The round bamboo basket boat is one of southern Vietnam's most recognisable sights, a tiny coracle woven from bamboo strips and sealed with resin, spun and paddled by a local boatman. On Phu Quoc, the best place to try one is the Cua Can River in the north-west, where the water is calm, the banks are lined with mangroves and the setting is far from the resort strip. The ride is short and light-hearted, and it makes a pleasant add-on to a day in the north. You sit low in the basket while the boatman paddles with a quick, circular motion that gives the boat its famous spin. Many boatmen sing, joke and take photos, and some will let you try the paddle yourself, which is harder than it looks. Between the spinning and the splashing, the trip is more about fun than scenery, although the quiet river and the birds in the mangroves give it a calm backdrop. This is not a major attraction on its own. Think of it as a 30 to 60 minute experience that you combine with a visit to the national park, Starfish Beach or a northern village. If you are travelling with children or friends who like a laugh, it is one of the more memorable low-cost things to do on the island.
What the activity involves
The basket boat holds two or three people, depending on the size of the boat and the passengers. You step in carefully, sit low and hold on while the boatman paddles from the edge. The ride follows a short route along the river, passing mangrove roots, fishing nets and sometimes small floating houses. Expect to get a little wet, and expect the boat to wobble more than you think it should. It is safe, but it is not a place for large bags or valuables.
Where it fits
The Cua Can River sits in the north-west of Phu Quoc, not far from the national park and the road to Starfish Beach. Most visitors combine the ride with other northern stops, such as river kayaking, the national park or a lunch at a riverside restaurant. If you are staying in the south, you will need to allow a long drive or choose a combined northern tour. Check whether the product you book includes transport or whether you need to arrange your own.
What to wear and bring
Wear swimwear or quick-drying clothes and bring a towel, because splashes are common. Leave heavy bags, expensive cameras and loose jewellery in the vehicle, and bring a waterproof phone pouch if you want photos. Wear sandals or water shoes that can get wet. A hat and sun cream help, because the river has little shade in the middle of the day.
Seasons and tides
The river is gentlest in the dry months from about November to April, when the water is calm and the sun is reliable. In the wetter months the river can run higher and the weather changes quickly, so operators sometimes shorten or reschedule trips. Late afternoon is lovely when the light softens, but check the operating hours before you plan around sunset.
Responsible tourism
Tips for the boatman are appreciated, as this is often the family business of the people who live along the river. Avoid dropping rubbish and keep voices low near nesting birds. The mangroves protect the coast and support fish and crabs, so staying inside the boat and on the route helps keep them healthy.
Who should skip it
If you have a back problem, a fear of small boats or difficulty sitting low to the ground, the basket boat may not be comfortable. In that case, a kayak or a bigger boat on the same river is a better way to enjoy the mangroves.
What to expect
The experience
A short guided ride in a round bamboo basket boat on the Cua Can River, paddled by a local boatman.
Best time
The dry season from about November to April, in the morning or late afternoon.
How long
Allow about an hour for the ride, plus travel time to the north.
Tips
Wear quick-drying clothes, bring a towel and a waterproof phone pouch, and leave valuables in the vehicle.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and groups who want a light-hearted local experience.
- Families
- Fun for children who can sit still and hold on.
- Couples
- A quirky, photogenic half hour on the river.
- Pair with
- The national park, river kayaking or Starfish Beach.
- Time needed
- About an hour, plus travel.
Good questions
Is the basket boat safe?+
Yes, with local boatmen who do this daily, but it wobbles and you will probably get a little wet.
How many people fit in one boat?+
Usually two or three, depending on size.
Can children ride?+
Often yes with an adult, but ask about age limits and life jackets.
Is it far from the south?+
The Cua Can River is in the north-west, so allow a long drive or combine it with a northern tour.
Should I tip the boatman?+
A small tip is appreciated and is common practice.
