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Boat Tours in Vietnam

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10 best Boat holiday packages in Vietnam

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Deluxe Vietnam Aqua Life In 11 Days - 4 Stars and 5 Stars Option - Private Tour

Halong bay 3 days 2 nights on alisa premier cruise 5 star| alisa premier cruises, southern vietnam mekong delta river tour from saigon to can tho , cai be with overnight cruise 5-day, essence of vietnam: heritage, scenery, and relaxation - 16-day, 5-day adventure sapa - halong bay from hanoi, 5-day southern vietnam mekong delta river tour from saigon to can tho , cai be with overnight cruise, 7days hanoi sapa and halong bay, vietnam for solo travellers, halong binh binh 4 days on a 5 stars cruise and 4 stars hotel, ultimate indochina: 16-day super saver tour.

“Vietnam is really wonderful and managed to squeeze in several cities. Would highly recommend.” Summer, traveled in February 2019

• River Cruise
• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year
• Embark on a relaxing river cruise along the Mekong River
• Meet a Vietnam War veteran at a traditional cooking class
• Step back in time wandering through the old town of Hoi An

• Swim at the pristine Ba Trai Dao beaches
• Visit Pearl Farm Exhibition Center
• Kayak around the scenic Halong Bay

“Everything was set up in advance through the owner Mr.Dong, and my guide arrived at my Hotel the evening prior to departure to brief me and say Hello!” Andrew Earnshaw, traveled in December 2023

• Discover Cu Chi Tunnels and learn war history
• Explore bustling Ho Chi Minh City on arrival
• Relax with sunset views and dinner on the cruise

“Us a lot of information and history in English. The pick-up was right on time. Guide”

• In-depth Cultural
• Venture into the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Explore Ho Chi Minh City's historic sites
• Cruise the Mekong Delta and visit My Tho

“Hotel, Ha Long Trip all brilliant. Sapa trip very good except for transport.” Craig MacKinnon, traveled in August 2019

• Mountain Hikes
• Hiking & Trekking
• Experience pottery making in Bat Trang
• Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and museum
• Discover the Temple of Literature

• Cruise the Mekong and enjoy local music
• Explore bustling Ho Chi Minh City
• Bike through Mekong's lush landscapes

• Enjoy a traditional water puppet show
• Trek through Sapa's stunning landscapes
• Cruise the magnificent Halong Bay

“Best Tour Operators. Never feel any discomfort. Everyone must visit Vietnam once in a lifetime.” Lawren Adams, traveled in January 2019

• Indulge yourself along the ancient lantern-lit streets of Hoi An town
• Feel the metropolitan pulse of Saigon and experience its highlights
• Glide through the Mekong Delta and marvel in the slow rhythm of life

• Explore the ancient capital at Hoa Lu
• Cruise through Halong Bay's limestone islands
• Kayak around the Dark and Bright Caves

“We used Legend Travel Group to arrange our travel in Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Ho Chi”

• Visit the majestic Angkor Wat
• Discover the ancient city of Hoi An
• Cruise through the stunning Halong Bay

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MEKONG RIVER CRUISE

Unforgettable expeditions along asia’s most legendary river.

A voyage into a fabled past

Culture and civilisations have flourished around great rivers throughout history and the Mekong is no exception.

While sailing on board the Aqua Mekong luxury cruise, discover rich heritage and traditions enriched by 2,000 years of human history. From the flourishing of the Khmer empire to the prominence of Theravada Buddhism in present-day Cambodia and Vietnam, this is one of the few cultural destinations on Earth that’s best explored through a river expedition. Embarking on expert-led excursions: kayak to floating villages, discover historic Buddhist temples, and cycle along picturesque ricefields to explore monuments from the Khmer Empire.

The luxurious Aqua Mekong river boat cruise charts a path through the picturesque lower Mekong basin with expert guides on board. Follow in the footsteps of royalty aboard our award-winning vessel where a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio and luxuriously designed cabins will give you a home away from home. Aqua Mekong luxury cruise provides a truly immersive and personalized experience in this culture-rich landscape. With year-round itineraries departing from Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap, this is the only luxury Mekong river cruise that provides complimentary flight extensions to Siem Reap during the low water season.

Great cruise for

Trip highlights and excursions

Best time to visit the Mekong

• High Water Season The high water season in Cambodia and Vietnam lasts from Mid-August to November. This refers to the time when the Mekong’s water levels rise courtesy of increased flows from the Tibetan highlands and China. READ MORE
• Low Water Season The eight-month low water season from December through to mid-August sees a lower water level in the Mekong and reduced flows. This period offers an opportunity to see a quieter side of local life on the Tonle Sap. READ MORE
• Weather & Climate Temperatures in Cambodia and Vietnam generally fluctuate between 26°C (78°F) and 32°C (86°F). READ MORE

Getting there

Your mekong expedition guide.

The Wild Waterbirds of the Tonle Sap

Top 5 Mekong River Facts: Exploring Southeast Asia

4 Unique Facts about Cambodian Culture You Should Know Before Visiting

Cambodian Cooking: Meander along Aqua Mekong’s Cambodian Food Journey

Six Must-Do Highlights on the Aqua Mekong

From Baguettes to Bánh Mì: Uncovering Vietnam's French Heritage and Local Traditions

Explore aqua mekong.

Charting a luxurious passage on Southeast Asia’s longest river across Cambodia and Vietnam, the Aqua Mekong showcases award-winning modern design with comprehensive amenities such as a spa, gym, and river-facing plunge pool.

Choose your itinerary

Aqua Mekong offers guests the opportunity to embark on the finest river ship experience in Cambodia and Vietnam, with the choice of the following itineraries.

What our guests say

Khmer Aspara Dance

Originating from Hinduism, the word "Apsara" means "water nymph" or "fairies". A legend tells of a story where such otherworldly beings descended from the heavens to charm royalty and deities with their graceful dances. Over time, the dance evolved to be more Khmer-styled, rather than Hindu-inspired, detailed in the sculptures in Angkor Wat. Knowledge of this ancient dance eventually faded from memory, until Queen Sisowath took on the passion project of reviving the lost art.

Often referenced to as "Cambodian Ballet", it takes many years of training and strengthening to become adept at this dance. Consisting of 1500 hand gestures, each movement carries a meaning to tell an elaborate story of the Cambodian people.

Floating Villages

A visit to Tonle Sap in the Mekong Delta is only available to travelers during the high-water season of mid-August to November, when the lake is accessible by river boat. It’s home to 170 floating villages which consist of a collection of stilted overwater huts that hover over the water. Guests on Aqua Mekong were introduced to local villagers and their unique way of life in a region where schools, churches, pagodas, and even the karaoke bar and police station all float.

The largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, Tonle Sap nourished a population of more than one million at the height of the Khmer empire in the 12th century. At present, it continues to provide abundance as one of the most productive fishing lakes in the world, supporting over three million people and providing over 75 percent of Cambodia’s annual inland fish catch.

Silk-weaving

No garment is as distinctively Cambodian as the krama. A garment made of cotton or silk, the krama is worn by men, women and children in every social class across the country, with designs from the unassuming to the painstakingly elaborate.  

This fascinating fashion item is one of the finest displays of the artistic gifts of the Khmer people (along with silversmithing), and travelers can discover the making of the krama as part of a Mekong river cruise. It also showcases the creativity of the Cambodian people to its fullest, judging by the thousands of ways the garment is deployed in their everyday lives. See if you can spot it being used as a hammock for small children on your next trip to this country.

Silversmith visit

Explore the silversmith villages of Koh Chen — located just 35 kilometers from Phnom Penh, and recognized by the big Buddha statue on its river banks — known for their fine craftsmanship. The intricate craft of silversmithing has been preserved by the local artisans for over 50 years. Keep an eye out for their famous silver bowls, regularly chosen by Cambodia’s king as gifts for visiting dignitaries.

Ceremonial blessing

Visit the floating village of Moat Khla, accessible only by water, and attend a Buddhist blessing ceremony in this isolated community. It's a sacred ritual for cleansing and good luck that dates back to ancient times. Those who wish to be blessed can expect the reading of sacred mantras by the priest, incense burning, offers to deities, and a little (or a lot!) sprinkle of water.  

Tuk-tuk ride

Explore the cities through tuk-tuk rides – a local form of three-wheeled transport, which offer one of the most convenient ways of getting around.

Mat-weaving

The village of Binh Thanh is the home of the intricate art of mat-weaving using natural materials, a skill passed down over the centuries. Thanks to improved materials and techniques over the years, the weavers of this town can create artisanal mats not found anywhere else.

Temple visits

No trip to the Mekong would be complete without wandering through hundreds of awe-inspiring temples, including the preserved temples in the lost city of Angkor Wat. The largest religious structure in the world, this is the heart and soul of Cambodia, showcasing over a thousand Hindu and Buddhist temples, ranging from intricate Apsaras, hand carved into the sandstone walls, to serene and smiling stone faces of Buddha and still-intact temples wrapped in thick tree roots.

Weather & Climate

Temperatures

Temperatures in Cambodia and Vietnam generally fluctuate between 26°C (78°F) and 32°C (86°F).

In the warmest month of March, this figure may climb as high as 38°C (100°F). Sailing is an ideal way to discover this region as the Mekong’s waters flow from the icy Tibetan Plateau and the cool Laotian highlands, which takes the edge off the equatorial swelter and offers a comfortable experience.

The Aqua Mekong brings temperatures down further with state-of-the-art central cooling and an award-winning design that maximizes ventilation. Grab an icy cocktail and take a dip in the plunge pool at the ship’s bow any time of day.

Rainfall in the lower Mekong basin peaks during August to October each year. Even during the wettest times of the year, rain comes in the form of brief showers typically lasting 30 minutes to an hour, thanks to Mekong’s inland position and savannah-like climate. Itineraries and excursions are usually unaffected by these brief showers, which help cool off the tropical countryside. Gray skies tend to disappear towards the evening, setting the stage for Mekong’s iconic multicolour sunsets.

With a monsoon lasting five to six months starting May, the already-beautiful Mekong countryside turns into endless fields of vibrant green during these months. Enjoy cycling through these paddy fields on our Mekong delta tour.

High Water Season

The high water season in Cambodia and Vietnam lasts from Mid-August to November. This refers to the time when the Mekong’s water levels rise courtesy of increased flows from the Tibetan highlands and China.

During the high water season, the Tonle Sap lake becomes accessible to river cruise ships. Guests who travel on our Mekong river boat cruise during this period can visit floating villages and the Prek Toal Bird Reserve. Ships can also dock on the shores of the lake, just 45-minutes away from Siem Reap.

Naturally, the high-water season coincides with the monsoon, with August to October being the wettest times of the year. The countryside shows off its richest colors during these months as the hills and rice paddies come to life. 

This is also a great time of the year to go on a Mekong delta cruise to sample the local produce such as mangoes and dragon fruits which are sold at floating markets.

Low Water Season

The eight-month low water season from December through to mid-August sees a lower water level in the Mekong and reduced flows. This period offers an opportunity to see a quieter side of local life on the Tonle Sap. 

From December to February, the Mekong experiences some of its coolest weather with minimal rainfall. It’s an ideal time to enjoy a wide range of activities including biking, kayaking, and on-shore cultural excursions. 

February onwards, the temperatures begin to climb, however the humidity remains low, making it an ideal time for those who want a taste of the tropical warmth. These months see fewer tourists, allowing the opportunity to discover popular attractions free of crowds, in addition to Aqua Expeditions’ signature off-the-beaten-path excursions.   

Complimentary flight extension to Siem Reap

During the low water season, Aqua Expeditions offers a complimentary flight extension to Siem Reap as it is not possible to sail the entire way.

This brings us to an important point: Why do other river cruise lines still claim to sail to and from Siem Reap during this period? That’s because the itineraries that do so require guests to endure an unpleasant six-hour road journey from a distant port on the Mekong to Siem Reap.

Aqua Mekong, on the other hand, docks at Phnom Penh and allows guests to take a quick 45-minute flight from the capital to Siem Reap instead. 

Boat Tours in Vietnam

Quick facts, highlights of boat tours, what it's like, cruises in vietnam.

Some of Vietnam's most popular destinations like Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, and the Mekong Delta are best experienced by spending time taking it easy on the relaxing backwaters of the country because these boat tours allow visitors to gain valuable insight into what life is like for locals living by the river.

Along with soaking up the stunning views on display, visitors also get to visit local villages and engage in a range of fun activities like swimming, kayaking, and taking part in cooking classes.

• One of the best ways to experience the unique beauty of Vietnam is to take cruises and boat trips
• These trips allow you to experience Vietnamese life and culture in a laid-back, relaxing manner
• Cruises in Halong Bay, and boat trips in Hue, Hoi An, and the Mekong Delta make for truly unforgettable memories

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Whether you're trying to take in the emerald waters of Halong Bay, the rich cultural history found at Hue, the tranquility of Hoi An, or the charm of the 'rice bowl of Vietnam' that is the Mekong Delta, one of the best ways to experience the unique beauty of these places is by taking cruises and boat trips.

A trip to northern Vietnam is incomplete if you haven't visited Halong Bay, and the best way to experience the 3,000-odd sublime limestone islands of Halong Bay is by taking a day trip or an overnight cruise.

The stunning karst landscape at Halong Bay remains all around you while you and your important ones engage in a range of fun activities including kayaking, swimming, fishing, and learning to cook Vietnamese cuisine.

Boat tours in Hue and Hoi An provide travelers with intimate yet fulfilling ways to spend the day. Tours to the countryside and local villages are perfect ways for gaining valuable insight into everyday Vietnamese life.

The charm of the Cai Rang Floating Market in the Mekong Delta is something every visitor ought to experience, as there's truly nothing quite like it. Cruising past rice paddies and stilted houses with the floating market bustling behind, makes for an unforgettable memory.

Explore similar itineraries: 15-Day Classic Vietnam Tour with Sapa 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour

The main idea behind these cruises and boat tours is to allow guests to be close to nature so they can enjoy the unparalleled natural beauty of Vietnam. They provide guests with a unique insight into Vietnamese life and make for inspiring moments that aren't easily forgotten. Trust us, there's nothing quite like them.

Almost all tours include hotel pick-ups and transfers for guests. Knowledgeable guides who are keen to show you the best possible, lead all tours.

Halong Bay Cruises

Three companies manage the best cruises in Halong Bay: Orchid Cruise, Glory Legend Cruise, and Bhaya Cruise.

While there are many options to choose from when it comes to cruises, Orchid provides service that is unmatched by most.

If the spectacular views of Halong Bay aren't enough to keep you occupied, you can entertain yourself by partaking in a range of activities including swimming, fishing, kayaking, or signing up for cooking or Tai Chi classes. Musical entertainment is also provided on board.

Glory Legend Cruises also pride themselves in the excellent customer satisfaction ratings they garner. The cruise provides similar activities on board to Orchid, with the addition of massages, boat rides, cave explorations, and beach visits.

The largest cruise tour operator in Halong Bay is Bhaya, and just like Orchid and Glory Legend, Bhaya is well known for the excellent service and amenities it provides. It is one of the most reputable cruise companies operating in Halong Bay.

Orchid, Glory Legend, and Bhaya, all provide hotel pick-ups, quality service, welcome drinks, lunch, and dinner for customers. When it comes to experiencing the natural wonder of the World Heritage site, that is Halong Bay, few companies compare to these three.

