The enchanting Hoi An offers a unique experience with the Hoai River Boat Trip by night. This 15-minute journey along the serene Thu Bồn River provides a captivating perspective of the historic town. As you glide through the tranquil waters, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in the beautiful ritual of releasing a floating lantern, symbolizing hope, peace, and health. This authentic cultural experience immerses you in local traditions, creating lasting memories for all who embark on this enchanting voyage.
- Key Points
- Activity Overview
- Experience Highlights
- Itinerary Details
- Inclusions and Exclusions
- Restrictions and Important Information
- What to Expect on the Boat Trip
- Cultural Significance of the Floating Lantern Ritual
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
- What if I Lose My Lantern on the River?
- Can I Extend the Boat Trip Duration?
- Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
- Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes to Be Paid?
- The Sum Up
- The Best Of Hoi An!
- More Evening Experiences in Hoi An
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Hoi An
- More Tour Reviews in Hoi An
Key Points
- A 15-minute boat trip on the Hoai River in Hoi An, offering a unique perspective of the historic town.
- Opportunity to release a floating lantern on the Thu Bon River, symbolizing hope, peace, health, and fortune.
- Authentic cultural experience suitable for both adults and children, with a tranquil atmosphere.
- Boat accommodates 1-5 people, with peak hours between 19:00 and 20:00 when wait times are longer.
- Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but excludes food, drinks, and other unspecified expenses.
👉 See our pick of the The 12 Most Popular Tours In Hoi An
Activity Overview

The Hoi An: Hoai River Boat Trip by Night and Floating Lantern activity offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the city from a new perspective.
The Hoi An: Hoai River Boat Trip by Night and Floating Lantern activity offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the city from a new perspective.
Priced from $8.13 per person, this 15-minute boat trip allows participants to sail on the Hoai River and release a lantern on the Thu Bon River as a ritual for luck, peace, health, and fortune.
The activity is available with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and guests can reserve their spot and pay later.
Each boat accommodates 1-5 people, with the peak time being between 19:00 and 20:00, when visitors can expect to wait in line to board.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Hoi An
Experience Highlights

Sailing on the Hoai River allows visitors to see the city from a new angle, while releasing a lantern on the Thu Bon River serves as a ritual for luck, peace, health, and fortune.
This authentic cultural experience of Hoi An by night engages participants, both adults and children. The lighted lanterns symbolize hope and prayers, providing comfort to those who take part.
The boat trip is a unique opportunity to take in the tranquil atmosphere of the river, taking in the sights and sounds of the historic town at a leisurely pace.
Itinerary Details

The tour begins at Công viên Kazik, where you will board the boats for the 15-minute journey along the Thu Bồn River.
The peak time for the activity is from 19:00 to 20:00, so expect to wait in line to board the boat. Each boat can accommodate 1-5 people.
The main stop is on the Thu Bồn River, where you will have the opportunity to take photos and enjoy the sights.
It’s an authentic cultural experience to release a lantern on the river as a ritual for luck, peace, health, and fortune.
Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a 15-minute boat trip and one floating lantern per person. Hotel pickup and drop-off are also provided.
However, food, drinks, and any other expenses not mentioned are excluded. The experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, wheelchair users, or those with vertigo, epilepsy, high blood pressure, or over 95 years old.
Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed. Passengers should inform the greeter of their name for dock access.
More Great Tours NearbyRestrictions and Important Information

Although the boat trip offers an enchanting experience on the Hoai River at night, there are some restrictions and important information passengers should be aware of.
The activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, wheelchair users, or those with vertigo, epilepsy, or high blood pressure. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited.
Participants must inform the greeter of their name to access the dock. With a maximum capacity of 1-5 people per boat, the activity may have long wait times during peak hours between 7 and 8 PM.
Proper safety precautions are essential for an enjoyable and memorable experience.
You can also read our reviews of more evening experiences in Hoi An
What to Expect on the Boat Trip

As participants board the boats, they’ll find themselves immersed in the serene ambiance of the Hoai River.
The gentle rocking of the boats and the soft glow of the lanterns create a tranquil atmosphere. Passengers can admire the historic buildings and bridges lining the riverbanks, illuminated by the night sky.
The experience offers:
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Unique perspective of Hoi An’s landmarks
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Opportunity to release a floating lantern as a symbolic gesture
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Chance to engage in a cherished local tradition
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Relaxing and romantic setting for couples and families
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Photogenic moments to capture memories of the evening
Cultural Significance of the Floating Lantern Ritual

The floating lantern ritual holds deep cultural significance for the people of Hoi An. Releasing lanterns on the Thu Bon River symbolizes hope, peace, health, and fortune.
This ancient practice provides comfort and spiritual fulfillment to participants. The lanterns’ soft glow represents the release of worries and the lighting of new beginnings.
Engaging in this authentic cultural experience allows visitors to connect with the local traditions of Hoi An. The ritual is particularly meaningful for families and children, who find joy in watching their lanterns drift away, carrying their wishes into the night.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the boat. The activity includes only the 15-minute boat trip and one floating lantern per person. Any other expenses, such as food and drinks, are not included.
What if I Lose My Lantern on the River?
If a participant loses their lantern on the river, they’ll need to purchase a replacement. The tour doesn’t provide extras, so it’s important to securely hold onto the lantern during the experience.
Can I Extend the Boat Trip Duration?
The boat trip duration can’t be extended. It’s a 15-minute experience, and extending it isn’t possible. Participants should be aware of the fixed duration before booking this activity.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
There is no minimum age requirement for participants. The boat trip and floating lantern activity are open to all ages, though the activity may not be suitable for young children or infants due to the potential safety risks.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes to Be Paid?
There are no additional fees or taxes to be paid for the activity. The price listed includes the 15-minute boat trip and one floating lantern per person. Participants only need to pay the overall activity fee.
The Sum Up

The Hoai River boat trip by night in Hoi An offers a unique cultural experience. Guests can enjoy a serene river journey and participate in the traditional ritual of releasing a floating lantern, which symbolizes hope, peace, and health. This enchanting activity immerses visitors in local traditions, creating lasting memories for families and individuals alike.
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