2-Day Lan Ha Bay Cruise with Kayaking & Local Village Visit

Summary

Lan Ha Bay Overnight Tour: Kayak, Caves & Local Life

You’ll get up close with Lan Ha Bay’s limestone islands, kayak through quiet floating villages, join a sunset party on deck, and learn how to make real Vietnamese spring rolls—all in just two days away from Hanoi’s bustle.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the first time we left Hanoi’s busy streets behind and headed out toward Lan Ha Bay. The air got cooler as we neared the harbor, and there was this salty tang that hit me before I even saw the water. Once on board, it didn’t take long before those limestone towers started popping up all around us—some shaped like animals if you squint just right. Our guide, Minh, pointed out a few local fishing boats bobbing nearby; he said some families have lived on these waters for generations.

That afternoon, we had two choices: jump in for a swim at Ba Trai Dao Island or hop into kayaks to explore Tra Bau Floating Village. I went with kayaking—couldn’t resist gliding through those quiet corners where the only sounds were our paddles and the occasional bird call. Minh mentioned that part of Kong: Skull Island was filmed here back in 2018. It’s easy to see why—there’s something wild and untouched about the place.

Back on deck as the sun started to dip, everyone gathered for what they called “Sunset Party.” There were snacks and drinks (the fresh lime juice was my favorite), and honestly, just watching the sky go from gold to pink over the bay felt special. Later, we tried our hand at making Vietnamese spring rolls during a cooking demo led by the ship’s chef. My rolls weren’t exactly pretty—but they tasted good enough!

The next morning came early—mist still hanging low over the water when I stepped outside with my coffee. We cruised past more karst peaks before stopping at Dark and Bright Cave. Some folks took bamboo boats; others kayaked again. The cave itself is peaceful inside—cool air, echoes bouncing off stone walls—and outside you get those postcard views of blue water against green cliffs.

After brunch (don’t skip the pho if they offer it), we slowly made our way back toward Tuan Chau Harbor. The ride back to Hanoi gave me time to scroll through photos and realize just how much ground (and water) we’d covered in less than two days.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Lan Ha Bay Exploration and Sunset

• Explore Tra Bau Floating Village and Kayaking
• Sunset Party, Happy Hour, and Cooking Class on Cruise

Day 2 — Lan Ha Bay Morning and Return

• Light Breakfast on Cruise
• Visit Dark and Bright Cave; Bamboo Boating or Kayaking
• Check-out, Brunch, and Cruise to Harbor

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with kids?

Yes! Most travelers can join in—including families with children. Just note that infants need to sit on an adult’s lap during transfers.

What happens if there’s bad weather?

If poor weather cancels your trip, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund—no worries there.

Can I choose between kayaking or swimming?

You sure can! On day one you’ll pick between swimming at Ba Trai Dao Island or kayaking around Tra Bau Floating Village.

How early do I need to check out?

You’ll need to check out of your cabin between 9:30am–10:00am so staff can prep for new guests—it’s earlier than hotels but pretty standard for cruises here.

What’s included

Your cruise covers three main meals plus breakfast (so you won’t go hungry), all entry fees for Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay spots, round-trip shuttle bus from Hanoi Old Quarter if booked ahead, kayaking or bamboo boat use, fishing gear if you fancy trying it out, a welcome drink when you board, guided tours including a cooking demo and taichi session (depending on your boat), plus your private cabin for the night.