About this activity

Riding a boat along the Hoai River is one of the must-try activities for visitors to Hoi An Ancient Town, an internationally famous tourist destination and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Quang Nam Province, central Vietnam.

Located in the heart of Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province, Hoi An Ancient Town was an international trading port between the 16th and 19th centuries. The place is famous for unique buildings and streets that reflect the influences of both indigenous and its foreign cultures.

The Hoai River, a branch of Thu Bon River that flows through Hoi An Ancient Town, is another iconic feature of this destination and has become an important part of local tourism.

Taking a boat ride along the Hoai River can offer an unforgettable experience and a different view of the old town of Hoi An.

The best time to partake in this activity is late in the afternoon or in the evening.

A trip along the Hoai River before sunset, when the sky is still bright, offers a clearer view of the town and more photo opportunities, while visitors riding a boat in the evening can witness the town and river illuminated with colorful lights.

During the boat ride, visitors can release colorful lanterns onto the calm river water. They will be given a lantern made from colored paper with a candle in the middle to release onto the water while making a wish.

As soon as they approach the Hoai River, a lot of hawkers will offer boat riding and lantern services. The price can vary depending on the number of people in a group and the actual demand on each day, so remember to bargain a little to find the best deal.

A boat can carry up to about five passengers, and each ride typically takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

According to a boat driver, one needs to join the local boat union and have a registration certificate to steer tourist boats in Hoi An Ancient Town.

The union has about 300 boats, each given a different license number for management purposes.

Drivers need to follow the rules of the union as well as safety regulations while carrying tourists. If any passenger is left without a life jacket, the driver may be banned from the job for three days, he added.