Day Trip to Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay with Lunch Included

Exploring Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island: A Day of Scenic Beauty and Authentic Charm

If you’re dreaming of a day that mixes stunning scenery with a dash of adventure, this Day Trip to Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay offers exactly that. Priced at $79 per person, it packs a lot into a single day, whether you start from Hanoi or stay on the island itself. Guided by friendly English-speaking hosts, you’ll cruise amidst emerald waters, explore ancient villages, and enjoy activities like kayaking and swimming that make the most of Vietnam’s natural aquatic beauty.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances comfort with adventure. The scenic cruise offers breathtaking views of hundreds of islands scattered across Lan Ha Bay, a less crowded alternative to Ha Long Bay but just as spectacular. Plus, visiting the Viet Hai Village by electric car or bike gives a genuine glimpse into local life, far from the tourist crowds. We also appreciate how the trip includes a delicious onboard lunch—a real treat after a morning of exploring.

A potential consideration? The tour’s timing can be tight, especially if you’re starting from Hanoi early, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or more free time, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, the trip is best suited for those comfortable with active outdoor activities like swimming and kayaking, as there’s little in the way of shaded or indoor relaxing options.

This tour appeals most to travelers who want a full day of scenic exploration and authentic local encounters without the hassle of organizing transport or activities themselves. It’s excellent for those who appreciate natural beauty, engaging guides, and a good mix of sightseeing and active fun.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The cruise showcases the many islands of Lan Ha Bay, offering unforgettable scenery.
• Authentic Experience: Visiting the ancient Viet Hai Village provides a peek into traditional Vietnamese life.
• Active Options: Kayaking and swimming allow you to enjoy the water directly, adding adventure to your day.
• Flexible Departures: Choose between starting from Hanoi or Cat Ba Island to suit your travel plans.
• All-Inclusive Lunch: Savor a tasty meal onboard, making the most of your time and energy.
• Guided Tours: English-speaking guides help you understand the sights and ensure smooth logistics.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Departure and Transportation

The tour’s logistics are designed for convenience. If you opt for the Hanoi departure, you’ll be picked up early, between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m., from your hotel in the Old Quarter. This early start means you’ll hit the road just as the city awakens, and you’ll enjoy a scenic bus ride along the coast to Beo Port. The journey is about comfort and anticipation, with passing views of Vietnam’s coastal landscape. For travelers staying on Cat Ba Island, pickups are slightly later, around 10:15 a.m., which might work better for those who prefer a more relaxed morning.

The boat cruise itself is spacious, with a welcome drink to set a friendly tone. The guides, speaking fluent English and Vietnamese, introduce the itinerary, helping you grasp what to expect and making sure no questions go unanswered.

The Cruise and Lan Ha Bay

Once on board, the real magic begins. The cruise takes you past Cai Beo, a 7,000-year-old fishing village, an intriguing glimpse into Vietnam’s long history of water-based livelihoods. As you glide through Lan Ha Bay, you’ll marvel at the hundreds of tiny islands that dot the emerald waters. The scenery is striking—towering limestone karsts contrasted against the calm, glassy surface of the bay.

Many reviewers highlight how this area feels less commercialized than its cousin, Ha Long Bay, offering a more intimate experience. “The views are absolutely breathtaking,” one guest noted, emphasizing the peacefulness and natural beauty of the surroundings.

Lunch on the Boat

A highlight of this tour is the onboard lunch, included in the price. The meal is usually a set menu, showcasing Vietnamese flavors, fresh seafood, and local ingredients. After working up an appetite with the morning’s activities, sitting on the deck while enjoying your meal offers a chance to soak in the views one last time. It’s a good balance of nourishment and scenery.

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Visiting Viet Hai Village

After lunch, the boat arrives at Viet Hai Port. Here, you can choose to explore the ancient village either by electric car or bike. This part of the tour is especially valued by travelers seeking to understand local life beyond tourist spots. The village, nestled amidst lush greenery, is a step back in time, with traditional houses and a slower pace.

Guests often mention interactions with locals or a fish foot massage, adding an authentic touch. “It was wonderful to chat with villagers and see how they live,” said one reviewer, highlighting how this stop offers a genuine cultural connection.

Water Activities: Swimming and Kayaking

Back on the boat, the adventure continues with opportunities to swim, kayak, or slide into the clear waters. The waters are described as “crystal-clear,” perfect for cooling off after a warm day. Kayaking is often praised as a highlight, giving you a chance to explore the smaller islands up close or glide along the shoreline at your own pace.

One guest remarked, “We loved the way the kayak let us see the islands from a different perspective. It’s a peaceful experience.” Remember, these activities are included, so you can make the most of the water at no extra cost.

Sunset Celebration and Return

As the day winds down, the boat hosts a sunset party with snacks and tea onboard. The moment offers a perfect chance to reflect on the day’s beauty as the sky turns shades of pink and orange over the bay. Afterward, the journey back to Beo Pier is a gentle cruise, giving you a final look at the islands bathed in sunset glow.

Finally, a bus ride returns you to Hanoi or Cat Ba hotels, depending on your starting point. The whole day, from dawn to dusk, is designed to maximize your experience of the bay’s natural wonders and the local culture.

The Value of This Tour

At $79, this day trip offers a comprehensive look at Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island, including transport, guides, activities, and a meal. It’s a competitive price considering the number of activities packed into one day. The inclusion of kayaking and swimming means you get hands-on experiences without extra charges, and the guided visit to Viet Hai Village allows for authentic cultural engagement.

While some might find the schedule a bit packed, it’s ideal for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of organizing individual activities or transfers. If you’re someone who enjoys scenic landscapes, water-based fun, and learning about local communities, this trip hits the sweet spot.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure suits active travelers eager to spend a day on the water and exploring traditional villages. It’s also perfect for those staying in Hanoi who want the convenience of an all-in-one day trip. If you prefer a very relaxed pace or more free time at each stop, you might find this tour slightly hurried.

Final Thoughts

This Day Trip to Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay offers a rich mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and fun activities—all within a well-organized schedule. The stunning views of the islands, paired with the chance to explore a genuine Vietnamese village, make it a compelling choice for travelers seeking both scenic serenity and authentic encounters.

The inclusive lunch, water activities, and guided experience ensure you get value for your money, and the flexible departure options cater to different travel plans. We believe this tour provides an excellent introduction to Vietnam’s northern coastal treasures, especially if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive, memorable experience.

Overall, it’s perfect for adventure lovers, scenery seekers, and anyone looking to connect with local culture amid spectacular landscapes.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel or Cat Ba hotels (depending on your chosen option), round-trip transport, a welcome drink, lunch onboard, kayaking, swimming, and one bottle of water.

Can I join if I’m staying on Cat Ba Island?
Yes, there’s an option for pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Cat Ba Town, which makes the trip more flexible for overnight visitors.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, sandals, camera, sunscreen, flip-flops, outdoor clothing, and a charged smartphone.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While generally suitable for active travelers, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues due to the outdoor activities and uneven terrain.

What time does the tour start?
From Hanoi, pickups are between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m.; from Cat Ba, around 10:15 to 10:30 a.m. You’ll need to check your specific booking for exact times.

How long does the entire trip last?
It’s a full-day experience, approximately 8 hours from pickup to return, depending on your starting point and traffic conditions.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Vietnamese-style lunch served onboard is included in the tour price.

What activities can I do during the trip?
You can kayak, swim, explore the Viet Hai village, and relax during the sunset party.

Is there an option to cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this trip balances breathtaking scenery with engaging activities and authentic cultural stops, making it a well-rounded choice for travelers eager to experience Vietnam’s coastal treasures without the hassle. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local life, it’s designed to deliver.

You can check availability for your dates here: