The Cat Ba – Lan Ha Bay Cruise and Ninh Binh Scenery tour offers travelers a chance to explore Vietnam’s stunning landscapes. From serene cruises past limestone cliffs to trekking through national parks, this adventure-packed itinerary showcases the region’s natural beauty. But there’s more to discover – the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and a serene boat ride in Trang An provide a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking vistas or a deeper understanding of Vietnam, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
Key Points
- This 3-day, 2-night package provides an immersive experience exploring Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba National Park, and the iconic landscapes of Ninh Binh.
- The itinerary includes activities like kayaking, trekking, cycling, and boat rides to showcase Vietnam’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
- The package includes pickup and drop-off in Hanoi, English-speaking guides, meals, and accommodation in a 3-star hotel and a lodge/resort.
- Additional costs include a $120 surcharge for solo travelers and a $40 fee for special dates, with an optional $25 trekking tour at Cat Ba National Park.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 4 or adults over 95, and personal information is required 48 hours before departure.
Overview and Pricing

This 3-day, 2-night package offers a scenic journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Cat Ba and Ninh Binh. Priced from $249.02 per person, with a 15% discount available, this tour provides exceptional value.
Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the convenience of a reserve now, pay later option.
The itinerary includes visits to Lan Ha Bay, Viet Hai fishing village, Cat Ba National Park, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, and Trang An Heritage.
With English-speaking guides, meals, and accommodations included, this comprehensive package ensures a worry-free exploration of Vietnam’s natural wonders.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Ninh Binh
Itinerary Highlights

The itinerary begins with a journey from Hanoi to the picturesque Lan Ha Bay on Cat Ba Island. Guests will explore the Viet Hai fishing village, cycle around the island, and enjoy kayaking amidst the stunning limestone cliffs.
They’ll cap off the day with breathtaking sunset views.
On the second day, travelers will have the chance to trek through the Cat Ba National Park and transfer to the beautiful Ninh Binh region.
The final day is packed with exciting activities, including:
- Discovering the ancient capital of Hoa Lu
- Biking through the countryside
- Boat ride at the Trang An Heritage site
- Hiking up the Mua Caves
Included Services

A comprehensive package of services accompanies this immersive tour, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Pickup and drop-off at the Hanoi Old Quarter, along with all entry tickets for attractions, are included. An English-speaking tour guide will lead the way, and guests can look forward to a kayak or bamboo boat ride.
Meals are also provided, with 2 lunches and 2 breakfasts, as well as sunset party snacks.
Accommodation is in a 3-star hotel on Cat Ba Island and a Ninh Binh lodge/resort.
An optional trekking tour at Cat Ba Park is available for an additional $25 per person.
Important Information

Pickup from all hotels in Hanoi Old Quarter serves as the meeting point for this immersive tour.
Travelers should bring along their passport, sunglasses, hat, swimwear, and a change of clothes.
Don’t forget sandals, sunscreen, and insect repellent, as well as some cash.
The tour company will require personal information, including full name, birthday, nationality, gender, dietary restrictions, and a WhatsApp contact, at least 48 hours before departure.
This 3-day, 2-night adventure isn’t suitable for children under 4 or adults over 95.
Solo travelers may incur a $120 surcharge for a single room, and there’s a $40 per person fee for special dates like Christmas and New Year.
More Great Tours NearbyRestrictions and Additional Costs

This tour is not suitable for children under 4 years old or people over 95 years of age. Plus, solo travelers will incur a surcharge of $120 for a single room. Special dates like Christmas and New Year will also come with an additional fee of $40 per person. It’s important to note that there will be no escort tour guide on the shuttle bus from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh.
| Additional Costs | Amount |
|---|---|
| Solo Traveler Surcharge | $120 |
| Special Date Surcharge | $40 per person |
| Shuttle Bus from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh | No escort tour guide |
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Hanoi Pickup and Drop-off

As part of the included services, the tour provider arranges pickup and drop-off from all hotels located within Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This convenient service ensures a seamless start and end to the 3-day, 2-night adventure.
Travelers can look forward to:
- Hassle-free transportation to the departure point
- Avoiding the stress of navigating unfamiliar areas
- Maximizing time spent on the itinerary highlights
- Prompt pickup and return to their Hanoi accommodation
- A professional driver handling all the logistics
The pickup and drop-off service allows guests to focus on seeing the stunning landscapes of Cat Ba, Lan Ha Bay, and Ninh Binh, without worrying about the logistics.
National Park and Trekking

After a relaxing start with the Hanoi pickup and drop-off service, the tour moves to the natural wonders of Cat Ba National Park.
Guests can embark on an optional trekking tour through the park’s lush forests and limestone cliffs for an additional $25. This guided hike offers the chance to spot diverse wildlife and take in stunning vistas.
Following the Cat Ba portion, the tour transitions to Ninh Binh, where travelers can enjoy leisure time before staying overnight at a local lodge.
The next day brings explorations of the Ancient Capital Hoa Lu and a boat ride through the Trang An Heritage site, showcasing Ninh Binh’s iconic karst landscape.
Ancient Capital and Boat Ride

The third day of the tour takes travelers to explore the Ancient Capital Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries.
After biking through the scenic countryside, visitors board a boat for a tranquil ride through the Trang An Heritage site.
The highlight is a hike up the Mua Caves, offering panoramic views of the striking limestone landscapes.
Visitors can:
- Discover the ancient temples and ruins of Hoa Lu
- Glide through the serene waters of Trang An on a boat
- Ascend the 500 steps to the top of Mua Caves for breathtaking vistas
- Bike through the peaceful rural surroundings
- Immerse in the rich history and natural beauty of the region.
Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Get to the Meeting Point in Hanoi Old Quarter?
The tour operator provides pickup service from all hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Guests should be ready at their hotel lobby at the designated pickup time to be transported to the starting point of the tour.
Can I Extend My Stay on Cat Ba Island or in Ninh Binh?
Yes, you can extend your stay on Cat Ba Island or in Ninh Binh. Contact the tour operator to arrange additional nights at the hotels. There may be an extra cost for the extended stay.
Is There a Dress Code for the Activities During the Tour?
There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended for the activities like cycling, kayaking, and hiking. Swimwear is advised for water-based excursions. Just pack for the weather and activities.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Kayaking and Boat Ride?
There’s no age limit for the kayaking and boat ride, but the tour isn’t suitable for children under 4 or people over 95. Participants should be able to get in and out of the boats safely.
Can I Customize the Tour to Include Additional Activities?
Yes, travelers can customize the tour to include additional activities, though there may be extra costs. The tour operator can provide more details on available options and pricing for add-ons tailored to the traveler’s interests.
Cat Ba – Lan Ha Bay Cruise and Ninh Binh Scenery
Recap
The Cat Ba – Lan Ha Bay Cruise and Ninh Binh Scenery offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Vietnam’s captivating landscapes. From the serene waters of Lan Ha Bay to the stunning limestone cliffs of Cat Ba National Park, this adventure showcases the region’s natural wonders. Travelers can explore ancient capitals, embark on tranquil boat rides, and discover the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable destination.
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