COCONUT BASKET 8

Coconut Basket Ride Adventure in Da Nang, Vietnam

In the picturesque countryside of Hoi An, just a short drive from Da Nang, lies the serene Cam Thanh Coconut Village. An ancient town, you cannot miss visiting the seven – hectare water coconut woods with the unique ecosystem of water coconut trees and the iconic Vietnamese coconut basket boats, known locally as “thung chai.” These round boats, traditionally used by fishermen, offer a memorable adventure for visitors seeking an authentic cultural experience.

EMBARKING ON THE ADVENTURE

The excitement begins as you arrive at the village and are warmly greeted by local guides, dressed in traditional attire.

Coconut basket boat ride!!!

They usher you into the round, woven bamboo boats, and the journey begins.

As you glide through the narrow waterways, lined with lush coconut palms, the tranquility of nature surrounds you. The rhythmic paddling and the gentle swaying of the boat create a soothing ambiance.

CRABBING EXPEDITION
Here , you will be enthusiastically welcomed by the local people, they will lead you to visit the creeks in the water coconut woods by basket boats, you will be instructed to fish crabs and you will see the performances of rowing basket boats by the local rower

Soon, the guide hands you a bamboo pole with a line and bait attached – it’s time for crabbing! The guide shows you how to gently drop the line into the water and wait for a bite. The anticipation builds as you feel the tug on the line, and with a swift pull, you might just catch a small, vibrant crab. It’s a fun and interactive way to learn about the local fishing techniques and ecosystem.

Hoi An Coconut Forest – Enjoying the Basket Boat Rides on the River
HISTORY OF THE BASKET BOAT: 
A basket boat or a coconut boat is a special boat in Vietnam. It is a small, round bamboo boat with two meters in diameter, and used as a means to catch fish on the beach by fishermen in the middle and south of Vietnam. Other names of basket boats are Thuyen Thung, Thung Chai.
Basket boats first appeared in Vietnam in the French colony to avoid paying excessive taxes on boat ownership to the French. French believe basket boat is not a boat, but baskets, thus there is no tax for the basket boat owners.
Nowadays, basket boats are still used to catch fish, but it is becoming more popular for tourists as a means to explore Hoi An. You may feel it unstable for the first time you get on the boat, but it is not. The tour guide will instruct you where to sit to distribute weight evenly. A basket boat has enough room for 3 adults, including a tour guide. There is a lot of space for you to put bags, shoes, a camera… on the boat. You need to wear life jackets when on the boat. (but we did not!!)
This large coconut forest is located next to 3 famous rivers in Hoi An: Hoai river, Thu Bon river, and De Vong river flowing into the sea. Because this place has salty water suitable for the development of nipa coconuts, the coconut forest here is getting bigger and greener day by day, blending with the charming image of the river, giving you the feeling of being in a province somewhere in the Southwest Region.

TWIRLING BOAT DEMONSTRATION:

As the boat journey continues, the guide showcases the skillful art of twirling the basket boat. With expert control, they spin the boat in circles, creating a whirlpool effect. It’s a thrilling sight, and for the brave, there’s an opportunity to try twirling the boat yourself. The laughter and cheers from fellow adventurers add to the excitement, making it a highlight of the trip.

KARAOKE ON THE WATER:

Adding a modern twist to the traditional experience, some boats are equipped with portable karaoke systems. As the boat drifts along the water, you can sing your favorite songs, creating a lively atmosphere. The combination of music, laughter, and the stunning natural surroundings makes for an unforgettable and joyous moment.

 

 

WRAPPING UP THE ADVENTURE:

The ride concludes with a leisurely paddle back to the starting point. As you disembark, the warmth of the local hospitality leaves a lasting impression. The coconut basket ride offers a perfect blend of culture, entertainment, and natural beauty, providing a unique insight into the daily lives of the villagers.

TIPS FOR THE BEST EXPERIENCE

  • Wear comfortable clothing:
  • You’ll be in the boat for a while, so dress comfortably and be prepared for the sun with a hat and sunscreen.
  • Be ready to get a little wet: The boat ride can be splashy, especially during the twirling demonstration.
  • Bring a camera: The scenery is stunning, and you’ll want to capture the memorable moments.
  • Engage with the locals: The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, eager to share their culture and stories.

 

 

Share this post