Boat Trips in Hue and Hoi An

Is there a better way to enjoy the culture and beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Citadel of Hue than by taking a scenic cruise on the Perfume River? We doubt there is.

During this boat trip down the Perfume River, you will experience the history of this must-see city and will get to visit the Forbidden Purple City and the Thien Mu Pagoda.

Fishing is an integral part of the community in Hoi An and luckily enough for tourists, boat trips in Hoi An provide guests with the unique opportunity to appreciate and understand the local farming and fishing communities in and around Hoi An.

A guide accompanies you on this 6-hour tour while you cycle along dirt roads and experience Vietnamese life firsthand. The tour includes visits to several fishing villages.

Hotel pick-ups are provided at both Hue and Hoi An, and tours include snacks, lunch, and beverages.

Boat Trips on the Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is the 'rice bowl of Vietnam'. Cruising past the riverside villages, orchards, rice paddies, and stilted houses make for an unforgettable experience, and a tour every visitor should sign-up for.

The tour is not very long— only 4 hours in total — and starts at Can Tho, making it ideal if you're short on time. The boat trip includes a tour of the Cai Rang Floating Market, a visit to a traditional rice noodle factory, fruit tasting at a local orchard, and visits to local villages.

Visit Vietnam with Asia Highlights

Asia Highlights welcomes the chance to help you design your perfect trip to Vietnam. Our knowledgeable staff will assist you in selecting destinations, accommodations and activities that best suit your requirements.

Check out the following links to learn more about our tours and get a head start on planning your hassle-free vacation today!

• 10-Day Best of Vietnam with Mekong Delta
• 13-Day Vietnam Classic Wonders with Sapa
• 14-Day Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos Tour

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Trang An or Tam Coc: Which Boat Tour in Ninh Binh Vietnam is Best

By Author Emily Junda

Posted on Last updated: October 4, 2023

Categories Vietnam

Ninh Binh, Vietnam is known for its stunning river boat tours and often referred to as the Ha Long Bay on Land . The waterways in the area take you along limestone cliffs, colorful rice paddies, and through narrow caves. There are two different boat tours, Trang An and Tam Coc , each offering a similar yet unique passage through the river. 

In this guide, we will dive into the similarities and differences between the Trang An and Tam Coc Boat Tours.

This post may contain affiliate links. Disclosure policy .

Difference Between The Trang An & Tom Coc River Boat Tours

Trang An Boat Tour

• Boats must have 3-4 passengers
• Guide rows with his/her hands
• Travel under up to 9 caves & 3 ancient temples
• Paddle past the famous scene from Kong Skull Island
• 3 different routes to choose from
• Tours are a loop rather than out & back (always new scenery)
• Can get off and walk in/around ancient pagodas
• Smaller & longer caves
• Cleaner water
• Snacks for purchase at some of the temples
• No “professional” photographer
• UNESCO World Heritage Site

Tam Coc Boat Tour

• Boat can go with just a group of 2 (but can also hold 4 passengers)
• Guide rows with his/her feet
• Travel under 3 caves
• Paddle below the famous Mua Cave Viewpoint
• Tour goes through beautiful rice fields
• The boat tours offer only 1 route (out & back)
• Larger but shorter caves
• Dirtier water
• Snacks are sold after the last cave via local people on boats
• “Professional” photographers on the water (can purchase your photo at the end of the tour)

Overall, we liked the Trang An boat tour best. But it was our first boat tour, so this might have a little something to do with why we enjoyed it better. 

How To Get To The Trang An Boat Tour

There are a few different options for getting to the Trang An Boat Tour, such as car, taxi, pedal bike, or motorbike. 

There is a parking lot across the street from the Trang An Boat Tours. Cost for parking is 15k ($0.63 USD) for a scooter (motorbike) and 10k ($0.42 USD) per bicycle. Make sure you take your ticket and keep it with you, because you will need to show it again when you leave the parking area with your scooter or bike. 

If you are traveling from Hanoi or nearby city, use the website 12goasia to find a bus, train, or taxi ride into Ninh Binh.

Different Routes For The Trang An Boat Tour

There are three different routes to choose from when taking the Trang An Boat Tour. Each offers a loop route so you are always experiencing new scenery and only going through each cave once.

Here are the details for the 3 different Trang An Boat Tour routes:

• Trinh Temple
• Nau Ruou Cave
• Tran Temple
• Ba Giot Cave
• Son Duong Cave
• Khong Palace (aka: Bao Hieu Temple)
• Quy Hau Cave
• Summary: Tour with the most caves, not for claustrophobic tourists
• Thanh Cao Son Temple
• Thanh Truot Cave
• Suoi Tien Temple
• Dia Linh Mountain
• Kim Quy Mountain
• Vu Lam Royal Steps Temple
• Kong Skull Island Movie Set
• Summary: Good happy medium of everything: scenic, caves, temples. Most popular route.
• Summary: Goes through the longest cave (Dot Cave) with an amazing stalactite system, technically the shortest but most scenic route.

Route 1 is technically the longest route and will take the longest amount of time. Route 2 is slightly shorter, and Route 3 is technically the shortest route. All claim to be 3 hrs long, but it all depends on how much time you spend off the boat at each pagoda. 

Jake and I typically just got off to check out each spiritual place, took some photos, walked around, then got back on the boat. Ultimately making the tour shorter and only taking about 2 hours rather than the suggested 3 hours.

Price For The Trang An Boat Tour:

The ticket price is the same no matter which Trang An route you choose. The cost is 250k VND ($10.50 USD) for adults, and 120k VND ($5 USD) for children. But any children under 1 m (3’ 3”) ride free.

Before heading to the boat launching area, you must first purchase your ticket from the ticket booth across the street first. Once you purchase your ticket, you can head to the underground tunnel toward the boat wharf. Here there will be a ticket checkpoint. 

Once your ticket is scanned, head toward the river to find a tour guide (aka boat rower).  There will be someone directing you to the right boat depending on the route you choose. You might have to wait for other passengers if you are traveling in a group of fewer than 4.

What To Expect On The Trang An Boat Tour

The boat fits up to 4 passengers, therefore, you are likely to be sharing the boat with strangers. Each boat won’t leave with just one or two passengers, so you might have to wait for another traveler or two before the boat takes off. Or you can purchase four tickets (1m VND ($42 USD)) to have a private boat tour.

We found the tour guides to not speak much English, so we didn’t really learn much along our tour.

At each temple you will be dropped off to explore the area. It is important to remember your boat number, because you won’t be getting back on the boat in the same place. Once you are finished exploring the temple, you will walk to the pick up location and find your boat # with the same boat rower. 

When going through the caves, there are lights in place so it won’t be completely dark. You will likely need to duck in certain areas so you won’t hit your head. So people with mobility issues may have trouble.

There are additional paddles in the small boats. You don’t need to row, but it can be helpful and take some of the workload off the boat rower. 

At the end of the tour, you can choose to tip your boat rower or not. It is not customary in Vietnam, but it can be a nice gesture. 

How To Get To The Tam Coc Boat Tour

The Tam Coc boat tour is situated right in the city center. Therefore, if you are staying in Tam Coc, you can likely walk to the boat tour. But if you are staying in Trang An or a nearby city, you can get here via car, taxi, or motorbike. 

There are a handful of places you can park your bike or scooter in the city. We parked our scooter here , right next to this public restroom and near the Tam Coc Boat Tours. We paid 10k VND ($.42 USD). 

It was covered parking and there was an attendant standing right outside the area. It didn’t seem super official, but it was cheap and we just took the gamble. Everything ended up being fine and our bike was there when we got back! (Refer to the map above for direct links to parking, ticket booth, and boat launch point).

If you are traveling from Hanoi or other nearby city, use the site 12goasia to find direct routes via bus, taxi, or train.

Route For The Tam Coc Boat Tour

There is only one route for the Tam Coc Boat Tours, which is out and back. The tour starts from the city, down the Ngo Dong River. It passes through 3 caves, which you will pass through again on your way back.

Price For The Tam Coc Boat Tour

There is an extra cost of 120k VND ($5 USD) per person for sightseeing tickets in the Tam Coc area. Children under 1.4m (4’6″) are 60k VND ($2.5 USD), children under 3 are free.

There is an additional cost if you want to go on the Tam Coc boat trip. It’s an additional 150k VND ($6.30 USD) per boat. So for a couple, the total cost would be 120k VND x 2 (sightseeing entrance fee) + 150k VND (for the boat) = 390k VND ($16.50 USD). 

We are not really clear on why there is a separate sightseeing fee, but you need to pay both to go on the boat tour.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket booth right in front of the Ngo Dong River (you will see TONS of boats lined up ready to take tourists). Do note, they only take cash, but there are many ATMs within walking distance from the ticket booth.

What To Expect On The Tam Coc Boat Tour

Foreign tourists can have their own private tour with just 2 passengers. Vietnamese People will need 3-4 passengers for each boat.

The Tam Coc boat ride is out and back and travels through 3 caves. There is only one route to choose.

There are lights in the cave, but you might need to duck in certain areas so you won’t hit your head. 

At the last cave, there will likely be local people offering snacks for purchase. After passing under the last cave, you will turn around and head back. 

Again, our tour guide did not speak fluent English, so it was hard to communicate, and we didn’t learn much along the tour.

The Tam Coc Boat Tour is more about the scenery and rowing through the stunning rice fields. So you won’t experience the same spiritual places like you do on the Trang An Boat Tour. 

When Is The Best Season For Ninh Binh Boat Tours: Trang An or Tam Coc

The best time to visit Ninh Binh for the Trang An or Tam Coc boat tour is from late May to early July to experience the colorful rice paddies. This is considered harvest season, so you can witness the yellow fields. You can also witness the colorful rice fields in October as well (but will likely be a beautiful green). 

Winter (November-May) is Ninh Binh’s dry season. So this can also be a good time to visit Ninh Binh. But the rice fields won’t be in full swing, and you will often see the farmers out there replanting in the paddy fields.

We visited mid-January and the temperatures were in the 40’s-50’s which we found pretty chilly out on the water. The rice fields were also pretty brown and not vibrant yellow or green.

The months of August and September should be avoided because of heavy rainfall and storm season. 

Best Time Of Day To Do Ninh Binh Boat Tours

Also, if you want to avoid the crowds, you should do the boat tour in the early morning . This avoids many of the large tours leaving from Hanoi and you will likely have more of the river/temples to yourself. 

We did our Trang An boat tour in the afternoon and poorly timed our tour with a large group who were very loud and took away from the serene nature you are surrounded by. So ideally, we would have done the tour in the morning if we were to do it again.

What To Bring On The Trang An or Tam Coc Boat Tours:

• Snacks (boat tours are 2-3 hrs/ snacks are available for purchase near the last cave on the Tam Coc tour or at the temples for the Trang An Tours)
• Layers (we visited in January and it was cold!)
• Good Shoes (you climb in and out of the boat, so I’d suggest tennis shoes/no flip flops)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Umbrella (can be both good for rain or shade from the sun)

Ninh Binh Boat Tours From Hanoi (Epic Day Trips & Multi-Day Tours)

If you want to take the hard part out of coordinating your own trip to Ninh Binh, then consider going with a tour operator instead.

Day Trip to Ninh Binh from Hanoi: (Best Value)

This tour leaves from Hanoi and provides a full day of adventures in Ninh Binh. There are 6 different attractions you can choose from: Hoa Lu ancient capital, Mua Cave, Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda, Bai Dinh Pagoda, and Trang An. There are different itineraries to choose from, so prices may fluctuate. The tour returns back to Hanoi at the end of the day. (Transportation, lunch, & entrance fees included) .

Luxury Ninh Binh Day Trip from Hanoi : (Best Day Trip Option)

This tour starts from Hanoi, and brings you to Ninh Binh. Groups are no larger than 9 people maximum. First, you meet with a local family to explore Vietnamese culture. Then, head to the ancient Bich Dong Pagoda where you will learn about the history of Buddhism. Then you head out on the Tam Coc River Tour, followed by a bike ride through the rice paddies and villages. Followed by a hike up to Mua Cave. The trip returns back to Hanoi at the end of the day. (Transportation, entrance fees & lunch included)

Unique Multi-Day Trip Including Hanoi, Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay:

If you are short on time and want to see the best sights in Northern Vietnam, these multi-day tours could be a great option.

Hanoi: 3-Day Luxury Ninh Binh & HaLong Bay 5-Star Cruise :

This cruise picks guests up in Hanoi and heads to Ninh Binh to visit the ancient city of Hoa Lu (aka Ninh Binh), climb to the Hang Mua viewpoint, and take the scenic Trang An Boat Tour. Then the next day you head to Ha Long Bay for an overnight cruise. Finally, head back to Hanoi. (Transportation, accommodation, entrance fees, & all meals (except dinner in Ninh Binh) included)

5-Day Hanoi – Lan Ha Bay 5 Star Cruise – Ninh Binh Tour :

This unique 5-day tour starts off with a pick-up from the Hanoi airport and provides transportation to the city center. Day 2 is a Hanoi City Tour exploring the unique attractions in the city. Day 3 you head to Ninh Binh where you explore Bai Dinh Temple Complex, a ride on the Trang An boat tour, followed by a hike up the Mua Caves Lookout. On Day 4, you head to Ha Long Bay for an overnight cruise. Then, the following day, head back to Hanoi. (Transportation, accommodation, entrance fees, & all meals included)

Check Out Our Video on Both Trang An & Tam Coc Boat Tours

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• 33 Things To Know Before Traveling To Vietnam
• Consider checking out the amazing mountain town of Sapa, Vietnam for more stunning scenery

Is Trang An or Tam Coc Boat Tour Better?

We were lucky enough to go on both the Trang An and Tam Coc boat tours to compare the two. Personally, we really enjoyed both tours with the stunning scenery, so you really can’t go wrong with either. But there are a few differences that make each tour stand out in different ways. 

Both tours took around 2 hours, but they can be extended depending on the temples you explore. Or anywhere you stop to walk around. So some tourists can expect their tours to be anywhere from 2-3 hrs long.

Pros & Cons of the Trang An Boat Tour

The Trang An Boat Tour is technically more expensive by 110k VND ($5 USD). Which in USD is really not much of a game changer in price. But it can be a little harder to get to since there are no hotels or hostels located near the boat wharf. And you will likely be paying for a taxi or for bike/scooter parking, which can add to the overall price. 

The Trang An Boat Tour is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Which means it is in a protected area and you are less exposed to scammers.

A bonus to the Trang An Boat Tour is the 3 different routes to choose from. If you love caves, then route 1 is best for you. If you want a happy medium between scenery, temples, and caves, then route 2 is perfect for you. And lastly, if you want to experience the longest cave in Trang An, then route 3 is a unique experience for you. 

Don’t think too harshly about the route decision, as they are all a loop and meander along beautiful landscapes of limestone mountains, unique caves, and visit spiritual places. 

One drawback is the boat having to be full with 3-4 passengers. While pairing with another couple wasn’t a huge deal, we always had to switch between front and middle seats. So if you are big into photography, having people sit in front of you could be annoying. And when you get off at the temples, you might be waiting for the other pair to get back to the boat or vice versa (which can be added stress).

Pros & Cons of the Tam Coc Boat Tour

The Tam Coc tour, like mentioned above, is cheaper by 110k VND ($5 USD). Another bonus is the location in the city. If you ride a train or bus into Ninh Binh, you are likely to be dropped off in the city here and won’t need to pay for parking. 

The Tam Coc boat trip meanders through the rice paddies and offers beautiful natural landscapes. You can also see the Mua Caves Viewpoint along the ride, which is just a cool sight to see. 

Another bonus for the Tam Coc boat ride is that foreign travelers can have their own private boat. So we were able to have the boat driver stop wherever we wanted for photos or for literally anything.

But the Tam Coc Boat Tours is not located in a World Heritage Site, so it does have more exposure to pushy vendors and scammers. There was an instance when the local people had us stop for snacks before the last cave.

We politely declined, but once we made it back through, we decided to just support the locals by getting a little snack of fresh pineapple. The ladies tried to get us to buy our boat rower a soda and chips, but we just asked if he would rather that or tip him cash at the end (he wanted the cash). 

Coming from the United States, tipping doesn’t really make us feel uncomfortable. But if you are from a country that doesn’t tip, the Tam Coc tour definitely made us feel a little more pressured to tip our tour guide. (Some Google Reviews have stated some people felt very uncomfortable, and at times they were asked for more money halfway along the trip).

Overall, if I had to choose just one, I would choose the Trang An Boat Tour. I personally like loop adventures and enjoyed the scenery on this tour more. But if you are only in Ninh Binh for a short time and staying in the Tam Coc area, I’d probably just do the Tam Coc for convenience.

Save This ‘Trang An vs Tam Coc Boat Tour Comparison’ For Your Planning

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9 Vietnam Boat Tours: Various Vietnam Boat Enjoyment You’ll Love

Vietnam, a country with a diverse coastline and picturesque waterways, offers many opportunities to explore its natural beauty through boat tours.

With many boat types and enchanting destinations, Vietnam provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure and tranquility among Southeast Asia Tours .

This essay explores the types of boats in Vietnam, the reasons to choose a Vietnam boat trip, popular boat tours across the country, engaging activities associated with Vietnam boats, and essential tips for an enjoyable experience.

What Boats Were Used in Vietnam

Basket boats (Thuyền Thúng): These small, round boats are made from bamboo and are traditionally used by fishermen in central Vietnam. They have a unique shape that resembles a basket and are lightweight, allowing them to navigate shallow waters and narrow channels.

Sampan boats : Sampan boats are flat-bottomed wooden boats commonly found in Vietnam's rivers, canals, and deltas. They are used for various purposes, including transportation of people, goods, and produce. Sampan boats can be paddled or propelled by a small outboard motor.

Fishing boats: Vietnam has a vibrant fishing industry, and different fishing boats are used nationwide. Some common fishing boat types include trawlers, longliners, gillnetters, and purse seiners. These boats vary in size and equipment depending on the fishing method and the targeted species.

Wooden junks: Traditional wooden junks are iconic boats used for centuries in Halong Bay and other coastal areas of Vietnam. These boats feature distinctive curved sails and are often used for tourism, offering overnight cruises and day trips for visitors to explore the stunning limestone karsts and islands.

River ferries: In Vietnam's riverine regions, ferries are crucial in transporting people, vehicles, and goods across waterways. These ferries range from small, manually operated boats to larger motorized vessels capable of carrying trucks and buses.

Dragon boats: Dragon boat racing is a popular traditional sport in Vietnam, especially during festivals and celebrations. Dragon boats are long and narrow with ornately carved dragon heads and tails. They are powered by a team of paddlers who row in unison to propel the boat forward.

Tourist boats: With its scenic waterways and natural landscapes, Vietnam attracts many tourists, and various tourist boats cater to different destinations. These can include luxury cruise ships, speedboats, and smaller vessels for exploring rivers, lakes, and coastal areas.

Military boats: Given Vietnam's strategic location and historical conflicts, the Vietnamese Navy and other security forces use various military boats. These include patrol boats, gunboats, landing craft, and support vessels.

Why choose a Vietnam boat to have a trip to Vietnam?

Opting for a boat tour in Vietnam offers many benefits and memorable experiences.

Firstly, it allows travelers to witness the country's stunning natural landscapes from a unique perspective, gliding through serene waters surrounded by lush greenery and awe-inspiring karst formations. Boat trips also provide opportunities for adventure and exploration, allowing visitors to reach secluded islands, hidden caves, and remote fishing villages often inaccessible by land. Moreover, Vietnam's boat tours offer a blend of cultural immersion and relaxation, with the chance to witness traditional fishing practices, interact with local communities, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets on the water.

Boat Tour in Vietnam

Halong bay boat tour.

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands. A Halong Bay Cruise here offers a mesmerizing experience, cruising through the bay's enchanting maze of karsts and visiting iconic attractions such as Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island. Overnight cruises provide an opportunity to savor delicious seafood, engage in activities like kayaking and squid fishing, and witness the ethereal beauty of sunrise and sunset over the bay.

Recommended Vietnam Boat Tour with Halong Bay: 4 Days Hanoi Tour with Halong Bay Cruise Travel Route: Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise – Hanoi

Lan Ha Bay Boat Tour

Adjacent to Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay offers a less crowded alternative with equally breathtaking scenery. A boat tour here allows visitors to explore pristine beaches, indulge in water activities like snorkeling and swimming, and discover hidden lagoons and caves. The tranquil ambiance of Lan Ha Bay makes it an ideal choice for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Tam Coc Boat Tour

Located in Ninh Binh province, Tam Coc is often referred to as "Halong Bay on land" due to its stunning karst landscape. A boat tour along the Ngo Dong River takes visitors through rice paddies, limestone caves, and towering cliffs. The journey passes through three caves, providing a unique experience as local oarsmen navigate the boats using their feet. It’s a suitable place to find the best Vietnam for families .

Recommended Vietnam Boat Tour with Tam Coc: 5 Days A Glimpse of North Vietnam Tour Travel Route: Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay Cruise

Perfume River Boat Tour

In Hue, the Perfume River offers scenic Vietnam river boats that take travelers past historical landmarks and cultural sites. The tour showcases attractions like the Thien Mu Pagoda, the Imperial Citadel, and the Royal Tombs. Immersed in history and surrounded by picturesque landscapes, the Perfume River boat tour offers a glimpse into Vietnam's imperial past.

Recommended Vietnam Boat Tour with Perfume River: 12 Days Vietnam Nature and Culture Tour Travel Route: Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise - Danang - Hoi An - Hue – Saigon

Nha Trang Boat Tour

Nha Trang is a coastal city famous for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. A boat tour here allows visitors to explore the colorful underwater world with travel highlights in Nha Trang through activities like snorkeling and scuba diving. Additionally, island-hopping tours allow relaxing on secluded beaches and enjoying water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing.

Recommended Vietnam Boat Tour with Nha Trang: 20 Days Vietnam Beach Relaxing Tour Travel Route: Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise - Hue - Hoi An - Nha Trang - Saigon - Can Tho - Saigon

Mekong Delta Boat Tour

The Mekong Delta, known as Vietnam's "rice bowl," is a vast network of rivers, canals, and floating markets. A Mekong River Cruise here allows visitors to witness the bustling floating markets, interact with local traders, and experience the unique way of life along the river. Exploring fruit orchards, visiting traditional craft villages, and sampling regional delicacies are among the highlights of a Mekong Delta boat tour.

Recommended Vietnam Boat Tour with the Mekong Delta: 12 Days Essential Vietnam Tour Travel Route: Hanoi - Sapa - Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise - Hanoi - Hoi An – Saigon

Can Tho Floating Market Boat Tour

Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta, is renowned for its vibrant floating markets. A boat tour immerses visitors in the lively atmosphere of Cai Rang and Phong Dien floating markets, where vendors sell fresh produce and local goods. It's an opportunity to witness the rich trading traditions of the region and savor the flavors of Mekong Delta cuisine. Have a relaxing tour in Can Tho !

Recommended Vietnam Boat Tour with Can Tho: 10 Days Vietnam Highlights Tour with Can Tho Travel Route: Saigon - Can Tho - Hoi An - Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hanoi

Phu Quoc Boat Tour

A boat tour in Phu Quoc, a picturesque island off Vietnam's southwestern coast, offers many of the best things to do in Phu Quoc . You can enjoy island-hopping, snorkeling, and scuba diving to explore the island's stunning marine life and coral reefs. Fishing excursions allow you to experience traditional fishing techniques, while sunset cruises provide breathtaking views of the island's beautiful sunsets. Visiting pearl farms and relaxing on Bai Sao Beach are popular Phu Quoc boat tour highlights. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, a boat tour in Phu Quoc promises an unforgettable experience in this tropical paradise.

Recommended Vietnam Tour with Phu Quoc: 7 Days Southern Vietnam Luxury Honeymoon Tour with Phu Quoc Island Travel Route: Saigon - My tho - Can tho - Phu Quoc Island – Saigon

PBR Boat Tour

The PBR (Patrol Boat, River) boat tour is an immersive experience that allows visitors to explore Vietnam's wartime history. Riding on authentic or replica PBR boats used during the Vietnam War , participants can navigate rivers, visit historical sites, and learn about the challenges soldiers face during combat operations. It's a unique opportunity to gain insights into the war and appreciate the significance of Vietnam's waterways during that time.

Various Vietnam Boat Fascinating Activities

The activities enhance the overall experience and provide a deeper immersion into Vietnam's culture, nature, and traditions. Here are some captivating activities to consider during a Vietnam boat tour:

Fishing Excursions: Fishing plays a significant role in Vietnamese culture, and joining a fishing excursion allows visitors to experience the traditional fishing practices firsthand. Accompanied by local fishermen, you can learn techniques such as net casting, fish trapping, or even squid fishing at night. Engaging in these activities provides insights into the daily livesof fishermen and their reliance on the sea for sustenance.

Kayaking and Swimming: Many boat tours in Vietnam offer opportunities for kayaking and swimming in the pristine waters surrounding the country's coastal regions. In places like Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, or Nha Trang, kayaking allows you to navigate through hidden caves, lagoons, and picturesque islets. Swimming in crystal-clear waters offers a refreshing break, connecting you with the natural beauty of Vietnam.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Vietnam is home to vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystems, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. Locations such as Nha Trang, Phu Quoc Island, and Cham Islands offer excellent opportunities to explore the underwater world, encountering colorful coral reefs, exotic fish species, and other fascinating marine life.

Visiting Floating Markets: Vietnam's floating markets are an integral part of the country's culture and provide a unique and lively experience. Joining a boat tour to visit floating markets, such as Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho or Phong Dien Floating Market in the Mekong Delta, allows you to witness the vibrant trade activities, interact with local vendors, and savor traditional Vietnamese dishes and fresh produce.

Exploring Cave Systems: Vietnam is renowned for its captivating cave systems, and many boat tours include a Vietnam Cave Tour to these natural wonders. In Halong Bay, tours often stop at Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) or Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave), where you can marvel at impressive rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. Similarly, the Trang An complex in Ninh Binh province offers boat tours that take you through caves, revealing stunning landscapes and ancient relics.

Cultural Immersion: Boat tours in Vietnam often provide opportunities for cultural immersion, allowing you to interact with local communities and witness traditional activities. This may include visits to fishing villages, where you can learn about the daily lives of fishermen, observe traditional crafts like net weaving or boat making, or even participate in cooking classes to learn the art of Vietnamese cuisine.

Sunset and Sunrise Viewing: Vietnam's picturesque waterways offer breathtaking moments during sunrise and sunset. On a boat tour, you can witness the sky ablaze with vibrant colors as the sun rises or sets over the tranquil waters. Whether it's the iconic sunrise in Halong Bay, the ethereal glow on the Perfume River in Hue, or the golden hues reflecting on the Mekong Delta, these quiet moments create unforgettable memories.

Tips For Vietnam Boat

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience during a Vietnam boat tour, it's essential to consider a few tips. It's advisable to book boat tours with reputable operators or travel agencies to ensure safety and quality service. Packing essentials such as sunscreen, hats, and comfortable clothing suitable for weather conditions is also essential. Bringing a waterproof bag to protect electronic devices and valuables is recommended. Respecting local customs, following safety instructions, and practicing responsible tourism contribute to a positive and sustainable boat tour experience in Vietnam.

Vietnam's diverse coastline and waterways offer an array of boat tours that captivate travelers with their natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure. From the iconic Halong Bay to the enchanting Mekong Delta, each boat tour in Vietnam provides unique insights into the country's rich heritage and stunning landscapes. Whether it's the tranquility of Tam Coc, the bustling floating markets of Can Tho, or the vibrant marine life of Nha Trang, a boat tour in Vietnam is a captivating journey that leaves visitors with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the country's maritime wonders.

You can contact us to tailor your brilliant Vietnam boat tour to the scenery, sites, and things you want.

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Best boat tour in Ninh Binh – Trang An or Tam Coc

Planning to do a boat tour in Ninh Binh and want to know if either Trang An or Tam Coc is the best. Keep on reading, including tips of other boat trips in this beautiful province.

• Overview of all the boat tours

Tam Coc or Trang An?

Tam coc boat tour, trang an boat tour, van long boat tour, thung nham bird garden boat tour, best time to do a ninh binh boat tour, overview of all the boat tours in ninh binh.

It is always a matter of opinion, but the most recommended boat tour in Ninh Binh is Trang An. In Trang An everything is better taking care off and there are better rules for the boat riders. But the most important thing is that Trang An is overall more impressive. The mountains are higher, the caves are larger and the stunning nature combines great with the cultural sights, with hidden temples and pagodas. Tam Coc is shorter and although the nature is stunning, it is less impressive than Trang An. Just one important thing that Tam Coc does have are rice fields, so if you are lucky and visit Ninh Binh during harvest season, you are in for a threat.

Tip: Still want to see Tam Coc? Visit Mua Cave . From this viewpoint you have stunning views over Tam Coc.

Why Trang An?

• Most impressive karst mountains in Ninh Binh
• Stops where you can walk to cultural sights on the way (pagodas, temples)

Why Tam Coc?

• Amazing scenery during rice harvest season
• Less busy than Trang An
• Shorter boat tour, if you have less time

Continue reading for a more detailed explanation which boat tour in Ninh Binh is best for you.

Peddling over the river through stunning karst mountains is a great experience. The unique feature about the Tam Coc boat tour are the rice fields. Especially during harvest season, when they are golden yellow and just before the harvest, when they are bright green, it is a truly magnificent view when peddling along them. The boat trips takes maximum 2-hours, with going back the same way, you are passing the same rice fields two times.

• Best Ninh Binh boat tour for : If you like high mountains and rice fields.

The Trang An boat tour brings you through the most impressive karst mountains of the region. You can choose between three different routes, all of them bring you through the immense mountains. The difference is that you visit other places, like pagodas, temples, caves, including the longest water cave in Ninh Binh and a part of the movie set of Kong: Skull Island. The mix of stunning mountain scenery, and stops on the way where you can walk to these attractions, make this boat trip a great experience and maybe even the best boat tour in Ninh Binh.

• Best Ninh Binh boat tour for : If you like towering mountains, caves and culture.

Van Long is less known and this is also the best part of it. As Tam Coc and Trang An are hugely popular and can get very crowded, in Van Long you can enjoy a boat tour in peace. There are almost no day tours from Hanoi going here, at least not the popular big group tours. The peaceful experience in a stunning landscape makes Van Long perhaps the best boat tour in Ninh Binh. In the morning and evening you can storks flying and inside the wetlands you can see a lot of other birds like the kingfisher. There are even some very rare animals you can see like the langoer and the chamois.

• Best Ninh Binh boat tour for : If you like peaceful nature, birds and other animals.

The biggest reason for going to Thung Nham Bird Garden is for bird watching. Especially in the late afternoon it is a great view to see hundreds of storks flying back to their nests. The area is less impressive compared with Tam Coc and Trang An and for that reason also less visited, which is a great benefit.

• Best Ninh Binh boat tour for : If you like birds

You can do boat trips all year long in Ninh Binh, but if you want less change on rain, visit Ninh Binh during the dry season, from November to March. If you want to visit the rice fields during harvest season, go between late May to early June and the wet rice fields harvest is between September till October.

Tip : Avoid the huge crowds and burning sun, go as early as possible!

Is it possible to do two Ninh Binh boat tours on one day?

Yes, it is possible to do two Ninh Binh boat tours on one day, though it is not always highly recommended. The Tam Coc boat tour can take up to 2 hour and the Trang An boat tour takes at least 2.5 hours. The rowing sampan boats are for many people not comfortable enough to set 4 hours or longer on it. It is possible to combine either Trang An or Tam Coc in the early morning when it is not busy, with Van Long in the late afternoon when the birds fly back.

What other things can you do in Ninh Binh?

There is plenty of things to do in Ninh Binh. You can visit Mua Cave, the best viewpoint in this province or go hiking in Cuc Phuong National Park . If you like history and cultural you can visit several temples and pagodas, such Hoa Lu , the ancient capital of Vietnam and Bai Dinh Pagoda , the largest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia.

Do I need to tip the boat rider?

You don’t need to tip the boat riders. In the past there where a lot of complains for tourist that the boat riders where forcing them to pay a tip before bringing them back on the shore. Now they are not allowed to do this. Especially at Trang An this is very strict. You are of course always welcome to tip them if you want to show your appreciation.

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Local tip! You might like these experiences

Ninh Binh 2 day experience: Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Tam Coc, cooking class & local market

• Learn more about the local culture and history at Hoa Lu and Bich Dong Pagoda.
• Enjoy a boat trip between rice fields and impressive mountains
• Visit a local market and join a cooking class
• Walk to the top for the best viewpoint in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh trip: Bai Dinh pagoda, Trang An boat trip & biking day tour from Hanoi

• Explore the largest pagoda temple complex in Vietnam
• Enjoy a bout trip through the grottoes of Trang An by traditional sampan
• Cycle along the rivers on rural roads

Ninh Binh experience: Hoa Lu, Tam Coc boat trip & biking day tour from Hanoi

• Visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam
• Explore the rice fields and caves on a sampan boat through Tam Coc
• Discover the countryside of Ninh Binh by bike
• Destination: Ninh Binh
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• September 23, 2019

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Read This Before Booking the Basket Boat Tour in Hoi An

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Are you looking at booking the basket boat tour in Hoi An, Vietnam? Then make sure you read this before you do to save some money!

First of all, this isn’t a scare piece. I’m not about to say don’t do the basket boat tour in Hoi An. In fact, the complete opposite – do it, it’s awesome. It’s like a Disney ride on water. I’ll go into why I loved this activity later on.

The reason why I wanted to write this article though, is to say you can save a little bit of hard-earned money by doing one thing – not booking through a tour company .

All the major players like GetYourGuide, Klook, Viator, they all offer the coconut boat tour in Hoi An. However, you DO NOT need to book through one of these companies to do a tour here. Sure, you can if it gives you peace of mind, but why do that when it’s so easy to organise yourself?

Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through everything you need to do. I guess the big reason as to why you’d want to do this is for a more authentic experience in Vietnam . That’s what I’m always looking for when travelling, and it can be done here too.

The main question is – are you the intrepid type who likes to do things yourself? If so, then keep on reading!

What is the basket boat tour Hoi An?

Just a short 10 to 15-minute taxi ride from Hoi An is Cẩm Thanh , otherwise known as the Coconut Village. This is a sleepy backwater on the Thu Bon river with a series of tributaries running through the coconut palm forests. It’s here you can ride in a Vietnamese basket boat, also known as a coracle.

These are crafted from bamboo and palm leaves creating a circular boat that float on the water like petals. It’s such a unique type of boat, and one that’s become synonymous with Hoi An and Vietnam .

Our boat tour started with us lazily drifting on the water watching our Vietnamese guide paddle. It was cool seeing so many brightly coloured boats drift by, everyone wearing Vietnamese conical hats (don’t worry, these are included in the tour). One thing that took me by surprise was how busy it was though – it was absolutely packed here! If you’re looking for a quiet thing to do in Hoi An, then this isn’t it.

In total, the tour takes 45-55 minutes depending on how many photo spots you have. Once you’ve paid for the tour though, everything is included. It’s only the boat spinning that’s extra.

Boat spinning and explore the mangrove forest

Just as we were getting used to being in the coconut boat, our guide paddled us over to one of the highlights of the tour – boat spinning . Here you get to see the boats spin around and around in the water, and it’s crazy how fast they go. It’s like a spinning top on water. A Vietnamese Whirling Dervish.

If you want, you can pay a little extra to sit inside one of the boats as they spin you around. Make sure you haven’t just eaten though because this really is like being on a rollercoaster ride!

As if that wasn’t enough fun for one tour, we then drifted over to watch a local fisherman throw his net into the water. This makes for such a good photo opportunity, so make sure you have your cameras ready.

Then, it was onto a weird karaoke section where we watched locals belt out songs we had no words to. I think this was my favourite section of the basket boat tour because it was so random. Karaoke in a tiny circular boat on the water in Vietnam? Sign me up!

After the adrenaline rush, things became much more sedate as we explored the mangroves of Bay Mau coconut forest. For me, this section really showed the beauty of Vietnam. I would’ve been very happy just drifting around here for a couple of hours. Our guide got very snap happy at this point and took dozens of photos of us which was really sweet. There are definitely lots of photo opportunities on this tour!

And as if that wasn’t enough, at the end of our tour we went crab fishing just at the edge of the mangrove forest. We didn’t catch anything, though that’s the beauty of fishing, right?

As you can tell, there is a lot going on for one activity! It’s crazy, it’s silly, and it’s a whole lot of fun. As you can tell, I really really enjoyed this one!

Getting to the Coconut Village

Obviously one of the things you’re paying for when booking with a tour company is the fact they pick you up and drop you off at the end of your tour. But depending on where you’re staying, you could either be lucky and picked up last, or unlucky and picked up first, wasting time driving from hotel to hotel in Hoi An.

Instead, we just booked a Grab taxi. These are everywhere in Hoi An and are very quick and reliable. That meant we could go when we wanted and not hang around. Win win.

Once we got to the Coconut Village, there are dozens of local tour companies all lined along the river. These are all pretty identical and offer exactly the same services.

After walking around a bit, we went with one called Green Coconut Tour as it had very good reviews on Google. Honestly, you could go with any though.

For the tour itself, we walked through a building to where all the boats parked, haggled about the cost of the tour a bit with a guy, and then paid our guide in the boat directly. It really was as easy as that.

How much does the Hoi An coconut boat tour cost?

If you book through a company, the tour costs between £7.80 to £10 per person (that’s about $10 to $13 per person). For two people, that’s between £15.60 and £20 ($20 and $26). That includes all hotel transfers and the boat tour ticket.

How much did I pay?

• Grab taxi from Hoi An to the Coconut village – 93,000 dong (£3/$3.80)
• Entrance fee for two people – 200,000 dong (£6.40/$8.15)
• Grab taxi back to Hoi An – 63,000 dong (£2/$2.50)
• Overall cost – 356,000 dong (£11.40/$14.45)
• Money saved – Approximately £4.40 to £9.60 ($5.50 to $12)

I know that’s not a huge saving, but it all adds up when you’re travelling. That’s the different between drinking water for dinner or a couple of cocktails. That’s the way I like to look at it. Also, some of the tour companies charge even more than this, so it can be costly.

To be honest with you, you could probably barter the price of the tour down to 150,000 dong. I had heard people pay that, but I thought 200,000 dong was a fair price. I even tipped our guide an extra 50,000 dong in the end as she took so many photos of us!

As I previously mentioned, all the activities you do on this coconut boat tour in Hoi An – watching the boat spinning, the karaoke, wearing the Vietnamese hats and having photos taken of you – all of this is included in the price you agreed at the beginning. It’s only being spun around that costs extra.

Why do a tour on your own?

For me, it felt so much more authentic doing it all ourselves. We left our hotel in Hoi An when we wanted to, we got to haggle over the price which I always enjoy, and it was just us in the boat.

Obviously there are dozens of other boats around you, but we weren’t part of a tour. I liked that.

Hey, I know people like these easy life, and that’s what tour companies are all about. But if you like doing things your own way, then hopefully this one is for you.

If you’re looking for something else to do in Hoi An, then I really can’t recommend this cooking class enough. We had so much fun doing this one! Also, if you’re looking for a packing list for Vietnam , I’ve got you covered!

As ever, if you have any questions about the Hoi An basket boat tour, then let me know if the comments below. I’ll make sure I get back to you.

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About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

2 thoughts on “Read This Before Booking the Basket Boat Tour in Hoi An”

Hi! This article is very helpful! Thank you for writing it. I wonder since I am not checking in any hotel in Hoi An but only visiting to try the coconut boat ride, do you happen to know if the tour in Coconut Village can keep our bags while we are doing the boat trip? Thank you!

Yeah for sure, you’ll be able to leave your bags at whichever tour company you go with, that won’t be a problem at all. I hope you enjoy the tour – it’s a really great one!

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Boat captain jailed for speedboat accident that killed 17 tourists off Hoi An

A speedboat captain has been sentenced to seven years in prison for his role in a 2022 accident that killed 17 tourists off Hoi An City in central Vietnam.

The Quang Nam Provincial People's Court on Sunday convicted Le Sen, 54, of "violating regulations on waterway traffic," citing his failure to reduce speed while navigating dangerous conditions.

Sen was operating the Phuong Dong 05 speedboat, carrying 38 others including two crew members and the rest tourists from Cham Island to Hoi An's Cua Dai Beach, when it capsized on Feb. 26, 2022, amid strong winds and high waves.

Police determined Sen was speeding, attempting to make a turn at 20-25 kph in a zone where the maximum safe speed was 9 kph.

Despite having over 30 years of experience, Sen acknowledged that he misjudged the wave conditions, stating that reducing the speed below 9 kph would have compromised the rudder's responsiveness.

He expressed deep regret for the loss of life and sought forgiveness from the victims' families, who requested leniency at the trial.

"This was an unforeseen accident. I am deeply saddened by the great loss and hope the victims' families can forgive me," he said.

In addition to the captain's sentencing, concerns have been raised about the boat's construction and modifications. The Phuong Dong 05, built in 2016 and modified in 2019 to increase its capacity and withstand higher wave heights, lacked functioning navigation and radar systems at the time of the accident.

An investigation into these issues has been separated from Sen's case.

Local authorities noted that, prior to the 2019 modifications, there had been no fatal accidents involving tourist boats between Cham Island and Hoi An. Following a regulation change in 2018, many vessels on the route were converted to closed-top designs, which some survivors claim made it difficult for passengers to escape once the boat began to sink.

Nguyen Van Son, Hoi An’s chairman, confirmed that while there had been previous accidents, passengers had always been rescued thanks to life jackets. He stressed that the closed design of converted motorboats leaves little room for water to flow out of the boat, worsening the situation during emergencies.

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• Getting to Vietnam

Do you want to explore places filled with historical sites? Are you a fan of experiences? Vietnam is an ideal place for you and your family to enjoy the majestic beauty of the mountains and forests, and the unique cultural features of historical value. Now, going to Vietnam is no longer too difficult, just simply follow travel requirements ; you can visit Vietnam by train, boat, and plane.

Getting to vietnam by plane.

There are 22 airports in Vietnam: 11 domestic and 11 international. The three main gateways are Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi (HAN), Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), and Da Nang International Airport in Danang (DAD).

Tan Son Nhat and the Da Nang airport have domestic terminals in walking distance from the international terminal. Hanoi's domestic terminal is a short ride from the international terminal.

All flights operate from Noi Bai (Hanoi) and Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City - CMC) airports.  Phu Quoc, Da Nang, Van Don (Quang Ninh, or Ha Long Bay), and Cam Ranh (Khanh Hoa, or Nha Trang) airports are starting to receive international flights again.

Currently, all flights have to enter Vietnam through Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh or Danang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc before moving to other parts of the country.

All flights will be concentrated at Noi Bai airport - Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat airport - Ho Chi Minh City. Because the epidemic situation has been controlled and according to the directive to open tourism, all flights as well as other terminals such as Phu Quoc, Da Nang, Van Don (Quang Ninh, or Ha Long Bay) airports and Cam Ranh (Khanh Hoa, or Nha Trang) has all come back into operation and welcomes international the flights.

Currently, international flights can enter at international airports in Vietnam and proceed to move on if flying to other regions by the domestic terminal.

Getting to Vietnam by Bus or Train

New routes and services are making it easier everyday to reach Vietnam from neighbouring countries of China, Laos, and Cambodia. Travelers entering Vietnam this way will want to make sure they have their visas ready beforehand, as there are no Visas on Arrival at land crossings within Vietnam.

Due to the intense epidemic situation in China, all border gates are closed including roads, trains, and air.

The government has reopened to international visitors from 15 February 2022 for all forms of travel. However, buses have yet to reopen for visitors. Some tips after bus routes reopen:

• Cheap buses in Laos are always sought after to move to Vietnam; however, you should choose international buses running from Savannakhet or Vientiane to Hanoi, Hue, Vinh, or Da Nang. This option will save you the hassle of paperwork.
• Besides, you can catch a bus from Luang Prabang to Hanoi and it takes at least 24 hours.

The border gate has reopened but bus routes have not yet reopened to tourists. Some tips for traveling Cambodia-Vietnam:

• Use public bus routes and express buses running the route between Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City, through Moc Bai border gate. Currently, buses are equipped with air conditioning to make the trip more comfortable. Some modern express cars like Sapaco Tourist or Mekong Express.
• Prepare necessary documents such as visa papers, negative test papers, etc.

Getting to Vietnam by Boat

For those who like to experience it, choosing to travel by boat is a great idea. Boat trips pass through the most beautiful places of Vietnam such as Halong Bay, Mekong Delta, and more. However, at present, there are only 2 trains going from Thailand to Vietnam and from Singapore to Vietnam. Other cruise trains have yet to be put back into operation.

Disclaimer: The information above is compiled by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism. Guidelines may change at any time based on conditions, as determined by the Vietnam government.

International Carriers

www.aeroflot.com

www.airfrance.com

All Nippon Airways

www.ana.co.jp

British Airways

www.britishairways.com

Cathay Pacific

www.cathaypacific.com

China Airlines

www.china-airlines.com

China Southern Airlines

www.csair.com

www.emirates.com

www.evaair.com

Garuda indonesia

www.garuda-indonesia.com

Japan Airlines

www.jal.com

www.koreanair.com

Lao Airlines

www.laoairlines.com

www.lufthansa.com

Malaysian Airlines

www.malaysiaairlines.com

Philippines Airlines

www.philippineairlines.com

www.qantas.com

Singapore Airlines

www.singaporeair.com

Thai Airways Intl

www.thaiairways.com

Turkish Airlines

www.turkishairlines.com

United Airlines

www.united.com

Uzbekistan Airlines

www.uzairways.com

Vietnam Airlines

www.vietnamairlines.com

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