Hoi An: Hoai River Boat Trip by Night with Release Lantern

Traveling to Hoi An offers a chance to experience one of Vietnam’s most photogenic and culturally vibrant towns. For just $8 per person, this 15-minute night boat trip gives you a glimpse of the city from the water, combined with the memorable ritual of releasing a lantern into the river. Guided by friendly English-speaking operators, this tour is a simple yet enchanting way to connect with local customs and the stunning scenery of Hoi An after dark.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how accessible and straightforward it is—no long hours or complicated arrangements, just a brief escape into the luminous, lantern-lit world of Hoi An. The opportunity to release your own lantern is genuinely moving, creating a personal moment amid the bustling town. Plus, the bonus of strolling through the night market and sampling herbal tea adds layers to the experience that make it more than just a boat ride.

A potential consideration is that the ride itself is brief. If you’re craving a lengthy cruise or a detailed tour of the town’s history, this might not satisfy that particular appetite. However, for those seeking a quick, atmospheric taste of Hoi An’s magic—especially in the evening—this trip hits the spot.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy unique cultural rituals, picturesque settings, and authentic local ambiance. It’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, or small groups who want a relaxed, memorable activity that captures the essence of Hoi An by night.

Key Points

• Affordable and brief: A 15-minute boat ride for only $8.
• Authentic experience: Participate in the tradition of releasing a lantern into the river.
• Beautiful views: See Hoi An’s UNESCO-listed Old Town from the water at sunset.
• Well-organized: Easy to find and hassle-free, with friendly guides.
• Extra treats: Complimentary herbal tea and discounts at local artisans.
• Limited group size: Small groups of up to 5 ensure a more personal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is This Tour Exactly?

This tour is a short boat ride on the Hoai River at night that culminates with the poignant act of releasing a lantern into the water. It’s based in central Vietnam, in the beautifully preserved Old Town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour is offered by Sanna Tour and costs just $8 per person, making it an accessible option for many travelers.

You meet at 153 Trần Phú Street, near the iconic Japanese Bridge, a location that’s easy to find with a little local guidance or a quick map check. The activity lasts roughly 15 minutes, but the memory tends to stick longer. The tour includes a lantern, a bottle of herbal tea, and discounts at local shops, which adds to the overall value.

Why Should You Consider This Experience?

One of the biggest draws is the intimate and authentic feel of the activity. We loved the way the guides make everything easy—you’re led smoothly from the meeting point to the boat, with friendly assistance along the way. The cost-effectiveness ensures that this isn’t a pricey indulgence but a worthwhile cultural snapshot.

Another highlight is the visual spectacle. The boat glides quietly along the river, surrounded by other lanterns floating softly on the water. The gentle glow of hundreds of lanterns and the soft rippling of the river create a truly magical atmosphere. As one reviewer noted, “The river was full of boats with lanterns, and it was so pretty.” It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to savor the peaceful side of Hoi An after a busy day.

What to Expect During the Tour

Stop 1: Meeting and Preparation

You’ll start at 153 Trần Phú; the ticket office is straightforward to find. Here, you’ll receive your lantern and a bottle of herbal tea, a simple gesture that sets a relaxed tone. Guides are helpful and friendly, often taking photos of guests, making sure everyone is comfortable.

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Stop 2: The Boat Ride

The boat itself is small and cozy, suitable for up to five participants, ensuring a quiet, personal experience. The 20-minute scenic cruise offers views of the Old Town’s lanterns, bridges, and riverside homes glowing in the night. The boat ride is quite peaceful, with many reviews mentioning how “romantic” and “beautiful” it feels, especially during the Lunar Lantern Festival when the river is especially lively.

Stop 3: Releasing Your Lantern

As you reach the middle of the river, it’s time to light your lantern and let it float away. This ritual is often described as “magical,” “romantic,” and “emotional,” as it symbolizes wishes, prayers, or memories. Guides often assist with the release, helping you capture photos, which many reviewers said were “great keepsakes.”

Post-Boat Exploration

After the cruise, you’re encouraged to walk through Hoi An’s vibrant night market. It’s a feast for the senses, with stalls offering local produce, handcrafted souvenirs, and street snacks. Many travelers enjoy soaking up the lively atmosphere, especially with a cup of the herbal tea provided earlier.

Authenticity and Cultural Significance

Releasing lanterns on the Hoai River is a longstanding tradition in Hoi An, tied to wishes for prosperity, health, or happiness. Participating in this act connects visitors to local customs, adding depth to the experience. As one reviewer shared, “It was a good experience, and the guide helped us take good photos and even took videos of us releasing our lanterns.”

The activity’s simplicity contributes to its charm. Unlike larger, commercialized tours, this one maintains an intimate feel, especially with small group sizes limited to five people. That means more personalized attention and a chance for genuine interaction.

Experience Quality and Logistics

The small group size is a plus, especially if you prefer a more relaxed and personalized outing. The English-speaking guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience more meaningful. Many reviews praised how well-organized and hassle-free it was—“easy to find,” “quick to board,” and “very slick,” said several travelers.

Timing wise, the best experience is during sunset or early evening (around 6:30-7 pm). This allows you to enjoy the transition from daylight to the glowing lanterns, but keep in mind that availability varies, so booking in advance is recommended.

The duration of roughly 15 minutes means it’s a quick activity, but many found it well worth the tiny investment. The price point of $8 is hard to beat when you consider the photo opportunities, cultural connection, and the peacefulness of the river.

The Reviews Say It All

The majority of reviews are glowing, with a 4.4-star rating from over 1,500 travelers. Comments highlight the beauty of the lanterns, the friendly guides, and the ease of booking. As one visitor noted, “I was glad I paid in advance because I didn’t have to worry about anything,” which speaks to the seamless nature of this experience.

Many travelers appreciated the photo opportunities and personalized service. Comments like “The boat guide helped me get in and out of the boat, and even took videos” reveal the attentive nature of the guides. Several reviews mention that it’s a “not-to-be-missed” activity, especially during festivals when the river is packed with floating lanterns.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Arrive early (around 6:30/6:45 pm) to beat the crowds, especially during festivals.
• Bring your camera; you’ll want to capture the magical glow.
• The activity is wheelchair accessible, but note that it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the boat entry.
• Wear comfortable clothing; it can get cooler in the evening.
• Consider combining this activity with an evening stroll through the Old Town or night market afterward.
• Book in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment, particularly during high season.

This lantern boat trip is ideal for travelers seeking a short, meaningful cultural experience. If you appreciate authentic traditions and stunning visuals without a big price tag, you’ll find this activity charming and memorable. It’s particularly well-suited for romantic couples, solo travelers, or small groups who want a peaceful moment on the river with a personal touch.

Those looking for a longer cruise or historical commentary might find this too brief, but for a snapshot of Hoi An’s enchanting ambiance, it’s perfect. The combination of beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and a gentle ritual makes this a worthwhile addition to your evening plans.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The boat ride itself lasts about 15 minutes, providing enough time to enjoy the views and release your lantern.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at the ticket office located at 153 Trần Phú Street, near the Japanese Bridge—an easy landmark to find.

Is the activity suitable for everyone?
It is wheelchair accessible but not recommended for people with mobility impairments. The boat ride is brief and gentle.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat ride, a lantern, a bottle of herbal tea, and discounts on local art and tailoring services.

Can I participate during festivals?
Yes, many reviews mention doing it during the Lunar Lantern Festival, which adds to the festive atmosphere, though it might be busier.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve beforehand to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons or festivals.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring?
You should bring a camera to capture the moment. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed on the tour.

To sum it up, this lantern boat ride in Hoi An offers a gentle, beautiful, and culturally rich experience at a very reasonable price. It’s an activity that turns a simple boat ride into a memorable, photo-worthy moment and a heartfelt connection to local tradition—perfect if you’re after something authentic and enchanting during your stay.

You can check availability for your dates here: