Cat Ba Island/Hanoi: Lan Ha & Ha Long Bay Cruise With Lunch

Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of northern Vietnam, Cat Ba Island and the serene waters of Lan Ha and Ha Long Bays offer a captivating cruise experience. This activity-packed excursion from Hanoi’s Old Quarter promises an unforgettable day immersed in nature and local culture, complete with a delicious buffet lunch, kayaking, and a guided tour of Viet Hai Village. With experienced English-speaking guides and an array of amenities, this cruise could be the perfect way to explore one of Vietnam’s most stunning natural wonders.

Key Points

• A full-day excursion to Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha/Ha Long Bays, featuring a cruise with various activities like kayaking, swimming, and an electric car/bicycle tour.
• The tour includes a buffet lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, and is priced from $14 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The cruise offers a spacious design with a rooftop bar, water slide, and onboard facilities catering to different preferences and activities.
• The itinerary includes culture opportunities, such as interacting with local fishermen and experiencing a fish-foot massage.
• The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness, and the itinerary may change due to weather conditions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour is an activity-packed excursion that takes visitors to Cat Ba Island and the iconic Lan Ha and Ha Long Bays.

Priced from $14 per person, the 3-9 hour cruise offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can book now and pay later, with a live English-speaking guide leading the way.

Pickup is available from selected locations in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

The tour includes a buffet lunch, kayaking, swimming, bike tours, and an electric car ride to Viet Hai Village, providing a well-rounded experience of the region’s natural beauty and cultural attractions.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from the hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter between 7:00-7:30 AM.

After arriving at Cat Ba Island around 10:15-10:30 AM, participants receive a welcome drink and safety instructions.

Upon arriving at Cat Ba Island around 10:15-10:30 AM, participants receive a welcome drink and safety instructions.

Lunch is served buffet-style on the boat at 11:30 AM.

The tour then visits Viet Hai Village via electric car or bicycle.

In the afternoon, guests enjoy kayaking and swimming in Lan Ha Bay.

The journey back includes a sunset party with refreshments before returning to Hanoi’s Old Quarter around 8:30 PM.

Activities and Experiences

Spacious areas, a rooftop bar, and a water slide are featured on the cruise, allowing travelers to enjoy a comfortable and entertaining journey.

The itinerary offers a variety of activities:

• Kayaking and swimming in the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay

• Bike tours and electric car rides to explore the Viet Hai Ancient Village

• Opportunities for culture, such as interacting with local fishermen and experiencing a relaxing fish-foot massage

These diverse experiences enable guests to fully enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.

Cruise Features

With spacious areas, a rooftop bar, and a water slide, the cruise offers a comfortable and entertaining journey for travelers.

The boat’s design ensures ample room to move around and relax, whether taking in the scenic views from the rooftop or cooling off with a splash in the water slide.

The onboard facilities cater to a range of preferences, from enjoying refreshments at the bar to engaging in water-based activities.

This diverse set of cruise features enhances the overall experience, making it a well-rounded and enjoyable way to explore the captivating Lan Ha and Ha Long Bay.

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Cultural Experience

Though the cruise primarily focuses on the scenic beauty of Lan Ha and Ha Long Bay, it also offers a cultural experience for travelers.

Guests have the opportunity to:

Guests can enjoy the local culture by visiting fishing communities, indulging in unique experiences, and learning about seafaring traditions.

1. Visit Viet Hai Ancient Village, a remote fishing community on Cat Ba Island, by electric car or bicycle. Here, they can interact with the locals and gain insights into their traditional way of life.

2. Indulge in a relaxing fish-foot massage, a unique and rejuvenating experience that showcases the ingenuity of the local people.

3. Explore the Cai Beo floating fishing village, witnessing the daily activities of the fishermen and learning about their seafaring traditions.

Scenic Highlights

Aside from the cultural experiences, the cruise also showcases the stunning natural beauty of Lan Ha and Ha Long Bay.

Guests will marvel at the dramatic limestone cliffs and formations that dot the waters. The iconic Cai Beo floating fishing village offers a glimpse into local life.

Tortoise Island, with its distinctive shape, is another highlight. Throughout the journey, visitors will encounter a variety of rocky islands in diverse shapes and sizes.

The scenic vistas and tranquil ambiance make for a truly enchanting experience amidst the natural wonders of this region.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a day cruise, lunch on board, kayaking and electric car/bicycle ride, entrance fees to attractions, a welcome drink, and VAT tax.

A day of adventure awaits with hotel pickup, a scenic cruise, lunch, activities, and entrance fees all included.

However, the following aren’t included:

1. Tips for the guide and crew.

2. Additional drinks onboard.

3. Holiday surcharge (150,000 VND on specific dates).

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness.

Participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, a camera, insect repellent, and water.

Customer Reviews and Recommendations

Based on 8 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars.

Travelers praised the beauty of Lan Ha Bay and the quality of the food. One American visitor, Priya, recommended the tour for those short on time and highlighted the excellent guide, Bình.

Another reviewer, Corentin from the Czech Republic, enjoyed the quietness and beauty of the bay, as well as the buffet lunch and activities.

Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera.

The itinerary may change due to weather, and vegetarian options are available upon request.

Since You Asked

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Lan Ha Bay?

The best time to visit Lan Ha Bay is generally between March and November when the weather is mild and dry. Visitors can enjoy the bay’s scenic beauty and outdoor activities during this period.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Number of Guests per Booking?

The tour does not mention any specific restrictions on the number of guests per booking. However, it’s recommended to book early as availability may be limited, especially during peak travel seasons.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

No, guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. The tour includes a buffet lunch served on board, and additional drinks can be purchased from the onboard bar.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Activities?

There’s no stated minimum age for the activities. However, the tour notes it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or non-swimmers, so parents should use their discretion when booking for younger children.

What Is the Dress Code for the Cruise?

The dress code for the cruise is casual and comfortable. Guests are advised to wear appropriate clothing for activities like swimming, kayaking, and bike rides. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Final Words

Set out on a captivating cruise that immerses you in the breathtaking beauty of Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay, and Ha Long Bay. Experience a delightful buffet lunch, thrilling activities like kayaking and swimming, and a cultural tour of Viet Hai Village. With live English-speaking guides and top-notch amenities, this excursion promises an unforgettable day surrounded by nature and local Vietnamese culture.

You can check if your dates are available here: