In recent days, footage showing Jasmine, a US Vietnamese tourist, enjoying a basket boat ride in Bay Mau coconut forest in Danang City has spread widely across social media. The clip captures two contrasting moments: a calm glide through the water followed by sudden, rapid spinning like a whirl, creating a thrilling sensation.
The female tourist shares her 'unforgettable' experience while travelling in Hoi An (Photo: Jasmoomoo).
This striking contrast has delighted viewers, many of whom described the activity as an unforgettable “must try once in a lifetime” experience, especially for those seeking adventure.
The basket boat experience in Bay Mau coconut forest is increasingly attracting both domestic and international visitors. Once a daily livelihood activity for local residents, these round bamboo boats have evolved into a distinctive tourism symbol, contributing to the unique appeal of Hoi An.
Nguyen Hoai Thuong, 42, a tourist from Ho Chi Minh City, said her family enjoyed navigating narrow waterways, breathing fresh air, participating in basket boat spinning and listening to traditional bai choi singing.
“This is a destination worth trying when visiting Hoi An, especially for families with children,” she said.
Coracle boats navigate through the Bay Mau coconut forest (Photo: Hoai Son).
Bay Mau coconut forest is located in Cam Thanh Village, at the confluence of the Thu Bon, Truong Giang and Lo Canh Giang rivers before they flow into the sea. The area serves as a buffer zone for the Cu Lao Cham, Hoi An world biosphere reserve, featuring a rich brackish ecosystem often described as the region’s “green lung”.
In 2024, Tripadvisor ranked the basket boat experience in Cam Thanh among the top 25 most attractive boat activities globally. In 2025, Forbes named Cam Thanh one of the world’s 50 most beautiful villages, placing it 20th and making it Vietnam’s sole representative on the list.
Tourists explore the coconut forest by coracle boat (Photo: Hoai Son).
Tran Tan Dung, chairman of Hoi An Dong Ward People’s Committee, said every canal, coconut grove and field in Cam Thanh Village is deeply tied to local life and memory, in both wartime and peacetime.
He added that Forbes’ recognition not only reflects local pride but also underscores the growing international standing of Danang’s tourism industry.