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About to embark on a coconut boat tour in Vietnam? There are things to wear and bring that you should keep in mind to have a seamless and enjoyable trip.
Planning a coconut boat tour in Vietnam and wondering what to wear? The ride involves water, sunshine, movement, and occasional splashing. The wrong outfit can make the whole experience uncomfortable. The right one means you barely think about it at all. Whether you’re heading to Bay Mau coconut forest in Hoi An or exploring the waters around Ly Son Island, this guide suggests exactly what clothing, footwear, and accessories work best, and also what to leave at the hotel.
A coconut boat (or basket boat) is a traditional, round-shaped vessel of local fishermen in Vietnam. Today, it is used as a tourism service that takes visitors to admire the country’s graceful and beautiful waterways and participate in many other interesting activities, including boat-spinning, net-throwing, and boat racing. Not sure what a coconut boat tour is? Read our full guide to a coconut boat ride in Hoi An.
Now, let’s see what you should wear and bring for a stress-free excursion.
What to Wear on a Coconut Boat Tour
I guess you have piles of nice clothes in your wardrobe, but there are some items you should and should not wear on a coconut boat tour. Keep reading to know what to pack for your upcoming trip.
Clothing for a coconut boat tour
Lightweight and comfortable clothes are recommended to wear on a coconut boat. It will be great if they are waterproof or quick-drying in case you get splashed.
Pants: Wide trousers and shorts are ideal. It’s easier to move. Youths and stylish people nowadays like culottes. They are versatile, knee-, calf-, or ankle-length, wide-leg trousers designed to resemble a skirt while offering the comfort and functionality of pants. You should not choose materials such as jeans or other heavy fabrics, or long and tight pants.
Shirt: Wearing a T-shirt or tank top is perfect for a coconut boat ride. Cotton, linen, or cold elastic are the best. A collared shirt can make you feel hot and uncomfortable, so keep it for another journey.
Skirt or dress: I don’t think it is a super suitable option, but for ladies with high femininity or who want to be beautiful and elegant, a skirt or dress is an indispensable item. If you love them, there’s no problem. Just remember to wear something comfortable and light, as you will have to get on and off the boat while it’s floating on the water. You should use safety shorts to avoid awkward situations.
Life jacket: Everyone joining a coconut boat tour is given an orange or green life vest. You should wear or keep it with you at all times, even if you are a good swimmer. Better safe than sorry.
Footwear for your coconut boat ride
Shoes: Waterproof shoes or shoes with good drainage can protect your feet well. I know some types used for trekking or hiking are very advisable.
Sandals with straps: For me, they are really suitable for a coconut boat tour. Lightweight. Easy to wear. Quick-drying. Cannot slip from your feet. Perfect!
Flip-flops: In my opinion, this is not a good choice for both your feet and pictures on social media. They are slippery and can make you fall. If you’re not careful, you might drop it in the water.
High heels: Please say “No” to this kind of footwear on a coconut boat tour. It is difficult to keep a balance to stand or walk on the vessel, even though you are a supermodel.
Accessories to wear on a coconut boat tour
Sunglasses: Vietnam has a diverse, monsoon-influenced tropical climate with high temperatures, especially during the summer. The sunshine here is quite harsh. Therefore, you should bring sunglasses to protect your eyes and have better visibility.
Hat: Wear a hat to cover your head and face from the sun. Caps or wide-brimmed hats are popular and useful for tourists taking part in outdoor activities. Other kinds of hats, like a fedora, beanie, or beret, look nice but do not really match the vibe. Feel free to wear them if you want. However, be aware that they won’t be the best choice for a coconut boat tour.
Umbrella: It is a helpful and convenient item to bring along when you travel in a group on a coconut boat. An umbrella can protect from the sunshine and rain. Be careful not to get it stuck and bump into other people around you.
Raincoat: On rainy days, having a light raincoat is a good idea to avoid getting wet or sick.
Waterproof bag for phone: Your mobile devices should be secured in a waterproof bag. Zip it thoroughly so that water cannot surge in. You can still use your phone normally.
Jewelry: Accessories such as rings, watches, earrings, necklaces, and more might drop or be damaged by seawater, so you should not wear too many, especially valuable ones.
What to bring along on a coconut boat tour
Sunscreen: Apply the sunscreen to your skin (every part that comes into direct contact with the sunshine). Sunlight in Vietnam is very harsh and can burn your skin. Prolonged sun exposure can damage your skin, too. I once forgot to use sunscreen on my shoulders and back. It turned red, then black, and finally peeled off. The burning sensation is quite unpleasant. Vietnam’s midday sunlight is harsh, so lather up, and you’re good to go.
Medicine: Some people may get seasick or heatstroke while trying a coconut boat tour. Bring some pills in case you feel tired due to the weather or waterways. Drink before you get on the boat if you have some health issues.
Personal belongings: Your passport, money, mobile phone, etc., should be with you at all times. If you book a coconut boat tour, the agency will require your original passport. Bring some cash to buy small and cheap things, like a bottle of mineral water, snacks, or a tip for the boatman. Mobile phone, of course, is an inseparable object for contacting others, searching for information, taking photos, and more.
To summarize what to wear on a coconut boat tour in Vietnam, a lightweight, comfortable, and casual outfit is best for a seamless, amazing excursion. Avoid bringing bulky, expensive items and those that are not easy to move around or dry. Depending on the weather, bring along a hat, umbrella, or raincoat. Remember to apply sunscreen, keep your valuables, and take some medicine if needed.
Learn more about Hoi An and how to travel here like a local via Jackfruit Adventure’s guide.
15 best things to do in Hoi An
In addition to a coconut boat ride, you can also explore Hoi An by bicycle. After the excursion, if you have a chance to visit Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, use Jackfruit Adventure’s cycling tour services. We will guide you to not only unmissable spots but also off-the-beaten-path places in the S-shaped nation.
