Basket Boat Ride – Lantern Making Class and Hoi An Walking Tour

Travel enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of Vietnam will find this tour a delightful blend of traditional activities, scenic views, and cultural exploration. Spanning roughly 7 to 8 hours, this experience offers a well-rounded day that takes you from tranquil river rides to the vibrant streets of Hoi An. What’s especially appealing is the chance to get your hands dirty with fishing, learn how to craft a lantern, and walk through UNESCO’s heritage site—all in one seamless package.

One of the standout features is the opportunity to engage directly with local artisans and fishermen, providing a genuine connection to Vietnam’s way of life. However, the tour involves some physical activity, including rowing bamboo baskets and walking, so a moderate fitness level is recommended. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want an immersive, hands-on experience rather than just sightseeing from a distance. If you’re curious about local crafts, traditional fishing methods, or simply want a full day of cultural discovery, this tour is worth considering.

A potential consideration is the timing—starting early at 8:30 a.m. means you’ll want to be prepared for a full day of activity. The tour is private, which means your group will enjoy personalized attention, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting an intimate experience. This tour strikes a good balance between adventure, culture, and relaxation, perfect for travelers who love engaging with authentic local traditions.

Key Points

• Authentic local activities such as fishing with traditional methods and basket boat riding
• Hands-on lantern making as a memorable souvenir
• Scenic views along Thu Bon River and in Coconut Forest
• Cultural highlights in Hoi An’s UNESCO-listed old town
• Delicious home-cooked lunch featuring local flavors
• Private, flexible experience with pickup and drop-off included

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The journey begins bright and early at 8:30 a.m., with a convenient hotel pickup in Hoi An or Da Nang. From there, your guide will transport you to the Hoi An dock, where the real adventure kicks off. The first part of the day involves a covered boat trip along the Thu Bon River. This part is not just a mode of transport but a chance to enjoy stunning river views and observe local fishermen using age-old methods. It’s quite picturesque—watching boats gently bobbing and catching the morning light—making this a perfect photo opportunity.

Travelers have mentioned that the boat ride offers a great view of daily Vietnamese life, with locals fishing or working with traditional tools. If you’re into photography, this part of the tour provides plenty of chances to capture authentic scenes. You’ll also learn about how locals sustain themselves through fishing, which adds a layer of understanding to Vietnam’s rural economy.

Next, you’ll participate in fishing with nets, an activity that many reviewers find surprisingly engaging. You get to try fishing yourself, which offers a tangible connection to local livelihoods. One review describes this as “a unique experience that made me appreciate the skills involved in traditional fishing methods.” It’s a simple yet meaningful activity that highlights Vietnamese resourcefulness.

The highlight for many is the basket boat ride into the Coconut Jungle. This bamboo craft is a staple in Vietnamese waterways, and maneuvering one is both fun and a tad challenging—yet safe with guide supervision. As you glide through the water coconut forest, you’ll enjoy lush greenery and the chance to catch crabs or observe water birds, making it a perfect moment for nature lovers.

Following this, a home-cooked lunch with local dishes awaits at a local family’s home. The meal is often praised for its authentic flavors and generous portions. One reviewer commented on the “delicious food that truly felt like a taste of home,” noting that the local hosts were warm and welcoming, enhancing the authentic experience.

In the afternoon, you’ll learn how to make traditional Vietnamese lanterns. The lantern workshop is intimate and hands-on—your guide will walk you through the steps, sharing tips and stories along the way. You get to keep your handmade lantern as a souvenir, which many find to be a meaningful keepsake of their time in Vietnam.

Finally, the tour concludes with a walking tour of Hoi An’s UNESCO World Heritage old town. Expect to stroll past historic sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, and the Tan Ky ancient house. The local market adds vibrancy and offers a glimpse of everyday life, with stalls full of colorful textiles, spices, and souvenirs. The entire walk provides a deeper appreciation of Hoi An’s cultural tapestry and architecture.

Transport and Timing

Transportation is private and included, ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience. The early start allows you to beat the crowds at the old town and enjoy the quiet beauty of the river and coconut forest. With a total duration of around 7 to 8 hours, the tour is quite comprehensive—balancing active participation with relaxed sightseeing.

Value for Money

At $99 per person, the tour offers a good mix of activities, cultural insight, and local cuisine. The inclusion of entrance tickets, lantern-making class, fishing activities, and a home-cooked lunch makes it a solid value, especially for those eager to connect with Vietnam beyond typical tourist spots. Compared to separate activities, this combined experience streamlines your day while still feeling personalized due to its private nature.

Authenticity and Local Engagement

What sets this tour apart is the direct engagement with local families and artisans. From learning how to cast fishing nets to making a lantern, you’re encouraged to participate and understand the skills and traditions that keep these communities vibrant. The guides, such as Andy Trantours, are knowledgeable and friendly, adding a personal touch that many travelers appreciate.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and light physical activity.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen, especially if visiting during warmer months.
• A camera or smartphone is a must—these activities are very photogenic.
• The tour involves some moderate physical effort, so those with mobility issues might want to check with the provider beforehand.
• Drinks and personal expenses are not included, so carry some cash if you wish to purchase snacks or souvenirs during the walk.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a lively, engaging look into Vietnam’s cultural and natural landscapes, perfect for travelers who enjoy hands-on activities and authentic experiences. You’ll love the scenic boat rides, the chance to try fishing yourself, and the chance to make and keep a Vietnamese lantern. The day’s pace is well balanced, with enough activity to keep things interesting but still allowing time to soak in the surroundings.

Ideal for small groups, couples, or families wanting a meaningful connection to Vietnam’s traditions, this experience is particularly suited to those who appreciate local craftsmanship, scenic waterways, and delicious home-style cuisine. The private setting ensures a personalized trip, making it a memorable day for any visitor.

If you’re after a blend of adventure, cultural insight, and leisure, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s an excellent way to see a different side of Hoi An—beyond the usual photographs—by actively participating in local life.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Hoi An or Da Nang by private car.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 7 to 8 hours.

What activities are included?
Activities include a river boat ride, fishing with nets, basket boat riding into the Coconut Jungle, lantern making class, and a walking tour of Hoi An Old Town.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, the tour covers entrance tickets for the Coconut Forest and lantern workshop.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is private and can be tailored, it involves some physical activity, so moderate fitness is recommended. It can be enjoyed by families with children comfortable with walking and light exertion.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and some cash for personal expenses.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How many people participate in the tour?
It is a private tour, so only your group will participate.

What’s the cost of the tour?
It costs $99 per person, offering a solid value considering all included activities and meals.

This tour provides a well-structured, authentic look at Vietnamese village life, history, and craft, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to enjoy a full day of meaningful cultural engagement.