Hoi An: Boat Ride on Hoai River & Release the Flower Lantern

If you’re visiting Hoi An and looking for a gentle, culturally rich experience that captures the city’s enchanting evening spirit, this boat ride with lantern release might just be a perfect fit. While I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a memorable, scenic, and meaningful activity that blends tradition, tranquility, and a touch of magic.

What we love about this experience includes the chance to see Hoi An from the water at night, the simplicity and beauty of releasing a flower lantern, and its affordability—each lantern costs only $8. The only potential consideration is that the activity is quite short—around 20 minutes—which might leave some wanting more time on the river. This experience suits travelers seeking a peaceful, authentic moment in Hoi An, especially those interested in local customs or romantic evenings.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Affordable price for an authentic cultural activity
• Short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary
• Small group size ensures a personal and intimate experience
• Beautiful night views of Hoi An from the river
• Participatory ritual of releasing a lantern adds meaningfulness
• Limited transportation needs—only a short walk to the meeting point

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Lantern Boat Ride in Hoi An

This activity is a gentle journey designed to let you experience Hoi An in a more authentic, spiritual way. You’ll start by meeting your friendly guide at a central location in the Old Town—specifically at the Kazimierz Kwiatkowski bust on 138 Tran Phu Street, next to the Metiseko Shop. From there, your guide will escort you on a short 5-minute walk to the riverside where the real magic begins.

The Meeting Point and Ease of Access

The meeting place is straightforward to find, with reviews confirming how easy it is to locate. This is particularly helpful if you’re arriving after a long day of sightseeing or arriving late in the evening. The activity is designed for small groups—limited to 5 participants—which keeps the experience intimate and allows for personalized attention from the guide.

Boarding and the Boat Experience

Once at the riverbank, you’ll hop onto a wooden boat, shared with up to 4 other people. The boat ride lasts approximately 15 minutes, offering plenty of chances to take photos or just enjoy the gentle sway of the water. Expect tranquil surroundings and reflective water that beautifully mirrors the illuminated shores—a sight that many reviewers describe as mesmerizing.

The Lantern Release

The highlight of this experience is lighting and releasing a flower-shaped lantern into the river. This simple act is steeped in tradition, symbolizing good luck, health, and peace. As you light your lantern, you’ll be encouraged to say a prayer or set your wishes afloat. Reviewers like Kathy describe the moment as “so much fun” and highly recommend participating for its “lantern vibe.” Jose Roberto found it “very romantic,” emphasizing the experience’s peaceful and heartfelt atmosphere.

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What the Experience Feels Like

The entire ritual, from lighting to releasing the lantern, becomes a moment of letting go—of worries, stress, or just the busyness of travel. The floating lanterns gradually drift away, creating a stream of luminous light that adds to the city’s nighttime charm. This activity, although brief, leaves a lasting impression, especially when combined with the peaceful waters and gentle night air.

The Details: Itinerary, Duration, and Cost

This tour is designed to be straightforward and flexible. You’ll meet at the specified location, follow your guide to the dock, and enjoy the boat ride. The entire activity lasts around 20 minutes—15 minutes on the boat and a few minutes for the lantern lighting and release.

The price is very reasonable at $8 per person, which includes the boat ride and one floating lantern. Keep in mind that additional expenses like transportation to the meeting point or entrance tickets to Hoi An’s UNESCO sites are not included, so plan accordingly.

Peak Times and Booking Tips

The activity’s peak time is between 18:30 and 19:30, and during this period, you may need to wait in line to board the boat. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider booking outside of these hours. The activity is only accessible on foot, so plan your route to the Old Town accordingly.

What’s Not Included

While the experience is excellent value on its own, it does not include hotel transfers or transportation to the meeting point, which travelers should arrange themselves. Also, if you’re planning to visit other attractions, such as the Hoi An UNESCO entrance (costing around 120,000 VND), be sure to budget for these extras.

Insights from Reviews: Authentic Perspectives

Reviewers have shared valuable insights that help paint a fuller picture of what to expect. Kathy describes the meeting place as “easy to find,” adding that the boat ride was “so much fun,” and highly recommends participating to soak up the “lantern vibe.” Her enthusiasm hints at how magical even a short experience can be.

Jose Roberto notes that “everything was perfect,” highlighting the punctuality of the guide and the romantic ambiance of the journey. These comments reveal the tour’s smooth organization and its appeal for couples or those seeking a serene, meaningful moment.

Why This Experience Works

This tour’s charm lies in its simplicity and cultural significance. Releasing a flower lantern into the river isn’t just a cute photo op—it’s a ritual that symbolizes hope and good wishes. The peaceful boat cruise offers a different perspective of Hoi An, away from the crowded streets and bustling markets, allowing you to slow down and reflect.

The short duration makes it ideal for travelers with tight schedules or those who want a quick yet impactful activity. It’s also perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate quiet, contemplative moments in a beautiful setting.

Practical Tips for Your Lantern Boat Ride

• Arrive early if you want to beat the crowds, especially during peak times.
• Wear comfortable clothes suitable for the evening, as it can get cooler on the water.
• Bring your camera or phone to capture the enchanting scene—though be mindful of the low light for photos.
• Remember, each lantern costs $8, and only one lantern is included per person.
• No transportation is provided, so plan how you’ll get to the meeting point ahead of time.
• The activity is only accessible on foot at the meeting location, so consider walk times from your hotel.
• If you wish to extend the experience, check if other activities are nearby or consider combining it with a walk through Old Town or a street food tour.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Hoi An boat ride with lantern release is a delicate mix of cultural authenticity, peaceful scenery, and personal ritual. It offers a rare chance to slow down and connect with local traditions in a setting that’s both scenic and meaningful. The affordability and small group size make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking intimate moments, romantic evenings, or a quiet pause amid bustling surroundings.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy gentle experiences—whether you’re a solo traveler wanting reflection time, a couple celebrating a special occasion, or a family keen on participating in traditional customs. While it’s brief, this activity promises a pleasant, photo-worthy memory that captures Hoi An’s unique nighttime charm.

FAQ

How long does the boat ride last?
The boat ride itself is approximately 15 minutes, with the entire activity lasting around 20 minutes including lantern lighting and release.

Where do I meet for the activity?
You meet at the Kazimierz Kwiatkowski bust at 138 Tran Phu Street in Hoi An’s Old Town. The guide will escort you to the dock afterward.

Is the activity suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable with a short boat ride and the act of lighting and releasing a lantern, it’s suitable for children and adults alike.

What is included in the price?
The $8 fee covers the boat trip and one floating flower lantern per person.

Are additional lanterns or activities available for extra cost?
The tour includes one lantern per person; additional lanterns are not specified but could be available for purchase locally.

Can I join the activity if I don’t speak English?
The activity is conducted in English, but given its simple nature—lighting and floating lanterns—language barriers shouldn’t be an obstacle.

Is transportation provided to the meeting point?
No, the activity is only accessible on foot from your hotel or nearby accommodations.

What should I wear for the activity?
Casual, comfortable clothes suitable for an evening outdoors. It can be cooler on the water, so consider bringing a light jacket.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended, especially during peak hours, as the activity is limited to small groups and has a set schedule.

This experience offers a beautiful, heartfelt way to enjoy Hoi An’s evening ambiance and partake in a local tradition. For anyone looking for a peaceful, authentic moment that’s easy to fit into a travel day, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: