In short
- Official boat tickets cost 150,000 to 200,000 VND.
- Handmade paper lanterns cost 10,000 to 20,000 VND each.
- Always buy tickets from official booths on Bach Dang or Nguyen Phuc Chu streets.
In this article
Getting out on the water is the most popular way to see Hoi An at night. Knowing the official rates helps you avoid overpaying. You will also need to budget for the paper lanterns you release on the river.
What is the official Hoi An lantern boat price?
Official boat ride tickets cost between 150,000 and 200,000 VND per boat.
This price is for a traditional wooden sampan boat ride that lasts 15 to 20 minutes. It covers the boat and the local rower. Buying from official sources ensures you pay this standard rate rather than an inflated tourist price.
How much do the paper lanterns cost?
Handmade paper lanterns cost around 10,000 to 20,000 VND each.
You buy these small lanterns to light and float on the water during your ride. Bring small denomination cash in VND to pay for them, as sellers along the riverbanks and docks expect exact change.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Official Boat Ticket | 150,000 - 200,000 VND per boat |
| Paper Lantern | 10,000 - 20,000 VND each |
| Old Town Entrance Ticket | 120,000 VND per person |
Where should I buy tickets to avoid scams?
Purchase your boat tickets from the official ticket booths located on Bach Dang or Nguyen Phuc Chu streets.
Do not buy tickets from random touts walking along the street. Unofficial sellers often overcharge or cut the ride short. Using the official booths guarantees you get the full 15-to-20-minute ride at the correct price.
Are there other costs involved?
You must buy a Hoi An Ancient Town entrance ticket to access the heritage streets bordering the river.
This entry ticket costs 120,000 VND. It gives you access to the pedestrian zones where the boat docks are located. You will also need it to cross the nearby Japanese Covered Bridge.
Can I pre-book a boat ride online?
Yes, many tours and operators allow you to book a boat ride in advance.
Booking ahead secures your ride and often includes extras like paper lanterns, walking tours, or hotel pickup. This is useful if you want to skip the ticket booth lines during the busy evening hours.
Is the boat ride price per person or per boat?
The official rate of 150,000 to 200,000 VND is per boat.
Groups sharing a boat will split this cost. Check with the official ticket booth for the maximum capacity of each sampan to ensure your group fits safely.
Questions travellers ask
What time do the lanterns light up?
The best viewing times are between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM when the lanterns illuminate the river.
Is bargaining expected for boat rides?
No, you should pay the fixed price of 150,000 to 200,000 VND at the official ticket booths.
Do I need to tip the boat rower?
Tipping is not required but is appreciated for good service. Bring small VND bills if you choose to tip.
