Hoi An
1/2 day
AH-HA03
4/10
WHY THIS TOUR?

If you want to discover a quieter and more authentic side of Hoi An, this sunrise paddling experience is an excellent choice. Starting before the town fully wakes up, the journey takes you onto the water in time for the first light over Cua Dai, then onward to the morning fish market where local fishing boats return after a night at sea. More than just a kayaking or SUP tour, this is a chance to experience Hoi An’s river life, coastal atmosphere, and everyday local rhythm from a perspective that most visitors never get to see. Official tourism sources specifically recommend sunrise fish-market experiences for early risers in Hoi An.

Highlights

  • Watch sunrise over the Cua Dai area from the water
  • Visit the lively early-morning fish market as local boats return from sea
  • Discover a peaceful and authentic side of Hoi An
  • Choose between kayak or SUP
  • Enjoy breakfast and coffee in a local setting after the paddling session
SUMMARY
  • Start / Finish Point: Hoi An

  • Duration: 1/2 day

  • Destination: Hoi An

  • Group Size : 2

  • Best Season: Apr - Oct

  • Difficulty level: 4/10

  • Activities: Kayaking

ITINERARY
Hoi An – Cam Thanh – Cua Dai – Hoi An

04:30 – 05:15 Our guide will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to the starting point of the kayaking trip in Cam Thanh. After a short introduction to basic kayaking techniques and safety instructions, we begin paddling along the Thu Bon River toward Cua Dai.

There, we will welcome the first rays of the new day over the sea. The next stop on the journey is Duy Hai Fish Market in the Cua Dai area. This is a small local fish market where fishermen return after fishing through the night.

We will then enjoy breakfast and coffee at a local eatery, while taking in the peaceful rhythm of life in Hoi An. The final stop of the trip is a mangrove forest near the river mouth. After that, we paddle back to the starting point, where a vehicle will take you back to your hotel.

End of the program.

* Total kayaking distance: 7 km (2.5 – 3 hours)
* SUP is available instead of kayaking. Please let us know when booking the tour.

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

Inclusion:

Exclusion:

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off by vehicle
  • Other kinds of beverage unlist in the tour program
  • Kayak, life jacket, and accessories
  • Personal expenses
  • Breakfast and coffee

 

  • Tour guides

 

  • Drinking water

 

  • Entrance tickets

 

  • Travel insurance

 

THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

Equipment provided by VAH:

  • Kayak and equipments
  • Life jacket
  • First-aid kit

What to bring: 

  • Water shoes/ sandals
  • Backpack (10L–20L)
  • clothing: long-sleeved swimwear (rash guard) or T-shirt and shorts
  • Sun protection: hat/cap, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Personal medications
  • Electronics (Mobile phone, camera, power bank...), appropriate waterproof cases
ID or passport

Also recommended:

  • Hand sanitizer
  • Spare clothing
  • Waterproof phone pouch
IMPORTANT NOTES

1. Kayaking/ SUP paddling Notes

  • Distance: The trekking route is approximately 7 km.
  • Terrain: Stretching approximately 7 km along the Hoai River and Thu Bon River, this journey offers a unique water-level perspective of lush nipa palm forests, rural villages, and the historic charm of Hoi An Ancient Town. This sunrise SUP tour takes you out to the estuary to witness the first rays of a new day over the sea. You will begin your journey along the Thu Bon River, paddling toward the river mouth where the landscape opens to the vast coastal horizon. After sunrise, continue to a lively local fish market, where fishermen return from their overnight fishing trips, offering a glimpse into the authentic rhythm of coastal life. The journey concludes with a paddle through a lush nipa palm forest, often referred to as a “Mini Amazon”
  • Suitability: This route is ideal for most fitness levels, including beginners. Families are welcome, children from 6 to 10 years old are eligible to participate.

2. Responsible Travel & Environmental Protection

  • Leave No Trace: We strictly follow and promote the Leave No Trace principles in all our outdoor programs. We encourage our guests and partners to apply these ethics to minimize our impact on the natural environment. [See details about Leave No Trace here]
  • Reduce Plastic Waste: To limit single-use plastics, we encourage everyone to bring a reusable Reusable bottle (minimum 1L capacity). Refill stations will be provided throughout the trip.
  • Local Regulations: We kindly ask all guests to comply with the specific environmental regulations and instructions provided by our guides at the destination.

3. Health & Safety

  • Medical Considerations: Your safety is our priority. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions or chronic joint issues (knees, ankles, shoulders, etc.), please consult with your doctor before booking this trip.
  • Transparency: Please inform our tour guide of any existing health conditions or allergies at the start of the journey so we can support you best.