Phu Quoc Sunset and Night Squid Fishing with Dinner

Planning evening activities in Phu Quoc often leads travelers to the renowned sunset views and lively night markets. But for those craving something a bit more authentic and interactive, the Sunset and Night Squid Fishing tour offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, local culture, and fresh seafood. While it might not be perfect for everyone, it delivers a memorable experience for adventure seekers and curious travelers alike.

This tour takes you on a traditional boat into the Gulf of Thailand, where you’ll watch the sunset over the water, learn how to fish for squid from seasoned local fishermen, and enjoy a dinner of your freshly caught catch. It’s a modestly priced activity at $15 per person, making it accessible to many. We love that it combines natural beauty with hands-on activity, especially the chance to try squid fishing, which is a rare experience for most travelers.

However, a few travelers have expressed concerns about crowd sizes, food quality, and the overall authenticity of the experience. It’s worth considering these points when deciding if this tour aligns with your expectations. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and culturally engaging evening without a hefty price tag, this tour might be worth a try.

Who is this experience best suited for?

This activity appeals most to travelers looking for a budget-friendly night out with scenic views, a taste of local fishing culture, and a chance to enjoy fresh seafood. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a casual, group atmosphere and are open to slightly variable quality in food and service.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At just $15, it offers good value for a sunset cruise, fishing experience, and dinner.
• Scenic Sunset Views: You’ll witness a beautiful sunset over the Gulf of Thailand, ideal for photography and relaxing.
• Hands-On Experience: Learn to fish for squid with local fishermen, providing a taste of authentic maritime life.
• Fresh Seafood: The meal features your own catch, cooked onboard, offering a genuine, farm-to-table vibe.
• Mixed Reviews: While some praise the sights and activities, others mention crowding and food quality concerns.
• Limited Seasonality: During rainy months (May to November), the tour departs from new locations, which might affect your sunset viewing.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins around 4:45-5:00 pm with pickup from John’s Tours office or your hotel lobby in Duong Dong town. The logistics seem straightforward, but travelers staying outside the central areas might face an extra fee, so it’s worth confirming in advance. The transportation is included, with a comfortable car ride to the harbor, followed by a boat ride — both essential to setting the scene for the evening.

The Sunset Cruise

Once aboard the boat, you’ll immediately notice the appeal of being out on the water, with panoramic views of the sunset. Many reviews mention the spectacular sunset as the highlight; it’s a peaceful, photogenic moment that captures Phu Quoc’s natural beauty. The boat cruise is described as relaxing, giving you plenty of time to unwind and soak in the scenery before the fishing begins.

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The Squid Fishing Experience

At the perfect sunset moment, the boat anchors in a calm spot for night squid fishing. This part can be hit or miss — some travelers found the fishing underwhelming or even disappointing, especially if no squid are caught. One reviewer expressed doubt about the cleanliness of food preparation and the effectiveness of the activity, noting that their whole boat couldn’t catch any squid.

However, the crew is generally friendly and eager to prepare whatever is caught, turning it into a fresh dinner. Learning the technique from local fishermen adds an authentic touch, and even if you don’t catch much, the experience of trying to fish in the dark is novel for most visitors.

Dinner on Board

The meal is served onboard after the fishing—usually featuring the catch of the night, prepared simply yet freshly. Some reviews mention a small portion size and basic preparation, which might leave those expecting a full feast slightly disappointed. One traveler noted discovering cockroaches in the kitchen, which is a concern that reflects some deficiencies in cleanliness, though this seems to be an isolated report.

Return and Drop-off

Expect to return to your hotel around 9:00 pm. The entire experience spans approximately four hours, balancing scenic views, activity, and food. The relaxed pace allows for socializing and taking photos, but keep in mind that the activity can run a bit late or be affected by weather, especially during the rainy season.

The Pros and Cons

What Travelers Love

Many appreciate the value for money and the chance to see a stunning sunset from the water. The local guide, often knowledgeable, adds a layer of cultural insight, and the fresh seafood is a highlight for food lovers. The hands-on fishing element is also a rare activity in this region, making it a memorable part of your trip.

Common Criticisms

Some reviews mention overcrowding, with more than 25 people on the boat, which can make the experience feel rushed or less personal. The fishing success appears inconsistent—if no squid are caught, the activity might feel pointless. Concerns about food hygiene and small portions also come up, so it may not satisfy those expecting gourmet standards.

Seasonality and Weather

During the rainy season (May-November), the tour departs from alternative locations like Sao Beach or An Thoi, which might affect the sunset view but could still offer a pleasant experience. Always check in advance about season-specific details to set expectations correctly.

Practical Details and Tips

• Cost: $15 per person, including transportation, guide, water, dinner, and fishing gear. It’s a budget-friendly way to experience the sea at sunset.
• Duration: About four hours, from pickup to drop-off.
• Capacity: Expect a group of 20-30 people; larger groups can feel crowded.
• What to Bring: Towel and sunscreen are recommended, especially during the day. Don’t bring large bags or luggage, as they aren’t allowed onboard.
• Booking: Reserve in advance and note that payment is flexible; you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.
• Seasonal Considerations: During rainy months, ensure your sunset viewing isn’t compromised by departure point changes.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a look into local fishing traditions, a chance to enjoy a beautiful sunset, and a fun, interactive activity. It’s best suited for travelers who want an affordable, laid-back evening with good views and the possibility of fresh seafood, but not for those seeking a gourmet meal or a private, crowd-free experience. The mix of scenery, culture, and casual adventure makes it a worthwhile option if expectations are managed.

If you’re interested in a genuine, local vibe and don’t mind some variability in the experience, this could be a fun addition to your Phu Quoc itinerary. Just stay flexible, be prepared for the possibility of no squid, and enjoy the simple pleasure of an evening on the water.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation by car and boat from central Duong Dong town or your hotel, with an extra fee for locations outside the main area.

What should I bring on the tour?
It’s advisable to bring a towel and sunscreen. Large bags or luggage are not allowed on the boat, so pack light.

Can I expect to catch lots of squid?
Fishing success varies; some travelers catch little or none. The activity is as much about the experience and scenery as the actual fishing.

What is the food like?
Dinner is typically prepared onboard from your catch, but reviews mention small portions and occasional hygiene concerns. Expect simple, fresh seafood.

Is this tour suitable during the rainy season?
During May to November, the tour departs from Sao Beach or An Thoi, which might impact sunset views but still offers the fishing experience.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

This activity provides a relaxed, culturally engaging way to enjoy the evening in Phu Quoc. Whether you’re after scenic views, local fishing insights, or just a different way to spend your sunset, it’s an experience worth considering—just keep expectations realistic and prepared for some unpredictability.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby