Cat Ba Island’s kayaking scene delivers practical, memorable experiences in northern Vietnam’s dramatic seascape. Paddling through Lan Ha Bay reveals limestone cliffs and hidden coves, while sunset tours offer the day’s most photogenic moments. I especially love the bioluminescent night tours – they’re a rare chance to witness glowing plankton while paddling through dark waters. The full-day cruise combinations work perfectly for visitors wanting to maximize their time, combining village visits with active exploration. These well-organized tours range from gentle two-hour paddles to full-day adventures. Let’s explore the top kayaking tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Lan Ha Bay Adventures offers a 6-hour sunset, swimming, and kayaking tour with hotel pickup and English-speaking guide, starting at $20.51 per person.
- Cat Ba National Park Day Trip provides a 9-hour tour featuring cycling and 3.5-hour hiking experiences, with lunch and equipment included, priced from €64.06 per person.
- Bioluminescent Night Kayaking is a 4-hour guided tour showcasing sunset and bioluminescent plankton, with a BBQ dinner and boat cruise, with high overall rating of 4.8/5.
- Full-Day Lan Ha Bay Tour is a 7-hour excursion with kayaking, swimming, sunset party, and options for lunch, starting at $43.08 per person with free cancellation.
- Comprehensive Cruise and Kayak Experience is a full-day adventure exploring Lan Ha Bay, including a boat cruise, kayaking, swimming, and traditional Vietnamese lunch, with hotel pickup.
From Cat Ba Island : Sunset , Swimming & Kayaking Lan Ha Bay
Located just off the coast of Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region.
This 6-hour sunset, swimming, and kayaking adventure takes travelers on an unforgettable journey through the bay’s 130 sandy beaches and 400 islands.
The tour includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, a sunset party with tea, fruits, and snacks, as well as water activities like swimming, kayaking, and boat jumping.
With a starting price of $20.51 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Cat Ba Island.
Read our full review: From Cat Ba Island : Sunset , Swimming & Kayaking Lan Ha Bay Review
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Cat Ba: National Park Day Trip With Cycling and Kayaking
Exploring the wonders of Cat Ba National Park, this day trip offers an exhilarating blend of cycling and kayaking.
Lasting 9 hours, the tour includes a 45-minute bus ride to the park, followed by a 3.5-hour hike through diverse ecosystems.
After a guided tour and lunch in the Viet Hai village, participants cycle to the harbor and enjoy 2 hours of kayaking and swimming in the stunning Lan Ha Bay.
With an experienced English-speaking guide, travelers can enjoy the local culture and stunning natural beauty.
The tour, priced from €64.06 per person, includes hotel pickup, park entrance fees, and all necessary equipment, making it an accessible adventure for active travelers.
Read our full review: Cat Ba: National Park Day Trip With Cycling and Kayaking Review
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Sunset and Plankton Bioluminescent Night Kayaking
Travelers can embark on a captivating Sunset and Plankton Bioluminescent Night Kayaking experience in Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island. This 4-hour guided tour includes a boat cruise, BBQ dinner, and the unique opportunity to witness the magical glow of bioluminescent plankton while kayaking in the darkness.
The excursion starts with a pickup from Cat Ba town hotels, followed by a journey to the Cai Beo floating village and Van Boi beach. After enjoying the sunset, guests can savor a delicious BBQ dinner before embarking on a kayaking adventure to see the plankton light up the water.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5, this activity promises an unforgettable night in the stunning natural setting of Lan Ha Bay.
Read our full review: Sunset and Plankton Bioluminescent Night Kayaking Review
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Lan Ha Bay FullDay Trip Swimming Kayaking In Tranquil Beach
After enjoying the bioluminescent plankton display during the night kayaking tour, visitors can embark on a comprehensive Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay boat tour.
This 7-hour excursion offers a range of activities, including kayaking, swimming, and a sunset party. The tour departs from Cat Ba town, with an English-speaking guide leading the way.
Highlights include exploring a fishing village, visiting a hidden lagoon, and kayaking through rock arch tunnels. Lunch is provided, with vegetarian options available.
With a starting price of $43.08 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers an excellent value for those seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of this stunning region.
Read our full review: Lan Ha Bay FullDay Trip Swimming Kayaking In Tranquil Beach Review
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Full-Day Cruise and Kayak in Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island
Visitors to Cat Ba Island can embark on a comprehensive full-day cruise and kayak adventure through the stunning Lan Ha Bay.
The tour begins with a pickup from the Cat Ba Local Office or hotel, followed by a boat departure at 8:20 AM. Travelers will explore the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay, including the Cai Beo Fishing Village and unique karst formations.
After a 2-hour kayaking exploration of K.A Cave and Bats Cave, guests will enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch on Ong Cam Islet.
The afternoon continues with sailing through Ha Long Bay, visiting Dau Be Island and Vung Vieng fishing village, and kayaking and swimming at Ba Trai Dao Beach.
The tour concludes with a scenic sunset return to the harbor.
Read our full review: Full-Day Cruise and Kayak in Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island Review
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Lan Ha Bay: Kayaking and Cruise
The waters of Lan Ha Bay offer visitors a serene and captivating kayaking and cruising experience. This full-day tour provides an 8-hour adventure, departing at 8 AM and returning at 5 PM.
For Kč 882 per person, participants can enjoy a cruise through a floating fishing village, followed by a traditional Vietnamese lunch on the boat. The highlight is the afternoon spent kayaking in the Ba Trai Dao area, exploring hidden lagoons, beaches, caves, and tunnels.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entry tickets, an English-speaking guide, and complimentary refreshments. With an overall rating of 4.3/5, this tour promises a balanced experience of outdoor adventure and culture.
Read our full review: Lan Ha Bay: Kayaking and Cruise Review
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Recap
Cat Ba Island offers a variety of exceptional canoe and kayak experiences. Visitors can enjoy sunset kayaking in Lan Ha Bay, explore the national park by bike and kayak, and even experience bioluminescent plankton at night. With full-day cruises and kayaking tours, travelers can discover the island’s tranquil beaches and stunning natural scenery. These diverse water activities make Cat Ba Island a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.