Hoi An’s Hoai River comes alive at night with the enchanting Hoi An Night Boat Trip. This serene 20-minute ride allows visitors to release beautiful silk-decorated paper lanterns into the shimmering waters, creating a magical atmosphere. After the boat experience, guests can explore Hoi An’s vibrant night market and historic Old Town, seeing the rich cultural heritage of this charming city. With stunning photography opportunities and a chance to partake in a beloved local tradition, the Hoi An Night Boat Trip promises an unforgettable evening.
- Key Points
- Activity Overview
- Lantern Boat Experience
- Additional Activities
- Practical Information
- Customer Feedback
- Planning Your Trip
- Capturing the Moment
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the Best Time of Year to Take the Boat Trip?
- Can I Bring My Own Lanterns to Release?
- Are Life Jackets Provided on the Boat?
- Is the Boat Trip Suitable for Young Children?
- Can I Purchase Food or Drinks on the Boat?
- The Sum Up
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Hoi An
- More Tour Reviews in Hoi An
- Still browsing? Here are more Hoi An experiences we've covered recently
Key Points

- A 20-minute night boat trip on the Hoai River in Hoi An offers picturesque views and the opportunity to release paper lanterns into the water.
- The lantern release is a cultural tradition for making wishes or praying for loved ones, creating a serene and tranquil experience.
- Visitors can explore Hoi An’s bustling night market and historic Old Town after the boat ride, immersing in the city’s unique cultural heritage.
- The boat trip accommodates 1-4 people per boat, with peak time from 19:00 to 20:00 and expected wait times.
- The activity is rated 4.5/5 by travelers, with positive feedback on the guide, transportation, and value for money.
Activity Overview

Experience Hoi An’s charm with a night boat trip on Hoai River. Enjoy picturesque views of the old town while releasing lanterns for luck and peace.
The 20-minute ride costs from $8.13 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Participants will board silk-decorated sampans and release paper lanterns lit by candles into the river, a meaningful tradition to make wishes or pray for loved ones.
Shimmering lotus-shaped lanterns sold by local vendors enhance the experience, providing excellent photography opportunities.
After the boat ride, explore Hoi An’s bustling night market and picturesque Old Town.
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Lantern Boat Experience

The boat ride features silk-decorated sampans, allowing participants to release paper lanterns lit by candles into the river. This tradition is a meaningful way to make wishes or pray for loved ones.
Shimmering lotus-shaped lanterns sold by local vendors enhance the experience, providing excellent photography opportunities. The lantern release is a serene and tranquil activity, with participants gently placing their lanterns on the water and watching them drift away.
This unique experience offers a chance to connect with Hoi An’s cultural heritage and create lasting memories.
Additional Activities

After the boat ride, visitors can explore Hoi An’s bustling night market and picturesque Old Town. They can learn about the city’s traditional culture at their own pace.
The night market is a lively hub, offering an array of local handicrafts, street food, and souvenirs. Wandering through the Old Town, visitors will be captivated by the historic architecture, quaint streets, and charming lantern-lit atmosphere.
This is an excellent opportunity to take in Hoi An’s unique cultural heritage and experience the vibrant energy of the city after dark.
Practical Information

The meeting point for the night boat trip is 140 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An.
The meeting point for the night boat trip is 140 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An.
Each boat accommodates 1-4 people, who’ll share with other participants.
The peak time for the activity is from 19:00 to 20:00, so expect wait times.
The experience isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Bring comfortable shoes and a camera, as large bags aren’t allowed.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback

The night boat trip and lantern release experience in Hoi An has received positive customer feedback. Reviewers have praised the guide, transportation, and value for money, with an average rating of 4.5/5 from 21 reviews. The experience seems to be enjoyed by a variety of travelers, including couples, groups, solo travelers, and families. The table below provides a more detailed breakdown of the customer ratings:
| Criteria | Rating |
| — | — |
| Guide | 4.3/5 |
| Transportation | 4.3/5 |
| Value for Money | 4.3/5 |
| Overall Experience | 4.5/5 |
| Positive Feedback | Consistently Reported |
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Planning Your Trip

When planning your trip, be sure to arrive at the meeting point at 140 Tran Phu Street in Hoi An.
The boat ride is best during peak hours from 7 PM to 8 PM, but expect wait times. Each boat accommodates 1-4 people, so you may share with others.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera, but leave large bags at home. The experience isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Capturing the Moment

Although the Hoi An night boat trip and lantern release lasts only 20 minutes, it provides ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs. The silk-decorated sampans and shimmering lotus-shaped lanterns create a picturesque scene along the Hoai River.
Timing is crucial, as the peak hour runs from 7:00 to 8:00 PM, with potential wait times. Visitors should bring a camera and wear comfortable shoes, as large bags are prohibited.
The experience offers excellent photo ops, from the peaceful river views to the vibrant night market and historic Old Town afterward, allowing travelers to document their Hoi An adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take the Boat Trip?
The best time to take the boat trip is during the evening hours, typically from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM, when the Hoai River is bustling with activity and the lantern release experience is most atmospheric.
Can I Bring My Own Lanterns to Release?
Participants can’t bring their own lanterns to release. The boat ride provides silk-decorated sampans and lotus-shaped lanterns sold by local vendors for this experience. Bringing outside lanterns is not allowed.
Are Life Jackets Provided on the Boat?
Life jackets are not provided on the boat. Passengers must provide their own if needed, as the activity is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Is the Boat Trip Suitable for Young Children?
The boat trip may not be suitable for young children, as the boats hold 1-4 people and may have wait times during peak hours. However, it could work for families with older children who can sit still and follow instructions.
Can I Purchase Food or Drinks on the Boat?
No, food and drinks are not available for purchase on the boat. Participants are advised to enjoy the experience without any distractions and focus on releasing the lanterns into the river.
The Sum Up

The Hoi An Night Boat Trip on the Hoai River offers a magical and serene experience. Visitors can release silk-decorated paper lanterns into the shimmering waters, creating a breathtaking display. After the boat ride, guests can explore Hoi An’s vibrant night market and historic Old Town, seeing the rich cultural heritage of this enchanting city. With stunning photography opportunities and a tranquil ambiance, this activity is a must-do for anyone visiting Hoi An.
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