From Hanoi: Hai Phong- Cat Ba Lan Ha Bay w Premium Cruise

Exploring Lan Ha Bay on a day trip from Hanoi offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and fun outdoor activities. This tour, operated by Ha Henry Company, promises a luxurious yet authentic experience perfect for travelers craving a mix of relaxation and adventure.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the cruise through emerald waters provides spectacular views of rocky islands and floating villages. Second, the opportunity to kayak, swim, and jump off the boat adds an active dimension that makes the day exciting. Third, visiting the ancient Cai Beo fishing village and Viet Hai Village offers a glimpse into local life that’s hard to find elsewhere.

However, a consideration is that this is a full-day tour, so it requires an early start and some long travel times, especially if you’re coming from Hanoi. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and looking for a well-rounded, value-packed day on the water. If you love outdoor activities combined with scenic cruising and cultural stops, this trip might be just what you’re after.

Key Points

• Incredible Scenic Cruise: Cruise through Lan Ha Bay’s stunning emerald waters and rocky islands.
• Active Options: Kayaking, swimming, and boat-jumping add excitement.
• Cultural Stops: Visit Cai Beo fishing village and Viet Hai Village for authentic local experiences.
• Delicious Food: Enjoy a buffet lunch with scenic views onboard.
• Comfortable Transportation: Includes round-trip transfers from Hanoi, making logistics easier.
• Great Value: At $80, the tour offers a comprehensive day with many activities and sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This day tour begins early, with pickup options from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or a designated tour office. From there, your journey heads northeast via the 5B expressway to Hai Phong. The drive is straightforward, with a short stop at Gia Loc’s V52, giving travelers a quick break before continuing.

Once in Hai Phong, the trip continues with a sea crossing from Tan Vu to Lach Huyen port, offering glimpses of Dinh Vu port and Dinh Vu’s busy maritime scene. The ferry from Got port to Cai Vieng lands you on Cat Ba Island, where a scenic drive along the coast between lush mountains and the sea sets the tone for the day ahead.

Arrival at Serenity Cruises begins with a warm welcome and a complimentary drink. The experience on board is meant to be relaxed yet engaging, with the crew sharing information about the itinerary and the bay’s highlights. The cruise itself moves slowly, giving you plenty of time to soak in the picturesque surroundings, including Cai Beo fishing village, which has been inhabited for over 7,000 years.

Exploring Cai Beo and the Bay’s Natural Wonders

The first major highlight is the Cai Beo fishing village, where you’ll see floating houses and learn about traditional livelihoods. One reviewer emphasized how peaceful and untouched this village feels, making it a rare glimpse into local life. The water here is so clear and calm, it’s easy to forget you’re on a busy tour.

As the cruise continues deeper into Lan Ha Bay, you’ll marvel at the rock formations and countless tiny islands that dot the landscape. The scenery is often described as postcard-perfect, with many guests noting how the emerald waters contrast beautifully with the rugged rocks.

Lunch with a View

Next on the agenda is a buffet lunch served onboard. Guests consistently praise the quality and variety of the meal, which is served as the boat gently glides through the bay. The fresh seafood and local dishes are said to be both tasty and plentiful, making it a great way to refuel for the afternoon activities.

Visiting Viet Hai Village

After lunch, the boat sails toward the Viet Hai Port, where you’ll disembark to explore the village either via electric car or bicycle—an option that many travelers find charming. The village offers a chance to see traditional Vietnamese homes and chat with locals, giving a sense of life away from tourist-heavy areas. Reviewers have mentioned how engaging and authentic this stop feels, with some describing their conversations with residents as the highlight of the day.

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Outdoor Adventures and Water Activities

The latter part of the day is packed with fun activities. Depending on the group’s mood and weather conditions, the captain and guide may choose to stop for swimming, kayaking, or even boat-jumping—all included or available as optional extras. Guests have shared how the boat’s top deck offers a perfect vantage point for jumping into the water or simply relaxing with a drink in hand.

Sunset and Return

As the day winds down, the cruise heads back toward Beo Pier. Guests often relax on the top deck, enjoying a small sunset party with fresh fruit, biscuits, and tea. The peaceful scenery combined with the company of fellow travelers makes for a delightful end to the trip.

Transportation and Practicalities

The round-trip transfer from Hanoi is included or optional depending on your booking, easing the logistics for travelers. The entire DAY lasts about 8-10 hours, so expect an early start and a full, activity-packed schedule.

The Experience Inside the Experience

Many reviewers noted the professionalism of the crew and guides, with specific praise for the English-speaking guide who provided informative commentary. Travelers appreciated the smooth organization, with many saying the trip felt well-paced and thoughtfully arranged.

The boat itself is described as comfortable and modern, with a spacious deck for viewing and relaxing. The inclusion of a welcome drink and bottled water adds a touch of hospitality, and the buffet lunch is considered good value for a day cruise.

What You Need to Know

• What to bring: Comfortable shoes, hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended.
• What’s not included: Drinks beyond water, kayaking (if not included), and surcharges for additional guides or holidays.
• Duration: Around 1 day, with check-in times varying—be sure to check availability.
• Pricing: At $80 per person, the tour offers good value considering the activities, meals, and transport included.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a balance of scenic cruising, outdoor activities, and cultural insights. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to experience the magic of Lan Ha Bay without leaving Hanoi overnight. Active travelers will enjoy kayaking, jumping, and swimming, while those interested in local life will appreciate the visits to Cai Beo and Viet Hai villages.

It’s especially suited for those looking for an all-in-one experience—scenery, adventure, and cultural exposure—at an accessible price point. The tour’s well-organized nature makes it a good choice for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a comprehensive day out with minimal hassle.

The Sum Up

This Hai Phong- Cat Ba Lan Ha Bay premium cruise offers a well-rounded day exploring some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking waters and charming villages. The combination of scenic views, outdoor activities, and cultural stops creates an experience that is both rewarding and fun.

For those who love being on the water, the chance to kayak or jump from the boat, combined with the authentic village visits, makes this trip stand out. The inclusion of a delicious buffet lunch and comfortable transportation adds to its appeal, offering good value for the price.

While it is a full-day commitment, the seamless organization and variety of experiences make it worthwhile. It’s best suited for travelers eager to see Lan Ha Bay’s beauty in a single day, especially if outdoor activities and cultural insights are high on your list.

This tour balances scenic beauty, engaging activities, and local culture into a memorable day that showcases Vietnam’s natural wonders without feeling rushed or overcrowded.

FAQ

What is the price of this tour?
It costs $80 per person, which covers most activities, lunch, entrance fees, and round-trip transportation.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately one day, with check availability to confirm starting times.

What activities are included?
Guests can enjoy kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, and boat-jumping—activities that make the day lively and fun.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island are available and included depending on your booking.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, sunscreen, a camera, and water. Drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

Are meals provided?
Yes, a buffet lunch is served onboard, offering a variety of local dishes and seafood.

Can I choose to do kayaking?
Kayaking may be optional and not included in the base price, but you can check with the guide if it’s available during your trip.

Is there a guide?
An experienced, English-speaking guide is on board to provide commentary and help coordinate activities.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While the data doesn’t specify seasons, generally, spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities in Vietnam.

You can check availability for your dates here: