{"id":5192,"date":"2020-12-08T13:59:15","date_gmt":"2020-12-08T05:59:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thesmartlocal.com\/vietnam\/?p=5192"},"modified":"2020-12-08T13:59:15","modified_gmt":"2020-12-08T05:59:15","slug":"water-sports","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thesmartlocal.com\/vietnam\/water-sports\/","title":{"rendered":"9 Water Sports In Vietnam (Th\u1ec3 Thao D\u01b0\u1edbi N\u01b0\u1edbc) From Surfing To Jetskiing To Get Your Adrenaline Pumping"},"content":{"rendered":"

Water sports in Vietnam for all fitness levels<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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Beyond the traffic snarls and motorbike mazes of Vietnam are vast stretches of sands and blue oceans, which all make idyllic spots for thrilling outdoor water sports even if you haven\u2019t hit the water for months.<\/span><\/p>\n

From stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) for a scenic cardio workout to uniquely local basket boat<\/span> sailing,<\/span> make the most of your time in the cooling waters with these 9<\/strong> <\/span>water sports in Vietnam<\/b>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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1. Basket boat sailing – a made-in-Vietnam water sport<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\nImage adapted from: @badhitchhiker<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Sailing in<\/strong> basket boats <\/b>through coconut forests is an essential part of any visitor\u2019s trip to Cam Thanh Village in Hoi An, as well as coastal villages in Central Vietnam.<\/p>\n

Tourists will sit in a basket boat with an experienced local sailor and slowly sail along the waters. If you know your way around the oars, you can grab them and sail the basket boats yourself.<\/p>\n

\"basket
\nImage credit: @tripnaovisor<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Basket boats are a rural means of transportation that date back to the French colonial era in the 19th century. In an attempt to avoid the colonial government\u2019s harsh tax on boat ownership, Southern Vietnamese farmers and fishermen invented a new kind of boat made from bamboo baskets that can contain 3 people.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

By arguing that these were bamboo baskets, these ingenious farmers successfully evaded the tax and basket boats soon became popular among local residents.<\/span><\/p>\n

Those looking for an extra challenge in this ride can ask the sailors to perform their boat spinning techniques. But mind you – moving rapidly in circles is not for those with a fear of vertigo.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

You can find these boat rides in Hoi An, Nha Trang, Phan Thiet, and Vung Tau from <\/span>VND100,000-200,000 (~USD5.78-USD11.56) <\/b>per ride.<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Difficulty level:<\/b><\/span> Easy<\/span><\/p>\n

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2. Banana boat ride – suited for team activities, even if you’re new to water sports<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\"banana
\nImage credit: @zemluv95<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

For groups of friends or colleagues looking to have fun together, try bonding over a<\/span> banana boat ride.\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n

Your group of 6 – 10 riders clad in life vests will be seated on an inflatable banana-shaped boat hooked to a speedboat, which pulls the banana boat at high speeds up to 50-80km\/h.<\/span><\/p>\n

Each ride lasts about 10 minutes. The gist of the game is to hold on to one another as tightly as possible and not get flipped over into the water.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\nImage credit: Shop thuy\u1ec1n b\u01a1m h\u01a1i<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

This is a fun and exciting activity where both grownups and kids over 8 can enjoy some waves together.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

You can enjoy this sport in <\/span>Sunworld Hon Thom<\/span><\/a> in Phu Quoc or Nha Trang from <\/span>VND 850,000 (~USD36.75)<\/b> per group boat ride<\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Difficulty level:<\/b><\/span> Easy<\/span><\/p>\n

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3. SUP (Stand-Up Paddle Boarding) – a great calorie-burning sport<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\nA rider paddling in Tri An Lake<\/em>
\nImage adapted from: <\/span>W.A.O SUP Saigon<\/a><\/span><\/em>
\n<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Not only does <\/span>stand-up paddle boarding<\/b> (<\/span>SUP) <\/b>let you enjoy nature and explore your surroundings from a paddle board, but it also burns plenty of calories – it isn\u2019t as easy as it looks from the<\/span> shore.\u00a0<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Since you\u2019re constantly on the move on the water, your arms are always moving, which accordingly increases your heart rate and strengthens your back and arm muscles.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"stand
\nSUP riders on Saigon River<\/em>
\nImage adapted from: <\/span>Saigon SUP Club<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Unlike other water sports that can only be found on the beaches or islands outside the city, SUP is a popular sport that can be accessed while in town. You can rent SUP gear at many shops located along lakes and rivers in Saigon or Hanoi.<\/p>\n

\"stand
\nImage credit: Hanoi Kayak Club<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Those in Hanoi can check out Hanoi Kayak Club<\/a>, which is also a popular place to rent kayaks from (from VND275,000, ~USD11.89 per pax)<\/b>.<\/p>\n

If you really want to enjoy this sport to the fullest by knowing the ins and outs of it, do take a 1-day training course at Paddle Station <\/span>(VND600,000, ~USD25.95 per pax)<\/b>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Those in Saigon can join <\/span>Saigon SUP Club <\/span><\/a>or W.A.O SUP Saigon Club<\/a>, where you can paddle and practice yoga with the help of professional SUP paddlers from <\/span>VND1,569,000 (~USD67.85) per pax.<\/b><\/p>\n

Difficulty level:<\/b><\/span> Moderate<\/span><\/p>\n

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4. Kayaking – suitable for longer paddling trips<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
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\"kayak<\/p>\n

For a similar sport that offers more stability and requires fewer balancing skills compared to SUP, go for <\/span>kayaking.\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n

Kayaking involves a small boat with enough storage for two riders to sit comfortably and a double-sided paddle, making it more suitable for a long paddling trip compared to SUP.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"kayak
\nKayaking in The BCR Theme Park in Saigon\u2019s District 9<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>The BCR<\/a><\/span><\/em>
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\nHowever, since kayaks are usually 1 to 3 feet longer than SUP paddle boards, they are less portable.\u00a0<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Vietnam has plenty of beautiful kayaking spots, especially in Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay. However, you can also kayak around the lakes and rivers in Saigon and Hanoi, where you can find a plethora of <\/span>kayak rental services<\/span><\/a> (from VND50,000, ~USD2.16 per person) <\/b>alongside the kayaking spots.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Difficulty level: <\/b><\/span>Moderate<\/span><\/p>\n

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5. Snorkelling – panoramic underwater views<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\"snorkel
\nImage adapted from: @nha_trang_fun_divers\u00a0<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

If you are keen to explore pristine ecological wonders but are not trained in diving, try snorkelling.\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n

Snorkelling allows you to swim at the water\u2019s surface with masks and breathing tubes on without having to dive deep into the water.<\/p>\n

\"snorkel
\nImage credit: Hue Imperial Citadel City<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Snorkelling doesn\u2019t require any previous experience or skills, including swimming, since you can snorkel with a swim belt or a life vest on. However, it\u2019s safer if you know basic swimming strokes.<\/p>\n

\"snorkel
\nImage credit: @nha_trang_fun_divers<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

For a no-fuss snorkelling experience, sign up for a snorkelling tour in Phu Quoc<\/a> and Nha Trang<\/a> (from VND310,000, ~USD13.41\/adult<\/b> in a small group) where you can snorkel amid a crystal seabed of emerald algae and take in the sight of wondrous coral reefs with the assistance of experienced snorkelers.<\/p>\n

Difficulty level:<\/b><\/span> Moderate<\/span><\/p>\n

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6. Surfing – thrilling and educational<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\"surfing\"
\nImage credit: @muinesurfschool\u00a0<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Bracing and invigorating, surfing <\/b>is a water sport that never goes out of style. Aside from looking cool while riding the waves, you\u2019ll also learn more about the ocean as you pay close attention to the rhythm of waves and tides.<\/p>\n

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\nImage credit: @muinesurfschool\u00a0<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

However, in order to have a fun time surfing, you\u2019ll need to get a crash course on how to catch a wave and paddle. You\u2019ll also need basic swimming skills to stay safe and navigate the water whenever you fall off the board.<\/p>\n

\"surfing\"
\nImage credit: @muinesurfschool\u00a0<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

The best time for surfing in Vietnam is between September and March, when the seas are calmer.<\/p>\n

You can surf on the beaches and islands of Da Nang, Vung Tau<\/a>, Nha Trang, and Mui Ne, home to powerful waves and ideal weather conditions that offer enjoyable surfing experiences to surfers of all levels.<\/p>\n

Difficulty level:<\/b><\/span> Hard<\/span><\/p>\n

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7. Kitesurfing – ride with the wind<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\"kite
\nImage credit: L\u01b0\u1edbt V\u00e1n Di\u1ec1u<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

While both surfing and kitesurfing have steep learning curves and require lots of practice, kitesurfing <\/b>is a bit more challenging than surfing. It involves making use of the power of the wind with a controllable kite<\/a> to glide across the water on a board.<\/p>\n

\"kite
\nImage credit: @muinesurfschool<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Unlike surfing that needs powerful waves, kitesurfing thrives on wind force, meaning that kitesurfers will need a lot of wind to surf.<\/p>\n

This sport requires at least 10 continuous hours of practice with a certified instructor before surfers can start gliding.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"kite
\nImage adapted from: <\/span>Phi Kite School<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Swimming skills are essential because it\u2019s inevitable for new surfers to fall off the board on their first few attempts.<\/span><\/p>\n

Mui Ne and Phan Rang are 2 of Vietnam\u2019s most ideal kitesurfing spots thanks to favorable downwind conditions, clean blue oceans, and chill vibes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When in Mui Ne, you can sign up for 10 hours of kitesurfing lessons with the certified instructors of <\/span>Water Sky Mui Ne<\/span><\/a> at <\/span>USD275-USD450 per person, <\/b>as well as rent surfing gear here at USD30<\/strong> per hour.<\/span><\/p>\n

And when in Phan Rang, check out <\/span>Phi Kite School<\/span><\/a>\u2019s comprehensive kitesurfing training package, ranging from <\/span>USD35 – USD650<\/b>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Difficulty level:<\/span> <\/b>Hard<\/span><\/p>\n

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8. Jet skiing – enjoy the water without having to get into it<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\"jet
\nImage adapted from: Nha Trang Vi Vu<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking for an exhilarating time around the water and its cooling breeze without having to get into the water, jet skiing <\/b>is your sport.\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n

While this activity is fun for all ages, it\u2019s not easy to master.<\/p>\n

You can ski at your own speed, but it takes a lot of balance and coordination to retain control over the motor as you navigate through the waves.<\/p>\n

\"jet
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>Motonuoc.vn Recreation & Sports Center \/ Trung T\u00e2m Gi\u1ea3i Tr\u00ed V\u00e0 Th\u1ec3 Thao<\/a><\/span><\/em>
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\nEven though you will have life vests on throughout the ride just in case you fall off, it\u2019s advisable to have basic swimming skills before hopping on the motor.\u00a0<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

You can enjoy this sport in many beaches in Nha Trang or Sun World Hon Thom Nature Park.<\/a> in Phu Quoc.<\/p>\n

\"jet
\nImage credit: @boris_elephant<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

A jet skiing package in Sun World Hon Thom Nature Park allows you to rent a jetski that\u2019s enough to fit two riders for 10 to 15 minutes at VND600,000 to VND850,000 (~USD25.88-USD36.67).\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n

Difficulty level:<\/b><\/span> Moderate<\/span><\/p>\n

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9. Flyboarding – a water sport full of airborne thrills<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\"flyboard\"
\nImage credit: Nha Trang Holiday<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

While all water sports are fun, flyboarding<\/b> lets you fly above the water surface and perform airborne freestyle stunts like a professional athlete.<\/p>\n

In order for you to do that, you\u2019ll be pushed by two jets attached to your feet powered by a hydro jet propulsion.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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\nImage credit: Nha Trang Holiday<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

All you have to do is to get an 1-hour crash course<\/b> with certified instructors on how to use that jet power, avoid water obstacles such as rocks and sandbars, and then fly.<\/p>\n

This sport is most popular in Nha Trang, home to Vietnam\u2019s most beautiful beaches and an epicenter of water sports activities. You can sign up for flyboarding packages with <\/span>Huy Quyen Travel<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>Nha Trang Holiday.<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Flyboarding is considered an extreme water sport in Vietnam and therefore can be a bit costly to try. For <\/span>VND650,000 to 1,200,000 (~USD28.04-USD51.77)<\/b>, you can enjoy this heart-pumping sport for about 10 to 15 minutes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Difficulty level: <\/b><\/span>Difficult<\/span>
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Water sports in Vietnam for an exhilarating break from the city<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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For a change from water parks and swimming pools, head out to the river or the sea to try relaxing in nature. From basket boat sailing to kitesurfing, the variety of fun water sports in Vietnam will let you surf your stress away.<\/span><\/p>\n

Also check out:<\/span><\/p>\n