Ha Noi : 2D1N Lan Ha Bay -HA Long Bay -Dau Be Island

An Authentic Adventure on Vietnam’s Stunning Waterways

Imagine setting off early from Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter, heading toward the coast for an escape into some of Vietnam’s most captivating limestone landscapes. For around $152 per person, this 2-day cruise aboard a small, well-organized group boat takes you through Lan Ha Bay, Ha Long Bay, and Dau Be Island, with plenty of opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling, and discovering local fishing life. Guided by friendly English-speaking guides, you’ll enjoy a blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and authentic experiences that go beyond the typical tourist trail.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are its intimate group size—making it easy to chat with your fellow travelers and get personalized attention—and its unique focus on real local life, especially the visit to the floating fishing village. The chance to witness bioluminescent plankton and try squid fishing in the evening adds a magical, almost surreal touch that makes this trip memorable.

A potential drawback? The early start and full itinerary mean you might find yourself longing for a bit more downtime. Also, some travelers might consider the 400,000 VND entrance fee (about $16) an extra cost, but it’s worth considering as part of the full experience. This tour suits those who love outdoor activities, scenic vistas, and authentic cultural encounters rather than just lounging around.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, adventure-packed trip that offers a closer look at Vietnam’s iconic karst landscapes combined with engaging activities, this tour is a strong choice. It works best for active travelers, small groups, and anyone eager to experience the natural beauty and local life of the bay areas.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small group tours foster a more personal experience and better interaction.
• Unique access to a floating fishing village offers insight into traditional Vietnamese fishing life.
• Kayaking and snorkeling allow you to explore hidden caves, lagoons, and underwater sights.
• Evening activities like squid fishing and bioluminescent plankton viewing are truly special.
• The itinerary balances scenic cruising, adventure, and cultural exposure.
• Value for money includes all meals, guided excursions, and onboard activities.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Early Morning Departure from Hanoi

Your day begins with a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter at 7:15 AM, a time that might seem early but is necessary to get you to the coast by late morning. The drive to Hải Phòng takes about 4 hours, providing a chance to see Vietnam’s countryside and coastlines unfold outside your window. We appreciated how smoothly this transfer was organized, with comfortable transportation. Arriving at the port around 11:30 AM, you’ll be greeted by the crew and set sail toward Bèo Harbour, just a kilometer away.

Cruising Through the Floating Fishing Village

The first stop is the Floating Fishing Village, one of Vietnam’s oldest—and most authentic—fishing communities. Here, you’ll see fishermen going about their daily routines on wooden boats, with homes that literally float on the water. Our guide shared stories that made us appreciate the resilience and simplicity of their lifestyle. Watching the boats bobbing and listening to the chatter of local fishermen gives you a genuine sense of the region’s maritime roots.

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Scenic Cruising: Limestone Islands of Lan Ha Bay

Next comes the eye-catching scenery of limestone formations in Lan Ha Bay, including notable islets like Turtle, Toad, and Candle Islet. We loved the way the towering rocks jutted out of the water, creating dramatic silhouettes against the sky. The boat’s large windows and outdoor decks provided excellent vantage points for photos, especially as we cruised through this surreal landscape.

Delicious Vietnamese Lunch on Board

Around midday, a tasty lunch is served—an ample spread of Vietnamese dishes, including seafood and vegetarian options. The fresh ingredients and local flavors made for a satisfying meal as you relaxed on the boat, watching the water pass by.

Kayaking & Exploring Caves

In the early afternoon, the boat moved toward the border of Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay. Here, you’ll get a chance to kayak through caves—Bright Cave, Dark Cave, and Bat Cave. This part of the trip allows you to get up close to the limestone formations and explore hidden lagoons. Our guides are helpful and attentive, making sure everyone feels comfortable paddling and exploring the caves’ natural beauty.

Swimming & Snorkeling in a Private Bay

In the late afternoon, the boat anchors at a secluded swimming spot in the middle of Ha Long Bay. The water is remarkably clear, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or jumping from the deck for a refreshing plunge. The tranquility of this location—away from the crowds—was one of the trip highlights. Many guests appreciated the chance to cool off and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

Sunset & Evening Activities

As evening falls, you’ll enjoy a stunning sunset from the sundeck—colorful skies reflecting over the limestone karsts. Dinner is served, featuring traditional dishes. After dinner, the night opens up for squid fishing and an extraordinary experience: watching bioluminescent plankton glow in the dark water. Multiple reviews mention how magical this is, describing it as “something straight out of a fairy tale,” adding a memorable finale to the day.

The Second Day: More Adventures and Return

Sunrise & Breakfast

Waking early for the sunrise, you’ll breathe in the fresh morning air and enjoy a simple breakfast while taking in the peaceful bay. It’s a quiet moment to appreciate the natural beauty of the area before more activities.

Exploring Dau Be Island and Hidden Lagoons

The second day offers a visit to Dau Be Island, where you can relax on deserted beaches and kayak through hidden lagoons. The island’s remote beaches are perfect for unwinding, and the kayaking options in the lagoons are a favorite among travelers who love discovering quiet spots away from the crowds.

Afternoon Relaxation & Return

Later, you’ll return to Lan Ha Bay for more kayaking, swimming, or just sunbathing on the boat. The tour then wraps up around 3:30 PM, with transportation back to Hanoi, giving you plenty of time to relax or plan your next destination.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour covers all the essentials—hotel pickup in Hanoi, luxurious air-conditioned cabin with private bathroom, all meals, bottled water, welcome drinks, kayaking, squid fishing, and bioluminescent plankton viewing. A local English-speaking guide ensures you won’t feel lost in translation.

Extra costs include the entrance ticket (around $16) and drinks like beer or soft drinks—so plan accordingly if you want to toast your day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and fishing. If you’re eager to see Vietnam’s limestone islands from the water, appreciate authentic local life, and enjoy stunning sunset views, you’ll find this trip rewarding. Its small-group setup also makes it suitable for those who prefer a more intimate, personalized adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

At $152, this tour offers excellent value for those looking to combine scenic cruising, cultural insight, and off-the-beaten-path activities. The inclusion of all meals, guided activities, and a private cabin makes it a comprehensive package that maximizes your time and money.

The highlight for many travelers is the chance to see bioluminescent plankton, a rare and magical spectacle. The opportunity to visit a floating fishing village and explore caves by kayak adds depth and authenticity that larger group tours often lack.

However, keep in mind the early start and full schedule—if you prefer a slow-paced, leisurely trip, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, the additional entrance fee is an extra expense to consider.

In summary, this tour is an excellent choice for adventurers, nature lovers, and those eager to experience Vietnam’s iconic bay scenery with a taste of local life. It balances adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural authenticity in a package that’s hard to beat in terms of value.

FAQ

How long is the transfer from Hanoi to the port?
About four hours each way, giving you a chance to enjoy the countryside views en route.

What’s included in the price?
All meals, hotel pickup in Hanoi, a private cabin with air conditioning and bathroom, kayaking, squid fishing, bioluminescent plankton viewing, and guided commentary.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the entrance ticket (around $16) and drinks like beer or soft drinks are additional.

What activities are available on the tour?
Kayaking through caves and lagoons, snorkeling, swimming, squid fishing, and watching bioluminescent plankton at night.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s generally suitable for active travelers, but the tour is not recommended for those over 95 years old or with mobility issues due to some physical activities.

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 plans.

This 2D1N cruise from Hanoi stands out as a well-balanced exploration of Vietnam’s stunning bay landscapes, with authentic cultural touches and memorable activities. Whether you’re chasing sunset views, exploring caves, or marveling at glowing plankton, you’ll find value and adventure woven into every part of this trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: