You’ll Love These 15 Boat Tours & Cruises In Lan Ha Bay

The 15 Best Boat Tours & Cruises in Lan Ha Bay

Lan Ha Bay, just south of Halong Bay, often flies under the radar but offers some of the most captivating boat experiences in northern Vietnam. Unlike Halong’s bustling tourist spots, Lan Ha Bay is quieter, with fewer boats and more space for serenity. Here, you’ll find a variety of tours—ranging from luxurious day cruises to immersive overnight adventures—that highlight its iconic limestone karsts, fishing villages, and hidden caves. Our favorites include the 2-Day Halong Sapphire Cruise, which combines comfort and scenic beauty, and the Full Day Boat Trip, perfect for active travelers eager to paddle and snorkel in pristine waters. Whether you prefer relaxing on deck or exploring caves by kayak, Lan Ha Bay’s boat tours promise memorable experiences.

Why Lan Ha Bay is a Great Choice for Boat Tours & Cruises

Unlike the crowded tourist hub of Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay offers a more relaxed and authentic experience. Its less-touristy reputation means quiet beaches, fewer boats, and more space to enjoy the scenery. Many tours include activities like kayaking, swimming, and exploring floating villages, making it perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. For example, the Lan Ha Bay: Full Day Boat Trip takes you through caves and lagoons, with opportunities to snorkel at secluded beaches. If you’re after a luxurious retreat, the D’Charme Luxury Day Cruise combines gourmet dining with water slides and sunset parties. Overall, Lan Ha Bay provides a quieter, more personalized alternative to its famous neighbor.

1. From Hanoi: 2-Day Halong Sapphire Cruise with Balcony Cabin

At number 1 on our list, the 2-Day Halong Sapphire Cruise offers a blend of comfort and adventure. This cruise sails through both Lan Ha and Halong Bays, giving you access to thousands of islands and islets, along with the chance to enjoy activities like kayaking and swimming. The highlight is the balcony cabin, which offers spectacular views from your room—perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. Rated 4.8/5 from over 1,400 reviews, travelers love its attentive staff and top-notch amenities. The included transfer from Hanoi makes it easy to start your journey stress-free.

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious overnight experience with a good mix of activities and comfort. The only potential downside is that it’s more expensive than daytime trips, but many say the quality justifies the price. Bottom line: a fantastic choice for those who want to enjoy Lan Ha Bay in style.

2. From Catba: Lan Ha Bay – Serenity Premium Cruise with Lunch

For around $59, the Serenity Premium Cruise delivers a well-rounded day out exploring Lan Ha Bay. It’s tailored for those who enjoy a guided tour with a local guide, with stops at Cai Beo fishing village and other scenic spots. The cruise includes a delicious lunch of fresh seafood and Vietnamese dishes, a real highlight for food lovers.

What makes this tour stand out is its full itinerary packed with activities like kayaking, biking, and swimming—all within one day. It’s a good option for travelers pressed for time but still wanting to experience the bay’s natural beauty. With a 4.8/5 rating from eight reviews, it’s a small but highly-rated experience. The main drawback? Limited reviews and a shorter duration, so it’s best suited for those wanting a comprehensive yet quick trip. Bottom line: great value for a day of active exploration.

3. Lan Ha Bay: Full Day Boat Trip Kayak, Snorkel, Beach, Cave

Topping our list at number 3, this Full Day Boat Trip is perfect for adventure-minded travelers. It includes kayaking, snorkeling, visiting Monkey Island, and exploring caves, along with stops at beautiful beaches. The tour showcases Lan Ha Bay’s best natural features, including floating villages and secret lagoons, with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing.

Rated 5/5 from four reviews, the trip is praised for its well-organized itinerary and intimate group size. The highlight is paddling through lagoons and playing with monkeys on Monkey Island. It’s best suited for active travelers or families who want a full day of diverse outdoor activities. The value is excellent given the range of experiences packed into one day. The only potential downside is the price—$98—but it’s justified by the many unique stops and the chance to enjoy Lan Ha’s natural beauty fully.

4. Full Day Boat Tour Explore Cat Ba Archipelago & Lan Ha Bay

At number 4, this Full Day Boat Tour takes you to some of the less-touristed, most scenic parts of Lan Ha and Halong Bay. The tour includes paddling through rock arches, exploring lagoons and caves, and relaxing at Ba Trai Dao Beach. It’s ideal for travelers who want a more authentic experience away from crowds.

Rated 5/5 from two reviews, this tour particularly appeals to those interested in kayaking and exploring secluded beaches. The experience is described as interactive and fun, with a focus on natural beauty. Its value lies in its small group size and personalized approach, making it a good choice for couples or small groups. The main drawback? Only two reviews, so it’s less proven than some others. Bottom line: a top pick for intrepid explorers seeking quiet, scenic spots.

5. D’Charme Luxury Day Cruise Discover the Stunning Lan Ha Bay

Number 5 features the D’Charme Luxury Day Cruise, perfect for those seeking a luxurious day trip. This cruise offers water slides, a sunset party, and gourmet cuisine, all set on a super stylish vessel. It’s about enjoying Lan Ha Bay’s beauty with a touch of elegance.

Rated 4.8/5 from four reviews, it’s praised for its comfortable and modern amenities, as well as its engaging onboard activities. The highlight is the sunset party, which provides a relaxed way to enjoy the scenery. It’s best suited for travelers looking for a premium experience with a lively atmosphere. The value is good if you prioritize comfort and onboard entertainment over a full outdoor adventure. The main downside? The longer duration and higher price, but many feel it’s worth the splurge.

6. 2 Days 1 Night Signature Voyage with Au Co Cruise

If you’re after an overnight experience, the 2 Days 1 Night Signature Voyage stands out. This cruise explores not just Lan Ha Bay but also nearby areas, including Viet Hai Village. You’ll enjoy activities like biking, exploring caves, and relaxing on beaches.

Rated 5/5, the reviews highlight its well-organized itinerary and friendly staff. The cruise’s charm is the combination of adventure and relaxation, with options to cycle or take a buggy ride. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to immerse themselves in the local environment over an overnight stay. The main consideration? The price reflects its premium service, making it suited for those willing to splurge for a comprehensive experience. Bottom line: ideal for slow-paced travelers seeking in-depth exploration.

7. FROM CATBA: LAN HA BAY ON SERENITY PREMIUM CRUISE

Rated 5/5, the Serenity Premium Cruise offers a luxury day trip from Cat Ba. You’ll sail with a local guide, visiting Cai Beo fishing village and enjoying a delicious seafood lunch. The cruise includes swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.

This tour is best for those who want comfort and scenic views without staying overnight. The small-group size and personalized service make it a popular pick. The only potential downside is a limited review count, but past travelers report high satisfaction. It’s suitable for luxury travelers or those seeking a relaxed yet active day. Bottom line: a premium option for a memorable day in Lan Ha Bay.

8. Cat Ba: Day Boat Tour with Kayak, Cave, Bike, Meal, Tickets

Number 8, the Day Boat Tour, offers a full day of activities at a budget-friendly price of $27. It features kayaking, biking, swimming, and a local meal, making it great for families or young travelers.

Rated 4.3/5 from seven reviews, travelers appreciate the friendly staff and fun activities. The tour allows you to explore Viet Hai village on bikes, kayak in tranquil bays, and jump from the boat’s top deck. Its affordability and inclusive activities make it attractive, though some may find it less luxurious. Overall, a practical choice for those wanting an active day with local flavor. Bottom line: an excellent budget option for full-day exploration.

9. Halong & Lan Ha Bay 1-Day Catamaran Cruise from Hanoi

The Halong & Lan Ha Bay Catamaran offers a luxurious, all-inclusive day from Hanoi. It features kayaking, a visit to Sung Sot Cave, and a beach stop at Ao Ech. The cruise also includes a sunset tea party with pastries and drinks.

Rated 4.3/5, it’s praised for its smooth service and elegant boat design. The hotel pickup makes it convenient for visitors staying in Hanoi. This tour suits travelers who desire a comfort-focused, scenic day with plenty of amenities. The main downside? The higher price point and full-day commitment, but the luxurious touches make it worthwhile for those wanting a special experience. Bottom line: ideal for luxury lovers and first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive tour.

10. 2-Day Lan Ha Bay Cruise: Special Style

Number 10 is the 2-Day Lan Ha Bay Cruise, offering a two-day adventure with visits to Dark and Bright Cave and relaxing on the sundeck. This tour balances natural beauty with activities like cooking classes and sunset parties.

Rated 4.4/5, the reviews appreciate the organized itinerary and scenic stops. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to spend more time exploring rather than rushing. The inclusion of Tai Chi sessions and cooking lessons adds a cultural touch. Its value is good considering the extended time and variety. The main drawback is the cost, but many say it’s worth the investment for a deeper experience. Bottom line: excellent for those who want a relaxed yet full experience.

11. Cat Ba: 1 Day Private Boat, Lan Ha Bay – Ha Long Bay

Number 11, the Private Boat Experience, offers personalized service for groups up to 16. It’s flexible and perfect for customized itineraries, including visits to deserted beaches and less crowded spots.

Rated 4.4/5, travelers appreciate the privacy and tailored schedule. It’s ideal for families or groups of friends wanting a private, exclusive day. The main benefit is the flexibility to choose your own stops, while the downside is the higher price reflecting exclusivity. Bottom line: a top pick for privacy-focused travelers wanting a bespoke tour.

12. Cat Ba Lan Ha Bay Cruise 2 Days 1 Night: Kayak, Swim, Biking

Rated 4.5/5, this 2-Day Cruise combines natural exploration and onboard activities. You’ll enjoy kayaking, squid fishing, karaoke, and cycling. It’s suitable for travelers who want a relaxed pace with plenty of time to enjoy.

The trip includes a night in a calm bay area, which adds to the peaceful vibe. The reviews highlight the friendly staff and well-rounded program. It’s priced at $155, offering good value for a multi-day experience. The main potential downside is that some activities are optional, so travelers should set expectations accordingly. Bottom line: ideal for those wanting a longer, immersive stay.

13. Cat Ba: Lan Ha Bay Full-Day Boat Tour

Number 13 features a Full-Day Lan Ha Bay Tour that highlights hidden lagoons and caves, combined with visits to Cai Beo fishing village and Ba Trai Dao Beach. It’s a well-rounded option for active travelers wanting to kayak, swim, and explore.

Rated 4.6/5, travelers enjoy the serene boat ride and local culture. The itinerary includes kayaking, snorkeling, and a delicious onboard lunch. It’s a full-day experience perfect for those who want to see the less crowded, more pristine parts of Lan Ha Bay. The main caveat? The price of $47 makes it an affordable choice that still delivers on natural beauty. Bottom line: versatile and value-packed for a day full of exploration.

14. Cat Ba – Lan Ha Bay Tour 2 Days – 4 Star Cruise

Rated 5/5, the 2-Day, 4-Star Cruise offers a comfortable, well-organized journey that covers most of Lan Ha Bay’s top sights. It includes kayaking, visiting the bay’s most famous attractions, and relaxing on deck.

This tour is excellent for travelers who want a balanced mix of activity and relaxation without sacrificing comfort. Its reviews mention professional guides and attractive itineraries. The value is good considering the two-day length and inclusions. The main consideration? It’s priced higher, but many find it pays off in comfort and content. Bottom line: great for those wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free experience.

15. Cat Ba: Lan Ha Bay on Serenity Premium Cruise W Kayak Full-Day

Our final pick, the Serenity Premium Cruise with Kayak, combines a full-day boat trip with kayaking through caves and lagoons. It’s priced at $54, making it a cost-effective option for active travelers.

Rated with no reviews yet, it’s designed for those who want to explore Lan Ha Bay’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace. The included kayaking and seafood lunch make it appealing for families and adventure seekers alike. Its main advantage is the balance between activity and comfort, with a focus on natural sights. Bottom line: a solid choice for a full-day exploration on a budget.

How to Choose the Best Tour for You

Picking the right boat tour in Lan Ha Bay depends on your budget, interests, and schedule. If you want luxury and comfort, options like the Halong Sapphire Cruise or D’Charme Luxury Day Cruise are worth considering. For active travelers interested in kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring caves, tours like Lan Ha Bay: Full Day Boat Trip or Cat Ba Lan Ha Bay Cruise 2 Days provide a perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty.

Those with limited time may prefer a day cruise from Hanoi, while families or private groups might opt for the private boat experience. Remember to consider seasonal conditions—some tours change activities during the wet season—and book early, especially for popular luxury options.

Final Thoughts

Lan Ha Bay offers a wide range of boat tours suitable for many types of travelers. For those seeking luxury, the 2-Day Signature Voyage and D’Charme Luxury Day Cruise stand out. For adventurers and active explorers, options like the Full Day Boat Trip or the Cat Ba Lan Ha Bay Cruise provide a wealth of natural sights and hands-on experiences.

With so many choices, your best bet is to match your trip style—whether it’s relaxing, active, or indulgent—to the right tour. Remember to book early, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on these highly-rated adventures. Lan Ha Bay’s calm waters and stunning islets are waiting—time to set sail!