What are round basket boats in Hoi An and why ride them?

Round basket boats (Basket Boat) are a traditional Vietnamese type of boat that originally appeared due to the poverty of fishermen who could not afford proper wooden vessels. They are made of woven bamboo, coated with tar for waterproofing. Nowadays, they are more of a cultural symbol and a popular tourist attraction in Hoi An.

Riding these boats offers a completely different experience than evening cruises on long boats along the river in the center of Hoi An. The attraction takes place outside the old town, on quiet sections of the river or in lagoons surrounded by coconut groves. You will see peaceful rural landscapes, fishing houses, and possibly local fishermen at work.

The boatman often allows tourists to try rowing themselves, but be careful: steering a round boat is not easy, it seems unstable and spins easily in place. This is a great opportunity to get away from the tourist center and see a more rural, authentic Hoi An.

We recommend reading our reliable and honest guide, where we detailed all the nuances: Ride on round boats in Hoi An: how to visit, opening hours and cost.