Discover the Can Tho Floating Fish Farm, a unique aquatic heritage site nestled along the Hau River at Con Son Islet. This guide explores the fascinating world of river aquaculture, and the dedicated conservation efforts of local fish farmers like Mr. Bay Bon. Join Mekong Smile for a transformative journey that immerses you in the rhythmic life of the river, highlighting the resilience and ingenuity of the Mekong’s water-based communities.
At Mekong Smile, we believe that the true essence of the Mekong Delta flows within its waterways. Located just a short boat ride from the mainland, the Can Tho Floating Fish Farm (Làng bè cá Cồn Sơn) is a premier destination for travelers seeking an authentic connection with the “vibrant living heritage” of the river, where the harmony between humans and aquatic life creates a spectacle unlike any other.
Lastest update by Mr Jimmy at Mekong Smile | Official Can Tho Travel Guide
Overview of Can Tho Floating Fish Farm
A Glance at Can Tho Floating Fish Farm
- Location: Hau River, Binh Thuy District, Can Tho City (accessible via Co Bac Pier).
- Site Type: Floating Aquaculture Village and Rare Fish Conservation Site.
- Significance: A leading model of eco-friendly river farming and home to the unique “flying fish” performance.
- Atmosphere: Refreshing and rhythmic, with the gentle sound of river waves and the vibrant energy of thousands of fish.
- Scale: Dozens of interconnected floating rafts housing millions of fish across various species.
- Key Highlights: Koi fish massage, and seeing the legendary Giant Barb (Cá Hô).
- Average Visit Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours (usually the first stop of a Con Son Islet tour).
Understanding Can Tho Floating Fish Farm: A Legacy of the River
The story of the floating fish farms at Con Son is a tale of adaptation and passion. While many rafts focus on commercial species, the heart of the experience lies in the dedication of artisans like Mr. Bay Bon. For over 20 years, he has transformed his rafts into a living museum for indigenous Hau River fish. Faced with the challenges of a changing environment, the local farmers have innovated, turning traditional aquaculture into an educational eco-tourism experience. This legacy represents the “resilience and spirit” of Southern Vietnam, where the community works to protect the river’s biodiversity while sharing its wonders with the world.
Video: The Dance of the Mekong Fish
To witness the incredible peaceful life on the river rafts, watch a cinematic highlights from the Con Son waterways:
What Makes Can Tho Floating Fish Farm Special?
Can Tho Floating Fish Farm is the soul of riverine ingenuity. It is not just a farm; it is a floating ecosystem where the “vibrant living heritage” of the Mekong is practiced every day.
Today, it stands as a symbol of the Delta’s environmental connection. Visitors can observe rare and “monster” fish species that are nearly extinct in the wild, such as the Giant Barb and the Fire Eel. Observing these majestic creatures in a protected environment highlights the deep responsibility we have toward the Mekong’s precious ecosystems.
Planning Your Visit to Can Tho Floating Fish Farm
Location
The farm is floating on the Hau River, specifically positioned to catch the clean, flowing currents necessary for healthy fish.
- Exact Address: Con Son, Binh Thuy Ward, Binh Thuy District, Can Tho.
- Distance: About 8km from Ninh Kieu Wharf; accessible via a 5-minute boat ride from Co Bac Pier.
How to Get There
- By Boat: The only way to arrive. Most travelers take a local ferry or private boat from Co Bac Pier (Binh Thuy).
- By Motorbike/Taxi: Drive to Co Bac Pier from the city center (approx. 15 mins), then board the boat.
- The Mekong Smile Way: We include the floating fish farm as the special stop of our Con Son Islet Tour, providing private boat transfers that ensure you arrive during the best light for photography.
Best Time to Visit
- Operating Hours: 07:30 AM – 05:30 PM (Daily).
- Morning Freshness: 08:30 – 10:30 AM is perfect for seeing the fish at their most active during their first feeding of the day.
- Afternoon Breeze: 03:30 – 05:00 PM offers a cooler atmosphere and beautiful golden hour light reflecting off the river.
Product & Service Pricing
| Item / Service | Estimated Price (VND) | Estimated Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Entrance Fee (Fish Farm Only) | 30,000 VND | $1.20 |
| Boat Transfer (Co Bac - Islet Roundtrip) | 20,000 - 50,000 VND | $0.80 - $2.00 |
| Fish Feeding Experience | Included in Entrance | Included |
| Traditional Cake Workshop (on Islet) | 100,000 - 150,000 VND | $4.00 - $6.00 |
Note: For a seamless experience, we recommend our Con Son Community Discovery Tour, which covers all boat transfers, fees, and a local lunch.
The Experience at Can Tho Floating Fish Farm
Walking the Floating Rafts
Experience the “rhythm of the river” under your feet. Walking on the interconnected wooden planks of the rafts requires a bit of balance and offers an intimate perspective of how families live and work on the water. You can look down into the deep nets to see various stages of fish growth.
The Rare Fish Conservation Gallery
Mr. Bay Bon’s rafts house “river monsters” like the Giant Barb (Vietnam’s national fish) and the iridescent Featherback fish. Learning about the rarity of these species and the efforts to preserve them adds an educational layer to your “transformative journey.”
The Koi Fish Massage
For a playful and sensory experience, dip your feet into the designated Koi fish pond. Hundreds of colorful Koi will surround your feet for a gentle “massage,” a favorite activity for families and children that brings a smile to every traveler.
Local Life Immersion
Observe the daily routines of the raft dwellers—from repairing nets to preparing traditional meals on the water. It is a rare glimpse into a lifestyle that has remained resilient despite the pressures of the modern world.
Combining Can Tho Floating Fish Farm with Can Tho’s Hidden Gems
Since the fish farm is the gateway to Son Islet (Con Son), it is naturally combined with the island’s community-based tourism. After the farm, explore the island’s lush fruit orchards to see the “flying fish” in the garden ponds or try your hand at making Traditional Mekong Cakes (Bánh dân gian). Nearby on the mainland, you can visit the Binh Thuy Ancient House, a masterpiece of architectural heritage, or the Binh Thuy Temple. This combination ensures a journey that captures the full spectrum of the Delta’s riverine, agricultural, and historical soul.
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Experience the soul of the Mekong with our curated journeys that bridge river traditions and community heritage:
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Frequently Asked Questions about Can Tho Floating Fish Farm
Why should I visit the Can Tho Floating Fish Farm with Mekong Smile?
Booking with Mekong Smile ensures an ethical and high-quality visit. We partner only with local rafts that prioritize the health of the river and the wellbeing of the indigenous species. Our expert guides provide deep narratives about the unique “flying fish” behavior that you might miss when traveling independently.
Is it safe to walk on the rafts at the Can Tho Floating Fish Farm?
Yes, the rafts are sturdy and designed to welcome travelers of all ages. However, Mekong Smile always recommends wearing non-slip shoes and maintaining your balance as you move between the interconnected wooden planks, especially when supervising children during the Koi massage.
Can I purchase fresh products at the Can Tho Floating Fish Farm?
While the rafts are primarily for conservation and education, some areas offer locally processed items like dried fish or fish sauce. Mekong Smile can assist you in choosing the most authentic products that directly support the livelihood of the floating village community.
Is a visit to the Can Tho Floating Fish Farm suitable for children?
Absolutely! It is one of the most interactive stops on our tours. Mekong Smile finds that children are consistently amazed by the “flying fish” performance and the sensory fun of the Koi fish massage, making it a highlight for family travel.
Will I get seasick during a trip to the Can Tho Floating Fish Farm?
The Hau River is generally very calm, and the rafts are large, stable structures. The boat transfer arranged by Mekong Smile from the pier takes only 5 minutes, ensuring that even those sensitive to motion find the journey comfortable and relaxing.
