From Hanoi: Visit Cat Ba Islands & Floating Village In 1 Day

Exploring Vietnam’s Hidden Gem: A Day Trip to Cat Ba Islands & Floating Village

If you’re seeking a peaceful escape from Hanoi’s bustling streets, this one-day tour to Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and a touch of luxury. For $72 per person, we experience a day full of scenic cruising, kayaking, cycling through traditional villages, and relaxing on pristine beaches — all in just a single day.

What we love most about this trip? First, the peaceful, less touristy atmosphere of Cat Ba and Lan Ha Bay makes it feel like discovering a secret. Second, the luxury cruise with amenities like a bar, terrace, multiple restaurants, and a water slide turns a sightseeing day into a comfortable, fun experience.

A small potential drawback is the tight schedule, with many activities packed into a single day. If you prefer to relax at a slower pace, this might feel a bit rushed. But for those eager to pack in adventure and authentic scenery, it’s an excellent choice.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, active day with a taste of luxury and authentic local encounters — perfect for those with limited time but a big appetite for nature and culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit a 7,000-year-old fishing village and explore traditional houses and local life.
• Natural Beauty: Kayak in clear green waters and swim in secluded spots along the bay.
• Comfort & Luxury: Cruise on a well-equipped boat with bars, terraces, and dining options.
• Active & Engaging: Cycle or use electric cars to explore quiet villages and scenic landscapes.
• Fewer Tourists: Enjoy the scenery without the crowds that often congest more popular spots.
• All-Inclusive: Lunch, water, and sightseeing tickets included for ease and value.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Departing Hanoi for a Scenic Journey

At around 7:00, we’re picked up from our Hanoi hotel, and soon, the bus whisks us out of the city to Cai Vieng Port. The drive gives us our first taste of the Vietnamese coastline, hinting at the quiet beauty ahead. We board the cruise around 11:00, greeted with a welcome drink and a friendly guide who shares insights about the day’s plans.

Cruising into Lan Ha Bay and Cai Beo Village

The cruise captain sets a steady pace, allowing us to savor the view of Cai Beo fishing village—a place over 7,000 years old, with floating houses and a peaceful, traditional vibe. Many reviews highlight how this part of the journey feels like a step back in time, with serene scenery and authentic local life. We loved how the bay’s emerald waters are dotted with rocky islands of varied shapes, creating a surreal landscape.

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Lunch on the Luxury Cruise

Around 11:30, a well-prepared lunch is served on board, giving us a chance to refuel while enjoying panoramic views. The cruise’s luxury touches—including a bar and multiple dining options—make this a comfortable and tasty meal. It’s notable that the value here isn’t just in sightseeing but also in the quality of the experience, with many reviewers mentioning the good food and friendly staff.

Visiting Viet Hai Village by Electric Car and Bike

Post-lunch, we arrive at Viet Hai Port and transfer to electric cars or bikes. This part of the trip is especially appreciated for its peaceful rural scenery and the chance to see traditional houses up close. Many travelers find this a highlight, noting the opportunity to chat with locals or simply enjoy the quiet landscapes. The option to cycle deep into the island allows for a more personal connection with the environment.

Adventure in Water: Kayaking and Swimming

The true adventure begins with activities like kayaking and swimming. The captain and guide pick the best spots for fun, and you might find yourself sliding down from the boat deck into the water or paddling around rocky islets. These moments are especially popular, with reviews praising the stunning water clarity and the refreshing break from land-based sightseeing.

The Return Journey and Sunset Party

As the cruise heads back, around 16:00, you can relax with a drink on the top deck while watching the sunset paint the bay in golden hues. The small party with fruit, biscuits, and tea adds a cheerful end to the day before arriving back at Beo Dock and returning to Hanoi.

Practical Notes

The entire experience lasts roughly 13 hours, with transport, activities, and meals included in the price. The tour is flexible, with live guides speaking multiple languages, and the option for private groups. It’s worth noting that surcharges may apply on weekends and holidays, so check ahead if traveling during busy times.

Authentic Encounters and Natural Beauty

This trip shines most in its opportunity to see unspoiled scenery and local life. Unlike more crowded destinations, this route offers moments of solitude amid rugged cliffs and quiet villages. Many travelers remark on the stunning views of rocky islands and the peaceful simplicity of the fishing village—a rare glimpse into Vietnam’s traditional coastal culture.

The Value of a Well-Equipped Cruise

While the price of $72 might seem modest for a day packed with activities, what you gain is a well-organized, comfortable environment to enjoy the scenery and activities. The cruise’s amenities—water slides, terraces, multiple restaurants—are more than just luxuries; they turn a typical sightseeing tour into a fun, relaxing experience.

The Balance of Activities

The itinerary balances adventure and relaxation effectively. Kayaking and swimming appeal to those wanting a physical break from sightseeing, while the cultural stops deepen your understanding of local life. Some reviews mention that the schedule might feel a bit fast-paced, especially if you prefer more leisure time, but most appreciate the diversity of experiences packed into one day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a blended experience of nature, culture, and comfort. It suits those with limited time but a desire to see some of Vietnam’s best-kept secrets. It’s also ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a well-organized, engaging day out.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For anyone eager to see the less touristy side of Vietnam’s coastline, this tour offers an authentic, scenic, and comfortably paced experience. The combination of a luxury cruise, cultural visits, and adventure activities provides excellent value, especially for those wanting more than just a boat ride.

While it is a full and somewhat busy day, the chance to see a 7,000-year-old fishing village, kayak in crystal waters, and cycle through peaceful landscapes makes it a memorable journey. The mix of rustic charm and modern comfort makes this tour a solid choice for travelers seeking genuine experiences with a touch of luxury.

In short, if your idea of a perfect day involves beautiful scenery, active exploration, and authentic local encounters, you’ll find this trip well worth your time.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers car transfer with air conditioning, pickup and drop-off in Hanoi, a Vietnamese/English-speaking guide, welcome drink, sightseeing tickets, lunch, kayaking, swimming, and a free bottle of water.

Are there options for private groups?
Yes, private group options are available, making this more personalized for families or small groups wanting a tailored experience.

What is the typical duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 13 hours, generally departing early in the morning and returning by around 8:30 PM.

Do I need to pay extra for activities like biking or electric car transfers?
No, these activities are included in the tour. However, surcharges may apply for weekend or holiday bookings.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sun protection like sunscreen and hats, a swimsuit if you plan to swim, comfortable clothing for cycling, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Can I join this tour if I don’t speak Vietnamese or English?
Guides speak multiple languages, including Chinese, Japanese, French, German, Russian, Italian, Spanish, and Korean, so language options are available for most travelers.

This trip offers a well-rounded snapshot of Vietnam’s coastal beauty, with enough activities to keep your day lively and enough serenity to appreciate the landscape. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a value-packed, authentic experience with a comfortable touch of luxury.

You can check availability for your dates here: