How to take a boat ride on the river in Hoi An — do you need to book in advance?

No advance booking required. Just show up at the pedestrian embankment and locals will approach you with boat ride offers — it happens almost automatically.

Start your boat ride in the afternoon for the best atmosphere. The embankment area also has many leather goods shops selling belts, bags, and shoes.

To watch Da Nang's fireworks from the water, tourist boats position themselves right in front of the display. Alternatively, the Cau Song Han bridge offers a great vantage point.

Renting a yacht for a private group of around 15 people is possible in Da Nang, but requires finding specialized operators — it's not a walk-up service.

For a fuller sea experience, consider an organized trip to the Cham Islands: boat ride, snorkeling, jumping off the deck, beach bonfire with seafood, and a morning hike to the lighthouse.