Lan Ha – Ha Long Bay – Dau Be island 2D/1N from Cat Ba in less touristy areas.

Planning a trip to Vietnam’s iconic bays often involves crowded boats and busy sightseeing spots. Not so with this Lan Ha – Ha Long Bay 2-day/1-night tour from Cat Ba—it’s designed for travelers craving a quieter, more authentic experience. This small-group cruise stands out for its manageable size, expertly curated itinerary, and focus on exploring less touristy areas.

What makes this tour truly appealing? First, the less crowded routes mean you’ll get a more tranquil encounter with stunning limestone landscapes. Second, the delicious meals—including two lunches, a dinner, and breakfast—are thoughtfully prepared and plentiful. Third, the kayaking adventures through lagoons and tunnels offer a hands-on way to connect with nature.

A small drawback? The tour involves boat transfers and some walking, so it’s best for travelers comfortable with water-based activities and a limited pace. If you’re after a laid-back, nature-focused escape that’s packed with authentic sights, this cruise will suit you well.

Key Points

• Less touristy routes mean more tranquil, authentic scenery.
• Expert guides like Ben, Jack, Tom, and Bee provide insightful commentary and local stories.
• Multiple kayaking options through caves, lagoons, and tunnels keep the adventure lively.
• Well-rounded meals and fresh fruits enhance the experience without extra cost.
• Comfortable accommodation on the boat with private bathrooms.
• Flexible options for solo travelers, families, and small groups.

Why We Love This Tour

This 2-day cruise offers an escape from the busier, more commercialized parts of Halong Bay, delivering a balanced mix of scenic beauty, local culture, and fun activities. The tour’s focus on less-traveled areas like Dau Be Island and Ba Trai Dao ensures you won’t be overwhelmed by crowds, making every moment feel more personal and relaxed.

The quality of guides has been widely praised, with reviewers mentioning guides like Ben, Jack, Tom, and Bee. They’re knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share insider info—something you’ll definitely appreciate when navigating caves, lagoons, and quiet beaches. Plus, their stories add a layer of authenticity that tours with bigger groups often lack.

The food deserves special mention. Multiple reviews highlight how tasty and plentiful the meals are—ranging from generous lunches to hearty dinners. Many travelers noted the thoughtful inclusion of fresh fruits and water, making it convenient after kayaking or swimming.

Finally, the stunning scenery is what truly makes this experience unforgettable. Expect to see limestone karsts, deserted beaches, and caves that are less visited than their famous counterparts but equally spectacular.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Cat Ba to Lan Ha Bay’s Hidden Corners

Your day kicks off with a short minibus transfer from your hotel or meeting point to the pier. This quick 5-minute ride gets you to the boat, a small junk that’s perfect for maneuvering into shallow waters and low-tide spots. The first stop is a floating fishing village, where life on the water unfolds in a way that’s both fascinating and peaceful. Expect to witness traditional fishing activities and get a glimpse of local life that’s still rooted in simple routines.

Post-lunch, around 13:45, you’ll switch to the sleeping boat—a cozy vessel equipped with private bathrooms, comfortable beds, and all the essentials. This is where the real cruising begins, taking you through Lan Ha Bay’s quieter lakes and rock formations. The scenery here is incredible and less congested than the main areas of Halong Bay.

The afternoon is packed with activities—swimming at an unspoiled beach (snorkeling is optional for those who love underwater exploration), and kayaking through caves and lagoons. The guides take you through Bat Cave, Bright Cave, and Dark Cave—each with its own charm and unique formations. As the sun begins to set, you’ll enjoy panoramic views that make you forget about the crowds elsewhere.

Reviewers like Kevin highlight the small groups and the guide’s storytelling, which makes the experience more personal. His mention of the “nice bed and bathroom facilities” confirms the quality of accommodation onboard.

Day 2: Exploring Dau Be Island and Returning

After a hearty breakfast, the tour continues with a visit to Tien Ong Cave—a quiet spot where you can stretch your legs and marvel at limestone formations. The highlight is Dau Be Island, where kayaking through Ho Ba Ham Cave reveals tunnels and lagoons often missed by larger tours.

Many travelers, including Puck, appreciated the delicious food and the variety of activities, such as swimming and relaxing on deserted beaches. The less touristy areas mean you get to experience the natural serenity and untouched beauty of the bay.

The afternoon cruise includes more scenic stops before returning to Cat Ba at around 15:00-15:30. From there, you’re free to catch other transportation to Hanoi or stay another night in town.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Small Group Size: With a maximum of 18 travelers, this tour offers an intimate experience, allowing for personalized attention from guides like Tom and Bee. They’re praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach, making the journey more enriching.

Authentic and Less Crowded: Unlike many tours that stick to the main tourist spots, this cruise explores quieter areas, caves, lagoons, and beaches. Multiple reviews mention how this aspect enhances the feeling of discovering hidden gems rather than joining a crowd.

Delicious Food & Practical Inclusions: The meals are described as tasty, abundant, and thoughtfully included in the price, which adds value. Fruits, water, kayak gear, snorkel equipment are all provided, so you’re well equipped for the activities.

Activities for All: From swimming and snorkeling to kayaking through caves, there’s plenty of hands-on fun. The tour’s flexible schedule allows for relaxation or extra exploring in free time.

Comfort & Convenience: The onboard rooms have private bathrooms, comfortable beds, and are deemed suitable for solo travelers, families, or couples. The boat’s age is noted in some reviews, but overall cleanliness and comfort are praised.

Affordable Price: At around $170 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the included meals, activities, and the chance to explore untouched areas of the bay.

Practical Tips & Considerations

While the tour is well-loved, keep in mind that it involves boat transfers, kayaking, and some walking, so bring suitable gear if you’re sensitive to water or mobility issues. The tour departs at 11:30 am, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Booking in advance—about 35 days ahead—ensures you secure a spot, especially during peak seasons. The $169.83 price includes all meals, kayaking, entrance fees, and gear, making it a straightforward package without hidden costs.

The tour is weather dependent; poor weather may lead to cancellations or rescheduling, but the company offers full refunds if that happens. For those keen on exploring quieter areas of Halong Bay, this cruise provides a meaningful escape from crowds, with enough comfort and activities to keep everyone engaged.

The Sum Up

This Lan Ha – Ha Long Bay tour from Cat Ba offers a delightful mix of tranquility, adventure, and authentic scenery. Perfect for travelers seeking a less commercialized experience, it balances well-organized activities with free time to relax and soak in the views. The knowledgeable guides, delicious meals, and focus on less-visited sites make it a standout choice.

Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families who want to escape the bustle and enjoy nature at its quietest, this tour delivers value in both scenery and comfort. With a small group size and personalized touches, it’s an inviting way to discover Vietnam’s famed bay regions without feeling like just another tourist.

FAQ

How long in advance should I book this tour?
On average, travelers book about 35 days before their preferred date, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.

What is included in the price?
The $169.83 fee covers two lunches, dinner, breakfast, fruits, water, kayak gear, snorkel equipment, entrance fees, and the boat accommodation.

Can I do this tour if I am not an experienced kayaker?
Yes, the kayaking sessions are generally suitable for most travelers. Guides are skilled at helping beginners, and the activities are optional.

What’s the best time of year to go?
While the reviews mention good weather in March, the tour is generally suitable year-round, weather permitting. Clear days provide the best views and water conditions.

Is the accommodation on the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat has private bathrooms, good beds, and all necessary facilities. Some reviews note that while the boat shows a bit of age, cleanliness and comfort are maintained.

Are there any activities I should prepare for?
Expect to kayak, swim, and explore caves. Bring suitable clothing, sun protection, and perhaps a waterproof bag for valuables.

What if I want to extend my stay in Cat Ba?
The tour ends around 15:00-15:30, giving you the option to catch other transport options or stay longer on the island to explore more at your leisure.

This tour provides an excellent way to experience Vietnam’s iconic bays away from the crowds, with comfort, authenticity, and adventure intertwined. Whether you’re a nature lover, a seeker of quiet escapes, or an adventure enthusiast, it’s a trip that leaves you with unforgettable views and stories.