Hoi An Night Boat Ride with Floating Lanterns Experience

20 minutes Not CancellableMeet on locationInstant confirmationGuided Operated by Metta Voyage 4.9 from 133 reviews

Why we love it?

The Hoi An River Night Boat Ride offers a serene 20-minute experience along the picturesque waterways of Hoi An Ancient Town. Ideal for couples, families, or anyone seeking a tranquil evening, participants will enjoy a traditional wooden boat ride lasting 10 to 15 minutes, guided by a local boat rower. Each guest is provided with a floating lantern, which can be released onto the river, creating a magical atmosphere. This experience stands out for its blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, allowing travelers to appreciate the enchanting sights and sounds of Hoi An at night.

Inclusions

  • Traditional wooden boat ride (10-15 minutes)
  • Floating lantern (1 lantern per person)
  • Local boat rower
  • On-site assistance from guide at meeting point

Exclusions

  • Food and drinks
  • Hoi An UNESCO entrance ticket (120.000 VND/ticket)
  • Other expenses not mentioned above
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Itinerary

Hoi An Boat Trip

Arrive at the designated meeting point in Hoi An Ancient Town at your selected time, where your guide will greet you, verify your booking, and provide a paper lantern for the experience. As motorized vehicles are not permitted inside the Old Town, the entire activity is operated on foot. From there, your guide will accompany you on a short walk to the nearby river pier.

At the pier, step aboard a traditional wooden boat reserved exclusively for your private group. Each boat comfortably accommodates 1–5 guests, ensuring an intimate and non-shared experience. Once seated, the local boat rower will help prepare and light your lantern before the journey begins.

During busy evening periods, especially between 18:30 and 19:30, the riverside can become crowded. Depending on boat availability, there may be a waiting time of approximately 15–25 minutes before boarding.

The boat ride itself lasts around 10–15 minutes, subject to river traffic and water conditions. As you glide along the river, take in the enchanting nighttime scenery of Hoi An Ancient Town, where glowing lanterns line the streets and their colorful reflections dance across the water. This is primarily a scenic and atmospheric experience, allowing guests to soak in the charm of Hoi An by night rather than follow a guided commentary.

Please note that the local boat rowers are not English-speaking. The lantern release will take place during the ride when the boat reaches a suitable position, depending on river flow and surrounding traffic.

After returning to the dock, the experience concludes. This is a short yet memorable cultural activity, ideal for travelers looking to enjoy an authentic glimpse of Hoi An’s magical evening ambiance from the river.

Please Note

  • Not allowedAlcohol and drugs
  • - This is a short experience, not a guided tour or long cruise. The boat ride lasts approximately 10–15 minutes, depending on river traffic.- Each wooden boat is private for your group only (1–5 guests) and is not shared with other customers.
  • During peak hours (18:30–19:30), the river area can be crowded. After arriving at the dock, you may need to wait 15–25 minutes before boarding.
  • Lanterns are provided by the guide at the meeting point. The boat rower will assist with lighting and releasing the lantern during the ride.
  • Local boat rowers do not speak English. This experience focuses on atmosphere and sightseeing rather than narration.
  • The exact moment of lantern release depends on river conditions and boat position.
  • This activity is conducted entirely on foot within the Old Town; please wear comfortable walking shoes.
  • Suitable for all ages, but not recommended for travelers expecting a long cruise or guided commentary.

Cancellation Policy

Non-refundable booking