Participating in island-hopping tours, taking a high-speed canoe to Hon Mun or Hon Tam (Nha Trang), or renting a glass-bottom boat to view coral reefs in Vinh Hy Bay are among the most valuable and high-energy experiences in the expanded Khanh Hoa Travel Handbook. However, the space on a tourist boat or a canoe crossing the waves is a shared environment with specific characteristics that require extremely strict technical safety. Equipping yourself with knowledge and rules for civilized behavior when traveling by boat not only helps you protect your own health but also shows respect for the people working to ensure your trip is safe.
Respect the captain and crew absolutely
The captain (boat operator) and the crew members are the people who understand the currents, wind directions, and the nature of the sea in that area the best. They are the ones ultimately responsible for the safety of all passengers on board. Therefore, the first rule of conduct is to always listen to and strictly follow all safety instructions from the crew.
When boarding, quickly move to your assigned seating area to balance the load of the vessel; do not spontaneously get up to walk around, run, change seats, or climb onto the bow or sides of the boat to take photos while the canoe is riding the waves at high speed. Such impulsive actions can easily lead to accidents or falling overboard if the boat hits an unexpected swell.
Be civilized in a shared space on the water
A tourist boat often carries many different groups of passengers. Maintain cleanliness and a quiet shared environment: Do not talk or play music loudly from personal speakers, which can drown out the safety instructions of the tour guide. Always wear a life jacket properly (fasten all straps tightly) throughout the sea journey, and do not remove it without permission from the captain, regardless of how well you can swim.
If you have a history of seasickness, proactively take motion sickness medication at least 30 minutes before boarding. Choose to sit in the rear of the boat, where there is less motion compared to the bow, and keep your gaze fixed on the distant horizon. If you feel nauseous, discreetly use the provided plastic bag or ask for help from the crew; absolutely do not vomit directly onto the boat floor or over the side against the wind, as this will affect other passengers.
Quick checklist:
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Always listen to and strictly comply with all safety instructions from the captain and crew.
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Wear your life jacket correctly and remain in your seat throughout the entire time the boat is moving at sea.
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Absolutely do not climb onto the side or the bow of the canoe to film or take photos while the vehicle is in motion.
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Maintain general cleanliness, gather all personal trash into a bag, and do not throw any items directly into the ocean.
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Proactively take seasickness medication 30 minutes before departure and choose a seat in the back rows of the boat.
