A Cat Ba cruise is one of the best ways to discover the spectacular scenery, hidden beaches and peaceful waters of Lan Ha Bay. Located just off Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay offers a quieter alternative to the busier areas of Ha Long Bay, with hundreds of limestone islands, secluded beaches and floating fishing villages to explore.
Types of Cat Ba Cruises
There are three main types of Cat Ba Cruises: full-day cruises, 2-day 1-night cruises, and 3-day 2-night cruises. All options explore Lan Ha Bay, with different durations and experiences.
Cat Ba Day Cruise – Full-Day Tour
A full-day cruise usually runs from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The itinerary includes Cai Beo Fishing Village, Hon Rua, Ba Trai Dao, Viet Hai Village, swimming, kayaking, lunch on board and fish massage. Pickup and drop-off are available at hotels in Cat Ba Town or Cai Beo Cruise Port.
>>>Explore our Cat Ba day cruise options
2 Days 1 Night Cat Ba Cruise
The 2D1N cruise includes one night on board in Lan Ha Bay. Highlights include kayaking or swimming at Ba Trai Dao/Dau Be, sunset on the bay, Viet Hai Village, Tai Chi and an overnight stay in an en-suite cabin.
>>>Explore our Cat Ba overnight cruise options
3 Days 2 Nights Cat Ba Cruise
The 3D2N cruise offers more time to explore the quieter areas of Lan Ha Bay. The itinerary includes Viet Hai Village, Cat Ba National Park, Tien Duc Cave, Dau Be, kayaking, swimming, floating fishing villages and two nights on board.
>>>Explore our Cat Ba overnight cruise options
What to Do on a Cat Ba Cruise
A Cat Ba cruise combines sightseeing, outdoor activities and local experiences in Lan Ha Bay. Depending on the itinerary, you can enjoy:
Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay
Paddle through calm waters and explore limestone karsts, hidden lagoons and small islands.
Swimming at Ba Trai Dao
Swim in the clear waters around Ba Trai Dao, one of the popular swimming spots in Lan Ha Bay.
Visit Viet Hai Village
Explore the peaceful village of Viet Hai by bicycle or electric car and experience local island life.
Explore Cai Beo Fishing Village
See one of the oldest fishing villages in the area and learn about traditional life on the water.
Sunrise and Sunset on the Bay
Overnight cruises offer the chance to watch sunset and sunrise over Lan Ha Bay directly from the cruise sundeck.
Best Cat Ba Cruises
Cat Ba cruises can be divided into full-day cruises and overnight cruises. The best choice depends on how much time you have and the type of experience you want on Lan Ha Bay.
Best Cat Ba Day Cruises
D’Charme Premium Cruise
D’Charme Premium is a 6-star day cruise with capacity for up to 250 guests. Its three-level glass design provides 360° panoramic views of Lan Ha Bay, while onboard facilities include a large sundeck, four-season Jacuzzi and water slide. Guests can also enjoy a premium seafood buffet, kayaking and a visit to Viet Hai Village.
Best for: Families and groups looking for a large luxury cruise with plenty of onboard facilities and entertainment.
>>>Explore our D’Charme Premium 6-Star Cruise
D’Charme Luxury Cruise
D’Charme Luxury is a smaller premium day cruise with a capacity of around 90 guests, offering a more spacious and less crowded experience. The cruise features a 4-season outdoor Jacuzzi, water slide and large sundeck, while the itinerary focuses on quieter areas of Lan Ha Bay, Viet Hai Village, kayaking and swimming.
Best for: Travelers who want luxury facilities but prefer a smaller group and a quieter route.
>>>Explore our D’Charme Luxury full-day cruise
Aroma Roza Cruise
Aroma Roza is a modern multi-deck day cruise designed for travelers who want a combination of sightseeing, activities and onboard entertainment. The cruise features a large sundeck, Jacuzzi, water slide and restaurant, with activities including kayaking, swimming and visits to Viet Hai Village.
Best for: Families, couples and groups looking for a modern day cruise with a variety of facilities and activities.
>>>Explore our Aroma Roza full-day cruise
Best Cat Ba Overnight Cruises
Sunshine Golden Cruise
Sunshine Golden Cruise is a luxury overnight cruise with 10 luxury cabins, each featuring a private balcony. Its main highlights include an outdoor swimming pool, four-season Jacuzzi, sauna, restaurant, bar and spacious sundeck.
Best for: Travelers looking for a luxury cruise with extensive onboard facilities.
>>>Explore our Sunshine Golden Cruise
Bonita Cruise
Bonita Cruise has 10 cabins, with private balconies and panoramic bathtubs as key features. The cruise offers 2-day 1-night and 3-day 2-night itineraries in Lan Ha Bay.
Best for: Couples and families who value private balconies and sea-view bathtubs.
>>>Explore our Cat Ba Bonita Cruise
Cat Ba Cozy Boutique Cruise
Cat Ba Cozy Boutique Cruise is a smaller boutique cruise with 11 cabins and a maximum capacity of 26 guests. It features a large sundeck, restaurant and bar, with itineraries focusing on quieter areas of Lan Ha Bay.
Best for: Travelers who prefer a small-group boutique experience and less-touristy routes.
>>>Explore our Cat Ba Cozy Boutique Cruise
Cat Ba Cruise Price
Cat Ba cruise prices vary depending on the cruise type, cabin, and travel date. Here is a quick overview of the starting prices:
| Cat Ba Cruise | From | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Day Cruise | US$29/person | Cruise, lunch, kayaking, swimming, sightseeing and activities |
| Overnight Cruise | US$120/person | Private cabin, meals, kayaking, swimming, sightseeing and activities |
| 3-Day 2-Night Cruise | US$240/person | Private cabin, meals, kayaking, swimming, sightseeing and activities |
What Is Included?
Full-day cruises generally include the cruise, lunch on board, kayaking, swimming, sightseeing and activities according to the itinerary.
Overnight cruises include a private cabin, meals, kayaking, swimming, sightseeing and other activities listed in the cruise itinerary.
Transfer to Cat Ba
Transportation from Hanoi or Ninh Binh to Cat Ba is not included in the cruise price.
We can arrange a bus transfer from Hanoi to Cat Ba or Ninh Binh to Cat Ba from 250,000 VND (approximately US$10) per person.
>>>Explore our bus services to Cat Ba
Cat Ba Cruise Pickup & Departure Point
Most Cat Ba cruises depart from the Cat Ba area, with pickup available from hotels in central Cat Ba Town depending on the cruise.
For many cruises, the main departure point is Ben Beo Pier. If you are staying in Cat Ba Town, a short transfer can usually be arranged to the pier before the cruise starts.
Travelers arriving from Hanoi or Ninh Binh can also arrange a bus transfer to Cat Ba. This is a convenient option if you want to combine your transportation and cruise booking.
What’s Included in a Cat Ba Cruise?
The exact inclusions depend on the cruise, but most Cat Ba cruises include the main services and activities below.
- Boat cruise around Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba
- Meals according to the cruise itinerary
- Private cabin for overnight cruises
- Kayaking at selected locations
- Swimming when weather and sea conditions are suitable
- Sightseeing at places such as Viet Hai Village and Cai Beo Fishing Village
- Other activities listed in the individual cruise itinerary
For full-day cruises, lunch is generally included. Overnight cruises include accommodation and meals during the trip.
Transportation from Hanoi or Ninh Binh to Cat Ba is not included in the cruise price and can be booked separately.
Day Cruise vs. Overnight Cruise: Which One Should You Choose?
Both options offer a great way to explore Lan Ha Bay, but the right choice depends mainly on your available time and travel style.
| Full-Day Cruise | Overnight Cruise | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | From US$29/person | From US$120/person |
| Accommodation | Not included | Private cabin included |
| Activities | Kayaking, swimming, sightseeing | Kayaking, swimming, sightseeing and more activities |
| Experience | Explore Lan Ha Bay in one day | Enjoy the bay at a slower pace and stay overnight |
| Best for | Short trips and limited time | Couples, families and longer trips |
Choose a full-day cruise if you have limited time in Cat Ba and want to see the main highlights in one day. Choose an overnight cruise if you want more time to relax, enjoy the sunset and experience the quieter atmosphere of Lan Ha Bay.
Best Time to Take a Cat Ba Cruise
The best time for a Cat Ba cruise is generally when the weather is warm, dry and suitable for outdoor activities.
From April to October, the warmer weather is ideal for swimming, kayaking and enjoying the beaches. However, tropical weather can change quickly, and cruises may adjust their itinerary depending on sea and weather conditions.
From November to March, temperatures are cooler and swimming may be less appealing, but the bay can be peaceful and comfortable for sightseeing and relaxing on board.
If you plan to travel during weekends, holidays or other busy periods, booking your cruise in advance is recommended, especially for overnight cabins.
What to Bring on a Cat Ba Cruise?
You do not need to bring much for a Cat Ba cruise, but a few essentials will make your trip more comfortable.
- Swimwear and a change of clothes
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
- Comfortable clothes and footwear
- Camera or smartphone
- Personal medication if needed
- A small bag for your personal belongings
For overnight cruises, pack light because cabin space is limited. Most cruises provide essential facilities such as towels, toiletries and air conditioning, but the exact amenities vary by cruise.
Cat Ba Cruises FAQ
How much does a Cat Ba cruise cost?
A full-day Cat Ba cruise starts from around US$29 per person. Overnight cruises start from approximately US$120 per person for 2 days 1 night and US$240 per person for 3 days 2 nights.
Are meals included in Cat Ba cruises?
Yes. Meals are generally included according to the cruise itinerary. Full-day cruises normally include lunch, while overnight cruises include meals during the trip.
Does the cruise price include transportation from Hanoi?
No. Transportation from Hanoi or Ninh Binh to Cat Ba is not included in the cruise price. Bus transfers can be arranged separately from 250,000 VND per person.
Where do Cat Ba cruises depart from?
Most cruises depart from the Cat Ba area, with Ben Beo Pier being a common departure point. Pickup from central Cat Ba Town can be arranged depending on the cruise.
Is a full-day cruise enough to see Lan Ha Bay?
Yes. A full-day cruise allows you to experience the main highlights of Lan Ha Bay, including kayaking, swimming, sightseeing and visiting local attractions. However, an overnight cruise is better if you want a more relaxed experience.
Is it better to choose 2 days 1 night or 3 days 2 nights?
A 2-day 1-night cruise is suitable for most travelers and provides a good balance between time and experience. A 3-day 2-night cruise is better if you have more time and prefer a slower itinerary with more opportunities to explore and relax.
Book Lan Ha Bay Cruise
To book a luxury cruise tour exploring Lan Ha Bay, please contact:
Wetripx Travel Vietnam Co., Ltd.
Address: No. 368 My Dinh Street, Nhan My, Tu Liem, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline: +84 34 905 7950
Email: wetripxtravel@gmail.com
Website: wetripx.vn
Wetripx Travel – Official partner of premium cruise lines in Lan Ha Bay – Cat Ba
