CAT BA :2D1N Lan Ha bay-Ha Long bay with Plankton Excursion

Travelers craving a peaceful escape from the crowds of Ha Long Bay will find this 2-day, 1-night tour on Cat Ba Island a breath of fresh air. Focusing on the quieter, less touristy parts of Lan Ha Bay, it offers a blend of scenic cruising, culture, and unique nighttime experiences. This tour promises a chance to enjoy stunning limestone landscapes, authentic home-stay meals, and unforgettable activities like kayaking and plankton watching—all within a small group setting that keeps things intimate and relaxed.

What immediately drew our attention—and likely yours—is the serene environment away from the busy tourist hotspots, along with the chance to connect with local life through a village cycling tour and a traditional homestay dinner. The friendly, enthusiastic guides and the emphasis on authentic experiences make it appealing for those looking beyond a typical cruise. However, a possible consideration is the limited time on some activities, especially if you’re hoping for extensive island exploring or beach lounging.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a calmer, more authentic Vietnamese bay experience, especially those who enjoy intimate group sizes, cultural exchanges, and nature-based adventures. If you’re a foodie eager to enjoy Vietnamese cuisine directly on the water, or an adventure lover wanting to snorkel, kayak, or see bioluminescent plankton, this could be a perfect choice.

Key Points

• Serene Environment: Escape crowded Ha Long Bay and explore quieter parts of Lan Ha Bay.
• Authentic Local Experiences: Village cycling, fish massage, and homestay meals offer cultural insights.
• Variety of Activities: Kayaking, swimming, squid fishing, and plankton observation provide fun, diverse options.
• Small Group Feel: Personal, friendly guides and intimate tours increase comfort and flexibility.
• Good Value: At $110 per person, this trip offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and culture.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later, with cancellations allowed up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Day 1: Scenic Cruising and Cultural Encounters

Your adventure begins with a pick-up at 7:30 AM from your hotel or the tour office in Cat Ba Town. From there, a short transfer takes you to Bèo Harbour, setting the stage for a day filled with eye-popping limestone formations and local stories.

The cruise kicks off at around 7:45 AM, sailing through the Floating Fishing Village, one of Vietnam’s oldest settlements. Our guide, whose enthusiasm and knowledge impressed many reviewers, shared vivid stories about the fishermen and their families, adding depth to the stunning scenery. You’ll see familiar limestone formations like Turtle Islet, Toad Islet, and Candle Islet, each with distinct shapes that spark the imagination.

A highlight designed for adventure lovers is the kayaking segment, which takes about an hour and a half as you glide through caves like Bright Cave, Dark Cave, and Bat Cave. The guide’s commentary made the journey even more engaging, with some guests commenting on how the caves felt like hidden worlds waiting to be explored. If you prefer a more relaxed approach, there’s the option to sit back, take photos, or just enjoy the tranquil waters.

After kayaking, you’ll arrive at Cam Lagoon, a private swimming spot away from the crowds. The clear blue water invites you to swim or jump from the boat deck—an exhilarating moment echoed in reviews by those who appreciated the quiet, natural setting.

Lunch on board features Vietnamese dishes, including seafood and vegetarian options, providing sustenance for the afternoon’s activities. Post-lunch, guests often relax on deck, sunbathe, or snap photos of the spectacular scenery.

In the afternoon, the tour takes you on a cycling trip across rice fields to Vit Hi Village. The journey offers a glimpse into rural life, with friendly locals and opportunities to farm or even enjoy a fish massage (a seasonal activity that adds a playful element). Reviewers praised this part as a real cultural highlight, with one noting, “Meeting the locals and learning about their lifestyle was a truly special experience.”

As evening approaches, you’ll dine on a floating homestay, enjoying traditional Vietnamese cuisine. The night’s highlight is watching the bioluminescent plankton light up the water as you kayak or try squid fishing—an experience described by many as “magical” and “unforgettable.” The tranquil night air and starry sky provide a perfect backdrop for a restful sleep.

Day 2: Relaxation, Exploration, and Return

Waking early at 8 AM, you’ll enjoy a breakfast with stunning sunrise views. The fresh air and peaceful surroundings set the tone for the day’s activities.

At around 9 AM, the boat heads to Ho Ba Hm, a spot for further exploration of the bay’s hidden lagoons and deserted beaches. Kayaking around limestone islands or relaxing on secluded beaches is common, and reviews often mention how peaceful and photogenic these spots are.

A visit to Dau Bê Island offers a chance to unwind on an almost deserted beach, with some guests kayaking into the lagoons to discover more of the bay’s secret corners. Lunch is prepared in a local style, enhancing the authentic vibe of the trip.

By the early afternoon, you’ll start heading back to Lan Ha Bay, with time for a final swim or photo session before returning to Cat Ba Town around 3:30 PM. The return journey offers a chance to reflect on the quiet beauty of the bay and the unique experiences you’ve enjoyed.

The Real Value: What Sets This Tour Apart

While $110 per person might seem modest in the context of luxury cruises, this tour offers genuine value through its combination of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and activities. The focus on less touristy areas means you’ll experience Lan Ha Bay’s natural serenity and authentic local life, rather than crowded viewpoints.

The small group size enhances the experience, allowing guides like B and Chilly to share detailed stories and cater to specific interests. Guests particularly appreciated the enthusiasm and friendliness of the guides, which made the journey more engaging and personal.

Meals are highlighted as a strong point, with reviews noting the delicious Vietnamese cuisine served on board and during the homestay. The inclusion of activities like kayaking and squid fishing at night, coupled with the chance to see bioluminescent plankton, adds a magical, almost surreal layer to the trip.

The flexibility to reserve and pay later is ideal for travelers wanting to keep their plans open, and the cancellation policy offers peace of mind.

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Practical Considerations and Tips

• Bring swimwear and sunscreen for the water activities and sun exposure.
• The tour includes bottled water, but consider bringing extra if you plan to be active all day.
• The entrance fee of $16 USD is not included in the price and needs to be paid separately.
• The tour is not suitable for people over 95 years, reflecting the physical activity involved.
• For those who love authentic experiences and quieter landscapes, this trip hits the mark. However, if you’re seeking extensive island hopping or long beach days, you might find the schedule a bit limited.

Final Thoughts

This 2D1N Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay tour offers a peaceful, culturally enriching escape into some of Vietnam’s most stunning limestone landscapes. The combination of scenic cruising, kayaking, village cycling, and authentic cuisine creates a well-rounded experience that balances adventure with relaxation.

The small group size and friendly guides such as B and Chilly help foster an intimate atmosphere, making the journey feel personal rather than touristy. The highlight for many is the chance to see bioluminescent plankton—a rare, almost magical sight that will stay with you long after your return.

If you’re looking for a more tranquil, genuine Vietnamese bay experience without the crowds, and you value local interactions, this trip offers an excellent mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and fun activities—all at a very reasonable price.

FAQs

How do I get to the start point?
The tour begins at the Cat Ba Smile Tours office or your hotel in Cat Ba Town. The company provides pick-up service, so just confirm your location when booking.

What time does the tour start and end?
Pick-up is at 7:30 AM, and the trip concludes around 3:30 PM on the second day, with drop-off back at the meeting point.

Is there a specific dress code?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities and water sports are recommended. Don’t forget swimwear and sunscreen.

What activities are included?
Kayaking, squid fishing, swimming, and plankton watching are part of the experience. You can also cycle in Vit Hi Village.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals are provided, including Vietnamese specialties with seafood and vegetarian options.

Is there an additional fee?
Yes, you need to pay an entrance ticket fee of $16 USD separately. Bottled water is included, but drinks like alcohol or soft drinks are not.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later. Just ensure you book at least 24 hours in advance to allow for cancellations.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s not suitable for those over 95 years old due to physical activity levels, but younger families and active seniors often find it manageable.

What about the accommodation?
Stay is at a floating homestay, offering a traditional Vietnamese experience, with options to relax or enjoy nighttime activities.

How do I cancel if needed?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This detailed review should give you a clear picture of what to expect from this intimate, scenic, and culturally rich cruise adventure on Vietnam’s stunning bay.

You can check availability for your dates here: