The bioluminescent plankton kayak tour from Cat Ba offers an enchanting experience that combines stunning natural sights and the magical glow of plankton. Paddling through the picturesque Cai Beo floating village and swimming in the sparkling waters of Van Boi beach, adventurers can enjoy the beauty of nature under a starry night sky. With an English-speaking guide, this 3.5-hour tour provides a memorable adventure that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Good To Know

- Bioluminescent plankton kayak tour in Cat Ba with a duration of 3.5 hours.
- Opportunity to paddle through the Cai Beo floating village and witness the mesmerizing glow of bioluminescent plankton.
- Sunset viewing with vibrant orange and pink hues, followed by a chance to swim and see personal sparkling silhouettes.
- Guided exploration of plankton-rich areas and an overall immersive experience of the natural phenomenon.
- Inclusions such as kayak rentals, life jackets, English-speaking guide, entrance tickets, and BBQ dinner.
Tour Overview

The bioluminescent plankton kayak tour offers an extraordinary experience in the natural wonders of Cat Ba.
The bioluminescent plankton kayak tour offers an extraordinary experience in the natural wonders of Cat Ba.
This 3.5-hour activity allows participants to paddle through the Cai Beo floating village and witness the mesmerizing glow of bioluminescent plankton illuminating the water.
As the sun sets, vibrant hues of orange and pink paint the sky, creating a breathtaking backdrop.
Swimmers can even see their own sparkling silhouettes as they enjoy the bioluminescent waters.
With kayak equipment, life jackets, and an expert guide, this tour provides a guided exploration of areas rich in plankton bioluminescence.
Love the evening vibe? Here are more after-sunset activities we've covered in Cat Ba Island
Itinerary Highlights

Paddling through the Cai Beo floating village, guests will arrive at Van Boi beach, where they can witness the mesmerizing glow of bioluminescent plankton illuminating the water. As the sun sets, shades of orange and pink fill the sky, creating a breathtaking backdrop for this natural phenomenon. Guests will have the opportunity to swim and see their own sparkling silhouette, truly seeing the magical experience. The guided tour will explore areas rich in plankton bioluminescence, ensuring visitors make the most of this unique and captivating attraction.
| Experience | Duration | Highlights |
| — | — | — |
| Bioluminescent Plankton Viewing | Entire Tour | Witness the glow of plankton in the water |
| Sunset Viewing | 30-45 minutes | Observe the sky’s vibrant colors |
| Swimming | 15-30 minutes | See your own sparkling silhouette |
| Guided Exploration | Entire Tour | Discover areas rich in bioluminescence |
Inclusions

This tour includes a range of equipment and services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. It provides kayak rentals, life jackets, and a guided exploration.
The tour also includes entrance tickets, a BBQ dinner, and an English-speaking guide to enhance the experience. Guests can look forward to a swimming opportunity and the chance to witness the captivating bioluminescent plankton.
Hotel pickup in Cat Ba town is also provided for added convenience. The inclusions cover the essential elements to make this a memorable and well-rounded bioluminescent plankton kayak tour.
Important Information

Some important information to note is that this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, babies under 1 year, and people over 95 years.
Participants should bring the following:
-
Swimwear, towel, snacks, and water.
-
Biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent.
-
A change of clothes.
Smoking, plastic bottles, littering, and touching plants aren’t allowed.
The visibility of the bioluminescence may vary based on weather conditions.
Participants should wear comfortable clothes suitable for water activities.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback

According to the customer feedback, the Bioluminescent Plankton Kayak Tour in Cat Ba has received an overall rating of 5/5 based on 1 review.
The tour has attracted a variety of traveler types, including couples, groups of friends, solo travelers, and families.
A verified GetYourGuide traveler from Canada, who experienced the tour in December 2024, praised the experience.
The customer’s review highlights the tour’s ability to provide a memorable encounter with bioluminescent plankton, a stunning sunset, and an opportunity for a refreshing swim under the starry night sky.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Cat Ba Island
- Full-Day Cruise and Kayak in Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island
- Cat Ba Island: Lan Ha Bay Bioluminescence Plankton Kayaking
- Lan Ha Bay: Kayaking and Cruise
- Cat Ba : Lan Ha Bay Bioluminescent Plankton Kayak Boat Tour
- Lan Ha Bay FullDay Trip Swimming Kayaking In Tranquil Beach
- From Lan Ha Bay: 3-Day 2-Night Cruise With Meals & Kayaking
What to Expect on the Tour

