Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay Cruise: Kayak, Caves & Cooking Class

Summary

Kayaking emerald bays, spring rolls at sunset, quiet mornings afloat

You’ll board a boutique cruise through Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, kayak into quiet coves, learn to make Vietnamese spring rolls at sunset, and wake early for tai chi on deck. With fresh meals included and a local guide leading each step, you’ll get both comfort and real glimpses of life on these legendary waters.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped onto the La Regina Legend at Tuan Chau Marina just before noon, shoes squeaking on polished wood. There was this faint scent of lemongrass in the welcome drink—maybe it was just my imagination but it felt right. Our guide Minh grinned as he handed us room keys and pointed out the old brass fixtures lining the hallway. “She’s got stories,” he said about the ship. I believed him. The cruise set off quietly, no big announcement or anything, just a gentle chug as we left the harbor behind and Halong Bay started to open up around us.

Lunch came quick—Vietnamese dishes with these little bursts of lime and chili that woke me up after the drive from Hanoi. I watched green islands drift by outside the window while Minh told us how Lan Ha Bay is actually less crowded than Halong itself (he wasn’t wrong; sometimes it felt like we had the water to ourselves). We kayaked near Light and Dark Cave later—water cool against my hands, echoing birds somewhere overhead. I tried paddling straight but kept veering left; my partner laughed until she nearly tipped us both over.

Back on board for sunset, there was this soft golden haze over everything. Happy Hour meant cold beer and a spring roll lesson with Chef Linh—I still can’t roll them tight like she does. Dinner was outside under a string of lanterns (weather held out), with a fusion menu that somehow made even tofu taste exciting. Some folks went squid fishing after but honestly I just sat on deck listening to the low hum of water against hull, thinking about nothing in particular.

The next morning started early with tai chi on the sundeck. I’m not graceful but nobody seemed to mind—the instructor moved slow enough for even me to follow along. Coffee tasted extra good in that salty air. Later we took a short drive on Cat Ba Island to Trung Trang Cave; cool limestone walls, pockets of silence except for our footsteps crunching over gravel. It all felt strangely peaceful—maybe because I knew we’d be back on land soon.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay cruise

• Check in to the cruise
• Cruise to Lan Ha Bay and lunch
• Explore Light and Dark Cave by boat or kayak
• Swim in emerald waters
• Enjoy sunset and happy hour on board
• Join spring roll cooking class
• Dinner on sundeck or restaurant
• Squid fishing, spa, or relax

Day 2 — Lan Ha Bay to Tuan Chau Harbour

• Morning tai chi on sundeck
• Breakfast in restaurant
• Tour Cat Ba World Biosphere and Trung Trang Cave
• Return to boat and relax
• Check out and brunch served
• Disembark and speed boat to Tuan Chau Marina

Top questions

Is pickup from Hanoi included in this Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay cruise?

No, pickup from Hanoi is not included; guests check in directly at Tuan Chau Marina.

Are all meals provided during the 2-day cruise?

Yes, lunch, dinner, breakfast, brunch, welcome drinks, and fresh fruit are included.

Can I join kayaking or do I need experience?

No experience needed; kayaking equipment is provided and guides assist beginners.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard La Regina Legend?

The reference does not mention Wi-Fi availability onboard.

What activities are offered besides sightseeing?

You can join cooking classes, squid fishing at night, swimming near the boat, or relax in the spa (spa has extra charges).

How long does it take to reach Trung Trang Cave from Gia Luan?

It takes about 30 minutes by transfer from Gia Luan to Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island.

Is this cruise suitable for children or infants?

Yes; infants must sit on an adult’s lap during transfers but families are welcome.

Are entrance fees included in this day trip from Halong Bay?

Yes; all entrance fees for attractions are included in your booking price.

What’s included

Your journey includes all meals from lunch through brunch plus welcome drinks and fresh fruit in your cabin. A local guide leads kayaking excursions and cooking classes while entrance fees and use of fishing equipment are covered too—just pack lightly as crew help with luggage when you disembark at Tuan Chau Marina.