Vung Vieng is a fantastic place for touring because it offers a mix of vibrant fishing villages, stunning limestone karsts, and quiet bays away from the crowds. Whether you’re into active days of kayaking and biking or prefer relaxing cruises with cultural stops, Vung Vieng provides enough options to satisfy different travel styles. We especially like tours that combine multiple activities, like Cat Ba: Lan Ha Bay cruises, which let you explore two bays over two days, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, squid fishing, and local food. This tour’s small-group format also means you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience, far from the tourist crowds.
If you’re looking for a more leisurely, luxurious experience, there are also elegant cruises such as the Bai Tu Long Bay Sail Away in 2D1N. For those with tight schedules, half-day trips like the From Hanoi/Ha Long: La Regina 4 star cruise offer a taste of Bai Tu Long Bay’s beauty, including kayaking and a visit to Vung Vieng Village. Below, we’ll go into detail about each of these top tours so you can pick the one that best matches your interests and travel style.
1. Cat Ba: Lan Ha Bay cruises- biking,kayaking, longest of 2d1n
For around $141 per person, the Cat Ba: Lan Ha Bay cruises offers the longest 2-day, 1-night experience available, making it a fantastic choice for travelers wanting to maximize their time. This tour is perfect if you want to see more of the region’s diverse scenery—exploring two different bays with two separate cruises. The small group size ensures you get personalized attention, and the itinerary includes biking through local villages, kayaking in calm waters, squid fishing at night, and even a cooking class. Meals are based on local Vietnamese foods, and the young, energetic crew makes the experience lively without sacrificing comfort.
What sets this tour apart is its variety of activities—you won’t just be sightseeing but actively participating in swimming, jumping off the boat, and exploring the National Park. The fact that it’s longer than other tours means you have ample time to relax and soak in the scenery at your own pace. The reviews highlight the great service and well-organized schedule, with travelers appreciating the helpful guides and tasty meals. If you love multi-day adventures with a mix of outdoor fun and cultural experiences, this is your best bet.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want an immersive, activity-packed experience in Lan Ha Bay with a small-group feel, this tour is hard to beat for its length and variety.
2. From Hanoi/Ha Long: La Regina 4 star cruise – Bai Tu Long Bay
At number 2, the La Regina 4 star cruise costs about $118 per person and offers a comfortable, stylish day-trip experience in Bai Tu Long Bay. This tour is ideal for those staying in Hanoi or Ha Long who want a luxurious, hassle-free way to see the highlights. The day includes visits to Thien Canh Son Cave and Vung Vieng Village, where you’ll learn about local fishing life and see the fishing floating houses. During the trip, you can enjoy kayaking around the limestone formations, making the most of Bai Tu Long’s calmer waters.
What makes this tour appealing is its focus on quality and comfort, with a 4-star ship ensuring a smooth ride and excellent amenities. It’s a good choice if you’re pressed for time but still crave an authentic experience of Bai Tu Long Bay’s natural beauty. The inclusion of a visit to Vung Vieng Village adds an engaging cultural element, and kayaking allows you to get close to the scenery without feeling rushed.
Reviewers have described the experience as “stunning,” with some noting the peaceful, less crowded environment compared to Ha Long Bay. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a short, comfortable escape into nature without sacrificing quality.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a stylish, relaxed day trip that hits all the main highlights, this cruise offers good value and a touch of luxury.
3. 2-Day 1-Night Cruise: Visit Bai Tu Long Bay – Less Touristic
Ranking third, the 2-Day 1-Night Cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay offers a quieter, more authentic alternative to the busy Halong Bay scene, at $126 per person. This tour is perfect if you want to escape the crowds and experience Bai Tu Long’s tranquility. The itinerary emphasizes exploring Vung Vieng fishing village with a local guide, and enjoying a Vietnamese set menu dinner followed by a BBQ on the deck.
The highlight is the opportunity to learn about local fishing life and to participate in a cooking class. Early risers can take a Tai Chi class on the deck as the sun rises over the bay, an experience that’s both peaceful and energizing. The cruise provides a good balance of relaxation and activity, with options for swimming, exploring caves like Me Cung or Tien Ong, and squid fishing at night. The reviews emphasize how well-organized and friendly the crew is, making guests feel at home in this less touristy environment.
This tour suits travelers wanting a more laid-back, intimate experience that still covers the essentials of Bai Tu Long Bay’s natural and cultural sights. The price point also makes it accessible for many.
Bottom Line: For those seeking an authentic, serene cruise with a focus on local culture and fewer travelers, this option stands out.
4. Bai Tu Long Bay Sail Away in 2D1N
For a luxury experience, the Bai Tu Long Bay Sail Away in 2D1N offers a premium way to explore Bai Tu Long Bay, at a higher price point of $356 for a group of up to one. This two-day cruise is perfect if you’re looking for comfort, style, and exclusivity. The cruise features all the key highlights, including Vung Vieng floating fishing village and Thien Canh Son Cave, with the added benefit of elegant amenities and personalized service.
This option is well-suited for travelers who want to indulge in a luxurious environment while soaking in Bai Tu Long Bay’s stunning limestone formations and quiet waters. It’s a great choice if your priority is comfort and a more private experience. The reviews note that this cruise offers a high-end experience with beautiful views and attentive staff.
Because of the price, this is better suited for couples or small groups looking to splurge on a memorable, more exclusive cruise.
Bottom Line: If luxury and privacy are your top priorities and your budget allows, this cruise delivers a top-tier experience.
$356 per group up to 1
5. From Ninh Binh: Bai Tu Long Bay 3-Day Cruise with Meals
Finally, the 3-Day Cruise from Ninh Binh is an excellent choice for travelers combining inland Vietnam adventures with a longer, more immersive sea experience. At $315 per person, this tour offers kayaking, swimming, and a sunset party over three days, making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive journey.
The itinerary includes visiting Vung Vieng Fishing Village, exploring Me Cung or Tien Ong cave, and enjoying local meals and cooking classes. The longer duration allows for more relaxed exploration, including sampling local fishing culture and enjoying time on the sundeck. The tour also provides opportunities for squid fishing and playing board games during downtime.
This option is best suited for travelers with extra time who want to combine inland and coastal experiences or those looking for a more leisurely, multi-day escape.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a detailed, multi-day experience that combines cultural visits with plenty of activities, this cruise offers excellent value and variety.
$315 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best tour in Vung Vieng depends on your budget, schedule, and what kind of experience you want. If you’re after adventure and active exploration, the Cat Ba Lan Ha Bay cruises will keep you busy for two days. Want comfort and fewer crowds? The La Regina day trip hits the mark. If a more tranquil, authentic experience appeals, consider the less touristy 2-day Bai Tu Long Bay cruise. For a touch of luxury, the Sail Away cruise offers a high-end feel. And if you’re combining inland and maritime adventures, the 3-day Ninh Binh cruise delivers a comprehensive experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season (October to April), to secure your preferred dates and ensure availability. Remember to check the starting times and whether meals and activities are included, so your expectations match what’s offered.
Final Thoughts
Vung Vieng offers a wide range of tour options that suit different tastes and budgets. For a full-on active adventure, the 2-day Lan Ha Bay cruise provides an unmatched variety of activities with a small-group vibe. If you prefer luxury and comfort, the Bai Tu Long Bay sail offers a premium experience. For those who love authentic, less crowded environments, the 2-day Bai Tu Long cruise with a local guide provides genuine culture and peace. And for longer, more immersive explorations, the 3-day cruise from Ninh Binh covers both land and sea.
Whatever your choice, booking early and planning around your travel style will ensure a memorable trip in this beautiful part of Vietnam. Vung Vieng’s waters and villages are waiting—time to dive in!