Nha Trang is a working fishing port as well as a beach resort, and squid fishing after dark is one of the oldest ways of making a living on the bay. The night squid trip puts you on a local-style boat that heads out around sunset, drops anchor in a good spot and lights up the water with lamps to draw the squid up. With a little guidance from the crew you try a hand line or jig, watch the lights glitter on the surface and, with luck, catch your dinner. Many versions include a seafood meal, drinks and a chance to see the city lights from the water. It is a quiet, atmospheric outing, ideal for couples, families with older children and curious travellers who want to meet the sea on its own terms.
What the evening looks like
Guests meet at the pier or are collected from their hotels in the late afternoon, board a boat and cruise out to the fishing grounds while the light fades. The crew prepare the lines and lamps, explain how squid respond to light and show you the jigging action. Fishing is a game of patience and rhythm, and the guide helps you improve your technique.
Squid you catch can be cooked on board or brought to a restaurant, depending on the trip, and the meal often includes other seafood and rice or noodles. The sea at night is calm and dark, with the city glowing in the distance.
What to expect from the catch
This is not a guaranteed fishing trip, and results depend on the weather, the moon and the season. Some nights the squid are plentiful, and on others you may catch only a few, so treat the experience as an evening on the water with a chance of a catch rather than a promise.
The crew usually ensures everyone has a decent meal, but ask what is included and whether the squid you catch is cooked for you. The trip is gentle and does not require physical fitness, though it does involve standing on a moving boat. Bring patience and a sense of humour, and enjoy the cool night air.
Practical points
Wear dark, comfortable clothes, closed shoes and a light layer for the evening breeze, and bring insect repellent for the pier. If you are prone to seasickness, take tablets in advance and stay near the middle of the boat. The trip is weather-dependent, and cancellations are common in rough seas and in the wet season from roughly September to December, so book early in your stay and keep a spare evening.
Let the operator know about seafood allergies, because the meal usually centres on squid and other shellfish. Photographers should bring a phone or camera that handles low light, since the lamps make striking images on the water.
Making the most of it
The trip pairs well with a day on land, such as the temples, the mud baths or a countryside tour, since you will be out until late. If you are comparing it with a sunset dinner cruise, think of this as the more hands-on, local option, with a simple boat, a working method and a meal built around what you catch.
Ask your guide about the local fishing community, the boats in the harbour and how the night catch is sold at the market the following morning, which is a fascinating glimpse of the port's daily rhythm. Take your time, ask questions and let the evening unfold.
What to expect
The experience
An evening boat trip to the fishing grounds with lamps, lines and a guide, usually ending with a seafood meal.
Best time
From sunset into the evening, on a calm night.
How long
About three to four hours from boarding to return.
Tips
Wear dark clothes, take seasickness tablets if needed, mention seafood allergies and expect no guaranteed catch.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Curious travellers, couples and older children who like hands-on experiences.
- Families
- A good option for children who are patient and old enough to stay still on a boat at night.
- Couples
- A quiet, atmospheric evening on the water with the city lights in the distance.
- Pair with
- A day at the temples or mud baths, then an early night.
- Time needed
- An evening of three to four hours.
Good questions
Will I definitely catch squid?+
No. Results depend on the weather, moon and season, so treat the trip as an evening on the water with a chance of a catch.
Is dinner included?+
Many versions include a seafood meal, but check the inclusions on your ticket.
Do I need experience?+
No. The crew show you how to use the lines and jigs, and the pace is gentle.
What if the weather is bad?+
The trip may be cancelled in rough seas, especially from roughly September to December. Check the refund terms before you pay.
Is it suitable for children?+
Often yes for older children who can sit still on a boat at night. Check age rules and life-jacket availability when you book.