Travelers can look forward to an immersive and enchanting experience on the Bioluminescent Plankton Kayak Tour. The experience includes:
-
Paddling through the serene Cai Beo floating village to reach the stunning Van Boi beach.
-
Witnessing the breathtaking bioluminescent plankton illuminating the water, creating a magical and otherworldly display.
-
Enjoying a picturesque sunset with shades of orange and pink, complementing the glowing plankton.
-
Cooling off with a refreshing swim and observing the sparkling silhouette created by the bioluminescence.
Throughout the tour, a knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the rich plankton ecosystem and the fascinating natural phenomenon.
Safety Considerations
Although the Bioluminescent Plankton Kayak Tour offers a captivating and memorable experience, it’s important for participants to consider safety precautions. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, babies under 1 year, and people over 95 years old. Participants should wear comfortable, water-suitable clothing and bring a change of clothes. Smoking, plastic bottles, littering, and touching plants are strictly prohibited. To ensure a safe and enjoyable tour, guests should follow the guide’s instructions and refrain from any behavior that could endanger themselves or others.
| Prohibited Items | Suitable Attire | Medical Restrictions |
| — | — | — |
| Smoking | Comfortable, water-suitable clothing | Pregnant women |
| Plastic bottles | Change of clothes | Back problems |
| Littering | | Babies under 1 year |
| Touching plants | | People over 95 years old |
Preparing for the Adventure

Preparing for the adventure starts with getting the right gear. Participants should pack the following essentials:
-
Comfortable, quick-drying clothing that can get wet. This includes swimwear, water shoes, and a change of clothes.
-
Biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against UV rays and bugs.
-
A towel for drying off after the swim and a water bottle to stay hydrated.
-
A waterproof bag or pouch to keep valuables dry during the tour.
With these items in hand, adventurers can focus on fully seeing the stunning bioluminescent plankton display and breathtaking sunset.
Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available Year-Round or Seasonally?
The tour is available year-round, but the visibility of the bioluminescent plankton may vary based on weather conditions. The best time to see the plankton is typically during the summer months.
What if I Cannot Swim, Can I Still Participate?
If you can’t swim, you can still participate in the tour. Life jackets are provided, and you don’t need to get in the water to see the bioluminescent plankton. The guide will ensure your safety throughout the experience.
Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a minimum group size, but it does have a maximum of 12 people. This ensures a personalized experience and allows the guide to provide attentive supervision during the kayaking and other activities.
Can I Bring My Own Kayak or Do I Have to Use the Provided Ones?
The tour provides kayaks for participants, so you can’t bring your own. The kayaks are included in the tour price, and using the provided equipment is required for the guided bioluminescent plankton exploration.
Are There Any Age Restrictions Beyond Those Listed in the Important Information?
There are no other age restrictions beyond those listed in the important information. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, babies under 1 year, and people over 95 years old.
The Sum Up
The Bioluminescent Plankton Kayak Tour from Cat Ba offers an enchanting adventure that combines stunning natural beauty with a unique and unforgettable experience. Paddle through a floating village, swim in the glowing waters, and enjoy a BBQ dinner under the stars, all while accompanied by an English-speaking guide. This tour provides an opportunity to take in the wonders of nature and create lasting memories.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Kayak & Canoe Tours in Cat Ba Island
- From Lan Ha Bay: 3-Day 2-Night Cruise With Meals & Kayaking
- Cat Ba: Sunset and Night Kayak With Bioluminescent Plankton
- Lan Ha Bay FullDay Trip Swimming Kayaking In Tranquil Beach
- Lan Ha Bay: Sunset & Plankton Bioluminescent Night Kayaking
- FROM CAT BA : Bioluminescent Plankton Kayak Tour With Sunset
- Cat Ba : Lan Ha Bay Bioluminescent Plankton Kayak Boat Tour
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Cat Ba Island
- From Cat Ba : 2-3 Days Lan Ha Bay 5 Star Cruise With Balcony
- Lan Ha Bay Viet Hai Village Boutique Cruise
- From Lan Ha Bay: 3-Day 2-Night Cruise With Meals & Kayaking
- Cat Ba: 2-Day Lan Ha Bay Cruise With Activities & Meals
- Lan Ha Bay: 2-Day Cruise With Meals, Activities and Pickup
- Cat Ba Island: Lan Ha Bay Full-Day With Luxury Cruise
More Tour Reviews in Cat Ba Island
- From Cat Ba : 2-3 Days Lan Ha Bay 5 Star Cruise With Balcony
- From Cat Ba Island: Private Full Day Fishing Tour Lan Ha Bay
- Lan Ha Bay Viet Hai Village Boutique Cruise
- From Lan Ha Bay: 3-Day 2-Night Cruise With Meals & Kayaking
- Ha Noi: Northern Taylor Made Tour
- Cat Ba: 2-Day Lan Ha Bay Cruise With Activities & Meals
Still browsing? Here are more Cat Ba Island experiences we've covered recently
- From Cat Ba : 2-3 Days Lan Ha Bay 5 Star Cruise With Balcony
- From Cat Ba Island: Private Full Day Fishing Tour Lan Ha Bay
- Lan Ha Bay Viet Hai Village Boutique Cruise
- From Lan Ha Bay: 3-Day 2-Night Cruise With Meals & Kayaking
- Ha Noi: Northern Taylor Made Tour
- Cat Ba: 2-Day Lan Ha Bay Cruise With Activities & Meals
- Lan Ha Bay: 2-Day Cruise With Meals, Activities and Pickup
