Da Nang Basket Boat Ride in Hoi An City with Release Lantern

Travelers seeking an authentic taste of central Vietnam’s charm often find themselves captivated by Hoi An’s blend of history, culture, and vibrant local life. This full-day tour offers a well-rounded experience, combining a peaceful bamboo basket boat ride through water coconut waterways, exploring UNESCO-listed Old Town, and ending with a magical lantern release on the river. For just $59, it’s a neat package that balances sightseeing, cultural insights, and fun activities.

One thing we particularly love about this tour is the chance to see rural Vietnamese life up close, especially during the basket boat ride in Cam Thanh Coconut Village. Plus, the evening lantern release is truly a sight to behold, marking the perfect end to a memorable day. On the flip side, travelers should keep in mind that the tour is quite packed, with a flexible schedule that might feel rushed if you’re hoping for a leisurely pace.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a mix of culture and sightseeing without spending a full day. It’s great for those who enjoy hands-on experiences, local cuisine, and a bit of shopping at the lantern-lit markets. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, value-packed day in Hoi An, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience with a bamboo basket boat ride in Cam Thanh Coconut Village
• Cultural exploration of Hoi An’s UNESCO World Heritage old town and historic sites
• Delicious local dinner included, featuring Vietnamese specialties like Cau Lau and My Quang
• Magical lantern release on the Hoai River, a meaningful and beautiful tradition
• Flexible itinerary with optional shopping and sightseeing opportunities
• Excellent value for money combining multiple activities for $59

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to give you a taste of both rural and urban Vietnam, wrapped into a manageable 6-hour experience. It kicks off with a hotel pickup—either from Hoi An or Da Nang—around noon or 1 pm, depending on your location. From there, you’re transported into the countryside, where the real fun begins.

The Basket Boat Ride in Cam Thanh

The first stop is the Coconut Village, where you’ll hop into a traditional bamboo basket boat. These boats are a staple of local life, designed for water navigation through the narrow waterways surrounded by water coconut trees. This experience isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about participating—try traditional fishing methods or simply enjoy the peaceful glide through the water. The reviews mention that this part is particularly appreciated for its authenticity and the chance to see local livelihoods firsthand.

Most travelers find the ride relaxing and photogenic, especially since the water coconut foliage creates a lush, green backdrop. As one reviewer noted, it’s a “fun tour” that offers insights into Vietnamese countryside traditions, often missing from typical city tours.

Exploring Hoi An Ancient Town

Next, the tour takes you into the heart of Hoi An’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll visit iconic sites like the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall, where bright gates and dragon statues evoke a sense of ancient Asia. You’ll learn about ancestor worship and local religious practices, which add depth to the visit.

Two ancient houses—Phung Hung and Tan Ky—stand out as examples of well-preserved merchant homes. Expect to see some fascinating architecture and learn about the prosperous traders who once called Hoi An home. The Museum of Folklore offers a peek into everyday life, with artifacts and demonstrations that help you understand the local culture beyond just sightseeing.

Many travelers, including Belinda, appreciated the timing—the three hours allocated allow enough time to see key sites without feeling rushed. The free admission means you can explore at your own pace, and guides often share interesting stories about the history and significance of each location.

The Japanese Bridge and Local Craft Shops

You’ll also visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, an enduring symbol of Hoi An’s multicultural past. Built over 400 years ago, the bridge’s carvings and paintings are as captivating as the stories behind them. It’s a perfect spot for photos, and many visitors find the bridge’s symbolism and craftsmanship intriguing.

Following that, a stroll through local neighborhoods and craft shops offers a chance to discover unique souvenirs, textiles, and artworks. These quieter lanes reveal Hoi An’s charm beyond the tourist hotspots, with many reviewers raving about discovering hidden gems.

The Evening Lantern Ride and Flower Lantern Release

As daylight dims, the town transforms into a scene straight out of a fairy tale. Lanterns light up the riverbanks, and you get to enjoy a boat ride on the Hoai River. The highlight? Releasing a flower lantern—a meaningful Vietnamese tradition believed to bring good luck. The sight of floating lanterns glowing softly on the water is genuinely breathtaking, and many find it to be a magical, peaceful moment.

The lantern release is a highlight, and travelers like Belinda found it to be a special way to conclude the day. The evening activity is included in the tour price, making it a seamless experience that feels both festive and intimate.

Practical Details and Inclusions

This tour provides round-trip transportation and an English-speaking guide, ensuring you’re supported throughout the day. Entrance fees are included, so there’s no surprise cost at major sites.

The local dinner is a highlight—offering a taste of signature Vietnamese dishes like Chicken Rice, Cau Lau, or My Quang. The dinner is served after the sightseeing, giving you a well-rounded experience of Vietnamese cuisine.

The tour is designed for up to 10 travelers, creating an intimate group setting that allows for personalized attention. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, just let the organizers know in advance, as they’re happy to accommodate special dietary needs.

The Real Experiences Based on Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the value for money—getting a full day’s worth of activities for $59 feels like a substantial deal. One traveler, Belinda, appreciated the flexibility of the schedule, noting it’s perfect for those who want to see Hoi An without being locked into a rigid timetable.

The coconut village is often highlighted as a memorable highlight. Travelers love the hands-on nature of the boat ride, the peaceful surroundings, and the chance to learn about local fishing techniques.

The dinner is described as delicious, with some reviewers mentioning the “local specialty food” options like Cau Lau and My Quang as authentic and satisfying. The lantern release at sunset, with the riverside illuminated by floating lights, is often called “magical”—a moment that captures the essence of Hoi An’s charming atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Hoi An’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic cultural activities combined with sightseeing and a touch of leisure.

It’s also great for those who want to combine outdoor activities like the basket boat ride with historical exploration, all within a reasonable budget. If you love colorful markets, local cuisine, and beautiful lantern displays, you’ll find plenty to love here.

However, if you prefer a slow-paced, in-depth tour of fewer sites, or are traveling with very young children, this might feel a little rushed. Also, since it involves several activities in a single day, be prepared for a full schedule.

Final Thoughts

This Da Nang Basket Boat Ride and Hoi An experience offers a versatile blend of nature, history, and local culture—all wrapped up in a well-priced package. The inclusion of a traditional boat ride, dinner, and the magical lantern release makes it a memorable day for most travelers. The small group size adds a personal touch, and the opportunity to see both the countryside and the ancient town makes this a complete snapshot of Hoi An.

If you’re after a tour that’s value for money, rich in culture, and offers authentic moments away from overly commercialized attractions, this trip will serve you well. It’s particularly suitable for those who want to experience Vietnam’s traditions firsthand while also enjoying some leisurely sightseeing and delicious food.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel in Hoi An or Da Nang is included in the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 6 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $59 per person, offering good value considering the multiple activities and inclusions.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, if you’re vegan, vegetarian, or have other dietary needs, just inform the organizers in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the full schedule—it’s best for those who can handle several hours of sightseeing and outdoor activities.

What makes the lantern release special?
Releasing a flower lantern on the river is a symbolic act believed to bring good luck, and watching the glowing lights drift across the water creates a beautiful, almost surreal scene.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the sites visited are included in the tour price, so no extra costs are expected at major locations.

This tour combines fun, culture, and scenic beauty—it’s an easy way to enjoy the best of Hoi An in a single day, with enough authentic moments to make your visit truly memorable.