When you think of Cat Ba, think of a place that offers more than just a pretty island. It’s a hub for diverse 2-day tours that explore Lan Ha Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, and even parts of Ha Long Bay. Whether you’re after a traditional wooden boat cruise, adventure-packed kayaking, or a more secluded private experience, Cat Ba has it all. Some tours shine with their focus on local life, like visits to fishing villages and cycling through Viet Hai, while others highlight less touristy waterscapes, perfect for those seeking tranquility away from the crowds. Our favorite? The 2 Days 1 Night on Lan Ha Bay at Daiichi Boutique Cruise for its authentic vibe and personalized service.
Quick Overview
This list includes luxury cruises, boutique experiences, and budget-friendly group tours. You’ll find options like the Private Lan Ha Bay Cruise for ultimate privacy and indulgence, as well as more active trips such as Lan Ha Bay – Ha Long Bay 2 Days 1 Night on Cruise with kayaking, cycling, and cave exploration. Several options focus on getting off the beaten path—like avoiding caves to spend more time on the beaches or exploring fishing villages—while some emphasize food and culture. Read on for full details on each experience.
1. 2 Days 1 Night on Lan Ha Bay at Daiichi Boutique Cruise
Priced at $131 per person, this cruise ranks top thanks to its authentic wooden boat and focus on local life. Over two days, you’ll enjoy kayaking, visit a fishing village, and explore Viet Hai via electric car or cycling. The itinerary skips caves, so more time is spent relaxing on quiet beaches and soaking in the natural scenery. The crew treats guests like family, creating a very personal experience. Highlights include cruising from Lan Ha Bay to Bai Tu Long Bay, and participating in a Vietnamese cooking demonstration. Reviews are perfect, 5.0/5 from 78 travelers, emphasizing the peaceful atmosphere and attentive staff. Ideal for those who want a genuine, intimate trip without the crowds.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a balance of sightseeing, cultural insight, and relaxation on a traditional boat with exceptional personal care.
2. 2 Days 1 Night Lan Ha, Ha Long Bay Tour With Licensed Guide
At $129 per person, this tour stands out by spending longer on the water than many competitors. It includes visits to fishing villages, kayaking, and swimming at Three-Peach Beach, one of the most beautiful spots. Unique to this tour is night kayaking, which allows you to paddle around the bay under the stars—an experience many find unforgettable. The itinerary also features cycling and fish massage at Viet Hai village, making it ideal for active travelers. With fantastic reviews (5.0/5 from 48 reviews), travelers praise the well-organized schedule and friendly staff. This tour is especially good for those who want a comprehensive experience with a mix of adventure, scenery, and local culture.
Bottom Line: For those who like to pack in diverse activities and enjoy the water both day and night, this tour offers great value and memorable moments.
3. 2 Days 1 Night Lan Ha Bay Adventure
If you’re after a more adventurous, less touristy experience, this $132 tour is a top pick. It features hiking to Navi Peak, staying in a bungalow inside Cat Ba National Park, and night kayaking to see plankton bioluminescence. The itinerary emphasizes exploring natural landscapes and local life, with small group sizes (max 10 people). Guests rave about the stunning hikes, authentic local food, and amply personalized attention. The highlight is definitely the night kayaking — rare and magical — offering a chance to see glowing plankton. This trip suits adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and natural scenery over traditional sightseeing.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for active explorers seeking a mix of hiking, kayaking, and immersion in nature.
4. Private Lan Ha Bay Cruise 2D1N
Priced at over $1,700 per person, this is a luxury option for those wanting total privacy and bespoke service. The private boat offers stunning sea views, cruising in less crowded waters, and tailored itineraries. The stunning cliffs and pristine beaches are highlights, with the crew focusing on personalized experiences like sunset cruises or private dinners. This experience is perfect for romantic getaways, special celebrations, or travelers who prefer ultra-comfort. While pricier, many reviews mention that the exclusivity is worth it. It’s less about activities and more about soaking up the scenery in total privacy.
Bottom Line: For those seeking luxury, privacy, and a tailored experience, this cruise delivers an indulgent escape.
5. Lan Ha Bay 2 Days 1 Night Adventure
For $126.40, this tour offers a balanced itinerary with less touristy stops and a focus on local life. Highlights include visiting Ben Beo Pier, kayaking through Dark & Light Caves, and exploring Ba Trai Dao Beach. The trip includes local meals and activities like swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers mention well-coordinated logistics and amazing scenery. This tour is best suited for travelers wanting a mix of relaxation and exploration without the crowds, and those interested in seeing local fishing life.
Bottom Line: It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a well-rounded, authentic experience at a reasonable price.
6. 2-Day cruise to Lan Ha bay – Ha Long bay and Viet Hai Village
This $150 experience combines Lan Ha Bay, Ha Long Bay, and Viet Hai Village with kayaking, cycling, and a sunset cruise. It’s ideal for those wanting a deeper immersion—visiting floating houses, cycling through farming landscapes, and enjoying less crowded waters. The tour emphasizes flexibility in activities, with fishing, kayaking, and island visits. Reviewers praise the friendly staff and beautiful scenery. It’s suited for active travelers seeking a fuller day of exploration.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a combination of cultural visits and outdoor activities in quieter parts of the bay.
7. 2 Days and 1 Night Tour on Cozy Boutique Cruise in Lan Ha Bay
At $139, this boutique cruise emphasizes smaller groups and authentic local routes. It offers kayaking, swimming, and squid fishing, without visiting caves, so you spend more time exploring beaches and fishing villages. The cozy boat shares the charm of traditional Vietnamese design, and reviews mention tasty food and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s suited for travelers wanting a laid-back, intimate experience with some outdoor fun.
Bottom Line: Great for those who prefer less crowded, more personal trips with plenty of water activities.
8. From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay 2 Days 1 Night Adventure
Starting from Hanoi, this tour ($129) is ideal for seeing Lan Ha Bay from afar. It features kayaking, exploring caves, and visiting fish farms with a small group. The trip offers a mix of scenic cruising and active exploration, including bike rides in Viet Hai. Reviewers note smooth organization and beautiful scenery. It’s perfect if you’re combining a cultural trip to Hanoi with an oceanic escape.
Bottom Line: Suitable for multi-destination travelers who want a comprehensive exploration of Lan Ha Bay.
9. Lan Ha – Ha Long Bay – Dau Be Island 2D/1N from Cat Ba in Less Touristy Areas
This $169.83 tour offers an excursion through quieter waters, visiting Dau Be Island, Bat Cave, Bright Cave, and kayaking through Ba Ham Lake. The cruise starts early in the morning and includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner as you cruise around less crowded sites. Reviewers highlight the beautiful landscapes and great value for the adventure. It suits active travelers who want to cover many spots in a short time.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want to see diverse islands and caves without the crowds.
10. Lan Ha Bay – Ha Long Bay 2 Days 1 Night on Cruise
At $160, this small-group cruise emphasizes friendly staff and visiting many attractions, like Viet Hai Village and Lan Ha Bay. It’s valued for ease of organization and varied activities. Many reviews mention delicious food and scenic cruising as highlights. It’s suited for travelers wanting a balance of relaxation and exploration with an intimate group setting.
Bottom Line: A reliable, well-rated choice for a classic bay experience with friendly service.
11. 2Days 1Night in Lan Ha Bay Cruise and Ha Long Bay Kayaking
This $152 tour combines Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay with kayaking, swimming, and biking. It’s celebrated for covering famous sights and less touristy areas. Reviewers mention well-organized outdoor activities and entertaining onboard options like karaoke. It’s best for active travelers who want a fun, varied itinerary with plenty of outdoor fun.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting full outdoor activity options combined with scenic cruising.
$152.00 per person
12. Cozy Boutique Cruise – Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Island Explorer 2D1N
For $175, this small-scale cruise focuses on less crowded areas and authentic routes. It features kayaking, swimming, and night squid fishing, with an emphasis on relaxing in natural beauty. The boat’s traditional Vietnamese style adds to the charm. Reviewers praise the delicious food and laid-back atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful escape with outdoor activities.
Bottom Line: Best suited for quiet, intimate trips that emphasize local scenery and authentic experiences.
$175.00 per person
13. 2 Day Aphrodite Cruise Experience Halong Bay from Hanoi
At $249, this luxury cruise is for those wanting a well-rounded tour of Halong and Lan Ha Bay. It includes visits to Sang Toi Cave, Tuan Chau Island, and more. The first-rate accommodations and top-notch service elevate this experience. Many reviews praise its careful itinerary and beautiful scenery. It’s ideal for luxury travelers or special occasion trips.
Bottom Line: For an upscale experience, this cruise combines scenic beauty with comfort and style.
$249.00 per person
14. BOUTIQUE CRUISE 2 Days 1 Night Explore Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Island
Priced at $199, this boutique experience focuses on less crowded spots and personalized service. It offers kayaking, swimming, and night squid fishing, visiting pristine lagoons and beaches. The traditional wooden boat adds local charm, with reviews noting great food and a relaxed vibe. It’s well suited for travelers wanting a quieter, more personal adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for budget travelers who want authenticity, fewer crowds, and outdoor fun.
15. Cat Ba Island – Lan Ha Bay 2 Days 1 Night – Overnight at Cat Ba Hotel
This budget-friendly option (~$210), offers a more laid-back approach. You stay overnight at a comfortable hotel and enjoy activities like kayaking, high jumping, and swimming. The trip includes cruising through Cai Beo fishing village and exploring Tai Keo cave. Reviewers appreciate the flexible schedule and easy logistics. It’s suited for travelers who want more downtime but still wish to explore Lan Ha Bay’s scenic spots.
Bottom Line: A good pick for relaxed travelers who prefer staying on land but want access to bay activities.
How to Choose Your Perfect Cat Ba 2-Day Tour
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you love luxury and privacy, opt for the Private Lan Ha Bay Cruise. For a more active, adventure-focused trip, try the Lan Ha Bay – Ha Long Bay 2 Days 1 Night on Cruise. If you prefer culture and less crowded waters, the Lan Ha Bay 2 Days 1 Night Adventure could be your best fit.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons (October to April), when tours fill quickly. Also, think about what activities excite you most—kayaking, hiking, or simply relaxing on deck—and choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Cat Ba offers a fantastic variety of 2-day tours that cater to different preferences. For luxury seekers, the Private Lan Ha Bay Cruise delivers an indulgent escape. For adventurous travelers, the Lan Ha Bay Adventure provides hiking and bioluminescent kayaking. If you’re on a budget or prefer a more authentic, tranquil experience, tours like Cozy Boutique Cruise offer excellent value.
No matter which you choose, booking early and aligning your interests with the tour’s focus will ensure a memorable voyage through some of Vietnam’s most stunning waterscapes. Make your decision based on your desire for activity level, comfort, and the kind of scenery you want to experience—then set sail for Cat Ba.