Explore The Beauty Of Cat Ba Island Hai Phong 2 Day Deluxe Trip

Explore the Beauty of Cat Ba Island Hai Phong 2-Day Deluxe Trip

This 2-day adventure in Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and relaxing activities. Starting from Hanoi, the trip is priced at $95 per person and includes hotel accommodation, meals, boat excursions, and transport—all planned to give you a comprehensive taste of this island paradise.

What we especially appreciate are the well-organized itinerary that covers both the vibrant floating villages and tranquil beaches, and the opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood at reasonable prices—an authentic taste of local life. The group tour format ensures a lively atmosphere, making it perfect for those who enjoy sharing experiences with fellow travelers.

One thing to keep in mind is that some parts of Cat Ba, particularly the hotel area, have ongoing construction, which might detract from the experience for some. However, the cruise day on Lan Ha Bay is described as magical, with crystal-clear waters and stunning limestone formations.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, fantastic scenery, and authentic local encounters without breaking the bank. If you’re after a well-rounded, moderately paced adventure that balances sightseeing with relaxation, this trip offers excellent value.

Key Points

• Affordable and comprehensive: Includes hotel, meals, transportation, and activities for only $95.
• Diverse destinations: From floating villages to beaches, caves, and islands, every stop brings a new visual treat.
• Balanced itinerary: Mix of sightseeing, kayaking, swimming, and local cuisine gives a well-rounded experience.
• Authentic local flavor: Visit Cai Beo floating village and enjoy seafood prepared by local chefs.
• Flexible timing: Starts early in Hanoi with a smooth transfer and includes free time to explore Cat Ba town.
• Potential construction noise: Some reviews note ongoing hotel construction, which might impact your stay in Cat Ba.

A Practical Dive into the Cat Ba Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins early in Hanoi, with a 7:15 am pickup from your hotel in the Old Quarter—a convenient way to start your trip without worries about logistics. The shuttle bus takes you directly to Cat Ba, a journey that takes around three hours. This allows for a relaxed start, and the bus is included in the price, making it easy to budget.

Upon arrival in Cat Ba town, you’ll check into a hotel located centrally—ideal for wandering and discovering the town’s lively atmosphere. The hotel stay is a real plus, providing a comfortable base with easy access to nearby shops and eateries.

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxed Exploration

After checking in, you get to enjoy lunch at the hotel restaurant—a good chance to try local specialties—and then have the rest of the afternoon free. This free time is perfect for strolling around Cat Ba, visiting the beaches like Tung Thu and Cat Co, or simply relaxing in the town’s vibrant streets.

In the evening, a dinner at the hotel caps off your first day, allowing you to unwind and prepare for the days ahead. The mix of leisure and anticipation is well balanced, especially since most travelers will be eager for the cruise adventure on Day 2.

Day 2: Lan Ha Bay and Island Highlights

The morning begins with a breakfast at the hotel—an essential fuel-up for the day’s activities. Then, a short drive to Beo Dock kicks off your boat journey into Lan Ha Bay. The boat is a comfortable vessel that hosts a group of up to 45 travelers, fostering a lively yet intimate atmosphere.

Your first stop is Cai Beo Floating Village, the largest of its kind in northern Vietnam, home to over 400 households. Here, you’ll witness traditional fishing lifestyles and perhaps see the over 100kg fish, Song Vang, caught in Lan Ha Bay. One reviewer called it a “home of more than 400 households, providing seafood for the northern region”, which underscores how vital this community remains.

Next, you’ll enjoy kayaking—a highlight for many. We loved the way this activity allows you to explore caves and a tiny lake amid limestone cliffs, with a chance to possibly spot the rare Cat Ba langur. The kayaks give a close-up view of the limestone formations and natural caves formed millions of years ago, making it a peaceful yet thrilling experience.

Following kayaking, the cruise offers a seafood lunch on board, featuring dishes crafted by local chefs. This is an authentic, flavorful meal that provides a true taste of regional ingredients. Many reviews praise the delicious seafood, describing it as a highlight of the trip.

In the afternoon, the boat takes you to Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches) beach, where turquoise waters invite swimming and sunbathing. Travelers often comment on the beautiful white sands and the tranquil environment—an ideal spot for relaxing with the sound of the sea.

The day wraps up at Castaway Island (Hoang Tu Island), a bungalow paradise designed by renowned architect Nguyen Trong Nghia, which offers a unique blend of comfort and style amid natural beauty. It’s a peaceful place to rest, explore, or just soak in the bay’s serenity before heading back to Cat Ba town in the late afternoon.

Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer noted, “The views are stunning, and the seafood was cooked by local chefs—absolutely delicious.” Another mentioned, “The kayak trip into caves was unforgettable, and I loved the chance to see the rare Cat Ba langur if you’re lucky.”

However, some travelers pointed out that the hotel area in Cat Ba is still under construction, which might mean some noise or less polished infrastructure. But most agree that the cruise experiences more than compensated for these minor inconveniences.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi to Cat Ba

• 7:15 am: Pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter—an easy start, especially if you’re staying nearby.
• 10:30-11:00 am: Arrival in Cat Ba town—your first glimpse of the bustling streets and waterfront.
• 11:30 am: Lunch at hotel restaurant, with local specialties likely on offer, giving you a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
• 12:30 pm: Hotel check-in—ample time to settle in, unpack, or explore nearby beaches or markets.
• Evening: Free to relax, stroll, or enjoy dinner in town, with many options for casual dining.

Day 2: Lan Ha Bay and Island Adventures

• 7:30 am: Breakfast at the hotel, fueling up for the day’s activities.
• 8:30 am: Transfer to Beo Dock—your gateway to Lan Ha Bay.
• Cai Beo Floating Village: Over 3 hours exploring the largest floating village in northern Vietnam, marveling at traditional fishing life and seafood trade.
• Kayaking (10:30-12:00): Paddle into caves and lakes amid towering limestone cliffs—an activity that might be the highlight for many.
• Lunch on Board (11:30-12:30): Enjoy freshly cooked seafood, with many travelers praising the quality and freshness.
• Ba Trai Dao Beach: Swim, sunbathe, or just relax on the white sands—perfect for unwinding after the morning’s adventures.
• Castaway Island: Visit the architecturally designed bungalow area, ideal for taking in the bay’s peaceful beauty before returning to Cat Ba town.
• 4:00 pm: Return to Hotel in Cat Ba, then transfer back to Hanoi.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This trip is particularly valuable for those who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning every detail. The all-inclusive package means you don’t need to worry about extra costs for meals, transport, or entry fees—everything is organized in advance.

The diverse stops—from floating villages to beaches—offer a well-rounded mix of cultural insight and natural beauty. The kayaking activity caters to travelers seeking a more intimate encounter with the landscape, and the local seafood meals are a real highlight, crafted by local chefs and enjoyed in scenic settings.

While some may find the hotel in Cat Ba not entirely finished or pristine due to ongoing construction, the cruise on Lan Ha Bay more than makes up for that with its stunning views and peaceful ambiance. The group size being capped at 45 ensures a lively but manageable atmosphere, ideal for connecting with fellow travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who love scenic boat trips and authentic local communities. It’s great for those who appreciate delicious seafood and want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. If you’re on a budget but don’t want to miss the highlights of Cat Ba and Lan Ha Bay, the value-packed price makes this trip a smart choice.

However, if you prefer luxury and privacy, or are sensitive to ongoing construction noise, you might want to consider more exclusive or private options. But for most travelers seeking a fun-filled, scenic escape, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early do I need to book this tour?
Most bookings are made about 26 days in advance, so it’s best to plan ahead to secure your spot.

Does the tour include hotel accommodation?
Yes, it includes one night in a hotel located in center of Cat Ba town, making it convenient for exploring or relaxing after the day’s activities.

What meals are included?
You get a total of four meals: breakfast and dinner at the hotel, plus lunch on the cruise. Snacks or drinks outside meals are not included.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, a two-way shuttle bus from Hanoi to Cat Ba and back is included, along with local transport to the dock and within Cat Ba.

Can I participate if I am traveling alone?
Certainly, this group tour is open to solo travelers, and the group size up to 45 makes for a friendly, social atmosphere.

Are there activities suitable for children?
Most activities, including kayaking and beach visits, are family-friendly, but always check with the provider in case of age restrictions.

What about the weather?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What should I pack?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes for walking, and a camera to capture the stunning views.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Most activities are on boats and beaches, which may pose challenges for those with mobility concerns.

In summary, this 2-day Cat Ba Island tour offers a solid, enjoyable introduction to northern Vietnam’s natural beauty and local culture. You’ll love the chance to see the floating villages, enjoy fresh seafood, and relax on quiet beaches—all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply want a scenic escape, this trip delivers a balanced experience worth considering.