendly guides, and memorable interactions with locals.
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Basket Boat and Cooking Class Experience
This captivating Basket Boat and Cooking Class Experience in Hoi An, Vietnam, offers travelers a unique blend of culture and culinary adventure.
Visitors will navigate traditional bamboo basket boats, shop for ingredients at the local market, and participate in a cooking class in a local’s home, where they’ll learn to prepare a delicious Vietnamese lunch or dinner.
The experience also includes a visit to the picturesque water coconut palm forest, where guests can catch fish and create leaf souvenirs.
With a maximum of 15 travelers per tour, this activity provides an intimate and personalized cultural experience.
Highly recommended by 100% of previous participants, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Hoi An.
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Entry Ticket: 45 Minutes Traditional Boat Trip on Hoai River
Travelers visiting Hoi An can enjoy the ancient town’s rich culture and history by embarking on a 45-minute traditional boat trip along the Hoai River.
Priced at €13.24 per group of up to 2 participants, the entry ticket offers the opportunity to explore Hoi An’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ancient Town, experience the bustling night market, and gain insight into local life and culture.
The boat trip includes the Hoi An Old Town entrance ticket, and allows guests to witness daily scenes of local life and captivating reflections of the ancient town.
Visitors can book their spot online and take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
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Coconut Jungle Eco & Hoi An City Tour With Boat Ride
Set out on a captivating journey through the Coconut Jungle and the historic Hoi An City with this immersive tour.
Rated 4.9 out of 101 reviews and recommended by 98% of travelers, this tour offers an exceptional experience. Priced at SEK 468.92 per person, it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, local dinner, basket boat rowing, and a boat ride with lantern release on the Hoai River.
Explore the charming Hoi An Ancient Town and the scenic Cam Thanh. While some found the Hoi An portion less engaging, the overall feedback highlights the guides’ professionalism and the tour’s memorable experiences.
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Hoi An: My Son Holy Land Morning Tour With Lunch and Boat
For those seeking to uncover the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam, the Hoi An: My Son Holy Land Morning Tour with Lunch and Boat offers an exceptional opportunity.
Priced at $24 per person, this 5-6 hour tour takes participants to the 8th-century Champa civilization’s ruins, the oldest Hindu temple complex in Vietnam.
After a 40-minute van ride, travelers will embark on a 2.5-hour guided tour and a 40-minute sightseeing cruise along the tranquil Thu Bon River.
The tour includes lunch, transportation, and entry fees, with a surcharge for pickups beyond 5km from Hoi An.
Comfortable attire and water are recommended, and the tour may not be suitable for those over 70 years old.
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Cooking Class Hoi An:Local Market, Basket Boat, Fishing & Cooking
Visitors can enjoy the vibrant culinary heritage of Hoi An by signing up for the Cooking Class Hoi An: Local Market, Basket Boat, Fishing & Cooking experience.
Highly rated with a 5-star average from nearly 2,000 reviews, this 4-5 hour class accommodates up to 12 participants. Participants explore a local market, take a basket boat ride, and learn to prepare a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including spring rolls, chicken in clay-pot, and pancakes.
The class includes round-trip transportation, a guide, and a delicious multi-course lunch featuring the prepared dishes.
With its engaging activities and flavorful cuisine, this cooking class offers an immersive and memorable introduction to Hoi An’s culinary traditions.
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Hoi An: Coconut River Basket Boat Tour With Transfer
The Hoi An: Coconut River Basket Boat Tour with Transfer offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the serene waterways and lush coconut palm forests surrounding Hoi An.
Priced at $9.85 per person, the 80-minute tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the chance to experience traditional Vietnamese basket boat rides guided by local boatmen.
Travelers can witness a captivating basket boat performance and learn about local fishing techniques and lifestyles.
While the tour generally receives positive reviews for its value and service, some visitors have reported additional charges by the operator.
Advance booking is recommended to secure availability and preferred start times.
