Lan Ha Bay: 2-Day Cruise with Meals, Activities and Pickup

Lan Ha Bay: 2-Day Cruise with Meals, Activities and Pickup offers a well-balanced glimpse of Vietnam’s stunning coastal scenery. For $108 per person, you get a two-day journey that takes you away from the crowds to explore the quieter corners of Lan Ha Bay, including visits to Viet Hai Village, kayaking, swimming, and enjoying local wines. This cruise is operated by Venezia Cruises, the official site, which ensures a focus on quality and authenticity.

What we really love about this experience is the small group size—limited to just 15 participants—making it easier to connect, ask questions, and really soak in the environment. Plus, the all-inclusive meals and activities, from cooking demos to kayaking, mean you don’t have to worry about hidden costs or scrambling for extra cash.

One thing to consider is the early start—pickup in Hanoi at 7:00 AM—which might be a bit of a shock after a night out or a late evening. Also, the moderate price reflects the value of personalized service and fewer travelers, but it’s still a good idea to compare with similar options if you’re on a tight budget.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a more intimate experience of Lan Ha Bay, enjoy activities like biking and kayaking, and prefer smaller boats over large, crowded cruise ships. It’s suited for those who appreciate comfort, authentic local experiences, and scenic tranquility.

Key Points

• Intimate small-group experience for better personalized attention and fewer crowds
• All-inclusive with meals, kayaking, biking, and local wines—great value for the price
• Visiting Viet Hai Village offers a genuine look at local life and nature
• Comfortable cabins with big windows, perfect for scenic views
• Activities like squid fishing and karaoke add fun and memorable moments
• Efficient itinerary balances sightseeing, relaxation, and culture

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details of the 2-Day Lan Ha Bay Cruise

Lan Ha Bay, often overshadowed by the more famous Halong Bay, offers a quieter, less touristy alternative that feels more authentic and peaceful. This tour from Venezia Cruises hooks you with a well-crafted itinerary, blending scenic cruising with engaging activities and cultural visits. It’s designed for travelers who value quality over quantity—smaller groups, personalized attention, and meaningful experiences.

Starting from Hanoi, the tour kicks off early—at 7:00 AM—which may seem early but makes the most of your day. After a scenic drive to Haiphong and Beo Harbour, you’ll board a tender to the cruise boat—Venezia Cruises, the only official site—where the adventure begins. The boat’s deluxe cabins with big windows and en-suite bathrooms promise comfort, and the air-conditioning keeps you cool in Vietnam’s warm climate.

The First Day: Scenic Cruising and Water Activities

Once onboard, the crew welcomes you with a refreshing drink and a safety briefing. Lunch is served around 12:30 PM, featuring tasty local dishes that set the tone for a day of indulgence. The cruise then weaves through limestone islets—Coc Ngoi Islet and Ba Trai Dao—famous for their dramatic cliffs and untouched beauty.

The highlight here is the chance to kayak in less touristy areas, providing a sense of discovery and adventure. Many reviews mention the crystal-clear waters and the tranquility of kayaking, a perfect way to connect with nature. Around 3:20 PM, you’re encouraged to swim in the pristine waters, which reviewers rave about, emphasizing how refreshing and peaceful it feels.

As the sun begins to set, you’ll witness a spectacular sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin, which is arguably one of the most beautiful moments of the trip. Later, the evening offers a chance to join a traditional Vietnamese cooking class, adding a cultural twist, followed by a happy hour and a romantic dinner served on board.

For the night owls, there’s the option to try squid fishing or enjoy some karaoke, both of which tend to be memorable highlights for guests. Many reviews indicate that the friendly crew and relaxed atmosphere make the evening fun and engaging.

The Second Day: Village & Coastal Adventures

The next morning starts early with sunrise views and a light breakfast. The highlight of the day is a visit to Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island. Here, you’ll hop on an electric car or bicycle—the latter being a favorite among guests—to explore the local village, meet residents, and see traditional houses and daily life.

The village is nestled within Cat Ba National Park, adding a touch of authentic rural Vietnam to your experience. Guests love the opportunity to chat with locals and witness their daily routines, which many describe as a genuine window into local life.

After visiting the village, you return to the boat for a delicious lunch before cruising back to the port. The tour wraps up around noon, with disembarkation and a return transfer to Hanoi by 4:15 PM—making it a full, but manageable, day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The small group size means you’re not just a number, and this significantly enhances the personal experience. Guests frequently praise the knowledgeable guides, like Tony and Tung, who are celebrated for their friendly, helpful, and entertaining style. As one review mentions, “His English was exceptional and the schedule kept us busy and entertained.”

The scenery is a major star—towering limestone cliffs and emerald waters—and the less touristy route means you avoid the crowds often associated with Halong Bay. Kayaking and swimming in quieter spots stand out as the true highlights, giving you a sense of discovery and peace.

The local wines and biking in Cat Ba are lovely touches that add cultural depth and relaxation. Guests appreciated the authenticity of the village visit, which stands in contrast to more commercialized tours.

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Dining and Accommodation

The meals onboard are consistently praised for their quality, with many guests commenting on how much food there was—“Too much food,” said one reviewer, but in a good way. The cabins are spacious, with large windows to enjoy the scenery even from bed. The en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning** make for a comfortable stay, especially after active days.

Activities and Entertainment

Guests enjoy the kayaking, squid fishing, and karaoke, which turn the cruise into a fun and lively experience. The cooking demonstration adds a cultural touch, giving you a taste of Vietnamese cuisine. Many reviewers appreciate the balance of relaxation and activity, with some describing it as “a family-style tour” that’s perfect for travelers of all ages.

Price and Value

At $108 per person, this cruise offers solid value, especially considering the included meals, activities, transportation, and small-group intimacy. Compared to larger, more commercial options, this tour prioritizes quality and personal service, which many guests find worth the extra cost.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This journey suits travelers who crave authentic experiences and prefer traveling in smaller groups. It’s a good pick for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more personalized, relaxed pace. If you’re interested in cultural visits, water activities, and scenic tranquility, this tour hits all those marks.

However, if you’re looking for luxury amenities or a single-day quick trip, you might find this tour a touch more laid-back or less intensive. The early start might not suit late-risers, but it’s perfect for those eager to make the most of their day.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
All meals onboard, transfers, kayaking, swimming, biking, local wines, squid fishing, karaoke, and English-speaking guides are included. The cabins are also part of the package.

Are there any hidden fees?
No, this tour is transparent about costs. Everything listed in the itinerary, including all entrance fees and government taxes, is included.

Can I join the tour as a solo traveler?
Yes, but there is an extra charge of $35 USD if you reserve solo and want a single room.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for biking, swimwear, beachwear, sunglasses, and possibly a light jacket for cooler evenings.

How early does the tour start?
Pickup times are typically around 7:00 AM, so be prepared for an early start, but it pays off with a full day of activities.

Is the boat suitable for families or older travelers?
Yes, the cruise’s relaxed pace, spacious cabins, and family-friendly activities make it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

Final Thoughts

The Lan Ha Bay 2-day cruise with Venezia Cruises offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and genuine relaxation. The emphasis on small groups, authentic village visits, and engaging water activities makes it stand out from larger, more commercial tours. The quality of food, comfort of cabins, and knowledgeable guides ensure you’re well taken care of, leaving you with memorable moments and stunning photographs.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value personalized service, want to see less touristy spots, and enjoy a mix of adventure and culture. If you’re after a peaceful escape that includes both scenic sightseeing and authentic local interactions, this tour will serve you well.

In summary, the Lan Ha Bay cruise is a fantastic choice for those seeking an intimate, active, and scenic experience in Vietnam’s spectacular waters. While the early start might be a minor inconvenience, the payoff is a day full of beautiful views, engaging activities, and genuine cultural encounters—an experience that’s hard to beat for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here: