The tranquil pace of life at Cua Lo basket boat market.
Diep Thanh•May 17, 2026 16:00
Besides the market selling fresh squid, there's another unique market near Lan Chau Peninsula (Cua Lo Ward). Held in the morning, this market is where fishermen sell various kinds of seafood caught near the shore from their small, charming basket boats.
The basket boat market usually opens at dawn, when the basket boats return to shore. Photo: Diep ThanhThe market is located near the Lan Chau peninsula, a gathering point for hundreds of fishing boats belonging to fishermen from Cua Lo ward. Photo: Diep ThanhA unique feature of the basket boat market is the absence of middlemen or traders buying and selling. Seafood caught by fishermen is brought directly to their family members for sale. Photo: Diep ThanhBecause the seafood is caught by small boats, the variety on display isn't extensive, usually consisting of shrimp, fish, crabs, squid, etc., caught near the shore. The seafood is sold immediately after being caught, ensuring its freshness. Photo: Diep ThanhNo one knows exactly when fishing with basket boats began in Cua Lo, but in many fishing families, generations have been involved in it, despite the hard work and income dependent on the weather. Photo: Diep ThanhMany children grew up by the sea, attached to the small boats, and were raised on their fathers' catches of fish and shrimp. Photo: Diep ThanhThe men who travel in basket boats usually set sail at 2-3 a.m. and return at dawn. If they still have the energy, they may make another trip to return at noon. Photo: Diep ThanhThe basket boat market is a unique feature of life for the people in the Cua Lo coastal area. Many tourists enjoy the experience of unloading fish, pulling boats, and choosing seafood here. Photo: Diep ThanhThe vibrant array of colorful basket boats is also a unique sight that tourists often choose to photograph and capture as memories. Photo: Diep Thanh
