Lan Ha Bay Cat Ba Island Sightseeing Cruise 2 Days Tour

Planning a trip to Northern Vietnam often means choosing between the famous Ha Long Bay and the less crowded Lan Ha Bay. The Lan Ha Bay Cat Ba Island Sightseeing Cruise offers a compelling way to experience this stunning region over two days, blending natural beauty, local culture, and fun activities. While it’s not perfect—some reviews highlight last-minute changes and room availability—it remains an appealing option for those eager to see limestone islands, explore remote villages, and enjoy a taste of Vietnamese cuisine.

What we love about this tour is its variety: kayaking through limestone formations, swimming in calm waters, joining a lively cooking class, and biking to Viet Hai Village. These activities are thoughtfully planned to give you a well-rounded experience of Lan Ha Bay’s scenic charm. The inclusion of meals, transport, and overnight accommodation makes it convenient—though be aware that last-minute bookings may require flexibility. This cruise suits adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting an authentic Vietnam experience away from the crowds.

One potential drawback to consider is the uncertainty around room availability, especially during peak season or last-minute bookings. Some reviews mention being notified en route that onboard rooms are full and that plans are changed, which can be disappointing if you’re hoping for a seamless experience. However, the tour provider is flexible—offering alternative stays such as hotel nights on the island if needed. This adaptability helps mitigate disappointment, but it’s worth confirming your booking details in advance.

In sum, this tour is best suited for travelers who want a mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty without the high price tag of luxury cruises. It offers a genuine, hands-on experience with plenty of opportunities to connect with Vietnam’s natural landscapes and local communities.

Key Points

• Authentic activities like kayaking, biking, and cooking make this trip engaging and memorable.
• Affordable price point offers good value for combined transport, meals, activities, and accommodation.
• Flexible options for last-minute bookings include staying in a hotel if onboard rooms are sold out.
• Beautiful scenery of limestone islands, lagoons, and lush jungle trails provide stunning photo opportunities.
• Mixed reviews highlight the importance of confirming details beforehand and being adaptable if plans change.
• Ideal for active travelers who enjoy outdoor pursuits and cultural experiences over luxury.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay

Your adventure begins early with a hotel pickup in Hanoi Old Quarter around 7:30 am. This is a sensible start time, giving you a full day to soak in the scenery. The shuttle bus takes you on a short journey to Beo Harbor, with a brief stop along the way—probably for a stretch or quick snack.

Once at Beo Harbor, you’ll transfer via tender to the cruise boat, the Sunlight Cruise, where a welcome drink and safety briefing set the tone. The boat’s interior is comfortable enough for a day of sightseeing, and the crew is typically friendly and attentive.

Lunch is a highlight, featuring Vietnamese seafood dishes served as the cruise begins to glide through the limestone karsts. The views during lunch are spectacular—think towering rocks, floating fishing villages, and peaceful waters.

Kayaking and Swimming

In the afternoon, you’ll head to the Cua Van area, a peaceful spot ideal for kayaking amidst limestone formations. The experience allows you to get close to the scenery, with many reviewers mentioning how calm and tranquil the waters are. One traveler noted, “We loved the way kayaking let us explore the hidden lagoons and get away from the crowds.”

Later, there’s time for a swim or jumping off the boat—a fun way to cool down. The water is described as clear and calm, perfect for a refreshing dip—something to look forward to if you enjoy water activities.

Cooking Class & Evening Entertainment

As evening approaches, you’ll join a cooking class to learn how to make Vietnamese spring rolls. This hands-on activity adds a personal touch to your trip and provides insights into local cuisine. Dinner follows, prepared by the onboard chef, serving flavorful dishes that showcase Vietnam’s culinary flair.

Post-dinner, the boat offers options like karaoke, squid fishing, or enjoying drinks on the sundeck. These activities allow for socializing and relaxing under the stars, rounding out a busy day.

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Overnight Stay

You’ll spend the night onboard in a private cabin with 2-3 people per room. Reviews mention that during high season or last-minute bookings, rooms might be sold out, and alternative arrangements are necessary—so confirm your reservation early. If rooms are unavailable, the provider can organize a hotel stay on Cat Ba Island, which still keeps your experience flexible and enjoyable.

Day 2: Exploring Viet Hai Village and Returning to Hanoi

The second day starts early with a sunrise view—a serene moment that many travelers cherish. After a light breakfast, you’ll bike around 5 km to Viet Hai Village, a remote spot within Cat Ba National Park. The ride offers a chance to navigate jungle trails and witness local life away from the tourist hotspots.

Viet Hai Village is described as charming and secluded, with some reviews indicating it’s a perfect place for nature walks or just relaxing away from crowds. You can explore the village, visit local homes, or trek into the national park if you wish.

Farewell Lunch and Return

After the bike ride, you’ll shower and check out from the cruise, enjoying a farewell onboard lunch. The bus then takes you back to Hanoi, with a typical arrival time around 4:30 pm—perfect for relaxing at your hotel after two days of adventure.

What’s Included & What to Keep in Mind

Included in this tour are two days of cruising, meals, kayaking, fishing equipment, a cooking class, and transportation from Hanoi. The shared cabins are designed for 2-3 travelers, providing a cozy, budget-friendly option.

Not included are tips, holiday surcharges, and a single supplement, which is priced at 1,000,000 VND. If you’re traveling solo or want privacy, factor this into your planning.

Important tips include bringing essentials like a hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. Note that smoking, plastic bottles, and littering are prohibited onboard, promoting eco-friendly practices.

Authenticity and Value: What Travelers Say

While the tour offers an array of engaging activities, some reviews reveal the importance of managing expectations. One traveler praised the well-organized activities and stunning scenery, mentioning that “despite the many ships and travelers, Halong Bay… was a dream.” Conversely, a scathing review warns about last-minute booking issues, stating, “we bought the tour at the last minute and was told there were no more places on the ship,” which led to a change of plans and disappointment.

This highlights the need to confirm your booking early and communicate with the provider to avoid surprises. The flexibility to stay onshore or in a hotel if onboard rooms are full is a positive aspect, ensuring you don’t miss out on the activities.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for active travelers eager to explore Vietnam’s natural landscapes through kayaking, biking, and swimming. It’s suitable for adventurous families (though not for children under 5 or pregnant women), cultural enthusiasts interested in local villages, and budget-conscious travelers looking for a comprehensive experience without the luxury price tag.

If you enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, authentic cuisine, and scenic views, this tour offers a practical way to enjoy Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island. Just remember to verify your booking and be flexible with plans, especially during busy seasons.

FAQs

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
You should be prepared for pickup at 07:30 if you’re staying in Hanoi Old Quarter, ensuring you don’t miss the start of the day’s adventures.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a hat, swimwear, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for biking and outdoor activities.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested in advance.

Can I participate if I don’t swim?
Yes, swimming is optional. If you’re not a strong swimmer, you can enjoy kayaking and other activities comfortably.

What happens if the onboard rooms are full?
The tour provider will organize alternative accommodations, such as a hotel stay on Cat Ba Island, so you won’t miss the experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 years, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility or back issues.

What activities are included?
Kayaking, swimming, cooking classes, biking, and visiting Viet Hai Village are part of the experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long is the ferry or boat ride each day?
The cruise sailing time isn’t specified exactly but encompasses the whole day and evening activities, with disembarkation around noon on the second day.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
This detail isn’t specified, so it’s safe to assume Wi-Fi access might be limited or unavailable aboard the cruise.

Final Thoughts

The Lan Ha Bay Cat Ba Island Sightseeing Cruise offers a lively, activity-packed way to experience Northern Vietnam’s stunning seascapes and vibrant local culture. It balances adventure with relaxation, providing memorable moments such as kayaking among limestone formations and biking through jungle trails. The inclusion of meals and cozy cabins makes it a practical choice for budget travelers seeking authentic experiences without excessive luxury.

While last-minute booking issues can occur, especially during peak seasons, the tour provider’s flexibility—offering hotel stays if needed—helps keep the adventure on track. This experience is perfect for energetic travelers who value genuine, hands-on activities and scenic beauty. If you’re ready for a taste of Vietnam’s natural wonders and cultural charm in a manageable two-day format, this cruise is worth considering.

In the end, it’s about balancing adventure and comfort, and this tour is a solid step toward discovering the beauty of Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island—an experience that blends natural splendor with local life in a way that keeps your trip unforgettable.

You can check availability for your dates here: