Lan Ha bay Boutique Cruise 2D/1N Tour: Kayaking & swimming at pristine places

If you’re dreaming of discovering Vietnam’s lesser-known but equally breathtaking alternative to Halong Bay, the Lan Ha Bay Boutique Cruise 2D/1N Tour offers a wonderful way to do it. While we haven’t personally been aboard, countless travelers have shared their insights, revealing a journey full of scenic views, active adventures, and genuine local flavors.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the stunning limestone karsts and pristine waters — perfect for photography and peaceful moments. Second, the variety of activities, from kayaking to swimming and squid fishing, that keep you engaged. Third, the delicious seafood and traditional Vietnamese cuisine served daily, often with a top deck BBQ for sunset dinners.

However, a word of caution: some reviewers mention that sleeping arrangements can be tight, especially for larger groups or if you prefer spacious beds. So if you’re after absolute luxury or extra space, this might be a consideration.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers and nature lovers who want authentic experiences, good value, and a taste of local life on the water.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes with limestone formations and quiet bays
• Active experiences like kayaking, swimming, and fishing
• Delicious local cuisine, including seafood and a BBQ on the deck
• Cozy, modern rooms with private bathrooms, air-con, and hot showers
• Group size limited to 25, fostering a more intimate atmosphere
• Flexible options for pickup and transfer, with some reviews noting tight sleeping arrangements

An In-Depth Look at the Lan Ha Bay Boutique Cruise

What is the Lan Ha Bay Boutique Cruise?

This tour combines comfort with adventure, taking you on a traditional wooden boat through the striking waters of Lan Ha Bay. Unlike the more crowded Halong Bay, Lan Ha offers quieter, less commercialized scenery, perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds and get closer to nature. The cruise features modern onboard amenities — private bathrooms, air conditioning, hot showers — ensuring you’re comfortable after a day of exploration.

The tour is priced at $140 per person, which, when you consider all inclusions — meals, activities, accommodation, and transfers — offers fairly good value. Many travelers book around 56 days in advance, highlighting its popularity.

How is the itinerary structured?

This 2-day adventure balances sightseeing, active pursuits, and relaxation, giving a well-rounded experience of Lan Ha Bay and nearby attractions.

Day 1: From Hanoi to the Azure Waters

The journey begins early in the morning, with pickups from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Hanoi Opera House around 7:00-7:30 AM. A shuttle bus whisks you away to Cai Beo Harbour, with a brief stop for a soft break—a nice chance to stretch your legs before the day’s adventures begin.

The cruise check-in typically happens around noon, setting the tone for a leisurely yet activity-rich afternoon. Once on board, you’ll enjoy a fresh seafood lunch, featuring local favorites while cruising through the islands. Watching the limestone landscapes slide past is a visual treat, and it’s here that many guests comment on the stunning, postcard-worthy scenery.

In the afternoon, kayaking around Lan Ha Bay becomes the highlight. Reviewers love the extraordinary karst formations, noting how easy it is to paddle around and explore the quiet coves. One reviewer emphasizes, “Doing kayaking around Lan Ha Bay was a highlight,” which speaks to the peaceful, immersive nature of this activity.

After some water fun, guests can opt to swim from the boat’s top deck, with some jumping off limestone outcroppings into the cool water. The onboard cooking class, where you learn to make spring rolls, is a fun cultural addition, though some reviewers mention that it might not always happen as scheduled.

The evening is lively—squid fishing and karaoke keep the mood upbeat, with a happy hour on the sun deck perfect for sharing stories and enjoying sunset views. Dinner is served in the restaurant, with fresh, well-prepared local dishes, praised for their quality and flavor.

Day 2: Sunrise and Village Biking

Early risers are treated to spectacular sunrise views (except in winter, when this might be less visible), making it a peaceful start to the day. After breakfast, the boat moves towards Viet Hai Village for a biking excursion. The ride is gentle, about 5 kilometers, and offers a glimpse into local life and beautiful scenery. One guest notes, “The scenery here is very pretty, perfect for a relaxed bike ride,” which sums up the experience well.

Mid-morning, the boat serves lunch before disembarking at Beo Harbor and heading back to Hanoi. The return trip usually concludes around 4 PM, giving you plenty of time to reflect on the trip.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are all meals, activities like kayaking and entrance fees, plus one night on the boat with a cozy private room. The meals are frequently praised, especially the seafood, which is fresh and well-cooked. The guides are described as friendly and helpful, making the experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Not included are alcohol, drinks, and transfers from Hanoi hotels (if not booked as an option). Some reviews mention that sleeping arrangements can be tight—reviewers note that for four people, the beds were quite close, which might not suit those who prefer spacious sleeping quarters.

Practicalities and Tips

Travelers should bring essentials like sunscreen, hats, swimwear, towels, and insect spray. In winter, packing a jacket and warm clothes is advisable. For those concerned about the timing, note that the pickup times are flexible, but it’s best to confirm your hotel details beforehand.

While the tour is suitable for most travelers, those with mobility issues or who prefer larger beds might find the sleeping arrangements less comfortable. The group size is capped at 25, fostering a more intimate experience, but this also means booking well in advance is recommended.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides, who are often praised for their helpfulness and friendliness. The scenery consistently earns top marks, with many saying the views are truly worth the trip.

One guest shared that they loved the bike ride to Viet Hai village, describing it as “a wonderful place to ride around and soak in the scenery.” Others enjoyed the food, with one noting the delicious local seafood served during lunches and dinners.

A reviewer pointed out that some promised activities, like Tai Chi or a cooking demonstration, sometimes don’t run exactly as scheduled. However, most guests agree that the overall experience offers great value, especially given the included meals and the chance to explore less crowded waters.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking authentic experiences in Vietnam. If you enjoy a mix of relaxing boat time, active pursuits, and local cuisine, you’ll find this trip rewarding. It’s also suitable for families with children, as long as they’re comfortable with the group size and sleeping arrangements.

Those wanting luxury or spacious accommodations might want to consider other options, but for genuine, active, and scenic fun, this tour hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

The Lan Ha Bay Boutique Cruise offers a balanced blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic local flavor. While it’s not the most luxurious or the most spacious, it provides a strong sense of connection with nature and local life, especially with its active pursuits like kayaking, swimming, and biking.

The included meals are a definite highlight, with fresh seafood and well-prepared Vietnamese dishes that keep you energized for the day’s activities. The scenery itself is a major draw, with limestone formations and quiet waters providing a stunning backdrop for photos and peaceful moments alike.

This tour suits travelers who value genuine experiences over luxury and are eager to explore Vietnam’s lesser-known aquatic landscapes. It’s a great choice for those who want a mix of fun, culture, and natural beauty, all wrapped up in a relatively affordable package.

FAQ

How early should I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 56 days in advance, as it’s quite popular.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs around $140, which covers meals, activities, and accommodation.

What activities are included?
Kayaking, swimming, squid fishing, cooking classes, and cycling in Viet Hai Village.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals during the trip are included, with seafood and local Vietnamese dishes highlighted.

Is the accommodation comfortable?
Yes, each room has a private bathroom, air conditioning, and hot showers. However, some reviews mention tight sleeping arrangements.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, hats, swimwear, towels, insect spray, and suitable clothes for both hot days and cooler evenings.

Is pickup included?
Pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter or Hanoi Opera House is offered, with flexible timing. Confirm your details beforehand.

Are there any surcharges?
Yes, an extra $30 fee applies on December 24th, 31st, and during Tet holidays, payable on the spot.

Can I cancel if needed?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start.

Who is the tour provider?
Vietnam Tonkin Travel, with a helpful and friendly staff, including guides praised for their knowledge.

This Lan Ha Bay cruise offers a memorable, active escape into Vietnam’s scenic waters — perfect for curious explorers and lovers of authentic travel.