Cat Ba Island’s 12 Best Tours

Why Cat Ba Island is perfect for tours

Cat Ba Island offers a rich mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxing boat trips—all amid stunning limestone karsts, lush jungles, and quiet bays. Unlike other destinations, Cat Ba’s combination of rugged national parks and serene sea waters makes it ideal for those who want more than just a postcard view. Whether it’s the thrill of scrambling up Ngu Lam Peak, exploring the secret Hospital Cave, or cruising through Lan Ha Bay’s tranquil waters, there’s something for every type of traveler.

Our favorite tours include the Sunset Jeep Tour, which mixes history, nature, and a scenic drive, and the overnight Lan Ha Bay cruise, perfect for a peaceful escape. These experiences highlight why Cat Ba is a place of adventure and quiet beauty, often less crowded than nearby Ha Long Bay but equally captivating.

Quick Overview

Cat Ba offers a variety of tours, from half-day adventures to multi-day excursions. You can explore national parks, learn to cook traditional Vietnamese dishes, or set sail on private boat trips. The list includes exciting options like Jeep and hiking trips, immersive cooking classes, and serene kayaking and overnight cruises. Now, let’s explore each in detail.

1. Cat Ba Sunset Jeep Tour: National Park Trek & Hospital Cave

Starting with the Sunset Jeep Tour, this experience combines a vintage military vehicle ride with visits to key sites. It’s a 5-hour journey that includes exploring the Hospital Cave, a secret hospital from the Vietnam War era, and hiking to Ngu Lam Peak for panoramic views. The scenic drive through lush mountain roads offers a chance to admire Cat Ba’s natural beauty without the strenuous hike.

The highlight is the guided walk inside the Hospital Cave, revealing Vietnam’s wartime secrets. Then, the hike to Ngu Lam Peak provides sweeping vistas—perfect for photos. The tour ends with a scenic drive back to town. Perfect for those who enjoy history, nature, and a relaxed pace, this tour is rated 5/5 with 17 reviews. It’s especially good for history buffs and outdoorsy travelers who want a well-rounded half-day adventure.

Bottom Line: An engaging mix of history, nature, and scenic drives, suited for those who want a quick but rundown of Cat Ba’s highlights.

2. CatBa: Authentic Vietnam Cooking Class and local market tour

For food lovers, this cooking class offers a hands-on experience in the heart of Cat Ba. The tour starts with a visit to the bustling local market, where you select fresh ingredients and practice negotiating for the best produce. Then, under expert guidance, you’ll learn to cook classic Vietnamese dishes—a skill you can recreate at home.

The class lasts about 4 hours, and participants rave about the instructor’s knowledge and patience. One review notes, “Great, didn’t know I could cook that well!!” The meal you make is your reward, accompanied by shared stories and laughter. It’s a relaxed, low-key activity perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers who want a taste of local life.

Value for money is excellent at just $30 per person, considering the delicious food and cultural insight gained. If you’re eager to bring home more than photos, this tour is a delightful choice.

Bottom Line: A fun, authentic way to learn Vietnamese cooking, ideal for foodies and those wanting a memorable cultural experience.

3. CAT BA :2D1N Lan Ha Bay-Ha Long Bay with Plankton Excursion

This two-day cruise offers quiet beauty away from the crowds of Ha Long Bay, exploring Lan Ha Bay’s calmer waters. The tour includes delicious meals aboard a traditional boat and stops at less-visited parts of the bay, perfect for those who want tranquility.

One standout activity is squid fishing or kayaking to see bioluminescent plankton at night—an extraordinary experience. The friendly staff and enthusiastic guide make this trip engaging, and staying overnight on the boat provides a real sense of adventure and relaxation. Guests love the serenity, with reviews pointing out the “quiet and small group” atmosphere.

Ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful escape combined with outdoor activities, the value is high at $110, including meals and accommodation. It’s a perfect choice if you appreciate natural beauty and a slow pace.

Bottom Line: An excellent multi-day option for those wanting a tranquil, immersive sea experience with chances to see bioluminescent plankton.

4. Private boat- Lan Ha Bay Half Day Tour with kayaking

For those who want a flexible, personalized experience, this half-day private boat tour is ideal. You’ll cruise in peaceful waters, far from the crowded main routes, exploring hidden beaches and floating villages. The tour’s highlight is kayaking—you set your own pace while discovering secluded spots that larger boats can’t access.

The flexible itinerary means you can choose to swim or relax on the boat as you prefer. It’s perfect for couples, families, or photography enthusiasts craving a tailored adventure without the rush. With only 7 reviews rating it 5/5, it’s clear this tour delivers a high-quality, intimate experience.

At $55 per person, it offers good value for a private, customizable trip. If you value privacy and the chance to go at your own pace, this is a top pick.

Bottom Line: A private, flexible outing for those who want exclusivity, quiet waters, and personalized exploration.

5. Cat Ba National Park Day Tour – Hiking, Cycling, Kayaking

This full-day eco-tour balances hiking, cycling, and water activities. Starting with a trek through Cat Ba National Park, you’ll get an up-close look at its flora and fauna, then ride bikes to Viet Hai village, a charming local settlement. Afterward, you can kayak and swim in the calm waters of Lan Ha Bay.

The guide shares insights about the park’s ecology, making this a rich educational experience. The tour emphasizes nature and outdoor activity, perfect for those who want a deeper connection with the environment. It’s rated 5/5 with one review, noting a well-organized trip that showcases the island’s natural beauty.

At $45 per person, it’s an excellent value for those seeking active exploration. It’s suited for travelers comfortable with walking and cycling, and eager to see both land and sea.

Bottom Line: A comprehensive day of trekking and kayaking, best for active travelers wanting a full nature immersion.

6. Ha Noi: Northern Taylor Made Tour

This customizable 3-day tour is designed for independent explorers. With a private car and English or French-speaking driver, you pick your destinations—be it Ha Giang, Sapa, or Ninh Binh. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer tailored itineraries and want to avoid large group tours.

At $275 per person, it includes private transportation and flexibility. Some reviews mention regret about not knowing you can swim in certain beaches—highlighting how personalized this trip can be. It’s ideal for those with a specific region in mind and a flexible schedule, looking for a hassle-free way to see Northern Vietnam’s highlights.

Bottom Line: Best for independent travelers wanting tailored, private explorations of Northern Vietnam’s most iconic spots.

7. From Hanoi: Cat Ba Island 2-Day Tour with Trekking

This two-day adventure offers a mix of hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing. Start with a trek in Cat Ba National Park to Frog Pond, then visit Thien Ung Pagoda for panoramic views. The second day includes a cruise through Lan Ha Bay with options to swim or just enjoy the scenery.

Rated 2.5/5 with only 2 reviews, it seems to have room for improvement, especially in how the activities are organized. Still, it’s suitable for travelers on a tight schedule who want a taste of the island’s highlights without overcommitting.

At $99, it provides decent value for a quick trip, but travelers should check recent reviews for updated experiences.

Bottom Line: A straightforward way to see key sights over two days, ideal for budget-conscious travelers with limited time.

8. Lan Ha Bay: Cave Camping and Bioluminescent Plankton Tour

This overnight camping tour is for the adventurous. Paddling through the lagoon to a hidden cave, setting up camp, and watching bioluminescent plankton glow at night make it a unique experience. The campfire dinners and night kayaking add to the fun.

Reviews are not available, but the description promises an authentic, immersive experience. It’s great for outdoor lovers who want a combination of camping, kayaking, and star-gazing, away from tourist crowds.

At $55, camping gear and meals are included, making it a budget-friendly yet memorable outing. Suitable for active travelers prepared for outdoor overnight stays.

Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure seekers craving a night under the stars, with plenty of opportunities for night kayaking and quiet reflection.

9. Hanoi: Cat Ba National Park Adventure Day Tour

This full-day trek focuses on exploring Cat Ba National Park, with activities like hiking, biking to Viet Hai village, and kayaking in Lan Ha Bay. You’ll learn about the local flora and fauna, see the Frog Pond, and visit fishing villages—making it a comprehensive nature and culture tour.

Although ratings are pending, the description suggests a well-rounded day for those who want to experience both land and sea. The emphasis on natural scenery and local culture makes it ideal for eco-conscious travelers.

At $61 per person, it’s a competitive price for a busy day of exploration. Active travelers needing a full but balanced day will find this tour appealing.

Bottom Line: An active day touring land and water, best suited for nature lovers eager to learn about local ecosystems.

10. Cat Ba: Lan Ha Bay Private 1/2 Day Boat Tour with Kayaking

For those wanting exclusivity, this private boat tour offers a tranquil cruise through Lan Ha Bay. The highlight is kayaking in secluded lagoons and swimming in emerald waters. You’ll admire limestone formations and floating villages from the comfort of a private vessel.

The flexible schedule allows you to choose departure times and activities, making it ideal for couples or small groups seeking a tailored experience. Reviews are not available, but the emphasis on privacy and personalized exploration makes it highly attractive.

At $75 per group, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy Lan Ha Bay without the crowds. Perfect for intimate trips or special occasions.

Bottom Line: An exclusive, customizable boat tour for those who want privacy, beautiful scenery, and kayaking.

11. Cat Ba National Park, Viet Hai, Lan Ha Bay Full Day Eco Tour

This full-day eco tour combines trekking in Cat Ba National Park, visiting Viet Hai Village, and enjoying a boat ride in Lan Ha Bay. Participants hike about 12 km through jungle terrain, then cycle or take an electric cart in the village, followed by kayaking and swimming in the bay.

The tour emphasizes nature, local culture, and adventure, making it a well-rounded day. Although reviews are not provided, the itinerary suggests a thorough exploration suitable for active travelers.

For $84, you get an immersive experience with multiple activities. It’s ideal for those wanting to see the diverse sides of Cat Ba—mountains, villages, and sea.

Bottom Line: For active travelers wanting a full day of trekking, cultural visits, and sea activities, this tour delivers.

12. From Cat Ba: Bioluminescent Plankton Kayak Tour, Lan Ha Bay

This evening kayak tour focuses on bioluminescent plankton, offering a peaceful paddle around Lan Ha Bay. You’ll relax on the boat watching the night sky, then paddle to see the glowing waters—a truly magical sight.

The tour is suited for those who appreciate nature’s wonders and want a quiet, reflective experience away from busy tourist routes. It’s an excellent choice for photographers or anyone fascinated by natural phenomena. Reviews are not available, but the detailed description indicates a memorable, low-impact excursion.

At $89 per person, it’s a good value for a special experience. Ideal for night owls and outdoor enthusiasts.

Bottom Line: A tranquil, visually stunning kayak tour perfect for those eager to witness bioluminescence and enjoy a peaceful night on the water.

How to Choose Your Perfect Tour

When selecting a tour in Cat Ba, think about your budget, activity level, and interests. For a quick taste of history and scenery, the Sunset Jeep Tour offers a balanced mix. Want to learn local cuisine? The cooking class is perfect, especially for foodies. If you prefer a mix of adventure and relaxation, consider the Lan Ha Bay overnight cruise or private boat.

For active travelers, the full-day trekking and kayaking trips and eco tours provide a rich experience. Those seeking solitude and stunning sights should consider the bioluminescent plankton kayak tours, especially if nighttime scenery appeals.

Booking early is wise, especially during peak season (October to April), to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.

In summary

Cat Ba Island offers a versatile range of tours: from historical Jeep adventures and cooking classes to peaceful overnight cruises and active day trips. For a quick, scenic fix, the Sunset Jeep Tour is excellent; for a deeper culture, the cooking class stands out. Nature lovers will appreciate the full-day eco tours and bioluminescent kayaking, while those craving exclusivity may enjoy the private boat trips.

No matter your style, these options show that Cat Ba isn’t just a pretty face but a place packed with experiences waiting to be enjoyed. Be sure to plan ahead, choose a tour that matches your interests and fitness level, and book early to make the most of your time on this beautiful island.