Hanoi/Ninh Binh: 2-Day Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba with Small Cruise

Planning a trip to northern Vietnam and looking for an authentic, outdoor-focused experience? This 2-day cruise from Hanoi or Ninh Binh to Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island offers a refreshing escape into stunning scenery, local culture, and active adventures. Priced at $182 per person, the tour is operated by HT TRAVEL & CRUISES and features small ships with fewer than 11 cabins—perfect for travelers craving intimacy and connection with nature.

What we love about this experience: first, the chance to kayak through limestone caves and swim in clear waters, which makes the scenery come alive rather than just look at it. Second, the visit to Viet Hai Village brings a genuine touch of local life, away from the crowds and mass tourism. These small-group cruises emphasize outdoor activities and authentic encounters, rather than luxury splurges.

A potential consideration: the cabins are modest and simply decorated, not a luxury stay. If you’re expecting high-end amenities, you might find this tour more basic than some upscale options. But for those who prioritize scenery, activities, and local flavor over luxury, it can be very rewarding.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who love being outdoors, enjoy kayaking and swimming, and want to see Vietnam’s iconic karst landscapes up close. It’s also ideal if you appreciate small groups and personalized service, rather than crowded boat tours.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Fewer than 11 cabins mean more privacy and a quieter atmosphere.
• Active adventures: Kayaking, swimming, cycling, and squid fishing are highlights.
• Authentic local culture: Visit Viet Hai Village and see traditional fishing life.
• Balanced itinerary: Combines scenic cruising, outdoor activities, and local cuisine.
• Modest accommodations: Simple, comfortable cabins without luxury touches.
• Value for money: Includes most meals, activities, and entry fees at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba: A Genuine Adventure

This tour offers a refreshing alternative to the crowded, overcommercialized Halong Bay experience. Instead of large, impersonal ships, you’ll cruise on small boats that limit the number of guests, giving you more space to breathe and connect with the scenery. The overall vibe is relaxed and outdoor-centered, perfect for travelers craving an active escape.

Starting from Cai Beo Port on Cat Ba Island, the journey begins early with hotel pickup in Hanoi or Ninh Binh—a smooth way to start your adventure. The drive involves a ferry across the bay, setting the tone for a scenic voyage. Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink, and the crew will give a short briefing before settling into your modest but comfortable cabin.

What immediately strikes you is the landscape: limestone islets, striking rock formations, and the calm waters of Lan Ha Bay. The cruise passes by iconic features like Pen Islet, shaped like a giant pen, and offers plenty of opportunities to marvel at the scenery.

Day 1: From Hanoi or Ninh Binh to the Bay

After settling in, the first highlight is exploring caves. Depending on the tide, you can choose between kayaking through Dark and Bright Cave or heading to Ba Trai Dao Beach. Many reviews praise the kayaking as a highlight—“We kayaked for as long as we wanted”, and “swimming in the clear water was a real treat.” The fact that two options are available caters to different preferences and tide conditions.

As the afternoon progresses, the bay’s stunning scenery offers perfect photo opportunities. The sunset over the bay is often described as breathtaking—“Return to the boat and don’t miss the stunning sunset”—and is best enjoyed with a cup of tea, as suggested in the itinerary.

Dinner features fresh seafood caught from the bay, which many guests enjoy. A cooking class led by the onboard chef adds a fun, interactive touch, allowing you to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes.

Later, you can unwind with a cocktail at the panoramic bar or try your luck at squid fishing, a lively and authentic activity. The small size of the cruise means you’ll have space to relax and enjoy the evening without the noise and bustle of larger ships.

Day 2: Authentic Village Life and Return

Early risers can enjoy the sunrise with coffee in peaceful surroundings. The next highlight is a bike ride to Viet Hai Village, a charming fishing village where locals still live much as they have for generations. We loved the way this visit offers a glimpse into everyday life, away from tourist hotspots. The fresh air, quiet streets, and friendly residents provide a genuine experience.

You’ll bike through lush scenery, and many reviews mention this as a memorable part of the tour. It’s a chance to see how local people make a living and enjoy their environment.

Afterward, you’ll check out of your cabin, enjoy a light lunch onboard, and cruise back to port. The tour ends with disembarkation at Cai Beo Port, and you’ll be dropped off back in Hanoi or Ninh Binh, depending on your choice.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers most meals—a lunch, dinner, breakfast, and brunch—plus activities like kayaking, swimming, and the cooking class. Entry fees and sightseeing costs are covered, which adds to the overall value. The standard cabins are on the first deck with A/C and en-suite bathrooms, though they are modest. For a surcharge, you can upgrade to an upper deck cabin, which some guests find more comfortable.

Additional costs include a $25 surcharge during holiday periods like Christmas, New Year, and Tet, and optional extras like room upgrades or drinks not included in the package. Internet connectivity on the bay is weak, so plan accordingly.

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Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Feedback

Many reviews highlight the small group size as a major plus, allowing for a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. One traveler described Lan Ha Bay as “the little sister of Halong Bay, but with none of the mass tourism,” and appreciated the ability to kayak and swim for as long as they liked.

However, some reviews point out drawbacks worth considering. Several travelers noted that cabins can be less than luxurious, with some mentioning issues like bad smells or noisy engines. One reviewer mentioned their cabin flooded overnight, a reminder that these are basic, no-frills accommodations. The food, while plentiful and featuring fresh seafood, may not satisfy vegetarians or those expecting gourmet cuisine.

Pricing varies based on the boat’s cabin type and season. For $182, you get a well-rounded experience that emphasizes outdoor activities and authentic scenery, but don’t expect luxury or high-end amenities—this is about the adventure, not the spa.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who values outdoor activities like kayaking, swimming, and biking, this tour will hit the spot. The small boat size and authentic village visit make it ideal for travelers looking for a genuine, less touristy experience. It’s perfect if you’re on a budget but still want to see stunning scenery and enjoy delicious seafood.

However, if you prefer luxury accommodations, luxurious cabins, or highly polished amenities, this might not be the right fit. The tour is more about connecting with nature and local life than pampering.

The Sum Up

This 2-day cruise through Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island offers an engaging, active way to experience northern Vietnam’s stunning limestone landscapes. Its small-group approach fosters a sense of intimacy, and the variety of outdoor activities—kayaking, swimming, cycling—keeps the experience lively. The visit to Viet Hai Village adds an authentic local flavor that larger, more commercial tours often lack.

While the cabins are modest and some reviews highlight issues with comfort and facilities, many guests find the scenery, activities, and authentic encounters worth the price. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they want to touch the water, paddle through caves, and see real Vietnamese village life.

For those with flexible expectations and a spirit for adventure, this tour offers a fun, memorable, and reasonably priced gateway into Vietnam’s breathtaking bay area.

FAQ

What is the price of this tour?
It costs around $182 per person for the 2-day experience, including most meals, activities, and entry fees.

What kind of cabins are available?
There are standard cabins on the first deck with A/C and en-suite bathrooms. An upgrade to the upper deck is available upon request for an additional surcharge.

How many people are on each cruise?
The cruises are operated by small ships with 5 to 11 cabins, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to larger boats.

What activities are included?
Kayaking, swimming, a cooking class, squid fishing, and cycling to Viet Hai Village are all included. Excursions depend on tide and weather.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Vegetarians might find the menu limited, as some reviews mention rice and peanuts as the main dishes. It’s best to specify dietary needs in advance.

How early do I need to arrive for the tour?
You should arrive at Cai Beo Port on Cat Ba Island by 11:30 AM for boarding.

Can I disembark in Ninh Binh instead of Hanoi?
Yes, drop-off in Ninh Binh is possible upon request via email, providing flexibility for your itinerary.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and comfortable clothes. Wi-Fi on the bay is weak, so plan to disconnect.

Are there any restrictions?
Pets are not allowed, and smoking is prohibited in the vehicle. The tour isn’t wheelchair friendly. Infant rates apply if they don’t occupy a seat.

This tour offers a good balance of active exploration and authentic local charm—ideal for travelers wanting a taste of Vietnam’s natural beauty without the frills.

You can check availability for your dates here: