Full Day Sea Star Cruise to Lan Ha-Ha Long Bay Viet Hai village

Full Day Sea Star Cruise to Lan Ha-Ha Long Bay and Viet Hai Village

Imagine cruising through the peaceful waters of Lan Ha Bay, a place where hundreds of green-covered islands dot the horizon, and then exploring a charming fishing village hidden among towering limestone peaks. All this is part of the Sea Star Cruise experience, a modern vessel built in 2024 that promises comfort, style, and a bit of adventure, all for just $35 per person. The tour lasts around 7 hours, beginning early at 8:00 am, with pickup included from your hotel in Cat Ba.

Two things that really stand out about this trip are the quality of the guide’s storytelling, making the landscape come alive, and the variety of activities—from kayaking and swimming to biking and visiting a primeval forest. The food is another highlight, with fresh seafood prepared by experienced chefs, giving you a taste of the local cuisine right on the water.

One thing to keep in mind is that the group size can go up to 99 travelers, so if you’re looking for a more intimate experience, it’s worth arriving early or considering the time of year. This cruise is perfect for travelers who want to combine scenery, culture, and active pursuits without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or curious explorer, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of northern Vietnam’s coastal treasures.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery with 388 islands spread across Lan Ha Bay’s peaceful waters.
• Diverse activities such as kayaking, swimming, and visiting Viet Hai Village.
• Authentic local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood cooked by professional chefs.
• Comfortable, modern vessel built in 2024 with a spacious layout.
• Expert guides who share interesting stories and landscape insights.
• Flexible options for exploring Viet Hai Village, including electric van rides and biking.

An In-Depth Look at the Sea Star Cruise Experience

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The day begins bright and early at 8:00 am, with a pickup from your hotel in Cat Ba—an effortless way to start the adventure without worrying about transportation logistics. The first stop takes you to Lan Ha Bay, a relatively lesser-known but equally beautiful cousin of Ha Long Bay. Its calm, arc-shaped waters are dotted with 388 islands and islets, all covered in lush greenery. Covering an area of 70 square kilometers, this part of the tour offers some of the most stunning seascapes in Vietnam.

Here, you’ll have around five hours to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and participate in activities like kayaking or lounging on the boat’s sundeck. A big plus is that admission to Lan Ha Bay is included, so you can relax and focus on the experience. The bay’s tranquility makes it perfect for a peaceful cruise and a chance to appreciate nature’s artistic touch.

Next, the journey takes you to Viet Hai Village, a unique spot that appears as if from a different world. Surrounded by limestone mountains and old forests, this village is accessible via electric van, bicycle, or even on foot—depending on how energetic you feel. You’ll spend about an hour exploring, walking through the narrow lanes, passing traditional houses, and observing local life.

Viet Hai Village is famous for its lush forests, cool arch caves, and the feeling of stepping back in time. You might also enjoy a fish spa, bike ride, or a quick trip in an electric tram, which allows you to soak in the natural beauty at a relaxed pace. The guide will introduce you to the history and ecology of the area, making the visit both educational and scenic.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes all the essentials: pickup and drop-off at your hotel, a professional guide, and lunch featuring fresh seafood from Cat Ba Island. The boat is equipped with kayaks, pedal boats, life jackets, and gear for snorkeling, making active pursuits accessible and safe. After exploring Viet Hai, you’ll enjoy sunset tea and fresh fruit, rounding off the day on a high note.

What’s extra? Drinks are available for purchase on the boat, so if you prefer a cold beer or soft drink, bring some cash along. Personal spends, souvenirs, or additional snacks are also on your tab, but overall, the pricing offers excellent value considering the variety of included activities and meals.

Why We Love This Tour

One of the best parts is the guide’s storytelling—they bring the landscape to life with fascinating facts and local insights. As the review from Nicolas G states, “We enjoyed our one-day cruise from Cat Ba. The boat was very spacious and modern,” which means comfort isn’t sacrificed on this budget-friendly trip.

Another highlight is the diversity of activities. Whether paddling your kayak in calm waters, biking through the village, or simply relaxing on deck, you’re encouraged to participate as much or as little as you like. This flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of travelers, from active adventurers to those simply seeking scenic relaxation.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the experience is generally praised, the group size of up to 99 travelers might be a concern if you prefer privacy or a more boutique experience. Also, the tour operates based on weather conditions, so a poor forecast could mean cancellation or rescheduling—something always worth checking before booking.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see Lan Ha Bay and experience local village life without sacrificing comfort or variety, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for those who enjoy active pursuits like kayaking and biking, as well as travelers interested in tasting fresh seafood and learning about Vietnam’s coastal environments. It’s also a good choice if you prefer an organized, guided experience that handles all logistics for you.

Why Choose the Sea Star Cruise?

This cruise offers a balance of comfort, adventure, and cultural insight at an accessible price point. The modern vessel ensures a comfortable ride, while the diverse activities and local cuisine add depth to the experience. It’s a well-rounded option for travelers who want to see some of Vietnam’s most beautiful landscapes without spending a fortune.

The professional guides make a difference—sharing stories that make the scenery more engaging and helping you get the most out of your visit. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, kayaks, and electric van rides means you can tailor your day to your interests, whether that’s lounging, exploring, or active pursuits.

The 7-hour schedule strikes a nice balance, giving enough time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed, which is crucial for those wanting a relaxed yet engaging day.

Final Thoughts

This tour is particularly suited for budget-conscious travelers seeking authentic experiences in Vietnam’s beautiful coastal areas. The combination of scenic cruising, cultural exploration, and active options makes it a great choice for families, solo travelers, or couples wanting a taste of everything.

The delicious lunch of fresh seafood, the stunning views of islands and limestone peaks, and the chance to walk through a traditional village make this a memorable day. While group size might be a consideration for some, many travelers find the mix of activities, scenery, and well-organized logistics to be more than worth it.

The Sea Star Cruise to Lan Ha Bay and Viet Hai Village offers a genuine, valuable glimpse into Vietnam’s natural beauty and local culture, all wrapped in a modern, comfortable package. It’s a fantastic way to add a splash of adventure to your Vietnam itinerary without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Cat Ba are included, making it a hassle-free start and end to the day.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, starting at 8:00 am and concluding back at the meeting point in Cat Ba.

What activities can I do during the tour?
You can kayak, swim, explore Viet Hai Village by electric van or bicycle, and enjoy the scenic views along the way.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a delicious lunch featuring fresh seafood from Cat Ba Island is included, cooked by experienced chefs.

Can I participate in all activities?
Most activities are optional, and you can choose how active or relaxed you want to be.

What should I bring?
Bring some cash for drinks and personal spends, a hat, sunscreen, and swimwear if you plan to swim or snorkel.

How many people typically join the tour?
The maximum group size is 99 travelers, but reviews suggest it’s often a smaller, more manageable number.

What’s the quality of the vessel?
The boat was built in 2024, offering modern comfort and spaciousness, with good facilities for active pursuits.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This full-day cruise combines natural beauty, cultural insights, and active fun—all at a reasonable price point. Whether you’re after stunning scenery, local flavor, or a mix of both, the Sea Star Cruise offers a well-rounded adventure that’s hard to beat for value and authenticity in Vietnam.