Lan Ha – Ha Long Bay – Dau Be island 2D/1N from Cat Ba in less touristy areas.

Exploring Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay from Cat Ba Island offers a refreshing escape from the usual tourist crowds. For two days and one night, you’ll cruise these stunning waters on a small-group boat, visiting Dau Be Island, floating fishing villages, and caves like Dark Cave and Bright Cave. With a price of around $170 per person, this tour balances comfort, adventure, and authenticity, making it an excellent choice for travelers who crave natural beauty without the mass tourism.

What we love most about this experience are the less crowded, more tranquil waters and the knowledgeable, friendly guides who make each stop meaningful. The inclusion of kayaking, swimming, and local cuisine really enriches the journey. A potential consideration is that the tour involves boat transfers and outdoor activities, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with water-based adventures and moderate group sizes.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a more relaxed, intimate experience of Vietnam’s iconic bay area. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery, wildlife, and local culture away from the crowds.

Key Points

• Less crowded experience: Cruises from Cat Ba focus on quieter, authentic parts of the bay.
• Diverse activities: Kayaking, swimming, cave exploring, and even optional snorkeling.
• Gourmet meals: Four tasty, well-reviewed meals plus fruit and water included.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Ben, Jack, Tom, and Bee make a difference.
• Comfortable accommodations: Good quality rooms with private bathrooms.
• Flexible itinerary: Opportunities to explore hidden lagoons, beaches, and caves.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Cat Ba

The tour begins with a short minibus ride from your hotel or meeting point in Cat Ba to the pier, a mere five-minute drive. From there, you’ll ascend onto a small junk boat, which allows for a more intimate cruising experience than the large, touristy vessels. The first stop is the floating fishing village—an authentic glimpse into local life on the water. This is a quieter alternative to the busy tourist hubs, and you’ll get to see how people live and work on the water, which many reviews describe as a highlight.

Lan Ha Bay and the Floating Village

Cruising around Lan Ha Bay provides some of the most scenic views you’ll find in the area. The boat glides past limestone karsts, calm lagoons, and deserted beaches—perfect spots to swim or snorkel if you wish. As one traveler put it, “the accommodation was also great, nice bed and all the bathroom facilities you would need.” The boat change around 1:45 pm gives you a chance to switch to a more comfortable vessel for the overnight stay.

Lunch and Activities

Lunch on the boat features fresh, well-prepared dishes that guests describe as delicious, with plenty of variety. Afterward, kayaking takes center stage. Expect to paddle through rock arches, tunnels, and lagoons, exploring caves like Bat Cave, Bright Cave, and Dark Cave. One reviewer mentioned, “We kayaked through caves and small beaches, which was an amazing experience,” highlighting how these hidden spots offer a sense of discovery away from the crowds.

Sunset and Night Activities

The cruise continues into less touristy sections of Halong Bay, where the sunset paints the sky in brilliant hues. The evenings are relaxed, with dinner served onboard—generous and tasty, with many noting how delicious the food is. For those interested, optional squid fishing adds a fun, local flavor to the night.

Day Two: More Exploration and Return

The second day kicks off with breakfast and a visit to Tien Ong Cave, a quieter spot compared to the more well-known caves. Afterward, the boat heads toward Dau Be Island, where you can kayak again to explore Ho Ba Ham Cave, with its tunnels and lagoons. Many reviews emphasize how peaceful these areas are compared to the busy main attractions.

You’ll also have time to relax or swim on Ba Trai Dao Lagoon, truly a deserted beach where you can unwind without interruption. After a hearty lunch, the boat heads back toward Cat Ba Town, arriving around 3:30 pm.

Authentic Experiences and Guided Insights

Throughout the trip, guides like Ben, Jack, Tom, and Bee receive praise for their local knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make each stop meaningful. Comments such as “our guide Tom was knowledgeable, friendly, and super accommodating” showcase how personalized attention enhances the experience. Many travelers appreciated the stories and explanations about the caves, wildlife, and local culture—adding depth to the scenic beauty.

Food and Comfort

Meals are often highlighted as a high point, with reviews mentioning “delicious and abundant” dishes. The boat accommodations are comfortable, with private bathrooms, allowing travelers to rest well after days filled with activities. Some reviews note that the boat shows its age in certain areas, like the bathrooms, but overall, the quality is sufficient for a memorable trip.

Why Choose This Tour?

If you’re someone who values intimate, less touristy environments, this tour hits the mark. The small group size, averaging just 18 travelers, keeps things personal and flexible. The activities—kayaking, swimming, exploring caves—are well-organized, safe, and engaging, making it suitable for adventurous travelers and families alike.

The focus on authentic local experiences, combined with excellent food and knowledgeable guides, makes it stand out. It’s also a smart choice if you want to avoid the crowds often associated with classic Ha Long Bay tours, instead opting for a more peaceful, nature-focused journey.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day, 1-night cruise from Cat Ba to Lan Ha and Ha Long Bay is more than just a scenic boat ride. It’s a chance to see some of Vietnam’s most striking landscapes without the overwhelming crowds. The tour’s emphasis on smaller groups, local guides, and authentic sights makes it a rewarding experience for those who seek genuine connection with nature and local life.

We found the itinerary well thought out, balancing sightseeing with leisure, and the guide’s local insights added a personal touch. The quality of meals and the comfort aboard made it feel like a proper adventure, not just a quick tour. For travelers craving tranquility, natural beauty, and a taste of local culture, this tour offers excellent value and authenticity.

While the boat shows some signs of age, the overall experience—highlighted by stunning views, friendly guides, and delicious food—is hard to beat. It’s especially suitable for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the quieter corners of the bay.

FAQ

How long is the tour from start to finish?
The tour runs approximately 2 days and 1 night, with the first day starting around 11:30 am and returning by about 3:30 pm on the second day.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes all meals (breakfast, two lunches, and dinner), fruits, water, kayak equipment, dry bags, headlamps, snorkel gear, entrance fees, and the boat cruise.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You might want to bring your own water or purchase beverages onboard.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews mention traveling with children, and the activities are generally family-friendly, with a focus on relaxing and exploring nature.

What’s the main highlight of this trip?
Kayaking through caves and lagoons, along with the chance to see less crowded parts of the bay, are the standout experiences.

How many people typically join the tour?
The maximum group size is 18 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I do this tour if I’m not an experienced kayaker?
While kayaking can be physically demanding for some, the tour provides gear and guidance, making it accessible for most people comfortable with outdoor activities.

What’s the quality of the accommodation?
Guests report that the rooms are good, with private bathrooms, although some notes indicate the boat shows its age in certain areas.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Most reviews come from March, with good weather, but the tour is available year-round, weather permitting.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The itinerary includes optional activities like snorkeling and extra kayaking, and guides often adapt to weather and group preferences.

This tour from Cat Ba hits a sweet spot for those wanting a peaceful yet adventurous way to experience Lan Ha and Ha Long Bay, all while avoiding the crowds and enjoying authentic sights. Whether you’re after scenic beauty, wildlife, or delicious seafood, it offers a well-rounded, memorable trip.