If you’re heading to Cat Ba Island, you’re in for a treat. Unlike more crowded tourist spots, Cat Ba offers a wealth of tours that showcase its stunning scenery, rich biodiversity, and laid-back charm. One of our favorite experiences is the full-day Lan Ha Bay tour involving kayaking, biking, and swimming — it’s an active but relaxed way to truly see the area’s natural beauty. Plus, with options like cruises, hiking, and cooking classes, you can tailor your visit to your interests. Whether you want a leisurely boat trip or an adventurous hike through Cat Ba National Park, this island’s diverse tour offerings won’t disappoint.
Quick Overview
Cat Ba Island is a hotspot for full-day boat trips, kayaking adventures, and multi-day cruises, often including visits to Lan Ha Bay, Monkey Island, or Viet Hai Village. For those wanting active outings, there are scenic hikes and bike tours, while others may prefer relaxing cruises with meals and sunset parties. You can also learn about local culture through cooking classes or explore nature reserves. For a complete list, see the best tours in Cat Ba Island.
1. Cat Ba: Lan Ha, HaLong bay full day- biking, kayaking, lunch
At number 1, this 9-hour full-day tour takes you into Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay, away from the crowds. It includes kayaking in tranquil bays, biking through Cat Ba National Park, and swimming at private beaches. The tour is highly rated, with a 4.8/5 from over 600 reviews, and costs just $22 per person. The itinerary features fishing village visits, fish massages, and a delicious lunch onboard. The highlight is the mix of natural scenery and cultural spots, giving you a well-rounded experience. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a balanced day of adventure and relaxation.
Bottom Line: A fantastic value for those looking to combine outdoor activities with cultural exploration in a flexible, well-organized day.
2. From Hanoi/Cat Ba: Lan Ha Bay Full-Day Boat Trip
Ranking second, this luxury full-day boat tour explores less touristy parts of Lan Ha Bay, covering over 7,000 hectares of islands. The trip includes kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, and even a cooking class during sunset. With a 4.8/5 rating from 264 reviews, it offers a more refined experience with fewer crowds. The tour departs early from Hanoi or Cat Ba, making it suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive day on the water, with the added bonus of culinary experiences.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a quieter, more exclusive day of water activities combined with delicious local cuisine.
3. Cat Ba/Ha Noi: Lan Ha and Monkey Island Full Day Boat Trip
Third on the list, this 8-hour cruise takes you through less-visited lagoons and beaches in Lan Ha Bay and includes a visit to Monkey Island. The tour emphasizes relaxation and discovery, with opportunities to swim in crystal-clear waters and explore hidden spots. The itinerary allows you to see sunset views and pass by traditional villages, making it ideal for those wanting a relaxing yet adventure-filled day. The reviews highlight the calm pace and scenic beauty.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re interested in discovering quiet beaches and enjoying a laid-back cruise with some wildlife interactions.
4. Lan Ha Bay: 2-Day Cruise with Meals, Activities and Pickup
Number 4 offers a two-night cruise from Hanoi, staying on a spacious boat with a balcony. It includes visits to Viet Hai Village, dark and bright caves, and kayaking in serene waters. The tour combines relaxing days and engaging activities, plus local wine tasting and biking. The reviews praise the value for money, especially the quality of food and personalized experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want more than just a day trip and enjoy immersive, multi-day adventures.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those wanting to relax longer, with comfortable accommodations and local cultural encounters.
5. Half Day Hiking to Cat Ba National Park with a Guide
This 4-hour nature walk gives you stunning views from Ngu Lam Peak, exploring Trung Trang Cave, and visiting Quan Y Cave. Rated 4.7/5 from 104 reviews, the tour is perfect for those interested in local flora, fauna, and history. The hike involves moderate exertion, so you should be reasonably fit. The guide shares stories about local caves and Buddhist traditions, making it both educational and scenic.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers wanting a mix of nature, caves, and panoramic views without a full-day commitment.
6. From Lan Ha Bay: 3-Day 2-Night Cruise with Meals & Kayaking
At number 6, this 3-day cruise offers a comprehensive exploration of Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay aboard a small, comfortable vessel. The itinerary features kayaking in Tra Bau, a visit to Viet Hai Village, squid fishing, and kayaking in quiet waters. The reviews mention excellent guides and delicious food, highlighting the personalized experience on a smaller boat with just 20 guests.
Bottom Line: Designed for travelers wanting an immersive, multiple-day adventure in Vietnam’s most scenic waters with a cozy, intimate setting.
7. Full day hike – climbing in Jungle of Cat Ba National park
This 9-hour hike takes you through Cat Ba National Park’s lush jungle, culminating at Ngu Lam Peak for stunning panoramic views. It’s rated 4.9/5 by 34 reviews, emphasizing the challenging terrain and rich ecosystems. The tour includes visits to Trung Trang Cave and Quan Y Cave, with opportunities to spot wildlife like mink and squirrel.
Bottom Line: Ideal for fit travelers wanting an active day in nature and the chance to see local wildlife and caves.
8. Cat Ba: National Park Day Trip with Cycling and Kayaking
Number 8 combines hiking, cycling, and kayaking over 9 hours, offering a comprehensive exploration of Cat Ba National Park. Rated 4.8/5, it’s praised for rich plant life and local village visits. The tour includes bike rides to Viet Hai village and kayaking in Lan Ha Bay, making it perfect for those who want a mix of adventure and local culture.
Bottom Line: A strong pick for active travelers who want a full day of outdoor activities with cultural insights.
9. Cat Ba: Authentic Vietnam Cooking Class and local market tour
This 4-hour cooking class is a fun way to engage with local culture. It begins with a market tour to pick fresh ingredients, followed by step-by-step cooking lessons. Rated 5/5, guests love how approachable the instructor is and how delicious the dishes turn out. It’s perfect for food lovers and those curious about Vietnamese cuisine.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a hands-on experience and a tasty meal to take home.
10. CAT BA :2D1N Lan Ha bay-Ha Long bay with Plankton Excursion
Number 10 offers an overnight experience in Lan Ha Bay, including squid fishing, kayaking, and visiting quiet beaches. The tour features meals at a local homestay and is rated 4.6/5 for its peaceful atmosphere and personalized service.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a slow-paced, immersive experience in Vietnam’s waters with extra time to relax.
11. Cat Ba: 2-Day Lan Ha Bay Cruise with Activities & Meals
This 2-day cruise limits group size to 20 guests, ensuring intimacy. It includes kayaking, biking in Viet Hai, and fish massages, with meals all included. The reviews highlight the friendly staff, beautiful scenery, and fun activities like sunset parties. It’s perfect for those who want a longer, more relaxed experience.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a well-rounded, multi-day adventure with personal touches and fewer crowds.
12. Cat Ba Island: Lan Ha Bay Full-Day with Luxury Cruise
Number 12 offers a luxury full-day cruise with kayaking, swimming, and a sunset party. Rated 4.5/5, the experience features scenic views of Turtle and Chopstick Islets and kayaking through Bright Cave. It’s a comfortable way to enjoy Lan Ha Bay’s beauty in style, with delicious lunch on board.
Bottom Line: Best for those who desire a more upscale experience without sacrificing the scenic adventure.
13. Half day Lan Ha Bay : Boat Trip , Kayaking,Snorkel
This half-day tour packs kayaking, snorkeling, and a scenic boat trip into a few hours. Rated 4.7/5, it’s perfect for travelers short on time but still wanting a taste of Lan Ha Bay’s calm waters and beautiful landscapes.
Bottom Line: A good option for a quick, active outing that offers water activities and scenic views.
14. Private boat- Lan Ha Bay Half Day Tour with kayaking
Offering full flexibility, this private tour allows you to set your own pace, cruise the quiet waters, and explore hidden beaches with personalized kayaking. Rated perfect 5/5 from 7 reviews, it’s ideal for couples or small groups looking for exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a customized, intimate experience in Lan Ha Bay.
15. Cat Ba: Lan Ha Bay, Kayaking, Swimming, Snorkelling Day Trip
Finally, this full-day trip offers kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, and beach visits in Lan Ha Bay. Rated 5/5, it’s the most straightforward, activity-focused option, including hotel pickup and all equipment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers wanting a comprehensive day of water-based fun.
$16 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing among these options depends on your interest, fitness level, and budget. For a short active day, the full-day kayak and biking tour offers excellent value. If you prefer multi-day relaxation, the 3-day cruise with small group intimacy is perfect. For those wanting a culinary experience, the Vietnamese cooking class combines culture with delicious food.
Think about your fitness level — hikes and bike tours demand some stamina, while boat trips are more relaxed. Also, consider seasonality; the dry months from October to April are best for outdoor activities. Early booking is recommended, especially for popular multi-day cruises, which tend to fill up fast.
The variety of tours in Cat Ba Island makes it clear that whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or culture, there’s something for all. If you’re into active pursuits, the full-day kayak and bike adventure or the full-day hike will suit you. For a more luxurious, laid-back experience, opt for a luxury cruise or the 2-day Lan Ha Bay cruise. And if your time is limited, the half-day excursions deliver a solid taste of this beautiful area.
No matter what you choose, remember to book early and prepare for an unforgettable experience in one of Vietnam’s most scenic corners. Enjoy the journey!