Step into a bamboo basket boat and navigate the calm coconut waterways of Cam Thanh, then explore Hoi An’s UNESCO-listed streets. This private shore excursion from Chan May Port pairs hands-on fishing traditions with a guided walkthrough of historic Hoi An.
Step into a bamboo basket boat and navigate the calm coconut waterways of Cam Thanh, then explore Hoi An’s UNESCO-listed streets. This private shore excursion from Chan May Port pairs hands-on fishing traditions with a guided walkthrough of historic Hoi An.
The morning fog over the Thu Bon estuary parts as a row of conical hats moves into a channel framed by leaning coconut palms. You step into a shallow, round bamboo basket boat—locally called a thung chai—while the guide jokes about the first wobble and hands you a paddle. The boat drifts into the Cam Thanh water coconut forest, where roots and tidal channels shape a quiet, moving landscape that feels half-marine garden, half-living map.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by SONDAX TRAVEL · Hoi An, Quang Nam
The morning fog over the Thu Bon estuary parts as a row of conical hats moves into a channel framed by leaning coconut palms. You step into a shallow, round bamboo basket boat—locally called a thung chai—while the guide jokes about the first wobble and hands you a paddle. The boat drifts into the Cam Thanh water coconut forest, where roots and tidal channels shape a quiet, moving landscape that feels half-marine garden, half-living map.
Hoi An itself was a trading entrepôt from the 15th to 19th centuries; its compact streets and Chinese shophouses reflect centuries of exchange between Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese merchants. Geologically the area is an alluvial plain, fed by the Thu Bon River and sculpted by seasonal monsoon pulses—hence the network of mangrove-like coconut canals that support small-scale crab and fish harvests.
On this shore excursion you’ll try round-net (vung) and cast-net fishing with local fishermen, learn to paddle the basket boat, and race other crews along narrow waterways. A visit to the fisherman’s house offers a glimpse into meals built around river produce and preserved techniques. The trip culminates with a walk through Hoi An’s ancient quarter—laneways lined with wooden facades and low temples—before returning to Chan May Port.
Practical: the day is long (about nine hours including transfers) and water-splashed; wear quick-dry clothing, secure shoes, and a waterproof camera case. Bring insect repellent, small local currency for snacks or tips, and time your visit outside the peak monsoon months for calmer seas and clearer light.
Yes—this private tour is family-friendly; children must sit on laps in boats when needed and the operator lists it as suitable for all fitness levels.
No prior experience is required; guides provide instruction and the boats are operated in shallow, protected waterways.
Lunch includes local choices such as Bun Cha, steamed rice rolls, pho, shredded-chicken noodle soup, steamed pork cake, or crab paste vermicelli—select when booking.
Yes—this private shore excursion includes transportation from Chan May Port; confirm your ship’s arrival time when booking for seamless pickup.
SONDAX TRAVEL operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The morning fog over the Thu Bon estuary parts as a row of conical hats moves into a channel framed by leaning coconut palms. You step into a shallow, round bamboo basket boat—locally called a thung chai—while the guide jokes about the first wobble and hands you a paddle. The boat drifts into the Cam Thanh water coconut forest, where roots and tidal channels shape a quiet, moving landscape that feels half-marine garden, half-living map.
The morning fog over the Thu Bon estuary parts as a row of conical hats moves into a channel framed by leaning coconut palms. You step into a shallow, round bamboo basket boat—locally called a thung chai—while the guide jokes about the first wobble and hands you a paddle. The boat drifts into the Cam Thanh water coconut forest, where roots and tidal channels shape a quiet, moving landscape that feels half-marine garden, half-living map.
Hoi An itself was a trading entrepôt from the 15th to 19th centuries; its compact streets and Chinese shophouses reflect centuries of exchange between Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese merchants. Geologically the area is an alluvial plain, fed by the Thu Bon River and sculpted by seasonal monsoon pulses—hence the network of mangrove-like coconut canals that support small-scale crab and fish harvests.
On this shore excursion you’ll try round-net (vung) and cast-net fishing with local fishermen, learn to paddle the basket boat, and race other crews along narrow waterways. A visit to the fisherman’s house offers a glimpse into meals built around river produce and preserved techniques. The trip culminates with a walk through Hoi An’s ancient quarter—laneways lined with wooden facades and low temples—before returning to Chan May Port.
Practical: the day is long (about nine hours including transfers) and water-splashed; wear quick-dry clothing, secure shoes, and a waterproof camera case. Bring insect repellent, small local currency for snacks or tips, and time your visit outside the peak monsoon months for calmer seas and clearer light.