Basket Boat Tour, Hoi An city, boat trip and lantern release

Experience the Charm of Hoi An with a Basket Boat Tour, Lantern Release, and City Exploration

If you’re headed to Vietnam’s enchanting town of Hoi An, this 5-hour cultural tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the area’s sights, sounds, and flavors. For $39, you’ll visit iconic landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Museum of Folk Culture, paddle through the lush Coconut Forest on bamboo basket boats, and enjoy the magical experience of releasing lanterns on the Hoai River at night. Transport is included, with hotel pickup and drop-off from the city center, making it a convenient way to see and feel the city.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the balance of history and fun — walking through ancient streets and then jumping onto a traditional basket boat in the Coconut Forest offers a chance to see local life up close. Second, the lantern release at sunset is truly memorable; the glowing lights drifting on the river create a picture-perfect moment. But a consideration is that some parts, like the Museum and night market, might feel a bit rushed if you’re eager to explore everything on your own.

This experience suits travelers who want an authentic taste of Hoi An without feeling overwhelmed, and who appreciate guided insights paired with fun activities. If you’re interested in local culture, beautiful scenery, and a touch of adventure, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience made our article of Which Hoi An City Tours To Choose? We Rank The 15 Best.

Key Points

• Cultural Highlights: Visit significant sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge and Museum of Folk Culture.
• Unique Experience: Paddle through Coconut Forest on bamboo basket boats.
• Evening Magic: Enjoy a scenic boat ride and lantern release on the Hoai River.
• Local Flavor: Sample traditional Vietnamese cuisine during the tour.
• Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple.
• Value for Money: At $39, it provides a well-priced way to experience Hoi An’s highlights.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting with Hoi An’s Historic Heart

The tour begins in the early afternoon, with hotel pickup from the city center—a huge plus if you want to skip the hassle of navigating busy streets. We loved how seamless the process was, setting the tone for a stress-free day. Once in the town, the guide takes you through key landmarks such as the Old House of Tan Ky, the Japanese Covered Bridge, and the Fukian Assembly Hall. These sites, with their Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architectural influences, give you a vivid picture of Hoi An’s history as a bustling trading port.

Although the Museum of Folk Culture is part of the itinerary, reviews suggest it’s a quick stop, and some visitors felt they didn’t have enough time to really absorb everything. Still, it’s an interesting glimpse into local traditions, especially if you’re into cultural exhibits. The guide’s commentary enriches these visits, offering context that makes the sights more meaningful.

The Coconut Forest Adventure

After some sightseeing, the tour moves to Cam Thanh Coconut Village around 4:30 p.m. Here, the atmosphere shifts from historic to lively and natural. You’ll paddle through water coconut forests on traditional bamboo basket boats, which is both a fun and authentic activity. The boats are small, so expect a cozy ride—some reviewers mention that the loudness of the boats might be a bit much if you’re sensitive to noise, and that this part can feel quite touristy, but it’s still a highlight for many.

Our guide, Thuy, was praised for her friendliness and humor, making the ride both entertaining and educational. As you glide past tall coconut palms, you get a sense of the local livelihood and the natural beauty of the area. Plus, the authentic Vietnamese food served here—probably some local specialties—adds a delicious touch to the afternoon.

Evening in Hoi An: Lanterns and Night Market

By late evening, the tour transitions to the Old Town for the night market experience. This is where Hoi An truly shows its charm. The boat ride on the Hoai River is a peaceful, scenic way to welcome sunset, culminating in the release of floating lanterns. This activity is universally praised — as one reviewer put it, “The lantern lighting was something to see to be believed, with lots of bright lights and colors.”

The free time at the night market allows you to browse stalls packed with local crafts, souvenirs, and street food. Many mention that the market is vibrant and lively, perfect for picking up a few treasures or simply soaking in the bustling atmosphere.

Practicalities and Value

The tour includes pickup and drop-off, a bottle of water, and a single lantern per person—a small but meaningful touch. The admission fees for certain sights are not included, so plan for the extra VND 120,000 if you want to visit each site. The group is limited to 12 travelers, which helps keep things personal and manageable.

Some reviews note that timing can be tight, especially if you want to linger longer at certain spots or shop at the market. Still, most find the price and experience to be excellent value, especially considering the included activities and convenient transport.

Authentic Experiences That Shine

What stands out most from traveler feedback is the knowledgeable guides like Tin Tin and Thuy. Their warmth, humor, and insights make a genuine difference, transforming a series of activities into a memorable cultural journey. Many reviews highlight how the guides made the day special, sharing local stories and making everyone feel welcome.

The basket boat ride is often described as hilarious and fun, with some guests even suggesting paying a small tip for extra spins around the river. The lantern release is universally loved—an image that stays with you long after the tour ends. It’s a perfect way to close your day in Hoi An, especially if you’re lucky enough to be there during the lantern festival season.

Considerations for Travelers

While the tour offers an excellent mix of sights and activities, some may find the timed stops a little rushed, especially if they want to explore more deeply or shop extensively. Also, the admission fees are not included, so budget accordingly. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or a more intimate experience, you might want to consider visiting some sites independently.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to travelers who enjoy cultural exploration combined with fun activities. If you appreciate guided commentary, scenic boat rides, and vibrant night markets, this will suit you well. It’s especially ideal if you value value for money, as most reviewers agree that the price reflects a well-rounded experience.

Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an engaging overview of Hoi An’s highlights will find it a fantastic choice. The small group size ensures a friendly environment, and the mix of historical, natural, and cultural experiences keeps everyone entertained.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour provides pickup and drop-off from hotels in the city center, making logistics hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 5 hours, covering sightseeing, the basket boat ride, and the evening lantern release.

What is the cost per person?
$39, which covers most activities, a guide, water, and one lantern. Additional site entry fees are extra.

Are the activities suitable for children?
Most travelers report the tour is suitable for most ages, especially as the boat rides are gentle. However, always consider your child’s comfort with boat trips and walking.

Can I participate if I don’t speak English well?
The guide speaks English, and reviews mention engaging commentary, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable clothing, hats for sun protection, and maybe a small umbrella or raincoat if rain is forecast. Don’t forget your camera!

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Yes, the admission fee for certain landmarks (~120,000 VND) and tips for guides and staff are not included.

Final Thoughts

This Basket Boat Tour and Lantern Release in Hoi An offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and cultural activities at a very reasonable price. You’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for this charming town, along with unforgettable memories of rowing through coconut palms and floating lanterns at sunset.

It’s ideal for first-time visitors, culture lovers, and those eager to experience authentic Vietnamese traditions with a touch of fun. The knowledgeable guides, especially, make the experience stand out—adding personal stories and humor that create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

If you’re after a comprehensive yet relaxed introduction to Hoi An, this tour is a smart choice. It’s a perfect blend of sightseeing, local flavor, and mesmerizing moments that will leave you with a genuine connection to this enchanting town.