Phu Quoc Sunset and Night Squid Fishing with Dinner

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet memorable evening on Phu Quoc Island, the Sunset and Night Squid Fishing tour offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, local fishing culture, and a tasty dinner. While the experience comes with some mixed reviews, it’s a popular choice for budget travelers wanting a taste of authentic island life and stunning views.

This tour is especially appealing if you love watching sunsets, trying your hand at traditional fishing, and enjoying fresh seafood. On the downside, some travelers note that the activity can feel lengthy and crowded, with variable success in catching squid. Still, for just $15, it presents a practical way to spend an evening with a local flavor.

If you’re open to a slightly rustic experience and don’t mind the possibility of a busy boat, this trip could become a highlight of your time in Phu Quoc. It’s ideal for travelers on a budget, those curious about local fishing customs, or anyone wanting an easy, scenic outing.

Good To Know

• Affordable Experience: At $15, this tour offers a good value for a full evening of sightseeing, fishing, and dining.
• Stunning Sunset Views: The cruise provides excellent panoramic vistas over the Gulf of Thailand.
• Authentic Fishing Activity: Learn traditional squid fishing methods from local fishermen, with the chance to catch your own dinner.
• Variable Success: Catches are unpredictable; some guests leave empty-handed, while others enjoy fresh seafood.
• Crowded and Lengthy: Groups can be large, and reviews suggest it might run longer than expected or start late.
• Mixed Food Quality: Dinner is generally simple and homemade but may not meet all expectations, with some noting limited portions or cleanliness issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

How the Tour Starts and Transportation

The adventure kicks off around 4:45 to 5:00 pm with pickup from the John’s Tours office or your hotel within Duong Dong town—most centrally located accommodations are covered with no extra fee. For those staying outside these areas, an additional charge applies, so it’s worth confirming your pickup location.

Once on board, you’ll head towards the harbor, where the boat awaits. The journey itself offers a chance to enjoy the beautiful sunset over the Gulf of Thailand. Reviewers frequently mention the spectacular views—a true highlight that makes the trip worthwhile even if fishing isn’t successful.

The Sunset and Cruising Phase

As the boat gently cruises, you’ll be able to enjoy the panoramic sunset—a peaceful moment perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery. Many find this the most enjoyable part of the tour, with one guest noting, “Great activity would have been better to allow people to see the sunset before telling people to go downstairs.” The crew usually anchors the boat at a prime spot to maximize this experience.

The Squid Fishing Activity

The core of the tour is the nighttime squid fishing. The crew supplies local fishing equipment, and you’ll learn how to fish for squid in the dark—an activity that’s both charming and authentic.

However, reviews show mixed results here. Some guests, like one who said, “Our whole boat couldn’t catch squid,” found the activity underwhelming, especially if no squid are caught. Others, like a traveler who appreciated the “tasty dinner,” enjoyed the effort regardless of their catch. It’s important to remember that squid fishing success isn’t guaranteed; it’s more about the experience than the catch.

More Great Tours Nearby

Dinner on Board

After fishing, the crew prepares your catch (or sometimes, a simple homemade meal). The dinner is generally described as delicious and fresh, though some find the portions small. One reviewer noted the “little portion” and mentioned concerns about cleanliness, such as finding cockroaches in the kitchen area—an issue worth considering if hygiene is important to you.

Return and Drop-off

Around 9:00 pm, the tour concludes with the return to your hotel or designated drop-off point. The length of the trip, approximately 3.5 hours, makes it a long evening—some guests find it a bit “too long” or “a bit boring,” especially if the fishing results are poor.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights

The Good and the Not-So-Good

What travelers love about this tour are the breathtaking sunset views and the chance to see local fishing traditions firsthand. The knowledgeable guides help make the experience more engaging, and the value for money is generally considered fair, especially given the included transportation, guide, and dinner.

On the flip side, some reviews highlight the crowded boats—with groups exceeding 25 people—and the variable quality of the experience. Notably, some guests expressed skepticism about hygiene, mentioning questionable cleanliness and even garbage disposal issues on the boat. The long waiting times, late starts, and inconsistent success in catching squid also temper the overall impression.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This tour is best suited for budget travelers keen on experiencing a local fishing trip with beautiful sunset views. It’s also good for those who enjoy relaxed, group outings and are comfortable with the unpredictability of fishing. If you’re seeking a high-end or intimate experience, or have specific dietary or hygiene concerns, this may not be the ideal choice.

Tips for Making the Most of It

• Bring your own towel and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the trip.
• Arrive early to avoid the feeling of being rushed or waiting around.
• Be prepared for the possibility of no catch—view the fishing as part of the adventure rather than a guarantee.
• Expect a simple dinner; if you have special dietary needs, consider bringing your snacks.
• Since the tour doesn’t operate in the rainy season from May to November at the usual harbor, confirm the departure point if visiting during this time, as some trips will go from Sao Beach or An Thoi.

FAQ

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $15 per person, which covers transportation, a guide, dinner, and fishing equipment, making it quite affordable for a full evening activity.

Does the tour include any transportation?
Yes, it includes round-trip transfer by car and boat, making the logistics simple and convenient.

What should I bring?
Bring your own towel and sunscreen, especially as you’ll be out in the sun at the start and possibly after the heat of the day. Be aware that large luggage or big bags are not allowed on the boat.

Can I expect to catch squid?
While the experience is designed around fishing, success varies. Some guests leave empty-handed, and reviews indicate that catching squid isn’t guaranteed. It’s more about trying a traditional activity than a fishing expedition.

What is the dinner like?
Dinner is typically delicious and freshly prepared from your catch, but portions may be small, and hygiene concerns have been raised in some reviews. It’s a simple, homemade-style meal.

Is this activity suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments, and children should be supervised, as the boat can be crowded and the activity involves walking and standing on a moving vessel.

What happens if it rains?
In the rainy season (May to November), departures might be from Sao Beach or An Thoi, and sunset views are not guaranteed. Always check the weather forecast before booking.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Phu Quoc Sunset and Night Squid Fishing Tour offers a great way to spend an evening soaking in beautiful sunsets, exploring local fishing traditions, and sampling fresh seafood at a budget-friendly price. It’s a relaxed, informal experience that works best for travelers who are open-minded about the success of the fishing, are comfortable with large groups, and enjoy an authentic slice of island life.

If you’re after a peaceful sunset cruise paired with a lighthearted fishing experience, this tour delivers. Be prepared for some unpredictability—whether it’s the weather, the catches, or the quality of the meal—and you’ll likely find it a worthwhile addition to your Phu Quoc adventures.

However, if you prioritize hygiene, exclusivity, or a guaranteed catch, you might want to explore other options or consider private tours. For most, though, this trip embodies the simple joys of island life—sunset views, local culture, and fresh seafood—all at a very reasonable price.

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