Lan Ha Bay 2-Day Boutique Cruise — Kayak, Swim & Bike to Viet Hai Village
A compact 2-day cruise through Lan Ha Bay that balances guided kayaking and swimming with a short bike ride to Viet Hai village. Ideal for travelers who want active exploration, an overnight on a comfortable boat, and close encounters with karst islands.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a dry bag
Protect phones and cameras during kayaking and transfers; a small 5–10L dry bag is enough for essentials.
Wear water shoes
Rocky shorelines and slippery boat ladders make grippy, quick-drying footwear the best choice.
Carry small cash
Small local purchases and tips are easier with dong on hand—ATMs are limited on Cat Ba.
Time your trip around weather
Summer can bring sudden storms; check forecasts and be prepared for itinerary tweaks.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Viet Hai village backroads — a quiet 5km loop through rice paddies and small hamlets
- •Floating fishing clusters near Cua Van where you can watch squid-fishing lamps at night
Wildlife
- •Long-tailed macaque
- •Sea eagles/oystercatchers and other coastal birds
Conservation Note
The area’s limestone and seagrass habitats are fragile; avoid anchoring on beds, pack out trash, and use reef-safe sun protection.
Lan Ha Bay’s karst islands are part of the same geological uplift that created Ha Long Bay; centuries of small-scale fishing shaped the bay’s floating communities.
What to Bring
Waterproof dry bag (5–10L)Essential
Keeps electronics and documents dry during kayaking and shore transfers.
Lightweight rain shellEssential
Protects against sudden tropical showers common in spring and monsoon shoulder seasons.
Water shoes or sturdy sandalsEssential
Provides grip on wet boat decks and rocky shores while swimming and landing.
Reef-safe sunscreen & hatEssential
Sun protection is critical on open-water stretches and exposed decks.
Common Questions
Is kayaking suitable for beginners?
Yes—guided, short kayak excursions are designed for novice paddlers with life jackets and basic instruction provided.
How do I get to the boat from Hanoi?
Most itineraries include a morning shuttle from Hanoi Old Quarter; confirm your pick-up point and time when you book.
What are the sleeping arrangements onboard?
Private cabins with air-conditioning, a private bathroom and hot shower are provided on the boutique boat for overnight stays.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Local operators usually accommodate common dietary needs if notified in advance—contact the operator with restrictions after booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 days (approx. 48 hours)
Location
Cat Ba, Hai Phong
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Basic aerobic fitness; able to paddle for 30–60 minutes and cycle short distances on mixed surfaces
Ready to Explore Cat Ba?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now