Night Boat Trip and Floating Lantern on Hoai River Hoi An

Imagine gliding quietly on the Hoai River in Hoi An at dusk, with the soft glow of lanterns lighting your way and the scent of river breezes filling the air. This 20-minute boat ride costs just $8 per person and involves releasing a floating lantern—a simple act that carries deep spiritual meaning and offers a beautiful view of the city at night. Guided by friendly local staff, you’ll hop onto a traditional wooden boat near the Kazimierz Kwiatkowski bust in the Old Town, setting out on a journey that’s as much about cultural connection as it is about visual delight.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines visual beauty with meaningful tradition. Watching lanterns gently float downstream feels almost meditative, and the act of releasing your own lantern is a wonderful way to bring good wishes for health, luck, or peace for your loved ones. Plus, from the boat, you’ll get a fresh perspective of Hoi An’s charming riverside lit by lanterns, creating a scene that’s both lively and serene.

One thing to consider is that the peak time from 19:00 to 20:00 can be quite busy, and you’ll likely need to wait for your turn to board, especially if you book during these hours. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, arriving slightly earlier or later might help you avoid the crowds.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic cultural activities and are interested in capturing memorable photos. It’s especially appealing for those who want a quick, meaningful activity that offers a different view of Hoi An by night without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Affordable price at just $8 per person for a memorable cultural experience
• Deep spiritual significance in releasing a floating lantern as a wish or prayer
• Unique perspective of Hoi An from the river at night, perfect for photos
• Limited group size (up to 5 people per boat), creating an intimate experience
• Peak hours are busy; plan your timing accordingly for a more relaxed ride
• Authentic local activity that appeals to travelers seeking genuine cultural moments

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Night Boat and Lantern Release Experience

If you’re in Hoi An, this boat trip stands out as a simple yet profoundly meaningful way to connect with local traditions. For just $8, you get a 15-minute boat ride, during which you’ll release one floating lantern per person into the river. It’s a brief activity, but it’s packed with emotional and cultural resonance—more than just a pretty picture.

The Meeting Point and Setup

We loved the straightforward nature of the meeting arrangement. The activity begins at the Kazimierz Kwiatkowski bust, located next to 140 Tran Phu street in the Old Town. Once you check in with the staff, they’ll guide you to the dock, where a traditional wooden boat awaits. The process is simple, and the staff is friendly, making it easy to relax and prepare for the experience.

The Boat Ride Itself

Sailing along the Hoai River offers a different vantage point of Hoi An—illuminated by floating lanterns, with the sights and smells of the river at night creating a calming atmosphere. The boat ride lasts about 15 minutes, providing enough time to enjoy the gentle rocking of the boat and the softly glowing lanterns bobbing downstream.

Releasing the Lantern

The act of lighting your lantern before releasing it feels almost meditative. As one traveler put it, “When a flower lantern is lit, it’s like a prayer for luck and peace; it’s a moment of hope and release.” Whether you’re making a wish for good health or simply appreciating the beauty, this activity offers a moment of reflection amidst the bustle of travel.

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Why It Matters

This activity isn’t merely about aesthetics. According to reviews, “the light of the lanterns is the light of hope,” and “lighted lanterns send prayers and remove worries.” It’s a chance to participate in a tradition that’s deeply rooted in local culture, giving visitors a sense of connection and a tangible way to send positive thoughts into the world.

Authenticity and Crowd Dynamics

Since the activity is limited to small groups of 1-5 people per boat, it maintains an intimate feel. However, during peak hours, such as between 19:00 and 20:00, there can be queues, which might mean waiting a bit before boarding. Planning your schedule to arrive outside this window can make the experience even more enjoyable and less rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $8, you get a 15-minute boat trip and your floating lantern. There’s no included transportation to the meeting point or additional items like food or drinks. An important note is the requirement to pay for the Hoi An UNESCO entrance ticket (120,000 VND), which you’ll need if you plan to visit the UNESCO sites around town.

Comfort and Accessibility

The activity is accessible only on foot, and unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users. This might be a consideration for travelers with mobility issues, but for most others, the experience is straightforward and comfortable.

Why This Experience Offers Real Value

For the price of just $8, you’re gaining more than a pretty moment—you’re participating in a local tradition that carries spiritual significance. The activity’s simplicity keeps the focus on meaning, connection, and memorable sights. Many reviews highlight how this activity feels authentic and heartfelt, making it worth the modest expense.

The small group size and limited duration make it an efficient activity, perfect for adding a touch of serenity to your evening in Hoi An without consuming too much time or budget. While it may not be the highlight of your entire trip, it’s a beautiful, culturally rich experience that will stay with you long after the lanterns have floated downstream.

Final Thoughts

This Night Boat Trip and Floating Lantern activity in Hoi An offers a perfect blend of visual beauty, cultural tradition, and emotional resonance. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a meaningful activity that’s easy on the wallet and provides a unique perspective of the city. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, releasing a lantern is a shared moment of hope and reflection.

If you’re looking for an authentic, peaceful activity that captures the spirit of Hoi An’s lantern-lit nights, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s simple, genuine, and incredibly memorable—an experience to treasure and repeat in your mind long after your trip.

FAQs

How long does the boat trip last?
The boat ride lasts approximately 15 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy the sights and participate in the lantern release without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
For $8, you get the boat trip and one floating lantern per person. The activity itself is quite straightforward and focused on your lantern release experience.

Where do I meet for the activity?
The meeting point is at the Kazimierz Kwiatkowski bust, next to 140 Tran Phu street in Hoi An’s Old Town. Staff will escort you to the dock.

Are there any age restrictions?
The activity is suitable for most ages, as children and adults alike are eager to participate. However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

Is this activity accessible only on foot?
Yes, the activity is accessible only on foot because the meeting point and dock are within walking distance in the Old Town.

What is the best time to book?
Booking outside the peak time of 19:00-20:00 might allow for a quieter experience. Early or late evening hours tend to be less crowded.

Can I cancel this activity?
Yes, the activity can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to enjoy a meal before or after the activity.

Do I need to buy an entrance ticket to UNESCO sites?
Yes, the entry fee of 120,000 VND applies if you plan to visit other UNESCO sites around Hoi An afterward.

Is it suitable for non-English speakers?
The tour is conducted with a live English-speaking guide, but the activity itself is simple enough that language isn’t a barrier.

This lantern release on the Hoai River is a beautifully simple activity that brings a touch of serenity and tradition to your evening. It’s an affordable, authentic experience that can add a meaningful highlight to your visit to Hoi An, especially if you cherish quiet moments of reflection amidst travel.

You can check availability for your dates here: