Why Cat Ba is a top choice for full-day tours
If you’re visiting Vietnam and looking for a mix of stunning scenery, active adventure, and authentic local experiences, Cat Ba Island offers some of the most diverse options. Unlike the crowded, tourist-heavy destinations, many tours in Cat Ba focus on less-traveled waters and protected ecosystems, making for a more relaxed and genuine experience. Whether you’re into cruising past limestone karsts, kayaking through caves, or hiking lush forests, Cat Ba has a lot to offer.
One of our favorites is the full-day boat tours in Lan Ha Bay—a quieter alternative to Halong Bay—where you can swim at deserted beaches, paddle through caves, and visit historic fishing villages. For a more active day, the hiking in Cat Ba National Park offers wild forests and mountain peaks, while adventure seekers might prefer deep-water soloing or kayaking around the limestone islets. Whatever your style, you’ll find an experience that’s both memorable and authentic.
Quick Overview
The list below features the best full-day tours in Cat Ba, covering a wide range of interests and activity levels. You’ll find luxury cruises with gourmet meals, budget group trips with kayaking and swimming, adventure-packed hikes, and even combo tours that include both jungle trekking and boat excursions. Each offers unique highlights, from exploring floating fishing villages to climbing limestone cliffs. Check out the options:
- From Cat Ba island: full day boat tour to Lan Ha bay – Ha Long bay
- Cat Ba Island: Full-day Tour Lan Ha Bay with Luxury Cruise
- Full day hiking in Jungle of Cat Ba National park
- Most favorite full day boat tour with kayaking in Lan Ha bay, Ha Long bay
- Full day boat trip with Cat Ba Captain Jack to Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay
- Full day deep water soloing – Kayaking in Cat Ba – Ha Long Bay
- Cat Ba National Park Full Day Trekking Tour to Viet Hai Village
- Full day Boat Tour Lan Ha Bay – Ha Long Bay: Kayak, Beach Hopping
- Full day trip to Lan Ha-Ha Long Bay from Cat Ba, avoid the crowds
- Full Day Sea Star Cruise to Lan Ha-Ha Long Bay Viet Hai village
1. From Cat Ba island: full day boat tour to Lan Ha bay – Ha Long bay
This highly-rated full-day boat tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, perfect for those wanting to see less-touristy areas of Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay. You’ll cruise past hundreds of limestone islands and visit Cai Beo fishing village, which is one of Vietnam’s oldest fishing communities. The tour includes swimming at deserted beaches, kayaking through caves and lagoons, and enjoying sunset views on the bay. The boat is spacious with a group size capped at 30, ensuring a comfortable environment.
The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to enjoy activities at your own pace. Highlights include kayaking through Dark, Bat, and Bright caves, swimming in calm lagoons, and visiting Three Peach Beach. The reviews praise the friendly guide, delicious lunch, and the authentic feel of the experience. For about $32, this 9-hour trip offers excellent value, especially for those who want a full day of varied activities in pristine waters.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded day with plenty of water-based activities and scenic cruising, all in a small-group setting.
2. Cat Ba Island: Full-day Tour Lan Ha Bay with Luxury Cruise
If luxury is your priority, the Lan Ha Bay with Luxury Cruise is your best pick. For around $38, you’ll enjoy top-tier amenities on the Dcharme Luxury Cruise, including a jacuzzi, water slide, and air-conditioned dining. The boat’s elegant design provides ample photo spots and a smooth cruising experience. The tour includes visiting Viet Hai Village, which is accessible via a scenic electric car ride through the national park, offering insight into local mountain village life.
The lunch features fresh seafood and local dishes, served on deck while gliding past impressive limestone formations. The tour combines relaxation with cultural exploration and adventure kayaking. Reviewers note the high quality of the facilities and the calm, uncrowded waters. This tour suits travelers who want a comfortable, scenic day with premium touches, ideal for families or those celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom Line: For a luxurious, hassle-free day with gourmet food and stunning scenery, this cruise delivers excellent value—though it’s a bit shorter, at around 7 hours.
3. Full day hiking in Jungle of Cat Ba National park
For those who prefer active exploration, this full-day hike offers an immersive experience into Cat Ba’s wilderness. Covering about 15,200 hectares, the national park is a UNESCO biosphere reserve with multiple ecosystems—limestone forests, wetlands, mangroves, and marine areas. The tour takes you through dense jungle paths to conquer three peaks, each with panoramic views. The guide points out rare flora and fauna, including the elusive yellow-headed langur, which is a highlight for wildlife lovers.
You’ll also visit Viet Hai Village, where you can see local life beyond the tourist trail, and enjoy a home-cooked lunch in a village house. Reviews commend the expert guidance and small group size, making the trek both challenging and rewarding. Expect rocky trails and some scrambles, so fitness is needed.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for fit travelers craving wild nature and mountain vistas combined with cultural insights.
4. Most favorite full day boat tour with kayaking in Lan Ha bay, Ha Long bay
This popular full-day boat trip offers a balanced menu of kayaking, swimming, and sightseeing for about $27. It’s ideal for budget travelers who want full water-based fun without sacrificing comfort. The tour begins with a visit to the Cai Beo fishing village, where you can learn about local fishing traditions. The highlight is kayaking through caves and around limestone islets, including Dark and Bright caves.
After paddling, you’ll stop at Three Peach Beaches for swimming and sunbathing, followed by cruising through the islands of Lan Ha Bay. The delicious lunch onboard fuels an active day, and reviews praise the friendly guides and scenic, uncrowded waters. The tour’s flexible schedule and small group size make it a favorite among budget-conscious travelers seeking authentic, relaxed experiences.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a full day of kayaking and beach time with great value and fewer crowds.
5. Full day boat trip with Cat Ba Captain Jack to Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay
For those seeking a classic boat experience with a local touch, this full-day trip offers a comfortable group setting with around 8 hours of sightseeing and relaxing. For about $27, you’ll cruise past limestone islands and visit the floating fishing village of Cai Beo, learning how locals fish and live on the water. The itinerary includes kayaking through caves, swimming, and enjoying the serene scenery of Lan Ha and Ha Long Bays.
The traditional onboard lunch helps keep you energized for a day on the water. Although reviews are limited, the tour’s accessible price point and the beautiful scenery make it ideal for travelers wanting a straightforward, authentic experience.
Bottom Line: A reliable choice for travelers wanting a well-organized, culturally rich day on a reasonably priced boat.
6. Full day deep water soloing – Kayaking in Cat Ba – Ha Long Bay
Adventure seekers will love this full-day combo of climbing, kayaking, and cruising. The tour caters to climbers of grades 4a to 7b+, offering safe routes for all skill levels. During high tide, you’ll climb limestone cliffs, while low tide allows kayaking around the bay’s stunning islands, caves, and fishing villages. Your English-speaking guide ensures safety and helps you find the best routes.
The kayaking routes include around limestone islands and floating fishing villages, with options to swim if you need a break from climbing. At $118.73, it’s more expensive but combines adventure, sport, and scenic beauty in one day. Reviews note the professional guidance and variety of activities, making it perfect for active travelers who want a physical challenge.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventurous, fit travelers looking for a full-day climbing and kayaking experience.
7. Cat Ba National Park Full Day Trekking Tour to Viet Hai Village
This full-day trekking tour explores the diverse ecosystems of Cat Ba National Park. The journey includes walking through tropical forests, climbing three peaks, and visiting Viet Hai Village—a remote mountain community. The trek covers approximately 6 kilometers over 2.5 hours, with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife and flora.
After the hike, you’ll enjoy lunch at a local house in Viet Hai, then try cycling or kayaking in the afternoon to see more of the region’s natural beauty. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide and the small group size for making the trip intimate and engaging. The terrain can be challenging, so moderate fitness is necessary.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers interested in nature, culture, and physical activity.
8. Full day Boat Tour Lan Ha Bay – Ha Long Bay: Kayak, Beach Hopping
This luxury-focused boat tour combines scenic cruising, kayaking, and beach visits to give a premium experience. The boat is brand new with a steel hull and modern amenities, making it a safe choice for families or couples. It includes stops at Dark & Light caves for kayaking and Chopstick Islet for relaxing on the beach.
The itinerary emphasizes comfort and exclusivity with less crowded waters. Reviewers mention the smooth ride and the beautiful scenery, along with the chance to swim and relax at the beaches. The tour is roughly 8 hours, making it perfect for those who want a more refined day on the water.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking luxury, comfort, and quiet scenic spots.
9. Full day Cat Ba National Park adventure Tour from Cat Ba island
This comprehensive day trip offers a blend of jungle trekking, village visits, and boat rides. Starting with a trek through the national park, you’ll see wild animals, flora, and scenic mountain views. Then, visiting Viet Hai Village provides a glimpse into local mountain life. The tour includes cycling, kayaking, and a boat trip to explore Lan Ha Bay’s waterways.
Reviewed as a “great day” with interesting activities, the tour is perfect for adventure lovers who want to cover both land and water. The small group size and experienced guides make this a well-organized day full of discovery.
Bottom Line: A good pick for active travelers interested in both forest and marine environments.
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour
When selecting a full-day tour in Cat Ba, consider your interests and physical fitness. If you love luxury and comfort, the Lan Ha Bay Luxury Cruise is perfect. For adventure and active days, hiking in Cat Ba National Park and deep-water soloing stand out. Budget travelers will appreciate the affordable group tours with kayaking and swimming, like the Most Favorite Full Day Kayaking Tour.
If you prefer avoiding crowds, the full-day Lan Ha Bay trips are less busy, especially those with smaller groups or luxury options. Always check the duration, included activities, and reviews to match your style. Booking early, especially in peak season, ensures you get your preferred date—and don’t forget to bring proper footwear, sun protection, and water.
Final thoughts
Cat Ba offers a diverse array of full-day tours, from relaxing cruises with gourmet lunches to active hikes and climbing adventures. The best choice depends on your interests, fitness level, and budget. For a luxury escape, the Lan Ha Bay with Luxury Cruise stands out. For active explorers, the hiking and climbing tours provide a thrilling day in nature. Meanwhile, budget travelers can enjoy kayaking and beach hopping on smaller-group trips.
No matter what you pick, booking in advance is wise, especially during peak months. Each tour promises a memorable glimpse into the natural beauty and local life of Cat Ba. Now it’s your turn—choose your adventure and enjoy the stunning scenery of northern Vietnam’s waters and forests.