Hoi An: Private Night Boat Trip & Release Lanterns on the River

Setting out on a private night boat trip in Hoi An is a unique opportunity to take in the city’s captivating charm. For just $8.44 per person, you can glide along the Hoai River and release lanterns, symbolizing your hopes and dreams. This 15-minute excursion allows you to witness the historic old town illuminated under the night sky – a truly mesmerizing experience. But the cultural significance of this activity runs deeper, as you’ll soon discover.

Key Points

• This 15-minute private boat tour on the Hoai River offers beautiful views of Hoi An’s old town at night.
• Guests can release lanterns onto the river, symbolizing luck, peace, and hope as part of a longstanding cultural tradition.
• The activity is suitable for all ages and fosters a spiritual connection with a meditative atmosphere.
• After the boat trip, visitors can explore Hoi An’s vibrant night market and well-preserved historic old town.
• The activity may not be accessible for people with mobility impairments, and participants should contact the tour provider for any accessibility concerns.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The Hoi An: Private Night Boat Trip & Release Lantern on River activity offers a unique opportunity to explore the city from a new perspective.

Priced from $8.44 per person, this 15-minute private boat tour allows up to 5 people per booking. Guests can enjoy picturesque views of Hoi An’s old town while floating lanterns and releasing them into the river, symbolizing luck, peace, and hope.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this activity is suitable for all ages and provides an authentic cultural experience.

Experiencing the Night Boat Trip

Guests begin their private night boat trip by meeting at the designated location in front of the statue at 142 Tran Phu Street in Hoi An.

Guests meet at the statue on 142 Tran Phu Street in Hoi An to begin their private night boat trip.

They board their own private boat, with a maximum of 5 people per boat. Sailing on the picturesque Hoai River, guests take in the beautiful views of Hoi An’s old town at night.

As they float along, they’re provided with lanterns to release into the river, symbolizing luck, peace, and hope. The activity is suitable for all ages, fostering a sense of excitement and spiritual connection.

After the boat ride, guests can explore Hoi An’s lively night market and Old Town.

Releasing Lanterns on the River

As the private boat gently glides along the Hoai River, guests eagerly await their turn to release the lanterns. These paper lanterns represent prayers for luck, peace, health, and fortune. With excitement, each person carefully lights and places their lantern onto the water, watching as it drifts downstream. The act of releasing the lanterns brings a sense of ease and hope, allowing dreams to take flight. The experience fosters a spiritual connection, as the lanterns symbolize the flight of aspirations into the night sky.

| Lantern Features | Description |

| — | — |

| Shape | Cone-shaped, open at the bottom |

| Material | Bamboo frame, rice paper covering |

| Purpose | Pray for luck, peace, health, fortune |

| Tradition | Long-standing cultural practice in Hoi An |

| Significance | Allow dreams and hopes to take flight |

Cultural Significance of Lanterns

Lanterns hold deep cultural significance in Hoi An’s traditional practices. They represent prayers for luck, peace, health, and fortune.

The act of releasing lanterns on the river brings ease and hope, allowing dreams to take flight. This authentic night activity connects visitors to Hoi An’s spiritual traditions.

Floating lanterns on the water symbolizes letting go of worries and aspirations taking form. Watching the lanterns drift away is a powerful, meditative experience, fostering a sense of tranquility and optimism.

This centuries-old ritual remains an integral part of Hoi An’s cultural heritage and identity.

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Exploring Hoi An’s Night Market and Old Town

After the private night boat trip and releasing lanterns on the river, visitors can explore Hoi An’s bustling night market and picturesque Old Town at their own pace.

The night market offers a lively atmosphere with stalls selling local handicrafts, street food, and souvenirs.

Wandering through the Old Town, visitors can admire the well-preserved architecture, including ancient houses, temples, and bridges.

This self-guided exploration allows travelers to soak in the unique ambiance and cultural heritage of Hoi An at their own leisure after the tranquil boat experience.

Meeting Point and Contact Information

The meeting point for the private night boat trip is in front of the statue at 142 Tran Phu Street in Hoi An.

Customers are advised to arrive at the meeting point, as the boats depart promptly. For easy contact, participants should provide their WhatsApp number. This will allow the organizers to reach out if there are any updates or changes.

The activity is popular, so participants should expect to wait in line during the peak time between 6 PM and 7 PM. It’s best to arrive early to secure a spot and enjoy the experience.

Timing and Preparation Tips

As the peak time for the private night boat trip falls between 6 PM and 7 PM, visitors should plan to arrive early to avoid long queues and secure a spot.

Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you will need to walk to the boat launch. Bringing a camera is also advised to capture the picturesque views of Hoi An’s old town and the lanterns floating on the river.

However, the activity isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Pets are also not allowed on the boats.

Accessibility Considerations

While the private night boat trip in Hoi An offers a unique and scenic experience, it’s important to consider the accessibility limitations.

The activity isn’t suitable for:

1. People with mobility impairments, as the boats may be difficult to board and navigate.

2. Wheelchair users, as the boat setup may not accommodate their needs.

3. Guests traveling with pets, as they aren’t allowed on the boats.

Those with concerns about accessibility are advised to contact the tour provider in advance to discuss their specific requirements and explore alternative options that may better suit their needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Lantern to Release?

While participants can bring their own lanterns, the activity provider recommends using the lanterns provided as part of the experience. This ensures the proper materials and safe release of the lanterns on the river.

Is This Activity Available Year-Round?

The activity is available year-round, but the best times are during the high season from March to August when weather conditions are ideal for releasing lanterns on the river. Availability may be limited during the rainy season from September to February.

Is There an Option to Extend the Boat Trip Duration?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the boat trip duration. Customers can upgrade to a longer excursion for an additional fee, allowing more time to enjoy the river views and lantern release experience.

What Happens if the Weather Is Bad on the Scheduled Date?

If the weather is bad on the scheduled date, the activity can be rescheduled. The provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing guests to change their plans if needed.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?

There is no minimum number of participants required. Each booking is for a private boat that can accommodate up to 5 people. This allows you to enjoy the experience with just your group.

The Sum Up

The Hoi An Private Night Boat Trip offers a unique and enchanting experience. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of Hoi An’s old town at night and symbolically release lanterns on the Hoai River. This 15-minute journey is a magical addition to an evening in Hoi An, suitable for all ages and a maximum of five guests per booking. At just $8.44 per person, it’s a must-try activity for those seeking a spiritual and cultural experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: