Cat Ba is a standout destination for anyone who loves paddling through stunning scenery. Its calm lagoons, towering limestone cliffs, and floating fishing villages make for memorable kayaking and canoeing. We particularly like the Cruise and kayak on Lan Ha Bay Ha Long Bay with local experts for its excellent balance of affordability, guided expertise, and access to quieter spots away from the tourist crowds. Whether paddling through tunnels and caves or enjoying a Vietnamese lunch at anchor, this trip offers a great intro to the region’s natural beauty. For a longer, more immersive experience, the Cruising- Kayaking- Cycling- Trekking 3D/2N from Cat Ba in less tourist areas provides multi-day adventures that combine kayaking with cycling, trekking, and staying overnight in tranquil lagoons.
Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of the best canoe and kayak tours in Cat Ba—from full-day trips to glowing night adventures and multi-day explorations—each with its own unique appeal and highlights.
1. Cruise and kayak on Lan Ha Bay Ha Long Bay with local experts
At number 1, this half-day cruise and kayaking tour from Cat Ba offers excellent value for its approximately 8-hour duration. You’ll spend the day sailing through Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay, with two kayaking stops, including paddling through lagoons, tunnels, and archways. The tour includes a traditional Vietnamese lunch served at anchor off a small islet, making the most of stunning scenery without breaking the bank. One of the biggest draws is the fewer crowds since starting from Cat Ba means avoiding the busy tourist spots of Ha Long City. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, the authentic food, and how the kayaking brings the scenery to life. If you want an affordable yet comprehensive experience with expert guidance, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a full day on tranquil waters with excellent guides and stunning landscapes.
2. Cruising- Kayaking- Cycling- Trekking 3D/2N from Cat Ba in less tourist areas
For those ready to spend a few days exploring more remote parts of Lan Ha Bay, this 3-day, 2-night expedition combines kayaking, cycling, trekking, and overnight stays on quiet lagoons. The trip begins with a boat cruise starting from Cat Ba, passing floating fishing villages and stunning landscapes. You’ll kayak through caves and lagoons, with options to swim or climb for panoramic views. The itinerary includes a visit to Viet Hai Village, cycling through rice fields, and challenging treks up rocky peaks. Guests praise the expert local guides and the seclusion of the spots visited—perfect if you want to escape bustling tourist hubs. Expect to pay a premium, but the experience is richly rewarding for adventure lovers who want a multi-day immersion.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers seeking a blend of kayaking, culture, and wilderness over several days.
3. Sunset & Bioluminescent Plankton Kayaking Lan Ha Bay
At number 3, this 4-hour experience offers something magical: paddling under the glow of bioluminescent plankton during sunset. The tour includes a beachfront BBQ dinner as the sun dips behind the limestone karsts. The highlight is kayaking in dark waters, where millions of tiny plankton light up with each stroke—an unforgettable sight. Reviewers rave about guide Lin’s storytelling and the intimate group size. This tour is ideal for those who want a short, spectacular evening adventure with a focus on nature’s light show. It’s also a lovely way to combine dinner, sunset views, and the glowing waters in one evening.
Bottom Line: Great for romantics and night-owl nature lovers looking for a unique, short kayaking experience.
4. Special Lan Ha – VietHai Village Tours, Including Lunch, Kayaking
Ranked at number 4, this half-day tour offers a deep dive into Lan Ha Bay and Viet Hai Village. You start by cruising through the floating fishing villages and exploring Dau Be Archipelago. The adventure includes kayaking through tunnels and mysterious caves, with a delicious traditional lunch served on board. The tour is praised for its well-organized itinerary and the chance to see less-visited, pristine parts of the bay. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a balanced mix of water activities and cultural sights—all at a relatively low price point.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a compact, value-packed day with kayaking and cultural exploration.
5. Kayaking at Lan Ha Bay
Number 5 offers the leisurely pace of a full-day kayaking tour in Lan Ha Bay. You’ll explore hidden lagoons behind limestone cliffs, paddle through quiet waters, and visit floating villages. The tour emphasizes relaxing and soaking in the scenery, with options to swim and explore. The intimate guided experience is suitable for travelers who prefer a slower, more contemplative pace. Reviewers appreciate the local guides’ knowledge and the peaceful nature of the trip, especially those who want to avoid busy tourist spots.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want to take their time and enjoy the beauty of Lan Ha Bay at their own pace.
6. Most favorite full day boat tour with kayaking in Lan Ha bay, Ha Long bay
At number 6, this full-day boat and kayak combo offers a comprehensive experience exploring over 300 islands and rock formations. The tour includes kayaking through caves, snorkeling, and stops at secluded beaches. You’ll enjoy onboard lunch and round-trip transportation from Cat Ba—making it convenient and affordable for budget travelers. The reviews highlight its well-organized itinerary and value for money given the full-day scope.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers wanting a full-day adventure with plenty of water activities without a hefty price tag.
7. What a great combination, day cruise and night kayak with glowing bioluminescent
Number 7 combines day cruising and night kayaking in this 13-hour tour. The trip features beach hopping, lunch and dinner, and an evening kayak outing to see bioluminescent plankton. It’s perfect for those wanting to maximize their time in Lan Ha Bay with both daylight and night adventures. Reviewers mention the beautiful scenery and intimate group size.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a full, immersive day with both relaxing and adventurous elements.
8. Cat Ba: Sunset & Bioluminescent Kayaking on Lan Ha Bay
Ranked at number 8, this 6-hour tour offers a peaceful sunset paddle followed by kayaking in bioluminescent waters. The trip includes a delicious dinner and the chance to swim in the cool waters of Lan Ha Bay. The glow of plankton combined with sunset views makes this a favorite for romantic couples or anyone wanting a memorable evening.
Bottom Line: Great for an intimate, scenic evening with the bonus of glowing waters.
9. Sunset and Plankton Bioluminescent Night Kayak Lan Ha Bay
Number 9 offers a short but impactful 4-hour experience focused on sunset views and bioluminescent kayaking. You’ll visit a floating fishing village, enjoy a local dinner, and paddle under the stars to see the glowing plankton light up the water. Reviewers mention the magical quality of this trip—perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of Lan Ha Bay’s night magic.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers seeking an evening of natural wonder without a long commitment.
10. Full day deep water soloing – Kayaking in Cat Ba – Ha Long Bay
This 9-hour tour combines climbing and kayaking in Lan Ha Bay. Starting with deep water soloing, it then moves to kayaking around limestone islands and fishing villages. The tour is designed for adventure-seeking climbers and paddlers, with routes graded from 4a to 7b+. Reviewers appreciate the well-guided climbs and the scenic kayaking routes. It’s best suited for those with some fitness and a craving for action.
Bottom Line: Not for the faint-hearted—ideal if you want a full day of climbing and paddling.
11. Full day Boat Tour Lan Ha Bay – Ha Long Bay: Kayak, Beach Hopping
Number 11 features a luxury cruise exploring Lan Ha and Halong Bay with stops at Dark & Light Caves and Chopstick Islet. The tour emphasizes kayaking, swimming, and beach hopping, with a delicious lunch onboard. It’s suitable for travelers who want a comfortable, well-organized day on the water with plenty of relaxed exploration.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking comfort and scenic variety in one package.
12. Bioluminescent Plankton Kayak Boat Tour
Ranking at number 12, this 5-hour tour emphasizes bioluminescent kayaking combined with a cruise through Lan Ha Bay. You’ll pass Cai Beo, the oldest fishing village in Vietnam, then relax on Monkey Island before paddling under the moonlit sky. Reviews highlight the local guides’ expertise and the stunning glow of the plankton. It’s perfect for a short, enchanting night adventure.
Bottom Line: A great option if you want a mix of cultural sights and natural night magic.
13. Sunset and Bioluminescent Plankton by Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay
This 4.5-hour tour offers sunset views, local dinner, and night kayaking to see the bioluminescent plankton. It’s an intimate experience with time for swimming, paddling, and relaxing. Reviewers mention how peaceful and unforgettable this tour is, especially as the waters glow beneath the stars. It’s ideal for those wanting a relaxing evening with a touch of adventure.
Bottom Line: Suits travelers looking for an enchanting, less rushed experience.
14. Lan Ha to Ha Long Bay Cruise and Kayaking from Cat Ba Island
Number 14 offers a full-day journey exploring less busy, pristine islands. The tour emphasizes kayaking through caves, secluded beaches, and relaxing on quiet islands. The small-group experience and exclusive access make it stand out. Reviewers appreciate the serenity and the customized feel.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting an intimate, off-the-beaten-path day in Lan Ha Bay.
15. Kayak Adventure Experience at Lan Ha Bay
Finally, this 8.5-hour tour offers a full-day kayak exploration with local guides. It features paddling through caves, floating villages, and secret lagoons. The tour emphasizes authentic experiences and natural beauty, making it great for adventure seekers wanting an immersive day. Reviewers praise the expert guidance and beautiful scenery.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those looking for a comprehensive, full-day kayak adventure with a focus on hidden spots.
How to Choose the Best Canoe & Kayak Experience in Cat Ba
Choosing the right tour depends a lot on your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you want a budget-friendly, guided day trip, the Cruise and kayak on Lan Ha Bay offers great value with its inclusive lunch and scenic stops. For those wanting a multi-day adventure with cycling and trekking, the 3D/2N trip is perfect. If a romantic or evening experience appeals, the Sunset & Bioluminescent Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay or similar tours offer breathtaking sights in a shorter timeframe.
Remember, book early especially for popular tours like the 3-day trips or those with limited group sizes. Consider your fitness level—some tours involve climbing or long paddles—and the season, as calmer waters are more predictable in dry months.
In summary, Cat Ba offers a wide range of canoe and kayak options, from short sunset paddles to multi-day adventures that include cycling and trekking. For a balanced experience, the Cruise and kayak on Lan Ha Bay stands out for its affordability and guided quality. For those seeking a more immersive, multi-day trip, the 3D/2N exploration offers stunning scenery and active pursuits. Whatever your preference, early booking is key to securing your spot in these unforgettable waters.