Lan Ha Bay Full-Day Tour from Hanoi, Hai Phong – Serenity Cruises

Lan Ha Bay Full-Day Tour from Hanoi, Hai Phong – Serenity Cruises
Rating: 5.0 (37 reviews)
Price: $48.00 per person
Duration: 12 to 13 hours
Location: Hanoi, Vietnam

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Hanoi and see some of Vietnam’s most beautiful waterscape, this full-day tour offers a fantastic mix of scenery, culture, and adventure. For around $48, you get a day full of outdoor activities—kayaking, swimming, snorkeling—and a chance to explore classic sights like Cat Ba Island and the floating Cai Beo Village. The cruise itself feels quite luxurious, with spacious decks, a rooftop bar, and a floating water slide pool that keeps the fun going.

Two things we really appreciate: First, the route is designed to take you into the untouched areas of Lan Ha Bay, far quieter than its famous neighbor, Ha Long Bay. Second, the inclusion of outdoor activities like kayaking and swimming makes it a genuinely engaging experience, perfect for the active traveler.

One consideration to keep in mind is the long travel day—this trip starts early from Hanoi and involves a substantial amount of driving and ferry crossings. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full-day adventure. If you’re craving an authentic, energetic day on the water with plenty of opportunities for fun and exploration, this tour could be perfect—especially if you enjoy being outdoors and want a good value for your money.

Key Points

Stunning Natural Scenery: You’ll see hundreds of rocky islands and emerald waters that feel like a hidden paradise.
Active Experiences: Kayaking, swimming, and water sliding keep the day lively and fun.
Cultural Insights: Visiting Cai Beo Floating Village and Viet Hai Village adds a local flavor to your trip.
Luxurious Comfort: The cruise offers spacious decks, a rooftop bar, and good amenities for a full-day outing.
Expert Guides: Reviewers praise the friendly, professional staff who make the experience seamless.
Value for Money: At $48, including lunch and all activities, this trip offers more than just sightseeing—it’s a full adventure.

A Deep Dive into the Lan Ha Bay Full-Day Experience

Starting from Hanoi: A Well-Organized Departure

The tour kicks off early, around 7:00 to 7:30 am, with pickup from your Hanoi hotel or direct from the Old Quarter. The journey involves a scenic drive via the 5B expressway to Hai Phong, with a quick stop to enjoy views of Dinh Vu port. We appreciated the smooth logistics, which allow you to sit back and relax after a night’s sleep.

From Hai Phong, the trip continues with a ferry crossing from Got Port to Cai Vieng, a nearly three-hour journey that’s part of the adventure. The ferry ride is free with your ticket, and it offers glimpses of the bustling port and Dinh Vu’s shipping activity—an interesting contrast to the tranquility ahead.

First Stop: Cat Ba Island and Scenic Drive

Arriving around 10:15 am, you’ll head to Cat Ba Pearl Island, where a scenic road meanders between the sea and lush mountains of Cat Ba National Park. This part of the tour is your first taste of Vietnam’s natural beauty, with views that make you want to pause and take a photo. Many reviewers mention how the ride through the island’s landscape is a highlight, especially when paired with the opportunity to cycle around Cat Ba Town.

Boarding Serenity Cruises: Welcome Aboard!

Once at the cruise, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink and introductions. The cruise’s spacious layout really impresses, with plenty of room to relax or mingle. The crew and guides are described as professional and friendly, making everyone feel at ease. The boat itself is well-equipped with comfortable seating, a floating water slide pool, and a rooftop bar where you can unwind while cruising through the bay.

Exploring Cai Beo Floating Village: A Step Back in Time

About 15 minutes into the cruise, the boat gently slows down as you pass Cai Beo, one of the oldest fishing villages, estimated at around 7,000 years old. Floating houses line the mountainside, and the scene is both peaceful and evocative of Vietnam’s traditional livelihood. Several reviews highlight this as a surprisingly serene and picturesque stop—”the poetic scenery of Cai Beo” is often mentioned.

The Heart of Lan Ha Bay: Breathtaking Views and Lunch

Next, the boat ventures into the core of the bay, where the real magic happens. This area features hundreds of rocky islands of various sizes and shapes—some resembling turtles or other creatures—and the emerald waters are truly captivating.

A buffet lunch is served on board, with many reviewers praising the quality and abundance of seafood. One reviewer calls it “super tasty,” and some mention how the lunch adds real value to the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. The cruise passes the impressive turtle-shaped Hon Rua island and glides through the East Gate, offering plenty of opportunities for photos.

