2-Day Lan Ha Bay Cruise: Kayaking, Caves & 5-Star Meals

Summary

Lan Ha Bay Overnight Cruise with Local Guide & Activities

If you want an easy escape from Hanoi’s bustle—think kayaking in peaceful Lan Ha Bay, eating fresh seafood on deck, sleeping under the stars—this overnight cruise is it. You’ll get local stories from guides who really know the area and plenty of chances to try something new (even if it’s just rolling your own spring roll).

What’s the experience like?

The morning started early in Hanoi’s Old Quarter—our driver showed up right on time, weaving through the narrow streets as scooters zipped by. The ride to Tuan Chau marina took about two and a half hours, with a quick stop halfway for coffee and a stretch. Once we reached the marina, the salty air hit me first. A small tender boat ferried us out to our cruise ship, where the crew greeted us with chilled towels and a sweet welcome drink. I remember Anthony, our guide, chatting about the hidden corners of Halong Bay he’s explored over five years—he seemed to know every rock by name.

Lunch was served just as we glided past Con Vit islets—platters of fresh seafood and Vietnamese dishes kept coming. Later that afternoon, we kayaked around Ong Cam area in Lan Ha Bay. It was quieter than I expected; hardly any other boats in sight. The water was clear enough to see tiny fish darting below. After paddling, some folks jumped in for a swim while others just floated and watched the limestone cliffs change color as the sun dipped lower.

Back on deck at sunset, there was this casual party vibe—local wine poured into mismatched glasses, slices of pineapple passed around. Dinner felt more like a family meal than anything formal; the chef even came out to ask if we liked his spring rolls. Some guests tried squid fishing off the side later (I didn’t catch anything but it was fun). My cabin had big windows—I fell asleep watching distant lights flicker across the bay.

Next morning, I woke up early for Tai Chi on the sundeck. The air was cool and smelled faintly of seaweed. After breakfast (strong coffee included), we hopped onto bamboo boats rowed by locals to explore Dark & Bright Cave—a quiet spot where you could hear nothing but oars dipping into water and birds overhead. Before heading back to shore, there was a quick cooking demo where we learned how to roll Vietnamese spring rolls (mine looked wonky but tasted great). By noon we were back at Tuan Chau marina and on our way to Hanoi—back before rush hour traffic hit.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay Cruise

• Hotel pick up in Hanoi
• Arrive Tuan Chau marina, transfer to cruise
• Welcome aboard and safety briefing
• Lunch on cruise sailing through Con Vit islets
• Sail through Lan Ha Bay, kayak and swim
• Sunset party on sundeck
• Enjoy dinner on board
• Evening activities: fishing, movie, bar, games

Day 2 — Lan Ha Bay to Hanoi Return

• Sunrise and Tai Chi on sundeck
• Light breakfast served
• Visit Dark & Bright Cave by rowing boat
• Relax on cruise before checkout
• Cooking demonstration: spring rolls
• Lunch on board
• Disembark at Tuan Chau marina
• Shuttle bus return to Hanoi
• Arrive back at hotel or home

Top questions

Is this cruise suitable for people who don’t swim or kayak?

Absolutely! There are plenty of activities like cave visits by bamboo boat or cooking classes—you can join what you’re comfortable with.

Are meals included? What kind of food is served?

Yes—all meals are included. Expect lots of fresh seafood plus classic Vietnamese dishes prepared by onboard chefs.

How many people are usually on board?

The cruises are mid-sized—not too crowded—so there’s space to relax but also chances to meet other travelers if you want.

Is WiFi available during the trip?

There’s WiFi onboard though it can be spotty when sailing between islands—it works best when anchored near bigger bays.

What’s included

You’ll get roundtrip shuttle transfer from Hanoi Old Quarter (for a small fee), all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), mineral water in your room, welcome drink in your cabin, guided kayaking or bamboo boat excursions, sunset party with local wine and fruit, Tai Chi session at sunrise, cooking demonstration (spring rolls!), fishing gear for squid fishing at night, plus an overnight stay in a comfortable cabin with big windows overlooking Lan Ha Bay.