Cat Ba: Night Kayaking With Glowing Plankton

Cat Ba’s night kayaking adventure with glowing plankton is a must for nature enthusiasts. Paddling through the serene waters of Lan Ha Bay, visitors can witness a mesmerizing display of bioluminescence, as the plankton illuminate the surroundings in an ethereal glow. This unique experience not only offers a connection with the natural world but also promises an unforgettable evening of wonder and tranquility. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-timer, this tour promises to leave you captivated by the magic of Cat Ba’s enchanting waters.

Good To Know

• The tour includes a night kayaking experience in Lan Ha Bay to witness the bioluminescent plankton, which create a glowing effect on the water.
• Participants can explore the natural beauty of Lan Ha Bay and its surroundings, including Monkey Island, during the 6-hour tour.
• The tour offers a range of activities, such as hiking, swimming, and visiting a traditional village, in addition to the night kayaking experience.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, entrance fees, kayaking equipment, dinner, and an English-speaking guide.
• Participants are advised to wear comfortable, quick-drying clothes and bring a change of clothes for the wet conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers participants the chance to experience the mesmerizing bioluminescent plankton found in Lan Ha Bay, a picturesque area near Cat Ba.

Lasting 6 hours, the tour costs $35.87 per person, a 10% discount from the regular price. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later, and they’ll receive a full refund if they cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes transportation, all entrance fees, kayaking equipment, a traditional Vietnamese dinner, and an English-Vietnamese speaking guide.

Itinerary Highlights

Participants on the night kayaking tour in Cat Ba begin by being picked up from their hotel and taken to the Cai Beo Floating Village, where they’ll spend around 20 minutes sightseeing.

Next, the tour visits Monkey Island for:

• Hiking

• Swimming

• Sunset viewing (1 hour)

After that, the group will enjoy 1.5 hours of kayaking and swimming in the serene Lan Ha Bay.

The final stop is a traditional village, where they’ll spend another 1.5 hours taking in the sights.

Activities and Experiences

During the night kayaking tour, participants can cruise through the last remaining floating village in Northern Vietnam, providing a unique glimpse into the local way of life. Swimmers can take a refreshing dip in the serene waters of Lan Ha Bay and mingle with fellow adventurers from around the world. As the sun sets, hikers can trek to the top of Monkey Island to witness a breathtaking sunset. The highlight of the tour is the night kayaking experience, where paddlers can witness the mesmerizing glow of bioluminescent plankton, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.

| Activities | Duration |

| — | — |

| Floating Village Cruise | 20 minutes |

| Swimming in Lan Ha Bay | 1.5 hours |

| Hiking on Monkey Island | 1 hour |

| Night Kayaking with Bioluminescence | 1.5 hours |

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at the hotel, along with all necessary entrance fees and kayak equipment.

Dinner featuring traditional Vietnamese cuisine, with vegetarian options, is provided. Towels are also included for your convenience.

The tour is led by a live guide fluent in both English and Vietnamese, ensuring an informative and engaging experience.

A live guide fluent in both English and Vietnamese ensures an informative and engaging experience.

• Pickup and drop-off at the hotel

• All entrance fees and kayak equipment

• Dinner with vegetarian options

• Live tour guide fluent in English and Vietnamese

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Pickup and Drop-off

The tour includes convenient pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Cat Ba. This makes it easy to start and end your night kayaking adventure.

The van transports you to the launch site, where you’ll meet the guides and get fitted for your kayak. At the end of the tour, you’ll be dropped back off at your hotel, ready to rest after an evening of exploring Lan Ha Bay’s glowing plankton.

This all-inclusive service ensures a hassle-free experience from beginning to end, allowing you to fully learn about the natural wonder of the bioluminescent display.

Clothing and Gear Recommendations

When participating in the night kayaking tour, it’s important to wear suitable clothing for the activity. This includes:

• Comfortable, quick-drying clothes that can get wet

• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good traction

• A lightweight, water-resistant jacket or windbreaker

• Sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

Proper attire will ensure you stay comfortable and mobile during the kayaking and hiking portions of the tour.

Bring a change of clothes as well, in case you get wet.

Following these gear recommendations will help you make the most of your bioluminescent plankton adventure in Lan Ha Bay.

Bioluminescence Visibility

Bioluminescent plankton, the natural phenomenon that illuminates the waters of Lan Ha Bay, can be an unpredictable sight. Their glow is dependent on various environmental factors, including water temperature, currents, and weather conditions.

While the tour guarantees the opportunity to experience this magical display, the visibility of the bioluminescence can vary. Guests should be aware that the intensity and abundance of the glowing plankton may fluctuate during the night kayaking excursion.

The chance to witness this breathtaking natural wonder is a highlight of the tour, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Dietary Restrictions

Guests with dietary restrictions can easily accommodate their needs on this night kayaking tour.

Guests with dietary restrictions can easily accommodate their needs on this night kayaking tour.

The tour provider offers vegetarian options for the traditional Vietnamese dinner, and they recommend informing them of any dietary needs in advance. This allows the staff to properly prepare and ensure an enjoyable dining experience for all.

The menu features:

• Vegetarian dishes

• Gluten-free options

• Halal-friendly meals

• Nut-free selections

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Visit Other Islands Besides Monkey Island?

Yes, the tour also includes a visit to the Cai Beo Floating Village. Participants can explore this traditional village and its surroundings during the 6-hour experience in Lan Ha Bay.

How Experienced Do We Need to Be for the Kayaking?

The night kayaking tour doesn’t require prior experience. It’s suitable for all skill levels, as the guides provide thorough instructions and assistance throughout the excursion. The calm waters of Lan Ha Bay make it an accessible activity for beginners.

Is There an Age Limit or Requirement for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have an age limit, but participants should be able to handle the physical demands of kayaking. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. The activity is suitable for most ages with proper precautions.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees During the Tour?

There are no additional costs or fees during the tour. The price includes all entrance fees, kayak equipment, dinner, and transportation. Guests only need to bring comfortable clothes and inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions in advance.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a dinner featuring traditional Vietnamese cuisine, and all meals and refreshments are provided. Participants should avoid bringing outside food or beverages.

The Sum Up

Kayaking amidst the glowing plankton in Lan Ha Bay is an unforgettable experience. Adventurers can enjoy the mesmerizing natural spectacle, gliding silently across the water as the bioluminescent organisms create a trail of light. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, this unique night tour offers a serene connection with the surrounding environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: