Lan Ha bay 5star cruise 6 hours trip, kayaking, bike, swim

Experience the Best of Lan Ha Bay on a 6-Hour Luxury Cruise with Activities

Imagine cruising through the peaceful waters of Lan Ha Bay, a stunning, less crowded alternative to Ha Long Bay, with emerald waters and towering limestone karsts. For just $74 per person, you get a full day of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Vietnamese scenery, all packed into a comfortable 6-hour trip.

On this tour, you’ll visit Cai Beo fishing village, explore Viet Hai Village by electric car or bike, and indulge in activities like kayaking, swimming, and water sliding. Beyond the natural beauty, the tour offers a chance to taste delicious local cuisine, with a buffet lunch served onboard.

We loved the balance of active and relaxing moments—the opportunity to paddle around in kayaks amid islands is a highlight, and the peaceful, authentic village visit offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rural life. Plus, the luxury cruise setting, including a spacious rooftop bar and water slide, makes it feel special without breaking the bank.

One consideration is the timing, as the trip runs from late morning to mid-afternoon, which might be tight for those looking for a full-day experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded taste of Lan Ha Bay’s natural wonders, local culture, and active adventures—all in one smooth, enjoyable package.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines sightseeing, local village visits, and active water sports, perfect for a variety of interests.
• Authentic Scenery: Offers views of floating houses and limestone formations that make Lan Ha Bay uniquely beautiful.
• Luxury Touches: Spacious cruise areas, rooftop bar, and water slide add comfort and fun.
• Local Culture: Visits to Viet Hai Village provide insights into traditional Vietnamese life.
• Value for Money: For $74, you get a full day of activities, a buffet lunch, and guided support.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for active families eager to explore nature and local culture in a relaxed way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Lan Ha Bay 6-Hour Cruise

The Start: A Warm Welcome and Scenic Introduction

When we arrive at Beo Harbour around 10:30 am, the first thing you’ll notice is the friendly, professional staff ready to help you check-in. As you settle in with a welcome drink, your guide will brief you on the day’s plans, highlighting the itinerary and safety tips.

Soon, the cruise captain gently begins steering the boat out into Lan Ha Bay, with Cai Beo fishing village slowly coming into view. This 7,000-year-old village is a peaceful spot with floating houses along the mountainside, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s traditional way of life.

What we appreciated here is how the boat moves slowly, allowing everyone to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. The calm waters and limestone islands create a postcard-perfect setting that remains peaceful and uncrowded, especially compared to its more famous neighbor, Halong Bay.

Exploring the Natural Beauty of Lan Ha Bay

Once the boat has settled into a comfortable pace, you’ll be treated to views of rocky islands of various sizes and shapes, each more dramatic than the last. The water’s emerald hue is mesmerizing. Our guide, Hà, shared interesting facts about the geology and history of the area, making the scenery informative as well as beautiful.

At around 11:30 am, it’s time for lunch. The buffet offers a generous spread of local Vietnamese dishes, with fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables. The food was flavorful, well-prepared, and plenty, making it a real highlight for food lovers. Many reviews praise the delicious local foods served onboard, emphasizing their freshness and authenticity.

Visiting Viet Hai Village by Electric Car or Bike

After lunch, the cruise heads to Viet Hai Port. Disembarking, you’ll hop into electric cars or bikes, which are included in the tour, to explore the well-preserved traditional houses of Viet Hai Village. This part of the trip offers a genuine taste of rural Vietnam, as you stroll through the village, chat with local residents, or relax with a fish-foot massage—a unique, relaxing experience.

Travelers often comment on how this village feels untouched by mass tourism, providing a quiet, authentic atmosphere. It’s a chance to see everyday life in a village nestled among mountains and rice paddies, away from the hustle of cities.

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Active Adventures: Kayaking, Swimming, and Water Slides

At around 2:30 pm, the boat anchors at a spot selected by the crew for water activities. Here, you can paddle around in kayaks, jump into the water from the boat’s top deck, or enjoy the fun of the water slide.

We found that the kayak experience was both peaceful and exhilarating, with the chance to get close to the islands’ cliffs and underwater scenery. The swimming in the cool waters was refreshing, especially on a warm day, and the boat-jumping offered a rush of adrenaline.

Safety is prioritized, with life jackets provided and encouraged during all water activities. The crew and guide, often fluent in both Vietnamese and English, are attentive and enthusiastic, making sure everyone has fun while staying safe.

Wrapping Up and Enjoying the Sunset

As the afternoon winds down, the cruise begins its journey back to Beo Harbour. You can relax on the upper deck, enjoying a fresh fruit platter, biscuits, and tea during a mini sunset party. The gentle rocking of the boat and the stunning views make for a relaxing, memorable end to the day.

The boat arrives at approximately 4:30 pm, concluding a well-paced, activity-filled day. Many travelers noted that the small group size and friendly atmosphere made the experience feel intimate and personalized.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for Money
At $74, this tour offers an impressive mix of scenic cruising, local culture, and active pursuits. The inclusion of kayaks, bikes, and lunch adds to its appeal, providing a full day of entertainment without hidden costs. Many reviews highlight how this trip delivers more than just sightseeing—it offers genuine, hands-on experiences.

Authentic and Relaxed Atmosphere
Unlike larger, more commercial cruises, this experience emphasizes authenticity—whether through the visit to Viet Hai village or the natural scenery. The enthusiastic guides and manageable group size enhance the feeling of being part of a small, friendly group.

Luxurious Comfort and Fun
The cruise’s spacious areas, including a rooftop bar and water slide, add a touch of luxury without a hefty price tag. For those seeking a fun, relaxed day with a bit of adventure, this cruise hits the mark.

Balance of Activities
The schedule intelligently balances sightseeing, active water sports, and leisure. You get just enough time to kayak, swim, and bike without feeling overwhelmed, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers—from active explorers to those simply wanting to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for adventure seekers eager to paddle around in kayaks and jump into the sea, as well as culture lovers interested in seeing traditional Vietnamese villages. It’s also perfect for families or couples looking for a well-rounded, value-packed day that combines scenic beauty with engaging activities.

If you’re after a less crowded, more authentic experience of Lan Ha Bay compared to the bustling Halong Bay tours, this trip delivers. It’s suited for travelers who want timed activities with enough flexibility to enjoy the environment at a relaxed pace.

Lastly, if you’re budget-conscious but don’t want to skimp on comfort or fun, this tour offers excellent value—a carefully curated experience that balances adventure, culture, and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 6 hours, from 10:45 am to 4:30 pm, including stops for activities and lunch.

What is included in the price?
The tour price ($74) includes a guide in Vietnamese or English, welcome drink, entrance tickets, sightseeing permits, a buffet lunch, kayaking gear, bikes, and swimming opportunities.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Drinks at the bar are not included, and transfers to and from Beo Harbour are extra. During Luna Tet holidays, there’s a surcharge of $15 per person on specific dates in February 2026.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, families can enjoy the mix of gentle activities like biking and kayaking, though children should be comfortable with water activities and be supervised during water slides and swimming.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for water, and don’t forget sun protection—hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended. Life jackets are provided for water activities.

Can I book now and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility in your travel planning.

Is this tour accessible for older travelers?
It’s not recommended for those over 95 years, but most other travelers will find it manageable and enjoyable.

What time should I arrive?
Plan to arrive at Beo Harbour between 10:30 and 10:45 am for check-in, to ensure a smooth start to your adventure.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

To sum it up, this Lan Ha Bay 5-star cruise offers a thoughtfully curated mix of natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and active fun—all at an accessible price point. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a memorable, well-rounded day exploring one of Vietnam’s most stunning waterscapes. Whether you’re an adventure lover, a culture seeker, or simply after a relaxing day on the water, this tour delivers genuine value and a chance to see Lan Ha Bay in a way that’s both personalized and comfortable.

You can check availability for your dates here: