Vietnam’s Ninh Binh region packs stunning boat tours into a compact area. The must-do experiences combine sampan rides through limestone caves with stops at ancient temples and viewpoints. My favorite trip pairs the Trang An Grottoes‘ peaceful boat ride with a climb up Mua Cave – the views over the rice fields are spectacular. The Bai Dinh Pagoda, Southeast Asia’s largest, is worth including in any boat-and-land combo tour.
For travelers seeking more luxury, multi-day cruises linking Ninh Binh with Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay offer comfortable boats and top-notch service. I especially love the day tours that mix rowing through grottos with countryside cycling – you’ll see more of daily Vietnamese life this way.
Let’s check out the best boat tours that showcase Ninh Binh’s natural beauty.
Key Points
Key Points:
- Ninh Binh offers scenic boat tours, including cruises through the Trang An Grottoes and the Ngo Dong River, providing opportunities to explore the region’s natural beauty.
- Visitors can experience culture through activities like cycling in rural villages, trekking to viewpoints, and visiting historical sites such as Hoa Lu and Bai Dinh Pagoda.
- Luxury and extended cruises through Ninh Binh, Ha Long, and Lan Ha Bay are available, featuring amenities like kayaking, cooking classes, and overnight stays on boutique vessels.
- Tour prices range from $38.77 to $57.03 per person for basic day trips, with options for longer, all-inclusive packages starting at $272.85 per person.
- Travelers should dress comfortably, bring essential items like water and sunscreen, and consider pre-booking popular tours to ensure availability.
Ha Noi: Ninh Binh / Hoa Lu – Trang An/ Boat Trip & Cycling
One of the most popular day trips from Hanoi is the Hoa Lu – Trang An 1 Day Trip, which takes visitors to explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An.
Priced from $38.77 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation from Hanoi, an English-speaking guide, and a boat trip through Trang An’s stunning cave system.
Highlights include visiting historical sites of Vietnam’s feudal dynasties, enjoying a local lunch, and witnessing the region’s natural beauty.
Offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this comprehensive tour provides an excellent opportunity to experience Ninh Binh’s cultural and natural wonders.
Read our full review: Ha Noi: Ninh Binh / Hoa Lu – Trang An/ Boat Trip & Cycling Review
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From Hanoi: Ninh Binh Tour With Mua Cave & Tam Coc Boat Trip
Although Ninh Binh is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, a comprehensive tour is required to fully experience its cultural and natural wonders.
The “Hoa Lu Ancient Capital – Mua Cave & Tam Coc Boat Trip” offers an immersive 10-hour excursion from Hanoi. Priced from Kč 1,093 per person, the tour includes guided visits to Hoa Lu and Mua Cave, as well as a serene bamboo boat ride through the Tam Coc caves.
Highlights include scenic cycling, panoramic views, and a buffet lunch. With a maximum group size of 15, the tour provides a personalized experience with free cancellation and a pay-later option.
Read our full review: From Hanoi: Ninh Binh Tour With Mua Cave & Tam Coc Boat Trip Review
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From Hanoi: Hoa Lu and Tam Coc Day Trip With Boat Ride
Travelers seeking to enjoy Ninh Binh’s captivating landscapes can embark on the “Hoa Lu and Tam Coc Day Trip With Boat Ride” from Hanoi.
Priced at Kč 1,157 per person, this 11-hour excursion includes hotel pickup, a visit to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, a traditional Vietnamese lunch, and a tranquil boat ride through the Tam Coc caves.
Guests can also explore the region’s history with a local guide and enjoy a cycling tour around the village.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this day trip offers a hassle-free way to discover the natural wonders of Ninh Binh.
Read our full review: From Hanoi: Hoa Lu and Tam Coc Day Trip With Boat Ride Review
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Ninh Binh Day Trip: Hoa Lu – Trang An – Cycling & Boat
Ninh Binh’s captivating landscapes beckon visitors to embark on the “Hoa Lu – Trang An – Cycling & Boat” day trip from Hanoi. Priced at €45.81 per person, this 7-hour tour offers a comprehensive experience, including a visit to the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel, leisurely cycling, a buffet lunch, and an exploration of the Trang An Grottoes by traditional sampan boat.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and free cancellation, this tour provides a hassle-free way to discover the region’s natural wonders.
While the overall rating is 3 out of 5, the tour’s inclusions and flexibility make it an appealing option for those seeking to enjoy Ninh Binh’s captivating scenery.
Read our full review: Ninh Binh Day Trip: Hoa Lu – Trang An – Cycling & Boat Review
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From Hanoi: Ninh Binh Day Trip With Lunch and Boat Ride
From the bustling streets of Hanoi, visitors can embark on a captivating day trip to the serene landscapes of Ninh Binh.
The tour offers a comprehensive experience, including a visit to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, a delightful buffet lunch, and a 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride through the stunning Tam Coc region.
Adventurous travelers can also climb Mua Cave for panoramic vistas and explore the local culture by cycling through the village.
With convenient hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, and an English-speaking guide, this Ninh Binh day trip provides an excellent value starting at $49.24 per person.
Flexibility is ensured with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: From Hanoi: Ninh Binh Day Trip With Lunch and Boat Ride Review
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Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Boat Trip and Mua Caves From Hanoi
For those seeking to enjoy Ninh Binh’s captivating landscapes, the Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Boat Trip, and Mua Caves excursion from Hanoi offers a comprehensive experience.
Priced at $55.15 per person, this 1-day tour includes pickup, a buffet lunch, and guided exploration of the largest pagoda in Vietnam, serene boat rides through Trang An’s caves, and a trek to the Mua Cave viewpoint.
With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour provides a convenient and customizable way to discover Ninh Binh’s natural wonders.
Visitors should come prepared with comfortable attire and necessary items, while observing temple dress codes.
Read our full review: Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Boat Trip and Mua Caves From Hanoi Review
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Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Trang an & Mua Caves Tour With Boat Ride
Priced from €50.08 per person, this 1-day Ninh Binh tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through the region’s captivating landscapes.
Exploring the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel, trekkers can marvel at the 17th-century King Dinh and King Le Temples. The tour then ventures to the scenic Mua Caves, where a climb up Ngoa Long Mountain rewards stunning rice field panoramas.
Next, a traditional sampan boat ride through the Trang An Grottoes unlocks hidden caves like Lam and Vang. The tour also includes a stop at Bich Dong Pagoda, Ninh Binh’s oldest temple.
With hotel pickup, a live guide, and all entry fees included, this comprehensive experience showcases the best of Ninh Binh in a single day.
Read our full review: Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Trang an & Mua Caves Tour With Boat Ride Review
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Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu – Trang An – Cycling & Boat Group Tour
Visitors exploring Ninh Binh’s highlights can embark on the comprehensive Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu – Trang An – Cycling & Boat Group Tour.
The 8-hour excursion covers the ancient Hoa Lu Citadel, cycling through rural villages, and a boat ride through Trang An’s caves and temples. Priced from €50.08 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, lunch, and all entrance fees.
With English-speaking guides and a maximum group size of 15, the tour provides a personalized experience. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
This convenient package allows travelers to experience the best of Ninh Binh’s natural and cultural wonders in a single day.
Read our full review: Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu – Trang An – Cycling & Boat Group Tour Review
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From Hanoi: Trang an Boat , Bai Dinh Pagoda,& Mua Cave Tour
Departing from Hanoi, this comprehensive tour takes travelers on a captivating journey through the heart of Ninh Binh Province.
Highlights include a visit to the massive Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest in Southeast Asia, featuring towering Buddha statues and hundreds of stone arhat figures.
Visitors then embark on a scenic boat trip through the UNESCO-recognized Trang An landscape, exploring its serene caves and waterways.
The tour culminates with a hike up to the Mua Cave viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas over the striking Tam Coc region.
With a buffet lunch, English-speaking guide, and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour provides an immersive experience of Ninh Binh’s natural and cultural treasures.
Read our full review: From Hanoi: Trang An Boat, Bai Dinh Pagoda, & Mua Cave Tour Review
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Ninh Binh Daily Tour: Hoa Lu -Mua Cave -Tam Coc Boat-Biking
What better way to experience the captivating landscapes of Ninh Binh than with a comprehensive daily tour?
The Ninh Binh Daily Tour takes you on an immersive journey through the region’s highlights. Start at the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former seat of Vietnamese dynasties.
Next, explore the breathtaking Mua Cave, offering panoramic views from the top. Then, embark on a serene boat ride through the Tam Coc waterways, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.
Read our full review: Ninh Binh Daily Tour: Hoa Lu -Mua Cave -Tam Coc Boat-Biking Review
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Ninh Binh: Bai Dinh Temple – Trang An Boat Tour – Mua Cave
One of the highlights of a Ninh Binh tour is the Bai Dinh Temple – Trang An Boat Tour – Mua Cave excursion.
This full-day tour is priced from $57.03 per person and includes hotel pickup, a professional English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees.
Visitors can explore the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia, Bai Dinh Temple, before embarking on a scenic bamboo boat tour through the Trang An Landscape Complex.
The tour also includes a trek up Mua Cave’s 486 steps for panoramic views.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required, this tour offers an excellent way to experience Ninh Binh’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: Ninh Binh – Bai Dinh Temple Trang an Boat Tour – Mua Cave Review
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Lamia Cruise – Hot Springs Tour On The Heritage River
The Lamia Cruise – Hot Springs Tour on the Heritage River offers a unique and relaxing experience in Ninh Binh.
Priced from $57.44 per person, the 2-hour tour takes visitors on a boat cruise and provides access to hot mineral baths. The tour is limited to 8 participants and available in Vietnamese and English.
Highlights include scenic views, native wine, and tropical fruits. The tour also includes a shuttle bus and snacks.
Travelers should note this tour isn’t suitable for people over 70 or under 1 year old. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Lamia Cruise – Hot Springs Tour On The Heritage River Review
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From Hanoi: Bai Dinh Pagoda and Trang An Boat Tour
Travelers looking to explore the stunning landscapes of Ninh Binh can embark on a full-day tour from Hanoi that takes them to the Bai Dinh Pagoda and the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex.
Priced at $60.72 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive itinerary, including a visit to the impressive Bai Dinh Temple with its 500 stone Arhat statues and a boat ride through the scenic Trang An landscape.
The tour includes a buffet lunch, transportation, and an English-speaking guide. Visitors should bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and be prepared for a 12-hour adventure.
Advance booking with free cancellation is available, making this tour an ideal way to discover the natural wonders of Ninh Binh.
Read our full review: From Hanoi: Bai Dinh Pagoda and Trang An Boat Tour Review
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Hoa Lu – Mua Cave – Tam Coc Bich Dong – Biking & Boat Trip
This full-day tour from Hanoi takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Ninh Binh’s natural wonders.
Starting at 8 AM, the tour whisks travelers to Hoa Lu, an ancient capital, before a buffet lunch.
Next, a boat trip along the Ngo Dong River leads to the iconic Tam Coc Bich Dong caves.
Afterward, a scenic bike ride around the countryside offers a tea break.
The highlight is scaling the 500 stone steps of Mua Cave for panoramic views.
This small-group tour, limited to 10 participants, includes private transfers, an English-speaking guide, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Hoa Lu – Mua Cave – Tam Coc Bich Dong – Biking & Boat Trip Review
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From Ninh Binh: 2Days Cozy Boutique Lan Ha Bay Cruise & BBQ
Departing from Ninh Binh, this 2-day boutique cruise along Lan Ha Bay offers an immersive experience amidst the region’s captivating natural beauty.
Priced from Kč 4,414 per person, the small-group tour (limited to 18 participants) includes round-trip transfers, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide.
Highlights include kayaking through caves, a cooking class, and biking to Viet Hai Village.
Overnight accommodations are provided on a private boat with meals, seafood, and activities like squid fishing and karaoke.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a convenient pickup/drop-off service, this cruise provides a hassle-free way to explore Lan Ha Bay’s stunning landscapes.
Read our full review: From Ninh Binh: 2Days Cozy Boutique Lan Ha Bay Cruise & BBQ Review
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From Ninh Binh : 2-Days Sunlight Boutique Lan Ha Bay Cruise
Exploring the captivating Lan Ha Bay from Ninh Binh, this 2-day boutique cruise aboard the Sunlight offers an immersive journey amidst the region’s stunning natural landscapes.
Priced at $162.07 per person, the small-group cruise (limited to 18) includes round-trip transfers, meals, activities, and more.
Highlights include kayaking through caves, swimming, a cooking class, and a visit to Viet Hai Village in Cat Ba National Park.
With free cancellation and a pay-later option, this cruise provides a convenient and flexible way to experience the best of Lan Ha Bay.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or culture, this 2-day cruise delivers an unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: From Ninh Binh : 2-Days Sunlight Boutique Lan Ha Bay Cruise Review
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From Ninh Binh : Bai Tu Long Bay Swan Cruise 2-3 Days Trip
Visitors seeking an enchanting cruise experience in the serene Bai Tu Long Bay can embark on a 2-3 day journey from Ninh Binh.
Priced from $211.30 per person, this cruise offers a range of activities, including kayaking, swimming, squid fishing, and a cooking demonstration.
Guests will explore Thien Canh Son Cave, visit the Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and enjoy Vietnamese and Western-style meals.
The cruise includes English and Vietnamese-speaking guides, pickup and drop-off services, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers can reserve now and pay later, ensuring a seamless and flexible booking process.
Read our full review: From Ninh Binh : Bai Tu Long Bay Swan Cruise 2-3 Days Trip Review
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Cat Ba – Lan Ha Bay Cruise and Ninh Binh Scenery
A captivating journey awaits as travelers embark on a cruise through the serene waters of Cat Ba and Lan Ha Bay.
This 4-day tour offers a chance to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Ninh Binh, including the iconic rice terraces of Hoang Su Phi and the vibrant Bac Ha market.
Guests will explore the diverse cultures of local ethnic communities, staying in private bungalows and enjoying guided treks through scenic trails and bamboo forests.
With a price of Kč 16,654 per person and the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides an unforgettable experience in Northern Vietnam’s highlands.
Read our full review: Cat Ba – Lan Ha Bay Cruise and Ninh Binh Scenery Review
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From Ninh Binh : Lapandora Boutique Cruise 2 Days Guide Tour
This 2-day Lapandora Boutique Cruise tour takes travelers on an immersive journey through the captivating landscapes of Ninh Binh.
Priced from $163.71 per person, the tour offers a compact itinerary with highlights such as kayaking in Lan Ha Bay, a sunset party, and a cooking class.
With a maximum group size of 16 participants, the experience provides an intimate setting. Included are hotel pickup, deluxe cabins, all meals, and an English-speaking guide.
Travelers can conveniently depart from Ninh Binh or arrange alternative arrangements from Hanoi or Cat Ba island.
The tour’s flexible cancellation policy and “pay later” option make it a hassle-free choice for exploring this scenic region.
Read our full review: From Ninh Binh : Lapandora Boutique Cruise 2 Days Guide Tour Review
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From Ninh Binh: Dragon Bay Cruise 2-Days Lan Ha Bay Tour
Embarking on a captivating 2-day journey from Ninh Binh, the Dragon Bay Cruise offers travelers an immersive exploration of Lan Ha Bay.
Priced from €178.60 per person, this all-inclusive cruise includes hotel pickup, guided activities, and delectable local cuisine.
Highlights include kayaking, sunset celebrations, and a visit to the floating village of Tra Bau.
With flexible booking options and free cancellation, the Dragon Bay Cruise promises an unforgettable experience amidst the stunning landscapes of northern Vietnam.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, this cruise provides the perfect balance, making it an ideal choice for your Ninh Binh excursion.
Read our full review: From Ninh Binh: Dragon Bay Cruise 2-Days Lan Ha Bay Tour Review
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From Hanoi: 2-Day Tour Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay Cruise
Eager to explore the stunning landscapes of northern Vietnam? Consider the 2-Day Tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay.
Priced from $215 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience, including visits to Hoa Lu’s ancient capital, a boat ride through Tam Coc‘s paddy fields, and a scenic cruise on Ha Long Bay.
Travelers can enjoy a Vietnamese buffet lunch, experience kayaking or bamboo boats, and attend a sunset party on the bay.
With free cancellation and a no-upfront payment policy, this tour provides flexibility and convenience.
Highlights include photography opportunities at breathtaking locations and the chance to immerse in local Vietnamese culture and cuisine.
Read our full review: From Hanoi: 2-Day Tour Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay Cruise Review
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Hanoi: Ninh Binh, Ha Long & Lan Ha Bay – 3-Day Luxury Cruise
For travelers seeking a more luxurious experience, the 3-Day Luxury Cruise from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, Ha Long, and Lan Ha Bay offers an unparalleled journey through northern Vietnam’s stunning landscapes.
Priced at $272.85 per person, this all-inclusive package includes roundtrip transportation, accommodations on a 5-star vessel, and activities like kayaking, cooking classes, and massages.
Highlights include exploring the Tam Coc and Trang An waterways in Ninh Binh, as well as the iconic karst formations of Ha Long and Lan Ha Bays.
With a flexible cancellation policy and optional add-ons, this cruise provides an unforgettable escape from Hanoi.
Read our full review: Hanoi: Ninh Binh, Ha Long & Lan Ha Bay – 3-Day Luxury Cruise Review
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From Ninh Binh: 3-Day Ha Long Bay Phoenix Cruise Small Group
Travelers seeking an immersive cruise experience can embark on the 3-Day Ha Long Bay Phoenix Cruise, departing from Ninh Binh. Priced from $266.69 per person, this small-group tour offers a comprehensive itinerary, including visits to Surprising Cave, Titop Island, Pearl Farm, and Luon Cave.
Onboard amenities include accommodation, all meals, and activities like kayaking, swimming, and a cooking class. Pickup is provided from Ninh Binh hotels, and the tour concludes with a transfer back to Hanoi.
With its flexible reservation and free cancellation policy, the 3-Day Ha Long Bay Phoenix Cruise is an attractive option for travelers seeking a seamless exploration of Ninh Binh’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: From Ninh Binh: 3-Day Ha Long Bay Phoenix Cruise Small Group Review
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From Ninh Binh : 2-Days Lotus Luxury Cruise Lan Ha Bay
This 2-Day Lotus Luxury Cruise in Lan Ha Bay offers travelers an immersive experience departing from Ninh Binh.
Priced at Kč 4,316 per person, the cruise includes highlights like kayaking, a cooking class, and visits to Tra Bau area and Dark-Light Cave.
Guests can enjoy Vietnamese cuisine, witness the sunrise, and participate in optional activities like karaoke and squid fishing.
The cruise provides comfortable accommodation, an English/Vietnamese-speaking guide, and round-trip transfers from Ninh Binh.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this cruise is a flexible and inclusive way to explore the stunning Lan Ha Bay.
Read our full review: From Ninh Binh : 2-Days Lotus Luxury Cruise Lan Ha Bay Review
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From Ninh Binh : 2 Days Amanda Luxury Cruise Lan Ha Bay
Departing from Ninh Binh, the 2-Day Amanda Luxury Cruise in Lan Ha Bay offers travelers an immersive experience exploring the stunning natural beauty of the region.
Priced at ₹15,961 per person, this all-inclusive cruise features a flexible booking policy and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The itinerary includes highlights such as kayaking, a sunset party, and cultural activities like an ethnic fashion show.
Travelers can expect comfortable accommodations, delectable meals, and a range of amenities and activities throughout the two-day journey.
With convenient transfers to and from Hanoi, the Amanda Luxury Cruise provides a hassle-free way to discover the breathtaking landscapes of Lan Ha Bay.
Read our full review: From Ninh Binh : 2 Days Amanda Luxury Cruise Lan Ha Bay Review
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Recap
Ninh Binh offers a variety of exciting boat tours and cruises to explore its stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can choose from day trips to Trang An and Tam Coc, as well as multi-day cruises on Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. These excursions provide opportunities to witness the region’s remarkable karst formations, serene rivers, and rich cultural heritage. Whether it’s a short jaunt or a luxurious multi-day adventure, Ninh Binh has something for every traveler.