Cat Ba Island offers practical, well-organized boat tours that smartly combine relaxation with adventure. The standout excursions focus on Lan Ha Bay, a quieter alternative to busy Ha Long Bay. These trips typically run as day cruises or 2-day journeys, letting you choose based on your schedule and budget.
We’re particularly fond of the full-day cruises that include kayaking and village visits – they give you the most bang for your buck. The 2-day boutique cruises are worth the splurge for their excellent food and off-the-beaten-path stops at Viet Hai Village. Both options include time for swimming and snorkeling in the emerald waters.
Take a look at our favorite boat tours below, ranked by value and experience quality.
Key Points
- The Lan Ha Bay Viet Hai Village Boutique Cruise offers a luxurious 2-day experience with kayaking, swimming, and a cooking class.
- The Cat Ba Island: Lan Ha Bay Day Cruise With Kayak/Snorkeling provides an 8-hour comprehensive adventure, highly rated by previous customers.
- The Lan Ha Bay: Kayaking and Cruise tour combines a boat cruise through a floating fishing village with kayak exploration of hidden lagoons and beaches.
- The Full-Day Cruise and Kayak in Lan Ha Bay offers a budget-friendly option with a 2-hour boat cruise, 2-hour kayaking, and a traditional Vietnamese lunch.
- Most tours cater to various age groups, provide English-speaking guides, and emphasize scenic views and culture in Cat Ba Island.
Full-Day Cruise and Kayak in Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island
This full-day tour takes you on an immersive exploration of Lan Ha Bay and Cai Beo Fishing Village.
Departing from Cat Ba town, you’ll embark on a 2-hour boat cruise through the stunning landscapes of Lan Ha Bay, getting a glimpse of the local fishing community at Cai Beo.
Next, you’ll have the opportunity to kayak at K.A Cave and Bats Cave for 2 hours, allowing you to discover hidden coves and beaches up close.
After a traditional Vietnamese lunch on Ong Cam Islet, you can choose to swim and take in the scenic views at Ba Trai Dao Beach.
The tour concludes with a relaxing 2-hour return trip, complete with sunset vistas.
Priced at $30.77 per person, this tour offers exceptional value, with all meals, entrance fees, and equipment included.
Catering to a range of ages, except for those over 70 or under 1, this tour is led by an enthusiastic, English-speaking guide and promises an unforgettable day on the water.
Read our full review: Full-Day Cruise and Kayak in Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island Review
Book now: Check availability
Lan Ha Bay Viet Hai Village Boutique Cruise
Set out on a luxurious 2-day cruise through the stunning Lan Ha Bay, exploring the captivating Viet Hai Village in Cat Ba National Park. Priced from $149.93 per person, this boutique cruise offers exceptional value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
During your first day, you’ll be picked up from Hanoi’s Old Quarter and transported to Beo Harbour, where you’ll board the cruise and enjoy a welcome drink. Indulge in a delectable lunch of fresh regional seafood before embarking on a variety of activities, including kayaking, swimming, and a cooking class.
On the second day, wake up to a sunrise on the sundeck and savor a hearty breakfast. Explore Viet Hai Village by bike, followed by a traditional Vietnamese lunch as you cruise back to Hanoi, arriving by 4:30 PM.
While past guests have reported some communication issues and missed highlights, this cruise promises an immersive experience in the stunning Lan Ha Bay.
Reserve now and pay later to secure your spot on this remarkable 2-day adventure.
Read our full review: Lan Ha Bay Viet Hai Village Boutique Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Cat Ba Island: Lan Ha Bay Day Cruise With Kayak/Snorkeling
Frequently, visitors to Cát Bà Island opt for the captivating Lan Ha Bay day cruise, which offers a chance to kayak and snorkel amid the stunning limestone cliffs and hidden coves.
This 8-hour tour, with pickup available, earns a 4.9-star rating from 45 reviews and costs $32.83 per person. Enjoy the natural beauty as you glide through the serene waters, spotting diverse marine life and exploring secluded beaches.
Complement your experience with a leisurely bike ride and lunch.
For a more comprehensive adventure, consider the Cat Ba: Lan Ha, Ha Long Bay Full Day – Biking, Kayaking, Lunch tour, which boasts a 4.8-star rating from 212 reviews and costs $22.49 per person.
Whether you seek a day of relaxation or exploration, these Lan Ha Bay cruises provide an unforgettable glimpse into Cát Bà Island’s mesmerizing landscapes.
Read our full review: Cat Ba Island: Lan Ha Bay Day Cruise With Kayak/Snorkeling Review
Book now: Check availability
Lan Ha Bay: Kayaking and Cruise
Enjoy the captivating landscape of Lan Ha Bay on this 8-hour kayaking and cruise adventure. Priced from Kč 881 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience, including hotel pickup and drop-off, entry tickets, an English-speaking guide, and a delightful Vietnamese lunch.
Begin your day with a cruise through a floating fishing village, then grab a kayak and explore the hidden lagoons and pristine beaches. Admire the stunning limestone karsts as you paddle through the tranquil waters.
After a traditional Vietnamese lunch, continue your adventure in the Ba Trai Dao area, discovering caves and secluded beaches.
With a balance of sports, relaxation, culture, and food, this tour caters to various interests. Just remember to bring appropriate gear and follow the guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Based on 7 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.3/5, with praise for its well-curated itinerary and knowledgeable local guide.
Read our full review: Lan Ha Bay: Kayaking and Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Lan Ha Bay on a full-day cruise and kayak adventure from Cat Ba Island. Discover the remote Viet Hai Village and learn about the serene landscapes. Venture out for a day of kayaking and snorkeling, or opt for a more leisurely boutique cruise. With various tour options available, you’re sure to find the perfect way to experience the captivating Lan Ha Bay.