Rowing basket in Hoi An - Interesting activities not to be missed

Basket boats, also known as “thung chai”, are round boats made from bamboo and covered with waterproof plastic. This design makes the boat light, durable and easy to move on the water. Initially, basket boats were used by fishermen to catch fish and move on the river. Today, they have become a unique means of tourism, typical of Hoi An. Below are the activities when participating in basket boat rowing at the Bay Mau coconut forest in Hoi An

Learn How to Row a Basket Boat

Learn How to Row a Basket Boat

At Bay Mau Coconut Forest, many tours combine basket boat rowing instruction. You will be given detailed instructions by local people and have the opportunity to practice directly on the river.

Basic basket boat rowing techniques

• Sitting position:Sit in the middle of the boat, balanced and comfortable.
• How to hold the paddle:Use a single paddle, hold it firmly and place it in front.
• Rowing technique:To move the boat straight, you need to row in a horizontal figure 8 pattern. Push the paddle from left to right and vice versa, creating a thrust to help the boat move forward. To turn the boat, row harder in the opposite direction of the direction you want to turn.

Notes when rowing a basket boat

• Balance:Since the boat has a round bottom, balance is important. Avoid sudden movements or standing up while paddling.
• Safety:Always wear a life jacket and follow local instructions to ensure safety.

Special Basket Spinning Show

Special Basket Spinning Show

One of the experiences not to be missed when coming to Bay Mau Coconut Forest is the uniquebasket boat spinning performance. Far from the peaceful, relaxing atmosphere of the cool coconut forest, the basket boat spinning performance brings a vibrant and exciting feeling. This is not only a recreational activity but also an opportunity for visitors to discover the ingenuity and talent of the “boat rowing artists” here.

In the performance, the basket boat drivers demonstrate their skillful skills when rowing the boat to rotate quickly on the water surface. Each strong, graceful rotation like an underwater dance makes visitors unable to take their eyes off. Visitors sitting on the basket boat need to maintain balance, holding on to the edge of the basket to fully experience the excitement that the game brings. For those experiencing it for the first time, the strong feeling from the continuous rotation will leave an unforgettable impression.

HOI AN TOURISM | Be amazed by the top-notch Basket Dance in the middle of the Bay Mau Coconut Forest

spin the boat

Not just a game,spinning the basket boatis also a real art performance. Each basket dance attracts the attention of visitors with continuous cheers and applause. In particular, this performance once "caused a fever" on social media platforms thanks to its uniqueness and appeal.

Han So Won tried her hand at basket boating here.

In 2019, in a reality show, Miss Korea PacificHan So Wontried her hand at basket boating here. Although she accidentally fell into the water because of excitement, this moment became the “center of attention” and was widely shared by the online community, increasing the appeal of this activity.

Join Crabbing and Fishing

Join Crabbing and Fishing

One of the interesting experiences when coming to Bay Mau Coconut Forest is participating in crab catching and fishing activities on a basket boat. 

When the basket boat moves to shallow water areas or near mud flats, fishermen will prepare tools such as fishing rods, live shrimp bait and baskets to hold them. They will guide tourists on how to drop the rod, wait patiently and lift it up at the right time to catch freshwater crabs or small fish.

• Catching stone crabs:The tiny stone crabs often hide in the roots of water coconuts or mud flats near the forest. Under the guidance of the boatman, visitors will learn how to use shrimp bait to lure the crabs out of their hiding places. The thrill of the crabs biting the bait and the excitement of pulling up the rod are unforgettable moments.
• Fishing:With small fishing rods and live bait, visitors can try their luck to catch freshwater fish. This activity brings relaxation and a sense of victory every time there is a “trophy”.