Visiting Viet Hai Village: A Cultural Gem

Post-lunch, the cruise heads to Viet Hai Port, where you’ll disembark and take an electric car or bicycle to this well-preserved traditional village. Many travelers find this part charming: stroll through old houses, chat with local residents, or enjoy a fish-foot massage, which is a delightful way to relax.

Reviews frequently mention how this visit offers authentic insight into local life, a nice balance to the natural scenery. It’s a tranquil spot that lets you connect with Vietnam’s rural roots.

Outdoor Activities: Kayaking, Swimming, and More

The afternoon is dedicated to active fun. The guide will choose the best spots for kayaking, swimming, or even jumping from the boat’s deck into the water—a favorite among travelers. The water slide floating pool adds a splash of excitement, especially for those traveling with kids or the young at heart.

Reviewers note that wearing a life jacket is important for safety, but the chance to swim or paddle in the bay makes the trip truly memorable. One reviewer pointed out how “the kayaking and swimming in the sea” was a highlight, while others enjoyed jumping into the water from the deck.

Relaxation and Reflection: End of the Day

By around 4:30 pm, the boat begins making its way back toward Beo Pier. It’s a perfect time to unwind on the top deck with a drink, soaking in the sunset views. The small sunset party with fruit and tea is a nice touch, giving everyone a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights.

The return journey to Hanoi is about three hours and twenty minutes, arriving back in the Old Quarter around 8:30 pm.

What Really Sets This Tour Apart

Authentic and Less Crowded: Compared with Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay offers a quieter, less commercialized experience. Many reviews describe it as “more peaceful” and “more beautiful,” ideal for travelers seeking serenity.

Well-Designed Outdoor Activities: The kayaking, swimming, and water slide make this more than just sightseeing; it’s an active adventure, perfect for those who love to move and explore.

Cultural Touches: Visiting Cai Beo Floating Village and Viet Hai Village adds depth, giving you a glimpse into local life that many day trips skip.

Value for Money: For $48, you get a full day with lunch, activities, and transport—this makes it an excellent deal for travelers wanting a rich experience without breaking the bank.

Professional Guides and Friendly Staff: Multiple reviews highlight how guides like “Binh” or unnamed guides are friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the trip’s enjoyment.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits travelers who want to see Vietnam’s bay at a more relaxed pace than the often crowded Ha Long Bay. It’s ideal for those who appreciate outdoor activities, scenic vistas, and cultural stops in one package. If you enjoy a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and local flavor, you’ll find this trip rewarding.

It’s also great for families, couples, or solo travelers comfortable with a full day of travel. The price point and inclusion of lunch, activities, and transportation make it accessible for a broad range of budgets and interests.

The Sum Up

Choosing the Lan Ha Bay full-day tour from Hanoi offers a well-rounded experience—combining stunning natural scenery, engaging outdoor activities, and authentic cultural visits. The expertise and friendliness of the guides, along with the high-quality amenities aboard the cruise, turn what could be a simple boat trip into a memorable adventure.

If you’re after tranquility away from the crowds, yet yearn for a day packed with fun, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value good food, active pursuits, and an authentic taste of Vietnam’s coastal charm.

While it’s a long day, the mix of scenery, activities, and cultural stops makes it a great way to see Lan Ha Bay without the massive crowds of Ha Long. The trip provides excellent value, especially considering the quality of food, guides, and experiences offered. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a family, or a couple looking for a memorable day on the water, this tour delivers.

FAQs

How early do we need to be picked up in Hanoi?
Pickup is between 7:00 and 7:30 am, so plan to be ready slightly before that window to avoid missing the bus.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes round-trip transfer from Hanoi, entrance and sightseeing tickets, a buffet lunch on the boat, professional guides, kayaking, swimming, and one bottle of water.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Drinks at the bar are not included, so if you want alcohol or other beverages, you’ll need to purchase them separately.

How long is the ferry crossing?
The ferry from Got Port to Cai Vieng takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes, providing scenic views of the port and sea.

Can I participate if I don’t kayak or swim?
Absolutely. Activities are optional, and you can relax on the deck or explore other parts of the boat.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the activities like swimming and kayaking are fun for kids, but always supervise children during water activities for safety.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat. Life jackets are provided for water activities.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed. Cancellations due to bad weather are handled with the offer of a different date or a full refund.