Hoi An Market-to-Table: Cooking Class, Basket Boat & Coconut Forest Tour
Start your day bargaining at Hoi An’s bustling market, then trade the streets for the green channels of Bay Mau Coconut Forest. This four‑hour experience combines a hands‑on cooking class (choose Salty or Vegetarian) with a traditional basket boat ride and crab‑fishing demonstration.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring cash for the market
Vendors often prefer small-denomination Vietnamese dong for quick purchases of herbs or spices; cards aren’t practical in the stalls.
Footwear for the boat
Wear shoes with grip or quick‑dry sandals—the basket boats can be wet and slippery when boarding and disembarking.
Protect against sun and bugs
Light long sleeves, a hat and reef‑safe sunscreen keep you comfortable on the water; DEET‑free repellent helps in the mangrove.
Tell the guide about allergies
If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, notify the operator beforehand so the market and class can be adjusted.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet side alleys near the market where small spice vendors will let you taste sambal and fresh herbs
- •A low embankment viewpoint in Bay Mau where local fishermen perform basket‑boat demonstrations away from the main visitor area
Wildlife
- •Fiddler and mud crabs along the mangrove roots
- •Kingfishers and egrets hunting the shallow channels
Conservation Note
Bay Mau is part of local mangrove restoration and sustainable tourism efforts—stick to paths, limit single‑use plastics and follow guides’ instructions to protect tidal habitats.
Hoi An was a major Indo‑Pacific trading port between the 15th and 19th centuries; its cuisine reflects Chinese, Japanese and European influences. Bay Mau’s mangroves have long supported local fishery livelihoods.
What to Bring
Non‑slip shoes or sandalsEssential
Keeps you steady boarding basket boats and walking muddy paths in the coconut forest.
Sun hat & sunscreenEssential
Ho Chi Minh time zone sun can be strong during the midday market and on open water.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Hydration is key during market walks and the outdoor cooking portion; filtered water is provided but a refillable bottle reduces plastic waste.
Small dry bag or phone pouch
Protects electronics and wallets from splashes during the boat ride.
Common Questions
Is transportation included from Hoi An?
Yes—round‑trip transfer from hotels in Hoi An city center is included in the tour price.
Can I choose a vegetarian menu?
Yes—the tour offers a Vegetarian Menu option; indicate your choice and any dietary needs when booking.
Is this activity suitable for children?
The itinerary is family‑friendly; infants must sit on an adult’s lap and younger children should be supervised on boats and near water.
How many dishes will we learn to cook?
The class covers multiple items depending on menu choice (typically 4–5 dishes), with hands‑on instruction for at least two signature recipes.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–5 hours
Location
Hoi An, Quang Nam Province
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light activity—standing, short walks, basic boat balance; suitable for moderately active travelers.
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