CAT BA :2D1N Lan Ha bay-Ha Long bay with Plankton Excursion

Imagine drifting through calm, less crowded waters in northern Vietnam, surrounded by towering limestone karsts and tiny fishing villages that seem to float on the sea. This 2-day tour from Cat Ba, costing around $110 per person, promises a taste of authenticity, serenity, and adventure. You’re transported from the bustling town of Cat Ba to explore Lan Ha Bay, a quieter alternative to the more tourist-packed Ha Long Bay, with highlights like kayaking through secret caves, swimming in crystal-clear lagoons, and witnessing bioluminescent plankton at night.

What we especially appreciate is the small-group atmosphere and enthusiastic guides who make the experience welcoming and personalized. We also love the chance to stay on a floating homestay, enjoying home-cooked Vietnamese meals in an authentic setting. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the limited time for island visits or beaches—some reviews suggest you’d prefer more island exploration or relaxing on beaches than just kayaking or fishing. Still, this trip suits those who want a quieter, more intimate experience with nature, culture, and local life, away from the crowds.

Key Points

• Authentic and less crowded: Perfect for travelers seeking peace and genuine local experiences.
• Activities galore: Kayaking, squid fishing, swimming, and bioluminescent plankton viewing.
• Cultural immersion: Cycling through rice fields and visiting local villages.
• Delicious Vietnamese cuisine: Fresh seafood and vegetarian options served onboard.
• Knowledgeable guides: Friendly and enthusiastic, with great storytelling.
• Value for money: All meals, activities, and transfers included at a fair price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Journey Through Vietnam’s Waterways

This tour offers more than just a cruise; it’s a chance to see the quiet side of Vietnam’s famed limestone karsts. Starting at 7:30 AM from Cat Ba Town, your day begins with a comfortable bus ride to Bèo Harbour, a short 1 km transfer. The first highlight is cruising through the Floating Fishing Village, one of Vietnam’s oldest communities, where your guide will share stories about the fishermen’s lives—giving you a glimpse into local traditions that are seldom touristy.

From there, the boat winds through spectacular limestone formations such as Turtle Islet, Toad Islet, and Candle Islet. These are not just pretty names; they mirror the jagged nature of the landscape, perfect for photos and dreaming about how these natural sculptures are formed over millions of years.

Kayaking and Cave Exploration

One of the standout activities is kayaking through caves—Bright Cave, Dark Cave, and Bat Cave. This is where the trip gains a sense of adventure and discovery. Moving into less accessible lagoons, away from the busy tourist spots, you’ll experience tranquil waters, with the chance to explore hidden caves and secret lagoons. As one reviewer shared, “our guide B was super, telling stories about the area and taking care of us,” which makes navigating these caves both fun and safe.

Swimming at Cam Lagoon

A favorite stop is Cam Lagoon, a secluded swimming spot in the middle of Ha Long Bay. The water is remarkably clear, and the atmosphere relaxed. The option to jump from the boat deck or float around in silence is a simple pleasure that many travelers appreciate. The calm lagoon offers an ideal setting for those who want to cool off without the crowds.

An Authentic Vietnamese Meal & Village Cycling

At lunchtime, you’ll feast on a delicious onboard Vietnamese meal with seafood and vegetarian options—something many reviews praise as “fantastic.” After lunch, the boat returns via a different route, giving you time to soak up the sun or nap on deck.

Later in the afternoon, you’ll cycle across rice fields to Vit Hi Village—a slower-paced, immersive experience. Strolling through the village, you’ll meet friendly locals and perhaps try your hand at farming or even get a fish massage (seasonal). One traveler described this as “a fascinating experience,” highlighting how well this part of the tour connects you to local life.

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Evening on the Floating Homestay

Dinner is served on a floating homestay, where traditional Vietnamese dishes are enjoyed with a view of the bay. Here, the tour takes a special turn—night activities like squid fishing and bioluminescent plankton watching provide unforgettable memories. As one review notes, “seeing the plankton glow in the dark was magical,” a testament to the extraordinary natural phenomena happening just outside your cabin.

Day Two: Sunrise, Beaches, and Hidden Lagoons

Waking up early, you’ll catch the sunrise over the bay, a peaceful moment that sets the tone for the day. Breakfast follows, fueling you for the next round of exploration. Your second day includes a trip to Dau Bê Island, where you can relax on a deserted beach. Kayaking around hidden lagoons offers a quiet space to enjoy the limestone scenery away from crowds.

By mid-afternoon, you’ll return to Lan Ha Bay, with time for more kayaking, swimming, or sunbathing. The tour wraps up around 3:30 PM back in Cat Ba Town, just in time to catch your next destination or rest after two full days of discovery.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Unlike larger cruises, this experience emphasizes small group intimacy and personalized attention, which many travelers find refreshing. The enthusiastic guide, often praised for sharing stories and local insights, makes the journey engaging and educational. The absence of loud music and crowded decks appeals to those who prefer a tranquil environment.

On top of that, the delicious meals onboard—noted as “fantastic” even for vegetarians—and the opportunity to see bioluminescent plankton at night elevate this tour from standard to memorable. The cycling and village visits offer a genuine look at rural Vietnamese life, adding cultural depth to the natural beauty.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

Some reviews reveal a mild disappointment regarding accommodation—not everyone gets to stay overnight on the floating village but rather on the boat in a cabin in the hull. If sleeping on a floating homestay is a priority, clarify with the operator beforehand. Also, the tour doesn’t include island visits or beach lounging beyond kayaking and swimming, so if relaxing on sandy beaches is your main goal, this might not be the ideal trip.

Plus, an entrance fee of $16 USD isn’t included, which is typical but worth noting if you’re budgeting. And because the tour is designed for small groups, it’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a more intimate, quiet experience rather than large cruise atmospheres.

Who is This Tour Best For?

If you’re seeking a peaceful escape into nature, away from tourist crowds, with plenty of opportunities to kayak, swim, and connect with local culture, this trip is a winner. It’s particularly ideal for those who value authentic experiences over luxury, enjoy small-group settings, and want to see bioluminescent plankton in a natural setting. It also suits travelers who appreciate delicious food, enthusiastic guides, and a mix of adventure and culture.

This 2-day Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay tour balances natural beauty, cultural insight, and quiet adventure. The focus on smaller groups and authentic interactions makes it stand out from more commercialized cruises, providing an experience that feels genuine and memorable. The kayaking, village cycling, and plankton viewing are highlights that demonstrate the tour’s commitment to showcasing Vietnam’s lesser-known, yet stunning, scenery.

While it might lack some of the beach leeway or overnight stays on the floating village that some travelers desire, its value for money and authentic charm make it a smart choice for those wanting to see the serene side of Ha Long Bay. It’s perfect for travelers looking for peace, culture, and natural wonder in one memorable package.

Is transportation included?
Yes, your pickup and drop-off at your hotel or the office in Cat Ba Town are included, making it easy to start and end the tour without hassle.

What meals are provided?
All meals are included, featuring Vietnamese dishes with seafood and vegetarian options. The food is often praised as delicious and plentiful.

How long is the boat cruise each day?
The first day’s cruise begins early and lasts until late afternoon, with activities like kayaking, swimming, and village cycling. The second day involves more kayaking, beach time, and exploring lagoons before returning in the late afternoon.

What activities are included?
You can expect kayaking, squid fishing, swimming, cycling, and watching bioluminescent plankton. Bottled water is also provided.

Are guides available in English?
Yes, the tour guide speaks English and is known for being friendly, enthusiastic, and informative.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It is not suitable for people over 95 years old or those with mobility issues, given the outdoor activities and boat travel involved.

Does the tour accommodate special dietary needs?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, and you can request specific dietary needs when booking.

What is the cost of the entrance fee?
The entrance ticket fee is $16 USD (or 400,000 VND), which is not included in the tour price.

How many people typically join this tour?
It’s designed for small groups, which enhances the intimacy and personalized attention during activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your itinerary shifts.

This tour offers a wonderful chance to see Vietnam’s stunning limestone landscapes in a peaceful, authentic setting. Whether you’re an adventure lover, cultural explorer, or simply seeking a quiet escape, it’s a well-rounded option that provides genuine value and memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: