From Cat Ba island: full day boat tour to Lan Ha bay – Ha Long bay

Exploring Vietnam’s famed waters can be a hit or miss, depending on the tour you choose. This full-day boat trip from Cat Ba to Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay stands out for its balanced mix of scenic cruising, activities, and authentic encounters. It’s designed for travelers craving a mix of tranquility, adventure, and cultural insight without the overwhelming crowds.

Based on glowing reviews and a solid 5.0 rating from 449 travelers, this tour delivers a memorable experience. What we particularly love about it are the less touristy areas, the variety of activities like kayaking and swimming, and the delicious, plentiful lunch.

One thing to consider is that, as with all outdoor excursions, weather can impact the day’s flow—cloudy, chilly days might require you to bring some warm clothing. Still, if you’re after a peaceful escape on the water with a good dose of authentic Vietnamese charm, this tour will suit adventurous yet relaxed travelers perfectly.

Key Points

• Authentic experience in less crowded parts of Lan Ha and Ha Long Bay
• Diverse activities including kayaking, swimming, and visiting fishing villages
• Delicious, well-organized lunch and all necessary equipment provided
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with local insights
• Flexible schedule allows for ample relaxation and exploration
• Great value at $32 per person, including all fees and activities

Introduction to the Tour

Vietnam’s Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay are among the most beautiful natural sights in Southeast Asia. While Ha Long Bay’s popularity often means crowded boats and over-tourism, this tour offers a refreshing alternative by focusing on less touristy areas of Lan Ha Bay and the southern part of Ha Long Bay.

This is a full-day experience that balances sightseeing, activity, and relaxation. The boat itself is spacious, with a capacity of 50 seats, ensuring comfort and a good social vibe, especially with groups limited to 30 people.

What makes this tour particularly attractive is the authenticity—visiting the oldest floating fishing village, kayaking through caves, and swimming in tranquil lagoons. Plus, it includes a delicious seafood lunch and all necessary gear, making it convenient for travelers looking for value and hassle-free fun.

The Itinerary: A Day on the Water

Stop 1: Exploring Lan Ha Bay & Cai Beo Village

The adventure starts early with pickup from your hotel or a meeting at the Cat Ba Green Trail Travel office. You’ll be whisked to Beo Pier, where your boat adventure kicks off.

Cruising in the southern part of Lan Ha Bay, you’ll immediately notice how much quieter this section is compared to the busier areas of Ha Long Bay. The highlight here is the visit to Cai Beo fishing village, one of Vietnam’s oldest. As you drift through, you’ll get a glimpse into the daily life of local fishermen, seeing their floating homes and traditional activities—an authentic slice of Vietnamese coastal life.

The bay is dotted with hundreds of sandy beaches, perfect for those perfect shot-worthy moments or just sinking toes into soft sand. The cruise here lasts about 3 hours and includes all entrance fees.

Stop 2: Ha Long Bay & Cave Kayaking

Next, the boat ventures further into Ha Long Bay, but this isn’t the busy tourist zone. You’ll find yourself in a calmer, more serene part of the bay, ideal for activities like kayaking through Dark Cave, Bat Cave, and Bright Cave. Reviews note that kayaking here feels safe and well-organized, with some guests mentioning the availability of bamboo boats as a paid upgrade.

Afterward, you’ll have the chance to swim in a peaceful lagoon with calm waters—perfect for cooling off and relaxing. The boat provides life jackets and snorkeling gear, so you can enjoy the water comfortably.

Stop 3: Lan Ha Bay and Local Fish Farm

Following a delicious onboard lunch—featuring fresh seafood, chicken, or vegetarian options—the boat cruises to the eastern part of Lan Ha Bay. Here, you’ll see iconic islets such as Pen islet, Sailing islet, Frog islet, and Turtle islet. The boat pauses at Three Peach Beach, where you can jump into the water for more swimming or snorkeling.

A visit to a local fish farm follows, giving insight into the local aquaculture industry. As the day winds down, you’ll enjoy a “happy ending” party on the boat with cake, coffee, and tea as you head back to Cat Ba.

What to Expect: A Day Filled with Authentic Experiences and Stunning Views

Scenic Cruising in Less Touristy Areas

Travelers consistently praise the immense beauty of Lan Ha Bay and the southern part of Ha Long Bay. These sections are less crowded, offering a more peaceful and intimate environment. The reviews mention how the less busy waters and fewer boats make for a more relaxing experience.

Activities that Balance Adventure & Relaxation

From kayaking through caves to swimming in lagoons, the tour offers a good mix. Reviewers have highlighted kayaking as a “cool” and “safe” experience, with some even describing it as “amazing”. The option to upgrade to bamboo boats makes it accessible but note that the primary focus remains on a family-friendly and safe environment**.

Authentic Cultural Encounters

Visiting the oldest floating fishing village is a major highlight. It provides a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese fishing culture—something you won’t get on crowded, commercialized tours. As one reviewer noted, “you can see the daily life of fishermen year-round,” which adds a meaningful touch to the trip.

Food & Comfort

The lunch buffet is another standout. With a variety of seafood, chicken, vegetables, and vegetarian options, it caters well to different dietary needs. Guests describe the meal as “good and plenty”, making the trip feel value-packed.

The boat’s air-conditioning and spacious layout contribute to comfort, especially during warmer days or after water activities.

The Guides & Overall Organization

Reviews repeatedly mention friendly, knowledgeable guides—with “Tiny Tiger” as a memorable figure—who enhance the experience with local insights and good humor. The entire trip runs smoothly, with timed activities that don’t feel rushed, allowing plenty of time to relax and soak in the scenery.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth the Price?

At $32 per person, this tour offers notable value considering it includes all entrance fees, kayaking equipment, lunch, and transport. The small group size (max 30 people) ensures a more personalized experience, unlike larger, crowded tours.

The flexible schedule allows for a leisurely pace, and the inclusion of activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and a fish farm visit means you get multiple experiences for your money. Given that many reviews highlight the delicious lunch and authentic stops, this trip is a good investment for travelers wanting a less commercialized, immersive day on Vietnam’s stunning waters.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurers who enjoy water-based activities but dislike overly touristy spots. It’s perfect for nature lovers, culture seekers, and anyone wanting a relaxed yet engaging day on the water.

Travelers who appreciate local culture—like the fishing village—will find it a rewarding peek into Vietnam’s coastal life. The tour’s small group size makes it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a more intimate experience.

The Sum Up

This full-day boat tour from Cat Ba to Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay offers an authentic, scenic escape that balances adventure, culture, and relaxation. Its focus on less crowded areas allows travelers to enjoy the natural beauty without the noise of mass tourism. From kayaking through caves, swimming in tranquil lagoons, to visiting Vietnam’s oldest fishing village, every moment feels meaningful.

The delicious food, knowledgeable guides, and relaxing pace make it an excellent choice for those wanting to experience the best of Vietnam’s waters without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

If you’re after a value-packed day trip that combines stunning scenery with engaging activities and cultural insights, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
All entrance fees, kayaking equipment, life jackets, snorkeling gear, and a buffet lunch with seafood, chicken, and vegetarian options are included.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book around 11 days ahead, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.

What’s the group size?
The boat has a capacity of 50 seats but is limited to a maximum of 30 travelers for a more comfortable and personalized experience.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickups from your hotel or the office are available, making it easy to start your day hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day experience runs approximately 9 hours, from early morning pickup to returning to Cat Ba.

What should I bring?
Packing warm windproof clothes on cloudy days is advised. Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian options are available for lunch, and the food is generally well-rated.

Is there any free time?
Yes, ample free time is built into the schedule for relaxing on the boat deck, swimming, or exploring stops.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This thoughtful, well-organized day trip from Cat Ba offers an excellent way to see the beauty of northern Vietnam’s waters in a more authentic, relaxed setting. Whether you’re keen on adventure, culture, or simply soaking up breathtaking views, it’s a trip that delivers on all fronts.