🌴 Spinning Through Serenity: My Coconut Basket Boat Ride in Hoi An Coconut Forest 🌊
If you’re heading to Hoi An, Vietnam, there’s one experience that perfectly blends culture, nature, and a bit of adrenaline: the Coconut Basket Boat Ride through the lush Cam Thanh Coconut Forest.
🚣 What Is a Basket Boat?
Also known as Thuyền Thúng or Thúng Chài, a basket boat is a small, round vessel made of woven bamboo, roughly two meters in diameter. It might look unstable at first glance (and feel like it for the first 10 seconds), but it’s actually designed to be buoyant and steady.
These boats were traditionally used by fishermen along Vietnam’s central and southern coasts to fish near the shore.
📜 A Brief History: A Creative Form of Resistance
The origin of the basket boat is as clever as it is symbolic. During French colonial rule in Vietnam, the French imposed heavy taxes on boat ownership. In response, Vietnamese fishermen designed these round, woven boats—which technically weren’t considered boats in the eyes of the French authorities. Instead, they were seen as baskets, and therefore exempt from taxation.
This innovation allowed fishermen to continue their livelihoods while avoiding colonial levies. Over time, basket boats became a cultural icon—an emblem of resilience and ingenuity.
🌿 Exploring the Coconut Forest
The Cam Thanh Coconut Forest—often referred to as the “Green Bay Mau” forest—is nestled between three of Hoi An’s iconic rivers: the Hoai River, Thu Bon River, and De Vong River. With its brackish water system, this area provides the ideal environment for nipa palm trees, creating a peaceful and picturesque water coconut jungle.
As the boat glides through the narrow canals, surrounded by towering palms and lush green foliage, you feel as if you’ve been transported to the Mekong Delta—even though you’re just minutes from the heart of Hoi An.
🌀 The Ride: Calm, Fun, and a Bit Wild
Your journey begins calmly—gliding through winding waterways, listening to birdsong and your guide’s local tales. But the peace doesn’t last long!
- Suddenly, your boat starts spinning. Literally.
- Your guide—an entertainer in disguise—will likely break into song or spin the boat in tight circles like a coconut carnival ride.
- There are also fishing net demos, coconut leaf crafts, and even small crab-catching activities along the way.
And yes, despite the round shape, the boat is very stable. The guides will help you distribute your weight evenly. A typical basket boat fits three people: two guests and one rower. There’s even room for your bags, camera, and sandals—just make sure they don’t go flying during the spins!
(P.S. You’re supposed to wear a life jacket, but let’s be honest… many of us didn’t!)
📸 Picture-Perfect Moments
Don’t forget your camera! Some of the best photo ops include:
- Posing with your conical hat (nón lá) as the boat floats past palm fronds
- Mid-spin action shots
- Throwing the fishing net or holding a fresh coconut leaf souvenir
🧭 How to Get There
The Coconut Forest is located about 5–6 km from Hoi An Ancient Town. You can get there by:
- Bicycle (scenic route!)
- Grab/motorbike taxi
- Organized eco-tours (many include hotel pickup)
💡 Tips for Your Trip
- Best time to go: Morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and softer light.
- What to wear: Light, comfortable clothing, and shoes you don’t mind getting wet.
- What to bring: Sunscreen, water, and a waterproof case for your phone or camera.
- Tipping: Small tips are appreciated—especially after a good spin show!
The Coconut Basket Boat Ride is more than just a fun tourist activity—it’s a living story of Vietnamese resilience, tradition, and hospitality. Whether you’re soaking in the peaceful greenery or laughing your heart out during a wild spin, this is one Hoi An memory you’ll never forget.