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Hoi an by Night With Boat Trip and Foot Massage
Travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience in Hoi An will find the “Hoi An By Night with Boat Trip and Foot Massage” tour a delightful choice. Rated 4.9/5 by 27 reviewers, this tour offers an authentic home-cooked meal, a scenic river cruise, and a visit to the lantern-lit night market.
Guests rave about the delicious food, knowledgeable guides, and relaxing foot massage. The 15-minute massage is a perfect way to cap off the evening.
At $35 per person, this tour provides excellent value, including transportation, entrance fees, and a range of inclusions. With a 100% recommendation rate, this is a must-try for anyone exploring the enchanting city of Hoi An.
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Cam Thanh: Coconut Basket Boat and Enjoy Free Coconut Ticket
An enchanting adventure awaits visitors to Hoi An’s Cam Thanh region, where the Coconut Basket Boat tour offers a unique opportunity to glide through the area’s picturesque waterways.
Priced from $3.97 per person, the 1-hour tour allows travelers to navigate the lush coconut forests and observe local fishermen in action. Highlights include a complimentary coconut drink and a special basket boat performance.
While customer reviews suggest potential issues with booking validity and location authenticity, the tour remains a popular way to take in the local culture.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, the Coconut Basket Boat tour provides a convenient and affordable experience in Hoi An.
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My Son Sanctuary Sunset With Insider Guide and BBQ Boat Trip
For those seeking to enjoy the captivating history and natural beauty of Hoi An, the My Son Sanctuary Sunset with BBQ boat trip offers an unparalleled experience.
This highly-rated tour, recommended by 97% of travelers, takes visitors to the UNESCO-listed My Son Sanctuary at the golden hour to witness the stunning sunset over the ancient ruins.
An air-conditioned vehicle transports guests, and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide provides insights into the site’s history and restoration.
The experience is complemented by a delicious BBQ meal and a serene boat trip, making this an unforgettable way to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural splendor.
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From Hoi an : My Son Sanctuary Tour With Boat Ride and Lunch
Hoi An’s My Son Sanctuary offers visitors the chance to explore the captivating ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
The My Son Sanctuary Guided Tour with Boat Trip & Lunch is a popular option, lasting 6 hours and including small-group transportation and a boat ride. Priced from $20.47, the tour provides a guided visit to the sanctuary, offering insight into its history and architecture.
After exploring the ruins, participants enjoy a boat trip and lunch. With a 4.8 average rating from 822 reviews, this tour is an excellent way to discover the mystique of My Son while enjoying the natural surroundings and local cuisine.
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Bay Mau Cooking Class With Market Tour and Basket Boat Ride
While the My Son Sanctuary tour offers a glimpse into Hoi An’s rich history, visitors can also enjoy the local culinary culture through the Bay Mau Cooking Class with Market Tour and Basket Boat Ride.
This 5-star rated experience includes a visit to the local market to shop for ingredients, a hands-on cooking class focusing on regional specialties, and a relaxing basket boat ride on the scenic Bay Mau river.
Travelers will learn traditional techniques, prepare a 4-course meal, and enjoy unlimited refreshments.
With a maximum of 10 participants, this intimate class provides a personalized and authentic Vietnamese cooking experience.
The convenient pickup and flexible cancellation policy make it an accessible and hassle-free way to explore Hoi An’s vibrant food scene.
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Hoi an : My Son Sanctuary Guided Tour. Lunch. Boat Trip
Exploring the ancient Cham Empire’s religious and cultural heritage, the My Son Sanctuary Guided Tour transports visitors to a bygone era.
Over 6 hours, the tour includes a visit to the temple-towers, a Cham cultural show, and hands-on workshops like brocade weaving and rice paper making.
Lunch features local specialties, and a boat trip on the Thu Bon River completes the experience.
With convenient pickup options, knowledgeable guides, and positive reviews, this tour offers an immersive glimpse into Hoi An’s rich history and traditions.
