Ninh Binh is a standout destination for anyone who loves natural beauty combined with cultural sights. Unlike crowded cities, here you’ll find tranquil waterways winding through towering limestone cliffs and serene rice paddies. Among the many ways to explore, boat tours are the best because they allow you to see the landscape from the water—up close and personal. Whether you prefer a relaxing sampan cruise through caves or a luxury multi-day experience, Ninh Binh offers options that suit various tastes and budgets. One tour we particularly like is the From Hanoi: 3 Day Halong Bay 5 Star Cruise which combines the grandeur of Halong Bay with a visit to Tam Coc and Mua Cave, offering a well-rounded experience.
If you’re interested in a shorter, more affordable trip, the Ninh Binh: Trang An Boat Ride, Bich Dong & Mua Cave Sunset is a fantastic choice. For those looking to spend multiple days exploring, the 3-Day: Ha Long–Lan Ha Bay & Ninh Binh 5 Stars Cruise offers a luxurious multi-night cruise experience. Each tour provides a different way to enjoy Ninh Binh’s stunning karst scenery, historic sites, and outdoor activities.
1. From Hanoi: 3 Day Halong Bay 5 Star Cruise – Ninh Binh Tour
At number 1 on our list, this luxury 3-day cruise combines the impressiveness of Halong Bay with highlights of Ninh Binh like Tam Coc and Mua Cave. The tour includes a stay on a 5-star cruise ship with private balconies, offering a comfortable base for exploring limestone caves, kayaking, swimming, and cave visits. You’ll also enjoy a buffet lunch featuring Vietnamese and western dishes, adding to the relaxing atmosphere. Reviews give it a stellar 4.9/5 from 18 travelers, noting the private cabins and luxury service as standout features. It’s perfect if you want to enjoy the best of Vietnam’s northern landscapes without sacrificing comfort.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for travelers valuing comfort and panoramic views, willing to splurge a bit for an all-in-one experience of ocean and land. Keep in mind it’s a multi-day commitment, but it’s worth it for the scenery and top-tier amenities.
2. Ninh Binh: Trang An Boat Ride, Bich Dong & Mua Cave Sunset
Number 2 offers a 6-hour scenic adventure starting from just $18 per person. The tour begins with a peaceful sampan ride through the UNESCO-listed Trang An complex, where you’ll glide through caves, past limestone cliffs, and alongside ancient temples. Afterward, you’ll visit Bich Dong Pagoda, built against a limestone mountain, which offers a perfect photo stop. The highlight is climbing the around 500 stone steps of Mua Cave for sunset, where panoramic views of rice paddies and karsts await. The small group and friendly driver enhance the relaxed experience, making it ideal for those short on time but eager for rich scenery.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded, affordable tour that combines water, culture, and sunset views, this is a top choice. It’s particularly good for travelers who enjoy historic sites and photogenic vistas.
3. 3-Day: Ha Long–Lan Ha Bay & Ninh Binh 5 Stars Cruise
At number 3, this three-day luxury cruise offers a comprehensive exploration of Halong and Lan Ha Bays along with Ninh Binh. The trip includes kayaking, swimming, bamboo boat rides, and visits to Bich Dong pagoda, Thai Vi Temple, and Tien Cave. You’ll stay on a luxury cruise with private balconies, enjoying Vietnamese and Western cuisine. The itinerary also includes local village visits and a cooking class, providing an immersive experience. Rated 5/5 from 8 reviews, guests praise the balance of guided activities and free time. It’s suited for travelers seeking a multi-day, all-inclusive adventure with comfort and authenticity.
Bottom Line: This is ideal for those wanting a multi-day trip with varied activities, combining land and water experiences, all from a luxurious base.
4. Ninh Binh Half Day Guide Tour: Trang An Boat Ride, Mua Cave
Number 4 is a half-day tour perfect for a quick introduction to Ninh Binh. It includes a boat cruise in Trang An and a climb up Mua Cave to enjoy spectacular views. The tour features a small group and a guide who shares insights into the area’s history and culture. The cruise through caves and limestone landscapes is one of the most popular experiences, and the 500-step climb offers a rewarding panoramic vista. Priced for just $16 per person with a perfect 5/5 review score, it’s a fantastic option for travelers short on time but eager to see the highlights.
Bottom Line: Short, sweet, and packed with scenic beauty, this tour is best suited for those wanting a quick but memorable taste of Ninh Binh.
5. Ninh Binh Jeep Tour: Trang An Boat Ride, Bich Dong, Mua Cave
Number 5 combines adventure and culture with a 7-hour Jeep tour through the countryside. It includes visits to Bich Dong Pagoda, a Trang An boat ride, and a hike up Mua Cave. Riding a jeep gives a more dynamic way to see the rural landscape, with stops at local villages and scenic viewpoints. The tour features a peaceful boat ride and the opportunity to climb the 500 steps for a breathtaking view. The reviews indicate a friendly guide and a relaxing, immersive day. For around $18, you get a mix of off-road adventure and cultural exploration.
Bottom Line: This is perfect for travelers wanting a mix of countryside exploration and water-based sights, especially if you prefer being off the beaten path.
6. 3-Day – Ninh Binh – Lan Ha Bay 5-Star Cruise & Balcony
Number 6 offers a luxurious 3-day cruise combining Ninh Binh and Lan Ha Bay. It features cycling, trekking, and bamboo boat rides, along with kayaking and swimming. The cruise includes overnight stays on a luxury vessel with private balconies and activities like fishing, cooking classes, and Tai Chi. Rated 5/5 from 4 reviews, this tour is tailored for those who want to combine relaxation and adventure in style, exploring both land and sea scenery. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want multiple days of comfort and engaging activities.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for an upscale, multi-day experience that mixes cultural sites with water activities, this cruise hits the mark.
7. Ninh Binh: Boat Tour Trang An, Hoa Lu, Bich Dong & Hang Mua
Number 7 provides a full day’s exploration of Ninh Binh’s key sites. It includes a boat tour in Trang An, a visit to Hoa Lu, and a climb at Mua Cave. The tour also covers the Bich Dong Pagoda. The itinerary emphasizes cultural and scenic highlights, with a relaxed pace and a local lunch included. Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, it’s a well-reviewed, comprehensive day trip that suits history enthusiasts and lovers of limestone scenery alike.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-timers who want to see the major sights with a good balance of activity and culture.
8. Ninh Binh: Mua Cave Hike, Trang An Boat & Village Bike Tour
Number 8 is a small group tour combining a hike up Mua Cave, a boat ride in Trang An, and cycling to Bich Dong Pagoda. This active itinerary is suited for travelers who enjoy movement and outdoor pursuits. It offers the chance to cycle through quiet villages, visit local temples, and enjoy a home-cooked lunch with a local family. Rated 4.6/5, this tour balances scenic exploration with physical activity, making it ideal for active travelers.
Bottom Line: For those who want to combine scenic boat rides with walking and cycling, this tour provides a well-rounded day.
9. From Hanoi: 2-day Ha Long Bay & Bai Tu Long Premium Cruise
At number 9, this two-day cruise explores Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay with a focus on secluded caves and floating villages. The tour combines gourmet meals, spa treatments, and guided excursions. Rated 5/5, it appeals to travelers seeking a more intimate cruise experience with a good mix of relaxation and sightseeing. It’s particularly suitable for those who want a longer, more luxurious escape from Hanoi.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers looking for a comfortable, well-appointed cruise that balances exploration and relaxation.
$136 per person
10. Ninh Binh: 2-Day Lan Ha Bay Boutique Cruise with Small Group
Number 10 offers an intimate 2-day cruise on Lan Ha Bay, with activities like kayaking, swimming, and night squid fishing. You’ll visit Viet Hai Village and enjoy local food and a cooking class onboard. The small group sizes mean personalized service, and reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere. It’s a great option for those who want an authentic experience away from large tour groups.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a personal, immersive experience with a focus on local culture and water activities.
$150 per person
11. Ninh Binh Sunrise Motobike Tour Mua Cave, Trang An Boat Ride
Number 11 combines adventure and early mornings with a sunrise climb at Mua Cave and a boat cruise in Trang An. With a local breakfast and visits to Bich Dong Pagoda, this tour is perfect for early risers who want to see Ninh Binh wake up in style. Rated 5/5, it offers a mix of physical activity and tranquil scenery, ideal for active travelers.
Bottom Line: For those who love sunrise views and starting their day with a bit of exercise, this tour delivers.
$27 per person
12. VIP TOUR – Seaplane 25-minutes + Halong Bay Cruise 1 Day
Number 12 is the most exclusive, combining a scenic 25-minute seaplane flight with a day cruise in Halong Bay. The flight provides a bird’s-eye view of nearly 2,000 limestone islands. The cruise includes visits to Sung Sot Cave and relaxing on Titop Island. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a unique perspective on the bay’s grandeur.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a special, high-end experience with spectacular aerial views.
$425 per group up to 1
13. Ninh Binh: Luxury Day Cruise to Stunning Ha Long Bay + Lunch
Number 13 offers a luxury day trip to Halong Bay with a focus on kayaking, cave exploration, and scenic cruising. Starting from around $67, the tour includes a delicious lunch and stops at Sung Sot and Luon Cave. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a luxury experience with plenty of time to relax and explore.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a premium day on the water without the multi-day commitment.
14. Ninh Binh: Trang An Boat Ride, Hoa Lu & Mua Cave Sunset
This 7.5-hour tour combines boat rides, cultural visits, and scenic viewpoints. It includes exploring the ancient Hoa Lu, cruising Trang An, and climbing Ngoa Long Peak for sunset views. Rated 4/5, it’s a comprehensive experience for those wanting to see everything in one day, with a focus on both scenery and history.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers eager for a full-day experience that balances water, culture, and photography.
15. Hanoi: 3-Day Ninh Binh to Bai Tu Long Bay Tour and Cruise
Rounding out our list, this 3-day trip from Hanoi combines Ninh Binh’s highlights with a luxurious cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay. It features Bai Dinh Pagoda, Mua Cave, cooking classes, and fishing. The cruise includes kayaking and swimming, offering an immersive experience in both land and sea. Rated 4.5/5, it appeals to travelers seeking a mix of cultural exploration and relaxation.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a multi-day adventure that combines Vietnam’s inland sights with a relaxing cruise on the water.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour & Cruise in Ninh Binh
When selecting your ideal boat tour, think about your budget, available time, and interest level. Shorter tours like the Half Day Guide Tour are great if you’re pressed for time but still want to see the highlights. For a luxurious extended experience, the 3-Day Cruises or Lan Ha Bay Boutique Cruise offer comfort and a wide range of activities. Active travelers might prefer hiking, cycling, or kayaking, like in the Mua Cave Hike & Boat Tour, while those seeking a special experience should consider the VIP seaplane flight.
Booking early, especially for popular multi-day or luxury tours, will ensure you get your preferred dates and accommodations.
Ninh Binh offers a diverse array of boat tours and cruises suitable for every type of traveler. From budget-friendly half-day cruises to luxurious multi-day adventures, there’s something to match your style. For those who love scenic landscapes, cultural sites, and outdoor activities, these tours reveal the best that this region has to offer. Whether you choose a quick boat ride or a multi-day cruise, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories—and plenty of photos to prove it.