The "Cat Ba: Lan Ha Bay Bioluminescent Plankton Kayak Boat Tour" promises an unforgettable 6-hour adventure in Northern Vietnam. Priced at just $36.60 per person, this tour offers a scenic cruise, hiking, swimming, and the chance to witness the mesmerizing glow of bioluminescent plankton. With opportunities to explore pristine nature and interact with the local Floating Fisherman Village, this experience captures the beauty and culture of the region. What makes this tour truly unique, however, is the nighttime kayaking amidst the luminescent plankton.

Key Points

  • The tour offers a 6-hour experience exploring Lan Ha Bay, including a visit to a floating village, hiking on Monkey Island, and kayaking to witness bioluminescent plankton.
  • The tour price starts from $36.60 per person and includes hotel pickup, a scenic cruise, and various activities such as swimming and climbing limestone formations.
  • Participants can observe the unique way of life of local fishermen, gain insight into the rich history and culture of the remote community, and interact with resident monkeys on Monkey Island.
  • The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing display of bioluminescent plankton, which creates a shimmering effect in the water at night.
  • Guests are advised to bring appropriate clothing, footwear, and personal items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience during the tour.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour is named the "Cat Ba: Lan Ha Bay Bioluminescent Plankton Kayak Boat Tour" and is priced from $36.60 per person.

The 6-hour tour includes pickup, a cruise to Lan Ha Bay, and a range of activities such as visiting a floating village, hiking on Monkey Island, swimming, and kayaking to see bioluminescent plankton.

Reservations can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The tour is available in English and Vietnamese, with pickup times between 3pm and 4pm.

Itinerary and Activities

After pickup from the hotel, the tour begins with a cruise to the Cai Beo ferry terminal before heading to the picturesque Lan Ha Bay.

First, visitors explore the Floating Fisherman Village, the oldest in Northern Vietnam.

Visitors explore the Floating Fisherman Village, the oldest in Northern Vietnam.

Next, the group hikes to a viewpoint on Monkey Island and interacts with the resident monkeys.

Afterward, there are opportunities for swimming in the warm waters and climbing limestone rock formations.

The highlight is kayaking at night to witness the mesmerizing bioluminescent plankton.

Following the activities, a vegetarian-friendly dinner is served at Alibaba’s restaurant.

Scenic Cruise Through Lan Ha Bay and Floating Fisherman Village

The scenic cruise through Lan Ha Bay takes visitors on a journey to the Floating Fisherman Village, an ancient settlement in Northern Vietnam.

Guests will witness the unique way of life of the local fishermen, who’ve lived on the water for generations. The tour provides insight into the rich history and culture of this remote community.

Cruising past the colorful floating houses and docks, travelers can observe the fishermen’s daily activities and interactions.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into a traditional way of living that has remained largely unchanged over time.

Kayaking With Bioluminescent Plankton

What makes the kayaking with bioluminescent plankton so captivating on this tour? As the sun sets, the water of Lan Ha Bay comes alive with a mesmerizing glow. Bioluminescent plankton illuminates the waves, creating a magical display.

  • Paddling through the glowing waters in a kayak allows for an immersive experience.

  • The movement of the kayak creates ripples that enhance the visibility of the plankton.

  • Darkness amplifies the luminous effect, making the plankton appear to shimmer and dance.

  • Guests can often see the plankton react to their touch, further captivating onlookers.

  • This rare natural phenomenon is a highlight of the tour, offering a truly unforgettable experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploration of Monkey Island and Interaction With Monkeys

As part of the tour, guests have the opportunity to explore Monkey Island, a serene natural haven nestled within Lan Ha Bay.

Here, they can hike to a viewpoint and interact with the resident monkeys. The island’s rocky terrain requires proper footwear, but the effort is rewarded with stunning vistas and the chance to observe the curious, agile primates up close.

Guests are cautioned not to feed the monkeys, which can disrupt their natural behaviors. This unique encounter offers a glimpse into the diverse ecosystem of Lan Ha Bay.

Swimming and Climbing Opportunities

During the tour, guests can enjoy swimming in the warm waters of Lan Ha Bay.

After exploring the Floating Fisherman Village and Monkey Island, visitors have the opportunity to take a refreshing dip.

The itinerary also includes:

  • Climbing up to 10-12 meter high limestone rocks

  • Invigorating swimming in the calm, turquoise waters

  • Chances to interact with the natural environment

  • Adventurous rock climbing for thrill-seekers

  • Capturing breathtaking sunset views from the water

These activities offer a well-rounded experience, allowing guests to enjoy the beauty of Lan Ha Bay.

Sunset Viewing

Guests can capture breathtaking sunset views from the water during the tour. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky erupts in a stunning display of colors, painting the limestone cliffs and calm waters in a warm, golden glow. The peaceful setting provides the perfect backdrop to reflect on the day’s adventures. To enhance the sunset experience, the guide may suggest creating gentle waves to catch the light and accentuate the natural beauty.

| Sunset Viewing | |

|—————-|——————|

| Timing | Towards the end of the tour |

| Scenery | Limestone cliffs, calm waters |

| Atmosphere | Peaceful, reflective |

| Recommended | Creating gentle waves |

| Highlight | Stunning display of colors |

Recommendations and Tips

To make the most of the tour, visitors should bring a towel, extra clothes, a swimsuit, flip-flops or sandals, and sunscreen.

Evening weather can be chilly, and garments may not dry quickly. Hiking shoes are recommended for the Monkey Island excursion due to the rocky terrain.

Guests can enhance the visibility of bioluminescent plankton by creating waves in the water.

Key tips include:

  • Dress warmly for the evening

  • Bring proper footwear for hiking

  • Interact with the plankton to increase their glow

  • Pack extra clothing and towels

  • Apply sunscreen for daytime activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour may be suitable for families with young children, as it offers activities like swimming, hiking, and interacting with monkeys. However, the evening kayaking and potential chilly weather could pose challenges for young kids.

What Safety Precautions Are in Place for the Kayaking Activity?

The tour provides life jackets for all kayakers and experienced guides who closely supervise the activity. Kayaks are stable and suitable for beginners. Safety protocols are in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience.

Can Vegetarian/Vegan Dietary Requirements Be Accommodated?

Yes, the tour accommodates vegetarian and vegan dietary requirements. According to the information provided, there are vegetarian options available at the dinner served after the tour at Alibaba’s restaurant.

How Long Is the Hike on Monkey Island?

The hike on Monkey Island is described as taking visitors to a viewpoint, though the specific duration is not provided. The tour overview notes the terrain is rocky, so sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for this activity.

Is There a Limit on the Number of Participants per Tour?

The tour size is not specified, but many reviews mention it’s a less crowded experience. The booking page likely has details on group size, so it’s best to check there for the specific participant limit.

Recap

The Cat Ba: Lan Ha Bay Bioluminescent Plankton Kayak Boat Tour offers an enchanting 6-hour adventure in Northern Vietnam. Guests can enjoy a scenic cruise, hike on Monkey Island, and swim in pristine waters. The highlight is nighttime kayaking to witness the mesmerizing glow of bioluminescent plankton, capturing the beauty and culture of the region. With opportunities for exploration and interaction with nature, this unforgettable experience is priced at just $36.60 per person.

You can check if your dates are available here: