Hoi An basket boat trips take place in the Bay Mau nipa-palm waterways around Cam Thanh, a short drive from the ancient town. Official 2026 reference prices are VND 30,000 admission per person, plus VND 150,000 per two-person boat for 45 minutes or VND 180,000 for 60 minutes. Allow 1.5–2 hours with check-in and waiting.
How much is a Cam Thanh basket boat?
| Item | Official April 2026 reference price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Forest admission | VND 30,000 per person | Entry to the Bay Mau coconut forest area |
| 45-minute basket boat | VND 150,000 per boat | Maximum two passengers |
| 60-minute basket boat | VND 180,000 per boat | Maximum two passengers |
The official tourism listing includes site access, a basket boat experience, views of boat-spinning performances and folk singing, subject to water level, weather, crowds and operating arrangements. Hotel or tour packages may also include transfers, meals or a guide, so compare inclusions rather than only the headline price.
What happens on a Hoi An basket boat ride?
- Palm waterways: a boat operator paddles the round basket boat through the nipa forest.
- Fishing and folk music: demonstrations vary with the day's programme.
- Boat spinning: exciting but likely to trigger motion sickness; participation is optional.
- Palm-leaf crafts: some operators make simple souvenirs from leaves.
Tell the operator before boarding if you want a quiet nature ride without spinning or loud interaction. Travellers seeking a lively show can choose a main pier and popular time.
How do you reach Cam Thanh from Hoi An or Da Nang?
| Starting point | Transport | Planning note |
|---|---|---|
| Hoi An Ancient Town | Grab, taxi, private car or hotel transfer | Roughly 3–5 km, depending on the pier |
| Da Nang | Private car or ride-hailing | Best followed by Hoi An's lantern evening |
| Hoi An accommodation | Bicycle or scooter | Only for confident riders who confirm parking |
Do not navigate only to “basket boat.” Operators use different piers and meeting points. Save the Vietnamese address, contact and pickup screenshot after booking.
Should you book 45 or 60 minutes?
Forty-five minutes is enough for first-timers, hot weather, motion sickness or families with young children and older adults. Choose 60 minutes for slower photos and a less rushed pace. During peak periods, waterway congestion can still create waiting time.
Is basket boat spinning safe?
Spinning can cause dizziness, falls or dropped belongings. Pregnant travellers, young children, older adults, anyone prone to motion sickness, and people with neck, back or cardiovascular conditions should skip it. Wear the life jacket throughout and secure phones, passports and wallets in waterproof storage.
- Follow suspension notices during thunderstorms, strong winds or abnormal water levels.
- Do not stand, change seats or reach between nearby boats.
- Children need an accompanying adult and should never ride alone.
- Do not join spinning or water activities after drinking alcohol.
How to combine basket boats with Hoi An
Classic half-day
14:00 depart Da Nang or Hoi An → 15:00 coconut forest ride → 16:30 Hoi An Ancient Town → dinner, lanterns and riverside walk.
Cooler slow route
Ride between 08:00 and 10:00, return to your hotel for a break, then enter Hoi An later in the afternoon. Official hours are around 07:30–18:30, but the day's pier operation takes priority.
Hoi An basket boat FAQ
Is the basket boat price per person or per boat?
The 2026 official reference boat fee is per boat for up to two people, with admission charged per person. Package tours follow their own product pricing.
Do you have to join the spinning boat?
No. It is optional. Clearly decline before boarding if you prefer scenery, are prone to sickness, or travel with young children or older adults.
Should you book in advance?
Walk-ins may work on quiet days, but book ahead in peak periods, for larger families, or when Da Nang transfers are required.
Do basket boats operate in rain?
Light rain may not stop rides, but thunderstorms, strong winds and abnormal water levels can suspend them. Follow the operator's safety decision.
