Cruiseship Trip to Coconut Village- Foot Bath-Hoi An City: CHAN MAY-TIEN SA Port

This detailed review covers a popular shore excursion from Vietnam’s Chan May or Tien Sa port—an activity that combines cultural discovery, scenic nature, and some well-deserved relaxation. The tour promises to take you through a charming coconut village, the historic streets of Hoi An, and even offers a traditional Vietnamese foot bath and massage, all in one day.

What makes this experience stand out is the carefully curated mix of sightseeing, hands-on activities like basket boat riding, and culture—all with a knowledgeable guide to enhance the experience.

However, it’s important to note that this is a full-day tour that involves some walking, boat riding, and moderate physical activity, so it’s best suited for those with good mobility and a genuine interest in authentic local culture.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded, value-for-money day that combines both scenic and cultural highlights, especially for first-time visitors wanting to maximize their port time without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Exposure: Regular visits to historic sites like Japanese bridges and Chinese temples provide genuine insight into Hoi An’s diverse past.
• Scenic Nature and Hands-on Activities: The coconut village and basket boat ride offer memorable, tactile experiences away from typical tourist spots.
• Relaxation and Wellness: The traditional foot bath with medicinal herbs adds a soothing touch to the day.
• Informed Guides: The reviews praise local guides for their knowledge, making the experience more enriching.
• Value for Money: All entrance fees, activities, and a delicious local lunch are included, making for a hassle-free day.
• Convenient Logistics: Pickup and drop-off at your cruise port simplify the planning.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off early, with pick-up times tailored to your cruise schedule—typically around 8:00 am. You’ll meet your guide holding a sign with your name, which makes the start straightforward—even if you’re arriving in a busy port. The transportation is a modern, comfortable vehicle, ensuring a smooth ride from the port to your first stop.

Visiting Cam Thanh Coconut Village

The journey to Cam Thanh coconut village is where the adventure begins. Historically, this village served as a shelter during the Vietnam-American War, offering a glimpse into wartime resilience and local life. Our guide explained how locals hid and sheltered here, adding a layer of historical context that makes the scenery more meaningful.

The highlight of this stop is the basket boat ride—a unique Vietnamese experience. You’ll learn how to row these round bamboo boats, guided by an experienced boat person. It’s a hands-on activity that offers a good dose of fun and laughs. One reviewer noted that the guide was “very knowledgeable and patient,” which helps beginners feel comfortable. As you glide through the channels, you might try your hand at crab catching or fishing with traditional methods—an authentic taste of local livelihood.

The water palms and shrimp farms create a lush backdrop that’s perfect for photo enthusiasts. The stop includes a refreshing cold drink provided by local hosts, which offers a welcome break in the tropical heat. The one-hour duration feels just right—enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Exploring Hoi An Ancient Town

Next, you’ll head to Hoi An’s UNESCO-listed ancient town, a place that feels like stepping into a living museum. Its lantern-lit streets are charming, especially in the late afternoon when they glow warmly. The walk includes visits to key sites: the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Fujian Chinese Assembly Hall, and an ancient family house.

The guide’s local knowledge shines here, explaining stories behind the architecture and giving tips on where to find the best souvenirs. Hoi An’s market is bustling, a perfect spot to browse traditional crafts, textiles, and local food items.

The 1.5-hour exploration balances sightseeing with free time for shopping or simply soaking up the atmosphere. Many reviews mentioned how the guide tailored the narration to include both historical facts and fun tidbits, making the walk engaging for all ages.

Iconic Japanese Covered Bridge

The Japanese Covered Bridge is the quintessential symbol of Hoi An, and a quick 15-minute stop lets you admire its intricate architecture and picturesque setting. It’s an excellent photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship that has withstood centuries.

Wellness Break: Traditional Foot Bath & Massage

Midday, the tour offers a traditional Vietnamese foot bath with medicinal herbs, followed by a massage. This was a favorite part among travelers, who appreciated the relaxing nature of this activity after walking and boat riding. The herbal foot bath is reputed for its therapeutic properties, and the massage provides a gentle, soothing finish to a busy morning.

One reviewer observed that “the foot bath was surprisingly calming,” and the inclusion of this wellness element provides genuine value—especially after hours of sightseeing.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

A traditional Vietnamese lunch rounds out the experience, served at a local restaurant. While the menu details aren’t specified, the focus is on authentic flavors, offering good value for the included price. Many guests enjoyed the meal as a highlight, complimenting the freshness of the ingredients and the friendly service.

Optional Quick Stop at My Khe Beach

On the way back to the port, a brief stop at My Khe Beach in Danang offers a scenic pause. Though just a quick photo op, it offers a chance to appreciate Vietnam’s famous coastline—a perfect Instagram moment, if you’re into that.

Return and Drop-off

The tour wraps up with a smooth transfer back to the port, ensuring you’re back in plenty of time before your ship departs. The timing overall is well-managed, and the guide’s punctuality is frequently mentioned as a plus.

Practical Aspects and Value

This tour’s price of $165 per person covers all major expenses: entrance tickets, basket boat ride, foot bath, lunch, bottled water, and transportation. It represents good value, considering the variety of experiences packed into one day.

The small group size—since it’s a private tour—means more personalized attention, which many reviewers found appreciated. The guides’ local expertise adds depth to each stop, making the visits more than just sightseeing; they’re educational and authentic.

The tour’s moderate physical activity makes it accessible for most travelers with decent mobility, though some walking and boat maneuvering are involved. Travelers should be prepared for the warm climate and bring essentials like sun protection and water.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for cruise travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Hoi An’s culture, history, and natural beauty without sacrificing comfort. It suits those interested in interactive activities like basket boating, along with history buffs eager to learn about wartime shelters and ancient architecture. It’s also perfect for anyone seeking a relaxing wellness element amid a busy sightseeing schedule.

The inclusion of a traditional foot bath makes it particularly attractive for travelers looking to unwind after a morning of exploration, while the flexible schedule and private nature cater well to small groups or families.

The Sum Up

This cruise tour to Coconut Village, Hoi An’s Ancient Town, and the Japanese Covered Bridge offers a well-balanced day of cultural insight, scenic beauty, and relaxation. The blend of hands-on activities, historical storytelling, and wellness elements makes it a compelling choice for those who want an authentic Vietnamese experience without feeling overwhelmed.

The knowledgeable guides, seamless logistics, and included entrance tickets enhance the overall value, making this an attractive option for cruise passengers wanting to make the most of their limited port time. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of adventure and leisure, and who value insider tips from locals.

If you’re after a memorable, hassle-free day that captures the essence of Hoi An—this tour is likely to hit the mark.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
It begins around 8:00 am, with pickup arranged according to your cruise schedule, ensuring you won’t miss your ship.

Is this a group or private tour?
It is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

What’s included in the tour price?
All entrance tickets, basket boat ride, foot massage, lunch, bottled water, and transportation are included in the $165 fee.

How long does each stop last?
The coconut village and boat ride last about 1 hour, the ancient town walk takes around 1.5 hours, and the foot bath is part of the wellness break. The overall activity duration is approximately 7.5 hours.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, as there is walking, boat riding, and some standing involved.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can likely accommodate slight adjustments, but the core stops are fixed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are advised, along with sun protection and hat. Swimwear isn’t necessary unless you plan to swim at My Khe Beach.

Is food included?
Yes, a local lunch at a restaurant is part of the package.

Will I have free time for shopping?
Yes, during the Hoi An ancient town visit, you’ll have some free time for shopping or exploring on your own.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather, but if canceled due to bad conditions, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This tour provides a balanced blend of Vietnam’s cultural treasures and scenic beauty, topped off with some well-earned relaxation. Perfect for cruise passengers eager to experience the real Hoi An in a comfortable, well-organized way.