CatBa :3D2N Lan Ha bay-Ha Long bay- Viet Hai Village

Experience the beauty of Northern Vietnam’s iconic waters and lush landscapes with a 3-day, 2-night cruise around Lan Ha Bay, Ha Long Bay, and Viet Hai Village. Priced at $301 per person, this tour is designed for those seeking a mix of adventure, authentic scenery, and a touch of local life. With departures from Hanoi or Ninh Binh, it offers convenient pickup and a packed itinerary full of water activities, hiking, and cultural insights.

What we love most about this experience:
First, the opportunity to kayak through caves and lagoons that you can only reach by boat—imagine gliding past limestone formations and exploring hidden caves. Second, the chance to visit Viet Hai Village, a quiet spot where you can bike through rice fields and valleys, getting a real sense of rural life in Vietnam.

A potential drawback is the varying quality of accommodations and meals, as some travelers have found the boat’s condition and cleanliness could be better. This tour caters best to active travelers who enjoy outdoor pursuits and are flexible with comfort levels, and it’s especially appealing to those eager to experience authentic scenery and local life away from the crowds.

Key Points

• Small group experience: Limited to 16 participants, fostering a more intimate adventure.
• Authentic activities: Kayaking, snorkeling, squid fishing, biking, and trekking offer diverse ways to experience the bay.
• Unique landscapes: Limestone islands resembling turtles, toads, and candles provide stunning photo opportunities.
• Cultural insights: Visiting the floating fishing village and Viet Hai Village adds a layer of local life to your trip.
• Flexible options: Activities like bioluminescent plankton viewing or squid fishing at night are included.
• Variable reviews: While some praise the stunning scenery and friendly crew, others note issues with room cleanliness and communication.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Journey: From Hanoi or Ninh Binh to Cat Ba

Your adventure kicks off with a bus pickup between 7:00 and 7:30 AM in Hanoi or Ninh Binh, giving you a scenic ride through northern Vietnam’s countryside. If you’re coming from Ha Giang or Sapa, a sleeper bus leaves late the night before, arriving early in Cat Ba around 8:00 AM. This flexibility in departure points is convenient, but be prepared for early mornings if you’re coming from farther away.

First Impressions: Cruising through the Floating Fishing Village

By mid-morning, you’ll start your cruise at BEO Harbour, heading towards one of Vietnam’s oldest floating fishing villages. This part of the journey is particularly compelling because your guide will share stories about the fishermen’s daily lives—an authentic glimpse into a traditional way of living. Some reviews, however, have mentioned that the boat condition can be less than perfect, with one traveler noting the boat’s poor state and unsanitary restrooms. Keep this in mind if cleanliness is a priority for you.

Exploring Limestone Islands and Caves

As you cruise through Lan Ha Bay, you’ll encounter limestone formations that resemble turtles, toads, and candles—a photographer’s dream. The tour includes kayaking for about 1.5 hours through caves like Bright Cave, Dark Cave, and Bat Cave, which hide lagoons and quiet waterways. This provides a chance to explore areas inaccessible by larger boats, adding a sense of discovery. Be aware that some travelers, like Kristin, felt the trips are more suited to a quick visit rather than an immersive experience, especially with the frequent boat transfers.

More Great Tours Nearby

Swimming and Relaxing at Ba Trai Dao Beach

Next, you’ll stop at Ba Trai Dao Beach, a private spot with clear waters perfect for swimming or jumping from the boat. The opportunity to relax in such a pristine setting is one of the tour’s highlights, making it easy to unwind after active kayaking and exploration.

Lunch and Afternoon Leisure

A Vietnamese seafood lunch is served onboard around noon, typically consisting of local dishes. Many travelers appreciate the variety and freshness, though some mention the menu can feel repetitive. After lunch, you can nap or sunbathe on the boat’s deck, appreciating the tranquil surroundings.

Visiting a Fish Farm and Evening Activities

Later, a stop at a local fish farm offers insight into traditional fishing practices, complementing the scenic views. As the sun sets, you’ll enjoy a ‘Happy Ending Party’ with cake, coffee, and tea, which is a charming way to wind down.

In the evening, you have choices—dinner at the floating homestay or onboard the boat, with options for squid fishing, kayaking, and viewing bioluminescent plankton. These nighttime activities are often praised for their magical quality—glowing plankton shimmering in dark waters—though one reviewer noted some disappointment due to unclear communication about the facilities.

Day Two: Viet Hai Village and Trekking

The next morning begins early with a dawn view from the boat. After breakfast, you’ll be transferred via a smaller boat to Viet Hai Pier, followed by a bike ride through rice fields, lagoons, caves, and valleys. The bike ride is about 5 km, providing a peaceful escape into rural Vietnam.

Then, a trek lasting 2-3 hours takes you into Cat Ba National Park, climbing Navy Peak for breathtaking vistas of the bay, forest, and village. The experience offers a genuine connection to the landscape, although the trek’s difficulty level can be challenging for some.

Afternoon in Viet Hai Village

A traditional lunch in the village allows you to taste local styles of cooking, adding an authentic flavor to your trip. Afterwards, you’ll bike back to the dock, returning to the boat for more exploration of Lan Ha Bay in the late afternoon.

Final Day: Exploring Dau Be Island and Ho Ba Ham

On the third day, enjoy a relaxed morning onboard before heading to Dau Be Island. Here, you can relax on deserted beaches, kayak around lagoons, and discover hidden spots like Ho Ba Ham, with its secret lagoons.

The tour concludes with a return to Cat Ba town, giving you time to catch a speedboat or bus back to Hanoi or other destinations. The included transfer and flexible departure times make logistics manageable, but be prepared for a full, active schedule.

What’s the Value?

At $301, the tour offers a decent range of activities—kayaking, snorkeling, biking, trekking—and access to some of Vietnam’s most scenic spots. The inclusion of meals, bottled water, and a small-group setting makes it a practical choice for travelers wanting an authentic adventure without feeling lost in a crowd.

However, reviews suggest that the actual quality of accommodations and boat condition can vary. Some guests found the rooms unkempt and the facilities less than ideal, which might be a concern if comfort is a priority. Still, the chance to see limestone formations, paddle through caves, and experience local life in Viet Hai Village justifies the price for many.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, biking, and trekking. It’s also ideal for those curious about local Vietnamese culture and scenery. If you’re open-minded about some rougher accommodation or boat conditions, you’ll find plenty of beauty and adventure. The tour’s small-group size and focus on authentic experiences make it appealing to travelers seeking a more personal, less touristy atmosphere.

Those expecting polished luxury might be disappointed, but if you’re after stunning views, genuine encounters, and a variety of activities, this tour will meet your expectations.

FAQ

Is transportation included from Hanoi or Ninh Binh?
Yes, the tour includes a bus pickup in Hanoi or Ninh Binh, scheduled between 7:00 and 7:30 AM, making logistics straightforward.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts 3 days, with the itinerary packed with activities, sightseeing, and cultural visits.

Are meals provided?
All meals on board are included, featuring Vietnamese cuisine, especially seafood and vegetarian options.

Can I participate in activities like squid fishing and bioluminescent plankton viewing?
Yes, these are included in the evening activities, offering a magical nighttime experience.

What should I expect regarding accommodation?
The tour includes a luxurious cabin with air conditioning and private bathroom, but reviews indicate that some rooms may not meet high cleanliness standards.

Is the tour suitable for families or large groups?
The tour is limited to 16 participants, making it more suitable for small groups or families comfortable with outdoor activities and less emphasis on luxury.

What about the cave kayaking?
Kayaking through Bright, Dark, and Bat caves is a highlight, providing access to otherwise unreachable lagoons and caves.

Are there any hidden costs?
Entrance tickets are not included (around 16 USD), and drinks like beer and soft drinks are extra.

To sum it up, this 3-day cruise around Lan Ha Bay, Ha Long Bay, and Viet Hai Village offers a lively, activity-rich experience with plenty of photo-worthy scenery. It’s best suited for active travelers who appreciate authentic encounters and don’t mind some rougher edges in accommodation. If your priority is seeing stunning limestone landscapes, exploring caves, and cycling through rural villages, this tour delivers. Just be prepared for the possibility that some parts may feel a bit basic—think of it as part of the adventure rather than a luxury escape. For those seeking a balance between scenery, activity, and local flavor, this trip can be a memorable highlight of Vietnam’s northern coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: