Small Group Shore Excursion to Row Basket Boat – Hoi An Ancient City – Foot Bath

Traveling to Vietnam and looking for a well-rounded day trip that combines cultural sights, authentic cuisine, and relaxing relaxation? This small-group tour promises a rich experience, from riding traditional bamboo basket boats in coconut jungles to wandering through the UNESCO-listed Hoi An Ancient Town. Priced at $155 per person, with a duration of about 7 hours, it’s designed for cruise visitors wanting a taste of local life without feeling rushed.

What we particularly love about this tour is the blend of adventure and culture. The chance to try Vietnamese-style crabbing and fishing from a bamboo boat offers a hands-on experience that many other tours skip. Plus, the herbal foot bath at the end provides a soothing break after exploring. On the flip side, one consideration might be the timing and transport logistics, especially if your cruise schedule is tight or if you prefer more free time in Hoi An. This trip is a great fit for travelers who want a practical, engaging, and authentic day in the Vietnamese countryside and town.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion with bamboo boat rides in coconut jungles
• Comprehensive Hoi An tour including iconic sights and shopping
• Authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a local family lunch
• Relaxing foot bath with herbs after sightseeing
• Small-group setting for a more personalized experience
• Convenient pickup from cruise ports with flexible timing

Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

Seamless Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup from Da Nang’s Tien Sa or Chan May port, which is a huge plus for cruise passengers. The guides are professional and welcoming, often holding a personalized sign, making it easy to spot them. Using a private, air-conditioned vehicle, the transfer to Cam Thanh Coconut Village is comfortable, setting the tone for a smooth day. The small group size (from 2 to 8 people) ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd and can enjoy a more personalized interaction with your guide, who, based on reviews, is often knowledgeable and friendly.

Exploring Cam Thanh Coconut Village and the Bay Mau Coconut Forest

Once in the village, the adventure begins with a bamboo basket boat ride through the Bay Mau Coconut Forest. This part of the tour is often highlighted as a unique highlight, with travelers appreciating the chance to row through lush waterways and experience local life firsthand. The adventure of catching crabs or trying Vietnamese-style fishing gives a tangible connection to traditional livelihoods. Reviewers have noted that the guides are attentive, explaining the history and significance of the coconut jungle, adding depth to the experience.

Visiting Hoi An Ancient Town

Next stop is the famous Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you’ll see highlights like the Japanese Bridge, the Phung Hung Ancient House, and vibrant Chinese assembly halls—each offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s trading history. The tour includes admission tickets, saving you the hassle of waiting in lines, and around 1.5 hours to explore.

In our research, travelers appreciated the balanced pace—not rushed but enough time to snap photos and browse shops. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s a lovely walk through history, and the guide was great at pointing out details I wouldn’t have noticed alone.” The shopping time can be a bonus for those wanting to pick up souvenirs or local crafts.

Authentic Vietnamese Lunch & Herbal Foot Bath

After exploring, you’ll enjoy a lunch at a local family restaurant. The emphasis on authentic Vietnamese food means fresh ingredients, flavorful dishes, and a chance to taste regional specialties. Guests often comment on how satisfying and hearty the meal is—definitely a highlight for food lovers.

Following lunch, the 30-minute herbal foot bath is a relaxing treat, especially after several hours of sightseeing. Many reviews mention it as a perfect way to unwind, with the herbal infusion providing a natural, soothing experience. It’s a thoughtful touch that adds value to the overall tour.

Wrapping Up & Return to Cruise

The final part of the tour includes free time in Hoi An for those who want to explore independently—perhaps more shopping or just soaking in the lively street scenes. The guide then ensures you’re back at the port at least one hour before your ship departs, which is a crucial detail for cruise travelers.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Unlike many generic shore excursions, this tour focuses on authentic interactions and local experiences. Using a small-group format allows for tailored conversations and a more relaxed pace. The basket boat ride in the coconut jungle offers a charming and photogenic adventure, while the cultural sights of Hoi An provide context and history that enrich your visit.

The lunch at a local family restaurant is another standout feature. Instead of touristy buffets, you get home-cooked style Vietnamese dishes, which many reviewers found delicious and satisfying. The herbal foot bath adds a layer of relaxation that many other tours overlook, making this experience both fun and restorative.

Practical Considerations

The tour’s price of $155 reflects its inclusive nature: entrance fees, lunch, basket boat ride, and foot bath are all covered. This means no hidden costs or surprise expenses during the day, providing peace of mind.

Timing-wise, the 8:00 am start fits well with cruise schedules, especially since the tour is designed to finish with ample time before your ship departs. The pickup service from the port is reliable and helps avoid the hassle of local taxis or navigating unfamiliar streets.

While the tour is suitable for most travelers, those with mobility issues might find some parts challenging, especially the bamboo boat ride. It is also ideal for those who enjoy a mix of cultural and outdoor activities, rather than just sightseeing from a bus window.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This small-group excursion offers a compelling blend of cultural discovery, outdoor adventure, and relaxation. It’s perfect for cruise passengers who want an authentic taste of Vietnamese life without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Food lovers will appreciate the delicious, home-style lunch, and those seeking a hands-on experience with traditional boat riding and fishing will find it particularly memorable.

The tour’s personalized vibe, combined with its diverse activities, makes it a high-value option for travelers craving a well-rounded day in Vietnam’s charming countryside and ancient town. If you’re after a practical, engaging, and authentic experience that balances sightseeing with local interaction, this tour delivers.

Is pickup included from the cruise port?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from Tien Sa or Chan May port, making it a hassle-free start for cruise travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 7 hours, including transfers, sightseeing, lunch, and relaxation time.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, the tour covers all entrance tickets for Hoi An city sights, the coconut forest, and the village, so no extra costs are needed on the day.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor activities is recommended. Don’t forget sun protection and a hat, especially if visiting in sunny weather.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Most travelers can participate, but children comfortable with boat rides and walking will enjoy it most. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

Can I customize the experience?
This is a private tour for your group, so you can discuss your preferences with the guide. However, the itinerary is designed to maximize the highlights of Hoi An and surroundings.

This tour offers a thoughtful mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation—all wrapped into a manageable, well-organized day. Perfect for those looking to truly experience Vietnam’s charm beyond the postcard sights.