Hoi An’s enchanting Hoai River comes alive at night, offering visitors a magical 20-minute boat cruise. This affordable experience allows you to immerse in the city’s vibrant nightscape, release a lantern to make a wish, and explore the bustling night market. With stunning views of UNESCO-listed architecture and high customer ratings, it’s a delightful way to savor Hoi An’s cultural charm after sunset. But what makes this boat trip truly unforgettable? Let’s dive deeper into the details.
Key Points
- A 20-minute boat cruise along the Hoai River in Hoi An at night, priced from $8.24 per person with a maximum of 5 participants.
- Opportunity to release a lantern and enjoy traditional herbal tea during the scenic tour of Hoi An’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town.
- Conducted in English and wheelchair accessible, with a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
- Includes discounts of 10% at the Hoian Art Center and Izi Store, allowing guests to explore local art and tailoring services.
- The experience is rated 4.5/5 based on over 1,380 positive reviews, with travelers describing the colorful atmosphere and helpful guides.
Activity Overview
The Hoi An: Hoai River Boat Trip by Night with Release Lantern activity offers a 20-minute boat cruise along the Hoai River, allowing visitors to discover Hoi An’s captivating charm at night.
Priced from $8.24 per person, the experience is limited to a maximum of 5 participants and conducted in English.
It’s wheelchair accessible, and travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The activity also includes a lantern release, traditional herbal tea, and exclusive discounts on local art and tailoring services.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Hoi An.
Experience Highlights
As visitors sail on the Hoai River, they can discover Hoi An’s charm at night.
They’ll release their own lantern into the sky, making a wish or prayer.
Exploring Hoi An’s authentic night market, they’ll enjoy traditional herbal tea.
Scenic views and photo opportunities abound during the boat cruise, with UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town and picturesque lantern-lit streets as the backdrop.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins at 153 Trần Phú in Hoi An, where participants have 20 minutes of free time to explore the area.
They then board a boat for a 15-minute cruise on the Hoai River. During this scenic journey, visitors can admire the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town and the picturesque lantern-lit streets.
The main highlights of the tour include the opportunity to release a lantern into the sky, making a wish or prayer, as well as the chance to explore Hoi An’s authentic night market and enjoy a traditional herbal tea.
Inclusions and Discounts
The Hoi An boat trip by night includes the boat cruise, a lantern, and a bottle of herbal tea.
Plus, travelers receive special discounts at nearby attractions. They’ll get 10% off art products at the Hoian Art Center on Nguyen Thai Hoc street, as well as 10% off tailor services at the Izi Store on Tran Phu street.
This allows guests to further explore Hoi An’s cultural offerings and bring home unique souvenirs. The included activities and discounts provide a well-rounded experience, enhancing the overall value of the boat tour.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback and Ratings
Travelers have left overwhelmingly positive reviews for the Hoi An boat trip by night. The experience has earned an impressive 4.5/5 rating based on over 1,380 reviews.
Guests praise the colorful atmosphere, with one customer noting the "lantern-lit streets" and helpful guide. Another reviewer from Poland found the ride enjoyable, though short.
A traveler from the UK described the trip as "well-organized and enjoyable." The Hoai River boat cruise offers a scenic and cultural experience that delights visitors to the UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An.
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Exploring Hoi An’s Charming Nightscape
How does one capture the enchanting essence of Hoi An at night? The Hoai River boat cruise provides a picturesque window into the town’s alluring nightscape.
Drifting along the river, visitors marvel at the glow of lantern-lit streets, illuminating the historic buildings and bridges. The release of a floating lantern into the sky adds a sense of wonder, as travelers make a wish.
Exploring the vibrant night market, guests can savor the aroma of traditional herbal tea and enjoy Hoi An’s captivating ambiance.
This enchanting experience offers a truly memorable way to witness the town’s charming transformation after dark.
Releasing Lanterns and Making Wishes
A highlight of the Hoai River boat cruise is the opportunity to release a floating lantern into the sky, allowing visitors to make a wish or offer a prayer.
As the lantern drifts upwards, its gentle glow illuminates the night, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Guests can watch their lantern join the constellation of lights drifting across the sky, a symbolic moment of hope and aspiration.
This unique experience offers a chance to connect with Hoi An’s rich cultural heritage while creating lasting memories under the starry night sky.
Discovering Hoi An’s Authentic Night Market
After the serene boat cruise, visitors can enjoy Hoi An’s lively night market. The market is a feast for the senses, filled with colorful lanterns, the aroma of local cuisine, and the vibrant energy of the community. Visitors can browse stalls selling handmade crafts, traditional textiles, and authentic souvenirs.
| Item | Price Range |
| — | — |
| Silk lanterns | $2 – $10 |
| Handcrafted woodwork | $5 – $20 |
| Embroidered tablecloths | $10 – $30 |
| Ceramic pottery | $3 – $15 |
| Traditional Vietnamese hats | $2 – $8 |
The night market offers a unique opportunity to take in Hoi An’s rich cultural heritage and discover the city’s authentic charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Boat Trip Accommodate Large Groups?
No, the boat trip has a group size limited to 5 participants. It’s not designed to accommodate large groups, but rather offers an intimate, personalized experience on the Hoai River at night.
Is the Boat Trip Suitable for Young Children?
The boat trip is suitable for young children, as it’s wheelchair accessible and has a limited group size of 5 participants. The short 20-minute duration and included lantern release activity make it an engaging experience for families.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Lantern Release?
There are no specific restrictions on the lantern release, but participants are advised to follow safety guidelines. The lanterns should be released carefully to avoid potential hazards or disturbances.
Is Photography Allowed During the Boat Cruise?
Photography is allowed and encouraged during the boat cruise. Guests can capture the scenic views, lantern-lit streets, and memorable moments as they sail along the Hoai River and release their lanterns into the night sky.
Can the Boat Trip Be Combined With Other Hoi an Experiences?
The boat trip can be combined with other Hoi An experiences, such as visiting the Old Town, exploring the night market, and enjoying traditional Vietnamese cuisine. This allows travelers to make the most of their time in the historic city.
The Sum Up
The Hoi An: Hoai River Boat Trip by Night With Release Lantern offers a captivating 20-minute cruise, allowing visitors to enjoy Hoi An’s vibrant nightlife. With stunning views, the release of a lantern to make a wish, and the opportunity to explore the night market, it’s a delightful and affordable way to experience the cultural charm of this UNESCO-listed destination after sunset.
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