Priced at $13.85 per person, the tour provides excellent value, making it a must-do activity in the region.
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Hoi an Countryside Biking – Basket Boat – Vegetable Village – Local Home Cooking
Venturing beyond the historical wonders of My Son Sanctuary, this private tour invites visitors to enjoy the idyllic Hoi An countryside.
Travelers will explore the region by bicycle, learning about traditional farming and cooking techniques. At Tra Que village, they’ll get hands-on with vegetable farming, before experiencing a bamboo basket boat ride in a fishing village.
The highlight is a visit to a local family’s home, where they’ll learn to make white rice and rice pancakes. Priced at $58.16 per person, this tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and a delicious vegetarian lunch.
With a 100% recommendation rate and 5-star reviews, it’s a must for those seeking an authentic Hoi An experience.
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Night Boat Trip and Floating Lantern on Hoai River Hoi An
As night falls over Hoi An, visitors can enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage by embarking on a serene boat trip along the Hoai River.
For just $8.21 per person, the 20-minute Night Boat Trip and Floating Lantern experience offers a small-group adventure led by a live English-speaking guide. Participants will release a lantern onto the river, a ritual symbolizing hope and peace.
With a maximum of 10 people per boat, this activity creates an intimate and memorable atmosphere. The tour runs from 7 PM to 8 PM, with the peak time between 7 PM and 8 PM, so visitors should expect to wait in line.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, but food, drinks, and other expenses are not.
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Hoi an Eco Tour & Cooking Class (Local Market, Basket Boat, Fishing, Cooking)
For travelers seeking a more immersive experience in Hoi An, the Hoi An Eco Tour & Cooking Class offers a chance to explore the local culture and cuisine.
Rated 5.0 based on 22 reviews, this half-day tour takes guests to a local market, a bamboo basket boat ride, and a hands-on cooking class.
Participants learn to make classic Vietnamese dishes like Hoi An spring rolls and rice pancakes.
The tour, which has a maximum group size of 10, includes hotel pickup, all fees, and transportation.
Travelers praise the friendly guides, enjoyable activities, and high-quality food, though some find the cooking class more participatory than instructional.
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Hoi An: My Son Sanctuary Guided Tour With Boat Ride & Lunch
Exploring the UNESCO heritage site of My Son Sanctuary, this guided tour immerses visitors in the ancient Cham culture of Hoi An.
Priced from $18.05 per person, the 5.5-hour experience includes hotel pickup, transportation, a live English-speaking guide, and a delicious lunch.
Travelers will spend 2.5 hours exploring the ruins, observing the surrounding mountains, and witnessing an optional Cham performance.
A scenic 40-minute boat ride along the Thu Bon River completes the tour.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 60 reviews, this tour offers excellent value for money and an immersive cultural experience.
It’s not suitable for those over 70 or weighing more than 110 kg.
Read our full review: Hoi An: My Son Sanctuary Guided Tour With Boat Ride & Lunch Review
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Basket Boat Riding
Though a brief experience, the basket boat ride through the Bay Mau coconut forest in Hoi An offers a unique glimpse into the region’s traditional modes of transportation and local fishing practices.
During the 45-minute ride, travelers can expect to see crab fishing, spinning, and net fishing, all while surrounded by stunning river landscapes.
With 94% of visitors recommending the activity and an impressive 5.0 rating, it’s no surprise this tour is praised for its amazing scenery, friendly staff, and fun activities.
Priced from $12 per person, the basket boat ride includes round-trip transportation and tips, making it an affordable and immersive way to experience Hoi An’s local culture.
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Recap
Hoi An offers a variety of cruises and boat tours that showcase the town’s unique natural and cultural highlights. From exploring the Thu Bon River by boat to trying your hand at basket boat paddling, these experiences provide an immersive look at the region’s traditional ways of life. Whether you’re interested in cooking classes, sightseeing, or simply relaxing on the water, there’s a boat tour to suit your interests in Hoi An.