Hoi An’s iconic lantern boat trip offers a captivating glimpse into the ancient town’s rich culture and traditions. Gliding along the peaceful river, guests can admire the picturesque houses and costume shops lining the banks while local artists perform folk songs. The highlight of the experience? Releasing a paper lantern into the water, symbolizing hopes and wishes. Starting from just £5.34 per person, this family-friendly tour provides a memorable experience that’s not to be missed. But what makes this lantern release so special?
Key Points

- 20-minute boat cruise through the ancient town of Hoi An to see traditional houses, costume shops, and local artists performing folk songs.
- Opportunity to release a personal lantern into the river as part of the cultural experience.
- Includes one paper lantern per person, photo opportunities, and insights into the significance of flower lanterns.
- Not suitable for individuals over 95 years or 309 lbs (140 kg) due to safety restrictions.
- Overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 20 reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guide and smooth transportation.
Tour Overview and Pricing

The Hoi An Lantern Boat Trip offers an enchanting experience to explore the beauty of Hoi An. Priced from £5.34 per person, the 20-minute boat cruise takes visitors through the ancient town, allowing them to witness traditional houses and costume shops.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book now and pay later for added flexibility. The trip includes a paper lantern per person, photo opportunities, and insights into the meaning of flower lanterns, providing a memorable and romantic experience along the river.
Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in Hoi An
Itinerary and Highlights

Departing from the famous An Hoi Bridge, the Hoi An Lantern Boat Trip takes visitors on a cruise through the ancient town, where they can witness the traditional houses and costume shops lining the riverbanks.
Guests have the option to stop for 5 minutes at the night boat pier for photos. As the boat glides along, local artists perform traditional folk songs, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.
The highlight is the chance to release personal lanterns into the river, a romantic experience. The tour returns to the An Hoi wharf, leaving travelers with lasting memories of Hoi An.
Inclusions and Exclusions

The Hoi An Lantern Boat Trip includes the boat cruise, one paper lantern per person, and the opportunity to take pictures and engage with local people to learn about the meaning of the flower lanterns.
The trip also includes:
-
Hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
-
Insights into the cultural significance of the lanterns
-
Engagement with local artists performing traditional folk songs
-
Not suitable for individuals over 95 years or 309 lbs (140 kg) due to safety considerations.
Customer Reviews and Ratings

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Hoi An Lantern Boat Trip, rating it 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 20 reviews.
They commended the knowledgeable guide, who provided insights into local history. The transportation received high marks, with reviewers highlighting the smooth, enjoyable journey.
While the value for money was deemed good, some felt it could be better. Highlights included the lovely sail, releasing lanterns, and engaging with the local people.
One Australian traveler described it as a "lovely sail down the river letting our lanterns go."
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information and Meeting Point

To begin the tour, the meeting point is at 37 Nguyen Phuc Chu St, Hoi An.
Travelers should bring a camera to capture the enchanting lanterns and river scenery. Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed, as this is a family-friendly experience.
Visitors are encouraged to engage with the locals along the riverbank to gain insights into their daily routines. Guests should check availability for start times, as the tour schedules may vary.
The lantern boat trip offers a unique opportunity to take in the captivating culture and beauty of Hoi An.
-
Meeting point: 37 Nguyen Phuc Chu St, Hoi An
-
What to bring: Camera
-
Not allowed: Alcohol and drugs
-
Check availability for starting times
- MY SON – MARBLE MOUNTAIN- AM PHU CAVE : Morning or Afternoon Tour
- Da Nang Nightlife Tour With Dinner & Dragon Fire Show at Weekend
- Hoi An: My Son Sanctuary Tour With Cruise Trip
- Nam Hoi An: VinWonders Entry Ticket
- My Son Amazing Sunset Tour With Banh My & Cruise By Group
- Hoi An: Countryside Bike Tour to Kim Bong Village
The Beauty of Hoi An’s Lantern Boat Trip

Embarking on the lantern boat trip, visitors enjoy the enchanting ambiance of Hoi An’s ancient town.
As the boat glides along the Thu Bon River, they witness the traditional houses and costume shops lining the riverbanks.
The highlight is the opportunity to release personal lanterns into the water, a romantic experience that symbolizes good luck and prosperity.
Releasing personal lanterns into the water, a romantic experience symbolizing good luck and prosperity.
Local artists add to the charm by performing folk songs.
Guests capture memorable moments and gain insights into the meaning and significance of the flower lanterns.
The tranquil journey provides a unique perspective on Hoi An’s captivating heritage.
Embracing the Romantic Lantern Release Experience

As the boat glides along the Thu Bon River, visitors eagerly await the highlight of the lantern boat trip – the opportunity to release their personal lanterns into the water.
This romantic experience symbolizes:
-
Letting go of the past and welcoming new beginnings
-
Illuminating the path ahead with hope and positivity
-
Appreciating the beauty of Hoi An’s historic riverside
-
Connecting with the local culture through this age-old tradition
With the soft glow of lanterns drifting downstream, the journey becomes a magical, unforgettable moment, leaving lasting memories of Hoi An’s enchanting ambiance.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
According to the tour information, bringing one’s own food and drinks on the boat is not permitted. The tour only includes the lantern boat trip and a paper lantern per person. Consuming alcohol or drugs is also not allowed during the experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Lantern Release?
There are age restrictions for the lantern release – the activity isn’t suitable for individuals over 95 years old. However, there are no weight restrictions, as long as passengers don’t exceed 309 lbs (140 kg).
Can I Choose the Color of My Paper Lantern?
The lantern boat trip doesn’t allow you to choose the color of your paper lantern. Each participant receives one standard lantern. However, you can customize its design and message before releasing it into the river.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Boat Trip?
While the standard boat trip lasts 20 minutes, there’s no option to extend the duration. However, you can always take additional boat trips or explore Hoi An’s ancient town further on your own after the initial lantern release experience.
What Happens if the Weather Is Not Suitable for the Lantern Release?
If the weather is not suitable for the lantern release, the tour operator will provide alternative arrangements, such as a land-based lantern lighting ceremony or refunding the lantern portion of the tour. They’ll ensure customers have an enjoyable experience despite the weather conditions.
The Sum Up

The Hoi An Lantern Boat Trip offers a captivating glimpse into the town’s rich culture and vibrant atmosphere. Gliding along the river, guests can admire traditional houses and shops while releasing a paper lantern – a symbolic gesture of hopes and wishes. With local artists performing folk songs, this family-friendly tour provides a memorable experience that immerses visitors in Hoi An’s enchanting ambiance.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Hoi An
- Private Hoi An Bike, Thu Bon River Cruise & Dinner Experience
- Hoi An Cooking Class(Local market,Basket Boat,Fishing & Cooking)
- Sunset Eco and BBQ Dinner in Cruise Boat
- Hoi An Countryside – Buffalo Riding – Basket Boat Rowing
- My Son Sanctuary and cruise trip from Hoi An/ Da Nang
- Buffalo Riding, Basket Boat Tour And Cooking Class
More Tours in Hoi An
More Tour Reviews in Hoi An
- Hoi An hidden food evening adventure
- Experience Making Pottery with Craftsmen in Thanh Ha
- Ba Na Hill- Golden Bridge-Fantasy Park from Da Nang/ Hoi An 1 Day
- Hoi An: Half-day Excursion To My Son Sanctuary Tour
- Private Hoi An Bike, Thu Bon River Cruise & Dinner Experience
- Hue City Trip By Private Car From Hoi An or Da Nang
Still browsing? Here are more Hoi An experiences we've covered recently
- PRIVATE GuidedTOUR to Marble Mountain-Am Phu Cave-Monkey Mountain
- Hoi An hidden food evening adventure
- Experience Making Pottery with Craftsmen in Thanh Ha
- Ba Na Hill- Golden Bridge-Fantasy Park from Da Nang/ Hoi An 1 Day
- Hoi An: Half-day Excursion To My Son Sanctuary Tour
- Private Hoi An Bike, Thu Bon River Cruise & Dinner Experience
- Hue City Trip By Private Car From Hoi An or Da Nang
- Countryside Adventure Private Tour by Electric Car
- Private transfer Danang airport – Hotels in Hoi An town
- Ao Dai Rental Hoi An
- Express Hoi An Lantern Making Class-Foldable lanterns
- DaNang Airport Transfer to Hoi An by private car or vice versa
