Lan Ha Bay Tours & Cat Ba Cruises – Prices, Comparison & Guide

Lan Ha Bay is one of the most beautiful bays in Northern Vietnam, known for its emerald-green water, signature limestone formations, and hundreds of small, untouched beaches. As visitor demand increases, the variety of tours and cruise types has also expanded, making it challenging for first-time travelers to choose the most suitable option when visiting Cat Ba.

This guide compiles the most essential information about Lan Ha Bay tours: the available tour types, the differences between each option, cruise classifications from 3–6 stars, and updated reference prices for 2025. The content is written in a practical and easy-to-understand format to help you choose the best tour according to your time, budget, and travel expectations.

1. Current types of Lan Ha Bay tours

Lan Ha Bay tours are operated in various formats, but the four categories below are the most common and suitable for most travelers.

1.1 Sunset Tour

A 3–3.5 hour journey departing around 15:00–15:30. This is the most beautiful time of day, with soft sunlight and cool weather as the bay transitions into golden tones. The tour usually includes a short kayak session, swimming, and sunset viewing from the sundeck. Ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a light itinerary.

1.2 Morning / Sunrise Cruise

Departing between 05:30–06:00 and returning around 08:30. This tour offers a quiet atmosphere with very few boats on the bay — perfect for photography lovers, nature enthusiasts, or travelers who need an early itinerary before checking out. However, this tour only operates during peak season due to low demand in autumn and winter.

1.3 Full-day Cruise

A full-day tour provides the most complete experience: sightseeing, kayaking, swimming, visiting floating villages or wild islands, and enjoying lunch on board. During peak season, tours usually end at 15:00 so travelers can catch the last buses back to Hanoi; during low season (October – March), some cruises extend until 17:00 to better suit international guests.

In addition, many cruises include a visit to Viet Hai Village on the full-day itinerary. Guests can take an electric car or bicycle ride through Cat Ba National Park, explore the ancient village, and try the unique fish foot massage — an activity available only on full-day tours.

Full-day tours also include check-in and swimming stops at the most beautiful beaches of Lan Ha Bay such as Van Boi and Ba Trai Dao, known for calm water, clear visibility, and safety for families.

2. Cruise classifications in Lan Ha Bay

Each tour type can be operated by different cruise standards. Choosing the right cruise level directly affects your comfort, stability, and overall experience on the bay.

2.1 3-star Cruises (Basic Standard)

Maximum capacity around 40–48 guests. Smaller space and more noticeable movement when the sea is choppy. Facilities are basic; some boats offer floating pools or slides for swimming. Suitable for travelers looking to optimize cost.

Example cruises: Aroma, Dao Ngoc 69, Nam Cat, Daiichi Cruise, D’Charme (standard version).

2.2 4-star Cruises

More spacious, better stability, with added features such as water slides, dedicated swimming areas, or jacuzzis. Capacity ranges from 70–85 guests. A balanced choice between price and service quality.

Example cruises: Cat Ba Bay 98, Cat Ba Eco Tourist.

2.3 5-star Cruises

High-end boats with wide sundecks, excellent stability, good service, and minimal shaking. Capacity 90–99 guests. Ideal for families, elderly travelers, or those who prioritize comfort.

Example cruises: Dream Cruise, D’Charme Luxury, Catamaran, Skyway.

2.4 6-star Cruises

The most luxurious category on Lan Ha Bay — true “floating resorts” with swimming pools, jacuzzis, wide sundecks, and international-standard dining. The itinerary includes kayaking, swimming, Viet Hai Village, and check-in at Van Boi – Ba Trai Dao. Ideal for travelers seeking a premium experience.

Example cruise: Serenity Grandeur.

3. Lan Ha Bay Tour Prices 2025 (Reference)

Below are the average prices applied in Cat Ba. Actual rates may vary depending on season, cruise policy, and passenger volume.

Prices may vary depending on weather, cruise schedule, and the number of passengers at each time.

4. Tips for choosing the right Lan Ha Bay tour

Selecting the right tour ensures comfort and an experience that meets your expectations. Below are key factors to consider before booking.

4.1 Choose according to your time available

• If you have limited time in Cat Ba: choose a Sunset or Morning Cruise — compact, enjoyable, and easy to fit into any schedule.
• If you want a full experience: the Full-day Cruise is the most complete with kayaking, swimming, sightseeing, and onboard lunch.
• For families with children: choose a 5-star Full-day Cruise for better stability, space, and safety during swimming.

4.2 Choose according to cruise standard

• 3-star cruise: suitable for young travelers, groups of friends, or those prioritizing budget over services.
• 4-star cruise: a balanced choice between quality and price; suitable for most visitors.
• 5-star cruise: ideal for seniors, families, couples, or travelers who prefer comfort and stability.
• 6-star cruise: for those seeking luxury, privacy, and resort-style experience.

4.3 Choose according to the season

• Peak season (May – September): Sunset and Full-day tours are crowded — choose 4–5 star boats for more comfort. Morning Cruises run consistently during this period.
• Low season (October – March): Sunrise tours and remote-island canoe trips rarely operate. Full-day tours last longer and are suitable for international guests.

4.4 Where to book to avoid overpricing

Travelers should book directly with cruise operators or official agents in Cat Ba to ensure correct prices without hidden fees. You may refer to CatBaTrip – WetripX services:

• Lan Ha Bay Day Cruises
• Cat Ba Packages
• Bus to Cat Ba
• Overnight Cruises

5. Suggested itineraries

5.1 Sunset Tour (3–3.5 hours)

• 15:00 – 15:30: Depart from Cat Ba – cruise into the bay.
• 15:45 – 16:30: Kayaking at Dark & Bright Cave or the calm waters near Ba Trai Dao.
• 16:30 – 17:00: Swimming, relaxing on the sundeck.
• 17:00 – 18:00: Sunset viewing, afternoon tea.
• 18:00: Return to the pier.

5.2 Morning Cruise (2.5–3 hours)

• 05:30 – 06:00: Departure for sunrise.
• 06:15 – 07:00: Kayaking or photography at Calm Bay.
• 07:00 – 07:40: Swimming or relaxing onboard.
• 08:00 – 08:30: Return to the pier.

5.3 Full-day Itinerary – Peak Season (08:30 – 15:00)

• 08:30: Departure – panoramic views of the bay.
• 09:30 – 10:30: Kayaking at Dark & Bright Cave or Ba Trai Dao.
• 10:30 – 11:30: Swimming, water slide (if available).
• 11:30 – 12:30: Lunch on board.
• 12:30 – 14:00: Visit floating village or quiet lagoon.
• 14:00 – 15:00: Return to the pier.

5.4 Full-day Itinerary – Low Season (08:30 – 17:00)

Similar to the peak-season itinerary but extended, suitable for international travelers or those wanting more time on the bay.

Overnight Cruises in Lan Ha Bay (2D1N – 3D2N)

Overnight cruises are the most relaxing way to experience Lan Ha Bay, offering private cabins with balconies, onboard restaurants, wide sundecks, jacuzzis, and evening activities. Guests can enjoy sunset, sunrise, squid fishing, cooking classes, and kayaking in quieter areas of the bay.

• 2 Days 1 Night: from 120 USD / person
• 3 Days 2 Nights: from 220 USD / person

View full list of overnight cruises here: Cat Ba Overnight Cruises

Conclusion

Lan Ha Bay is a must-visit destination when traveling to Cat Ba. Each tour type fits different needs and budgets: Sunset and Morning Cruises suit quick schedules, while Full-day tours offer the richest experience. Cruise standards from 3–6 stars directly influence comfort and service quality. Overnight cruises provide the most complete and relaxing way to experience the bay.

Below are useful links for planning your trip:

• Lan Ha Bay Day Cruises
• Bus to Cat Ba
• Overnight Cruises
• Cat Ba Package Tours