Lan Ha Bay offers a one-of-a-kind nighttime kayaking adventure that allows adventurers to witness the enchanting glow of bioluminescent plankton. As paddlers glide through the serene waters, they’ll be mesmerized by the tiny organisms illuminating the surroundings, creating a spellbinding spectacle. The tour includes a sunset cruise, a delicious dinner, and all necessary equipment, ensuring a truly memorable outing. With an experienced guide and a focus on guest comfort, this unique experience in Lan Ha Bay is a must for nature enthusiasts seeking a thrill.
Key Points
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Witness the mesmerizing display of bioluminescent plankton during a night kayaking tour in Lan Ha Bay, located near Cat Ba Island.
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The 4.5-hour tour includes hotel pickup, dinner, and all necessary kayaking equipment, with an English-speaking guide accompanying the group.
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Set out on a sunset cruise before kayaking to explore the glowing plankton, with a cancellation policy offering a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
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Participants must be prepared with appropriate attire, such as quick-dry swimwear, a lightweight jacket, and sturdy water-resistant footwear, to enhance the overall experience.
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The tour has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 14 reviews, with praises for the knowledgeable guide, transportation, and the unique and memorable nature of the activity.
Tour Overview and Details
The tour offers a night kayaking activity to witness the bioluminescent plankton in Lan Ha Bay, located near Cat Ba Island.
Priced from $32.53 per person, the 4.5-hour experience includes hotel pickup, dinner, kayaking equipment, and an English-speaking guide.
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, or opt for a reserve now, pay later option.
The tour starts at 4:30 PM with hotel pickup, then boards a boat at 5 PM to cruise through Lan Ha Bay and explore the glowing plankton via kayak from 7-8 PM before returning to the wharf by 9 PM.
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Itinerary and Schedule
The tour kicks off at 4:30 PM with hotel pickup on Cat Ba Island, followed by a transfer to the Ben Beo harbor. Once aboard, the evening begins with a sunset cruise through the serene Lan Ha Bay. Dinner is served either on the boat or at a floating fish farm. The main event starts at 7 PM, as kayaks are launched to explore the bioluminescent plankton. After the magical encounter, the tour returns to the harbor and concludes with drop-off at the hotel around 9 PM.
| Time | Activity |
| — | — |
| 4:30 PM | Hotel pickup, transfer to Ben Beo |
| 5:00 PM | Board boat, start sunset cruise |
| 6:30 PM | Dinner on boat or floating fish farm |
| 7:00 PM | Kayak to see bioluminescent plankton |
| 8:00 PM | Return to harbor, transfer to hotel |
Inclusions and Requirements
The tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the kayaking experience.
Pickup and drop-off at the hotel, a hearty dinner, kayaking equipment, life jackets, and an English-speaking guide are all provided.
Plus, towels and bottled water are included for comfort and refreshment.
Visitors must purchase an entrance ticket, costing $4.80 (120,000 VND), at the harbor or from the captain.
The tour isn’t suitable for individuals over 95 years old.
Guests are advised to bring swimwear and a jacket to prepare for the activities and weather conditions.
Ratings and Customer Reviews
This night kayaking tour in Lan Ha Bay has received positive reviews from past participants.
With an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 14 reviews, customers have been impressed by the tour. The tour guide received a high rating of 4.8, with reviewers praising the friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Transportation was rated 4.5, and the value for money was 4.3. Customers highlighted the memorable experience of seeing the bioluminescent plankton, the generous dinner, and the special nature of the activity.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyMeeting Point and Availability
Where’s the meeting point for this night kayaking tour in Lan Ha Bay?
The tour meeting point is at the office located at 204, 1/4 street, Cat Ba town. Travelers are advised to check availability for starting times, as the tour schedule may vary.
The tour includes the following:
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Pickup and drop-off at the hotel on Cat Ba Island.
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Dinner served on the cruise or at a floating fish farm.
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All necessary kayaking equipment, life jackets, and towels.
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An English-speaking tour guide to accompany the group.
Travelers should bring swimwear and a jacket, as the night kayaking experience can be weather dependent.
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The Bioluminescent Plankton Experience
After boarding the boat and cruising through the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay, travelers are treated to a stunning sunset viewing before the main event of the night kayaking tour – the exploration of the bioluminescent plankton.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the kayaks venture into the inky darkness, where the water comes alive with a mesmerizing, glowing display.
Paddling through the luminescent waves, guests can witness the natural wonder of phytoplankton illuminating the bay.
Paddling through the luminescent waves, guests witness the natural wonder of phytoplankton illuminating the mesmerizing bay.
This unique experience offers a chance to fully take in the magical and bioluminescent world of Lan Ha Bay.
Preparation Tips
To make the most of the night kayaking experience in Lan Ha Bay, travelers should ensure they’re well-prepared.
Essentials to pack include:
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Swimwear that dries quickly
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A lightweight, water-resistant jacket
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Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes
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A small waterproof bag for personal items
Plus, sturdy, water-resistant footwear is recommended.
Hydration and snacks are also advisable, as the tour lasts several hours.
With proper preparation, visitors can enjoy the mesmerizing bioluminescent plankton display and savor the serene beauty of Lan Ha Bay at night.
Reserve Now and Pay Later Option
The tour operator offers a convenient "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option, allowing travelers to secure their spot on the night kayaking experience without immediately paying the full amount.
This flexible payment plan makes it easier for adventurers to plan their trip, especially for those with uncertain schedules.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and settle the payment closer to the tour date, up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, up to 24 hours before the tour date.
This reserve now, pay later feature provides customers with greater control over their booking and the freedom to finalize their travel plans at their own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kayaking Difficult for Beginners?
The night kayaking is suitable for beginners as the tour includes guidance from an English-speaking guide and provides all necessary equipment like life jackets. However, participants should have some basic kayaking experience or comfort in the water.
How Large Are the Groups on the Tour?
The groups on the tour typically range from 8 to 12 people. The small group size allows for a more intimate and personalized experience during the night kayaking activity to see the bioluminescent plankton.
Are the Kayaks Stable and Easy to Maneuver?
The kayaks are described as stable and easy to maneuver. According to reviews, the equipment is well-maintained, and the tour guides provide thorough instructions on how to navigate the kayaks, making the experience accessible for all skill levels.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?
Yes, you can bring your own camera equipment. The tour provider encourages guests to capture the memorable experience of seeing the bioluminescent plankton. Just be sure to secure your camera properly while kayaking.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
The tour is not suitable for individuals over 95 years old. There’s no minimum age requirement, but younger participants should be able to safely join the kayak tour and swim in the water if they choose.
Recap
Lan Ha Bay’s night kayaking tour offers a captivating bioluminescent plankton experience. Paddling through the serene waters, adventurers witness the mesmerizing glow of the tiny organisms, creating a magical spectacle. With a sunset cruise, delicious dinner, and knowledgeable guides, this unique excursion is a must for nature enthusiasts. Comfort and convenience are ensured, making it an unforgettable experience in Lan Ha Bay.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Kayak & Canoe Tours in Lan Ha Bay
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- Cat Ba: Night Kayaking With Glowing Plankton
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