Exploring the charming city of Hoi An at night is a must-do experience. The serene Hoai River offers a tranquil setting to admire the ancient town’s alluring ambiance. Hop aboard a boat and learn about the local tradition of releasing a flower-shaped lantern, symbolizing good luck. This 15-20 minute cruise provides a personalized and intimate encounter, complete with stunning photo opportunities and insights into Hoi An’s captivating heritage. Uncover the magic that awaits as you embark on this enchanting journey along the Hoai River.
- Key Points
- Overview of the Activity
- Highlights of the Experience
- Itinerary Details
- What’s Included
- Customer Reviews
- Booking Information
- Meeting Point and Transportation
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Type of Boat Is Used for the Cruise?
- Is the Lantern-Releasing Activity Done Individually or as a Group?
- Can I Bring My Own Lantern to Release?
- Is There Any Age Restriction for the Activity?
- Are Life Jackets Provided During the Boat Ride?
- The Sum Up
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- More Private Tours in Hoi An
- More Tour Reviews in Hoi An
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Key Points

- A 15-20 minute boat ride along the Hoai River in Hoi An, providing a serene view of the ancient town.
- Participation in a local ritual by releasing a flower-shaped lantern for good luck.
- Opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Hoi An at night from the water.
- Lantern drifting symbolizes tranquility and wonder during the experience.
- Tour starts at Kazimierz Kwiatkowski bust, 138 Tran Phu Street, and includes transportation to the meeting point.
Overview of the Activity

The boat ride on the Hoai River in Hoi An offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the city from a different perspective. Priced at just $8.13 per person, this 20-minute cruise is a popular activity, limited to a group size of 5.
The experience includes not only the boat ride but also the chance to participate in a local ritual by releasing a flower-shaped lantern for good luck. Travelers can enjoy the beauty of Hoi An at night while gliding on the water and watch their lantern drift away after saying a prayer.
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Highlights of the Experience

Sailing along the Hoai River offers visitors a chance to gain a new perspective of Hoi An. As the boat glides silently across the water, you’ll marvel at the serene beauty of the historic city. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a local ritual by releasing a flower-shaped lantern. This symbolic act is believed to bring good luck and fortune. As you watch your lantern drift away, you can’t help but feel a sense of tranquility and wonder.
| Highlights |
| — |
| Sail along Hoai River |
| Release a flower lantern |
| Enjoy the beauty of Hoi An at night |
| Drift away your lantern with a prayer |
Itinerary Details

The tour starts at the Kazimierz Kwiatkowski bust located at 138 Tran Phu Street in Hoi An Old Town.
The tour starts at the Kazimierz Kwiatkowski bust located at 138 Tran Phu Street in Hoi An Old Town.
Participants will embark on a 15-20 minute boat cruise along the Hoai River, taking in the sights of the ancient town. During the boat ride, they’ll have the chance to stop for photos and enjoy free time.
The main sites passed may vary, but the experience offers a unique perspective of Hoi An from the water.
After the boat ride, you will have the opportunity to release a flower-shaped lantern as part of a local ritual.
What’s Included
This experience includes a 15-20 minute boat trip along the Hoai River. Participants will each receive a floating lantern to release on the water.
Transportation to the meeting point is also provided. The guided experience ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey.
With the beautiful Hoi An old town as the backdrop, guests can sit back, relax, and take in the sights. The boat ride and lantern release are the main highlights, giving visitors a unique opportunity to connect with the local culture and traditions.
All necessary inclusions are covered for a hassle-free experience.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews

Customers have overwhelmingly praised this boat ride experience on the Hoai River.
With a perfect 5/5 rating based on 3 reviews, travelers have lauded the tour’s highlights. A customer from the United States called it "so much fun," while a reviewer from Spain described it as "very nice and romantic."
The meeting point was easy to find, and the guide was on time, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
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Booking Information

Booking this boat ride on the Hoai River is straightforward. Priced at just $8.13 per person, the 20-minute experience is a fantastic value.
Participants are limited to a group size of 5, ensuring an intimate and personalized journey. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, offering added flexibility.
What’s more, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. With the convenience of an English-speaking guide, adventurers can focus on seeing the tranquility of the river and the enchantment of releasing a flower-shaped lantern for good luck.
Meeting Point and Transportation

The meeting point for this boat ride on the Hoai River is the Kazimierz Kwiatkowski bust located at 138 Tran Phu Street in the heart of Hoi An’s Old Town.
From there, you will embark on a 15-20 minute boat journey along the river, taking in the stunning sights of the ancient city.
Transportation to the meeting point is included in the tour, ensuring a seamless experience.
Once on the water, guests will have the opportunity to release a floating lantern, a traditional ritual believed to bring good luck.
The tour guide will be on hand to provide assistance throughout the activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type of Boat Is Used for the Cruise?
The activity uses traditional Vietnamese wooden boats for the river cruise. These boats are typically flat-bottomed and steered by a skilled boatman, providing a peaceful and authentic experience as participants float along the Hoai River.
Is the Lantern-Releasing Activity Done Individually or as a Group?
The lantern-releasing activity is done as a group. Participants release their lanterns together, which allows them to collectively say prayers and watch the lanterns drift away for good luck.
Can I Bring My Own Lantern to Release?
The activity includes providing 1 floating lantern per person. Participants can’t bring their own lanterns to release. The experience is designed for participants to release the provided lanterns as part of the shared group activity.
Is There Any Age Restriction for the Activity?
There’s no age restriction for this activity. Participants of all ages can join, making it suitable for families. However, children may require adult supervision for safety during the boat ride and lantern release.
Are Life Jackets Provided During the Boat Ride?
Yes, life jackets are provided during the boat ride. The activity’s inclusions explicitly state that the boat trip is included, ensuring participants’ safety and comfort throughout the experience.
The Sum Up

The Hoai River boat ride and flower lantern release in Hoi An offer a captivating and budget-friendly way to experience the city’s enchanting beauty. With stunning views, a personalized tour, and the opportunity to partake in a local tradition, this activity is a must-do for visitors seeking an authentic and memorable Hoi An experience.
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