Cat Ba: 2-Day Lan Ha Bay Cruise with Plankton Excursion

Cat Ba: 2-Day Lan Ha Bay Cruise with Plankton Excursion

This 2-day adventure from Cat Ba takes you through the stunning waters of Lan Ha Bay with a focus on fewer crowds and more authentic experiences. For $114 per person, you’ll spend a night on a floating homestay, explore caves, snorkel in calm lagoons, and witness the magical bioluminescent plankton at night. The tour is run by CAT BA GREEN TRAIL TRAVEL and is rated 4.4 out of 5 based on seven reviews.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to see bioluminescent plankton lighting up the water is truly hypnotic—an unforgettable sight for nature lovers. Second, the route covers the less touristy southern part of Ha Long Bay, giving you a peaceful, almost private feel amidst the towering limestone islets.

A possible drawback? Some reviews mention inconsistency in management—specifically, different companies handling various parts of the trip—and issues like cleanliness and noise at the homestay. While these aren’t deal-breakers for most, they’re worth knowing if you prefer a perfectly smooth experience.

This tour works well for travelers who crave authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures, especially those interested in biological phenomena like plankton lighting and serene sailing. It’s ideal if you’re okay with some variability in service quality and appreciate natural beauty over luxury comforts.

Key Points

• Authentic overnight stay on a floating homestay, offering a unique perspective of bay life
• Bioluminescent plankton viewing, a rare and mesmerizing natural spectacle
• Less crowded routes in the southern part of Ha Long Bay, away from mass tourism
• Full day of activities including kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, and exploring caves
• Delicious meals served on the boat and homestay, emphasizing local flavors
• Comfort and safety gear provided, including life jackets and kayaking equipment

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Lan Ha Bay Experience

Lan Ha Bay has long played second fiddle to its famous neighbor, Ha Long Bay. But this tour offers a chance to explore a quieter, less commercialized side of this spectacular seascape. The journey begins with a convenient pickup from Cat Ba town, either at the tour office or from your hotel—a step that simplifies logistics and ensures you’re ready to sail without fuss.

Day 1: Sunset, homestay, and plankton magic

The tour kicks off around 4 pm, with a scenic cruise toward the bay. We loved the way the boat glided past limestone karsts, catching the last light of the day as the sun dips behind the islands. Watching the sunset with a drink in hand is a delightful way to start—the sunset over the bay really highlights the natural beauty of the area.

Once we reached the floating homestay, the experience was charming but not luxurious. The rooms are basic and a little rough around the edges, with some reviews mentioning cleanliness issues and even a leaking ceiling during a rainstorm. You should come prepared for a simple, authentic stay rather than a boutique hotel atmosphere. The highlight here is the kayaking at night, which leads to the bioluminescent plankton spectacle. As you pedal or paddle, the water lights up with tiny, glowing organisms—an experience you won’t forget.

One review by Amanda notes the inconsistency of management, where the kayak trip was fantastic, but the homestay became more like a “floating bar” with noisy guests and poor sanitation. It’s a reminder that this part of the trip may require some patience and an adventurous spirit.

Day 2: Full-day exploration and scenic cruising

The morning begins with a peaceful sunrise and fresh sea air. After breakfast, the real adventure begins. The boat departs at 9 am with plenty of stops along the way. Expect to see hundreds of sandy beaches—perfect for a quick swim or relaxing on the sand.

The route includes kayaking through Bat Cave, Dark Cave, and Bright Cave, each offering a different perspective of the limestone formations and water tunnels. We loved the more secluded feel here, away from the crowds that flock to more popular sites. The boat then ventures to the southern part of Ha Long Bay, which is less populated and provides more tranquility.

Lunchtime is a delightful set menu meal aboard the boat, featuring local ingredients and fresh seafood. Afterward, the boat cruises past islets like Pen, Sailing, and Frog Islet, giving great photo opportunities. The highlight for us was stopping at Three Peach Beach; here, you can jump into the water for swimming and snorkeling. The calm lagoon is perfect for relaxing and discovering marine life up close.

Later, a visit to a local fish farm adds a cultural and ecological dimension to the trip. As the day wraps up, enjoy snacks and drinks on the deck while watching the bay’s quiet beauty at sunset.

Practical Details and Tips

Transport & Timing: Pickup is available in Cat Ba town, with a quick 10-minute coach ride to the boat. Expect the tour to start around 4 pm on the first day and conclude back in Cat Ba by late afternoon on the second day.

Group Size & Guides: The tour features an English-speaking guide, and the group size appears manageable—good for getting personal attention and meaningful interactions.

Inclusions & Extras: The price covers pickup, two meals on the boat, dinner and breakfast on the homestay, kayaking gear, life jackets, and snacks during sunset. Drinks are not included, so bring your own if you want to toast the sunset or sip during kayaking.

What to Bring: Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes are essentials. Be prepared for some basic amenities at the homestay and some uneven surfaces.

Not Suitable For: Pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness might find the open water sections challenging. Also, alcohol and weapons are not allowed onboard for safety reasons.

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Authenticity and Experiences

While the trip offers many natural highlights, reviews reveal a mix of experiences. Some travelers, like Amanda, appreciated the spectacular views and unique bioluminescent plankton, calling it “definitely interesting.” Others mention management inconsistencies—a common theme when parts of the experience are handled by different companies.

Despite these hiccups, many value the chance to escape crowded tourist spots and enjoy the serene, less-visited southern areas of Lan Ha Bay. The guided kayaking, especially through caves and lagoons, provides both adventure and a closer look at the bay’s geological features.

The local fish farm visit offers a glimpse into regional aquaculture, adding an educational element to the trip. Meals are generally well-received, emphasizing freshness and local flavors, offering good value considering the effort involved in setting up such a comprehensive itinerary.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Lan Ha Bay cruise from Cat Ba offers a genuinely different perspective on Vietnam’s iconic waters. It’s a trip that balances adventure, relaxation, and natural wonder, especially with the chance to see bioluminescent plankton lighting up the water at night. The floating homestay experience, although basic, provides a rare chance to sleep on the water and wake up to the sounds of nature.

Perfect for adventurers and nature lovers who don’t mind some unpredictability and rougher accommodations, this tour rewards those seeking authentic experiences beyond the usual tourist trail. The combination of quiet, scenic cruising, kayaking through caves, and stargazing with plankton makes it a memorable escape.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, immersive experience in Vietnam’s spectacular seascape, this tour delivers a good mix of natural beauty and cultural discovery. Just keep expectations realistic about comfort, especially at the homestay, and you’ll find it a rewarding journey into one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful waters.

FAQ

How do I get to the tour starting point?
Pickup is available in Cat Ba town, either at the tour office or from your hotel within 3 km of the office, making it convenient for most travelers.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, dinner and breakfast on the homestay, lunch on the boat, kayaking equipment, life jackets, an English-speaking guide, and snacks during sunset.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You might want to bring your own if you plan to toast sunsets or enjoy beverages during kayaking or on the boat.

How many people are in the group?
The exact size isn’t specified, but the tour is designed for manageable groups, allowing for more personal interaction and better guide attention.

Is it suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, but swimming occurs in calm lagoons, so non-swimmers should be comfortable in shallow water and wear life jackets.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, comfortable clothes, sunscreen, water, and a towel. Pack layers if you expect rain, especially at the homestay.

Is it family-friendly?
Generally, yes, but pregnant women and those prone to seasickness might want to consider their comfort levels before booking.

This tour offers a meaningful peek into Vietnam’s lesser-known bay areas, blending natural wonder with authentic culture. It’s well-suited for travelers eager to experience the peace and quiet of Lan Ha Bay, with a touch of adventure along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: