Halong Bay Travel Blogs

Planning a trip to Ha Long Bay and don’t know how to start? This Halong Bay Travel Blog will tell you everything you need to know in this detailed itinerary. Learn when to go, where to stay, what to do, and a must-see attraction during your trip.

Latest Halong Bay Blogs & Articles

Which Airport is Closest to Halong Bay?

Which Airport is Closest to Halong Bay?

As Halong Bay continues to gain popularity among both local and international tourists, Vietnam has made significant strides in improving transportation options to meet the growing demand. For many years, visitors were forced to travel a rough, pothole-filled road between Hanoi and Halong City, but recent infrastructure improvements have provided a much-needed upgrade. These enhancements, including new highways, have made travel more comfortable. However, the question remains for many visitors flying in from other countries: “Which airport is closest to Halong Bay?” Let Halong Bay Cruise Trip answer your queries below![incredible_toc]Luon Cave in Halong BayIn fact, Halong Bay is mainly served by 2 airports: Cat Bi International Airport in Hai Phong and Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi. Both airports offer easy transfers to the bay, though each has its benefits depending on your travel needs.1. Cat Bi International Airport (Hai Phong)Located just 45 kilometres from Halong Bay, Cat Bi International Airport is the closest airport to the famous bay, with a transfer time of around one hour. While Cat Bi is smaller in comparison to larger airports like Noi Bai, it sees around 17 flights per day. These include domestic flights from major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Pleiku, and Phu Quoc, as well as some international routes from cities like Seoul, Shenzhen, and Bangkok.>> Getting from Cat Bi Airport to Halong BayFor travelers who prefer the shortest transfer time to Halong Bay, Cat Bi is an ideal choice. The road between Hai Phong and Halong is scenic, and the ride shows stunning views as you approach the bay. In addition to Halong Bay, Cat Bi is also the nearest airport for travelers heading to Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. Here’s a quick breakdown of distances and travel times from Cat Bi to different harbors.Harbour and BayDistance from Hai Phong AirportTime RequiredTuan Chau Harbour - Halong Bay45km60 - 70 minutesHon Gai harbour - Bai Tu Long Bay55km80 – 90 minutesGot harbour - Lan Ha Bay30km40 - 45 minutes2. Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)While it’s farther away from Halong Bay than Cat Bi, Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi is often considered the more convenient option for many visitors. As Hanoi is the capital and a key entry gate into Vietnam, the majority of tourists traveling to Halong Bay arrive through Noi Bai. Most cruise companies also base their operations in Hanoi for easy transfer services to Halong Bay directly from the airport or the city center.>> Getting from Noi Bai Airport to Halong BayThanks to the new highways connecting Hanoi to Halong City, the Halong Bay cruise from Hanoi has become much smoother. Most cruise companies offer transfer services directly from Hanoi to Halong, Bai Tu Long, or Lan Ha Bay. Keep in mind that travel times with tour companies may be longer due to scheduled stops along the way. If time is of the essence, booking a private car is the fastest way to reach Halong Bay.Here’s a look at the distances and estimated travel times from Noi Bai to the main harbors in Halong Bay.Harbour and BayDistance from Hanoi AirportTime Required (without tour)Tuan Chau Harbour - Halong Bay170km3 – 3.5 hoursHon Gai Harbour - Bai Tu Long Bay180km3 – 3.5 hoursGot Harbour - Lan Ha Bay160km2.5 – 3 hoursFor your Halong Bay cruise trip, Cat Bi Airport is the closest and quickest option, while Noi Bai Airport is more convenient for those exploring Hanoi first. You can plan your route for a smooth and memorable Vietnam travel with this stunning destination.

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Choose Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay

Choose Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay

Before heading to Vietnam, many travelers often hear concerns about overcrowding in Halong Bay. Whether or not you find it overcrowded depends on your definition of the term. However, the number of tourist in Halong Bay has indeed gone up in recent years, prompting many visitors to seek alternatives. This has raised a new question frequently asked in Hanoi: Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay?[incredible_toc]If these names are new to you, they represent two stunning alternatives to Halong Bay within the same Gulf of Tonkin, a coastal region in northern Vietnam. Both locations boast the same magnificent limestone karsts and emerald waters, but each offers its own unique experiences and fewer crowds. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison by Halong Bay Cruise Trip to help you decide: Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay?Overview of Bai Tu Long Bay1. Where are Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay?1.1. Bai Tu Long Bay LocationBai Tu Long Bay is located in the northeastern part of Vietnam, in Quang Ninh Province, which is also home to the famous Halong Bay. Bai Tu Long Bay stretches from the eastern side of Halong Bay toward the Chinese border. It forms part of the Gulf of Tonkin and covers a vast area that includes a variety of islands, both inhabited and uninhabited, as well as the Bai Tu Long National Park, a protected area of significant biodiversity.1.2. Lan Ha Bay Location Lan Ha Bay, on the other hand, is located south of Halong Bay, near Cat Ba Island, which belongs to Hai Phong Province. Though smaller in size, Lan Ha Bay boasts an impressive landscape of over 300 islands and islets, as well as sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Cat Ba Island serves as the primary gateway to Lan Ha Bay, and it is known for its rich biodiversity, both marine and terrestrial, as it houses the Cat Ba National Park.2. Beaches in Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha BayBai Tu Long BayBan ChanNgoc VungQuan LanMinh ChauTra GioiLan Ha BayBa Tra DaoCat Co BeachesTung ThuVan BoiOn both Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, you can still find pristine, quieter beaches. Ban Chan Beach in Bai Tu Long Bay is one such spot, with crystal-clear water and golden sands flanked by towering limestone cliffs. For a more expansive beach, Quan Lan Island offers wide stretches of sand and is much quieter due to its remote location, making it a paradise for those willing to explore independently.Ban Chan BeachBy contrast, Cat Co Beaches on Cat Ba Island in Lan Ha Bay can be quite crowded, particularly during peak season. If solitude is what you seek, head instead to Ba Trai Dao (Three Peach Beach), a secluded beach framed by three large limestone peaks, where you can enjoy kayaking or simply relax in a more peaceful setting.>> Should you choose Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay for a Beach Getaway?• Bai Tu Long Bay wins for its overall serenity and variety of beach choices.3. Caves in Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha BayBai Tu Long BayThien Canh SonLan Ha BayDark and Bright CavesHospital CaveTrung Trang CaveThien Long CaveWhen it comes to cave exploration, Lan Ha Bay edges ahead due to its greater number of options. Hospital Cave on Cat Ba Island is a remarkable historic site, once a secret Viet Cong hospital during the Vietnam War. It remains well-preserved, with rooms like the operating theater and cinema still intact.Thien Canh Son CaveThien Canh Son Cave in Bai Tu Long Bay is the primary cave attraction. Though smaller, it offers striking stalactites and stalagmites, making it worth the visit. The view from the cave’s entrance over the bay is also breathtaking.>> Should You Choose to Explore Caves in Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay?• Lan Ha Bay takes the win for having more caves than Bai Tu Long.4. Fishing Villages in Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha BayBai Tu Long BayVung ViengLan Ha BayCai BeoBoth bays used to have lively floating fishing communities, but these have gradually disappeared over time, leaving behind only a few well-maintained villages.Vung Vieng Fishing VillageVung Vieng Fishing Village in Bai Tu Long Bay gives visitors a taste of traditional floating life, with colorful houses and schools floating on the water. While it has become quite popular among tourists, it still offers a beautiful and educational experience.In Lan Ha Bay, Cai Beo Fishing Village is considered one of the oldest floating villages in Vietnam, believed to have existed for thousands of years. This village feels more authentic than others in the region, as locals still rely on traditional fishing practices to make a living.>> Should You Choose to Visit Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay Fishing Village?• For its closeness to Cat Ba Island’s harbor and its authentic vibe, Cai Beo and Lan Ha Bay win this round once again.Cai Beo Floating Village5. Kayaking in Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha BayBai Tu Long BayCap La and Tra SanCong DoCong DamLan Ha BayBa Trai DaoTra BauViet Hai VillageKayaking is one of the chillest ways to check out these awesome bays. You can get to cruise through these huge limestone mountains and super clear waters, it's so peaceful.In Bai Tu Long Bay, Cap La, and Tra San are renowned for their calm waters and picturesque landscapes. Here, kayaking tours often allow you a half-day to explore the breathtaking beauty of the bay at your own pace.Kayaking in Bai Tu Long BayMeanwhile, Lan Ha Bay’s Ba Trai Dao offers a similarly stunning experience, with its dramatic scenery and serene waters. Though both locations are excellent for kayaking, Bai Tu Long Bay has a slight edge due to its greater variety of quiet spots. >> Should You Choose to Kayak in Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay?• Bai Tu Long Bay takes the lead for its scenic beauty and expansive kayaking options.Ba Trai Dao is a nice place to kayak6. Tourists number in Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha BayBoth Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay are less crowded alternatives to Halong Bay, but there are still differences.Bai Tu Long Bay, while quieter than Halong, is starting to experience more tourists as it becomes a popular alternative. That said, off-season visits or overnight stays still provide moments of tranquil isolation.Lan Ha Bay, on the other hand, is the more serene of the two, with fewer tourist boats and less development. The peace here is one of its greatest draws, though this could change as more tour companies shift their focus to this unspoiled area.>> Is it More Favorable to Visit Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay?• You can definitely find peace in both bays, but it's much easier to find in Lan Ha Bay.Tourists in Lan Ha BayWith a score of 3-2 in favor of Lan Ha Bay, it emerges as the overall winner. However, the decision ultimately depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. For more activities and scenic variety, Bai Tu Long Bay is a great choice. If you’re seeking serenity and fewer crowds, Lan Ha Bay is the place to be.Whichever bay you choose, both promise the same iconic limestone mountains and crystal-clear waters in the vast Halong Bay Complex. If you still wonder how to choose, contact Halong Bay Cruise Trip to get the advice and best deals!

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Thien Cung Cave

Thien Cung Cave

Famous for its many spectacular caves, Halong Bay never ceases to amaze. This time, let's explore one of its most enchanting caves, Thien Cung, also known by the poetic name "Heaven Palace Cave”. Shaped over millennia by wind and water, this cave is not only beautiful but also has some fascinating legends surrounding it. Get all the details you need to make the most out of your visit during the Halong Bay Cruise Trip![incredible_toc]1. What is Thien Cung Cave?Thien Cung Cave translates to "Heaven Palace Cave", a fitting name given its ethereal beauty and its legendary connection to the Dragon King. Hidden in the dense forests of Halong Bay for centuries, the cave was rediscovered by accident in 1993 when a local fishing boat took refuge from a storm. This heavenly sanctuary was soon unveiled to the public, and it has since become one of the bay's most renowned attractions. With its intricate stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by soft lighting, the cave creates a mystical atmosphere for visitors an otherworldly Halong Bay experience.2. Where is Thien Cung Cave?Thien Cung Cave is located only 4km from the pier, which means it is one of the closest caves to the mainland from Halong City and also one of the most accessible. This is the reason why Halong Bay day trips favor it and why it features so heavily on itineraries on the bay. The Thien Cung cave tour offered by Halong Bay Cruise Trip is a great way to see the majesty of this beautiful Cave.  Ha Long Bay Panorama 3. What is the Story of Thien Cung Cave?The story behind Thien Cung Cave is steeped in folklore. According to ancient legend, the cave was the setting for the grand wedding of the Dragon King to his mortal bride, May. The couple’s nuptials lasted for an extraordinary seven days and nights, during which all of the animals of the world gathered to celebrate. Dragons, elephants, pythons, and eagles came together, their forms now immortalized in the cave’s rock formations.The legend doesn’t end there. The Dragon King and May raised 100 children in the cave, 50 of whom later set out with May to explore new lands. The Dragon King remained in Halong Bay with the other 50, working to improve the lives of the people in the area. Over time, the Dragon King and his children were turned to stone, their forms forever preserved in the cave. Today, visitors to Thien Cung Cave can see these figures, etched into the limestone walls as majestic stalactites and stalagmites. Thien Cung Cave4. What Can You See in Thien Cung Cave?Walking into Thien Cung Cave is like stepping into a natural cathedral. Visitors enter through a narrow opening in the rock before a vast chamber filled with some of the most impressive rock formations in Halong Bay. According to Thien Cung cave reviews, the cave’s interior is illuminated by multicolored lights that highlight the delicate details of the limestone structures, enhancing the mysterious, heavenly atmosphere.Among the most remarkable formations are the four towering pillars that rise from floor to ceiling, said to represent the celestial palace of the Dragon King. These columns are surrounded by an array of intricate carvings that depict dragons, elephants, and other fantastical creatures from the legend.At the back of the cave lies a series of reflective ponds. In these tranquil waters, it is said that the sounds of ancient drums can still be heard when the wind blows through the rocks, creating an eerie and mesmerizing soundscape. The cave’s unique combination of natural beauty and mythological significance makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring Halong Bay. Halong Bay day tripThien Cung Cave stands out as one of the most impressive and easily accessible attractions in Halong Bay. If you want to explore this cave, don’t hesitate to contact Halong Bay Cruise Trip now to plan your trip to this place!

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Bai Tu Long Bay

Bai Tu Long Bay

Accounting for three-quarters of the famous Halong Bay UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bai Tu Long Bay is a hidden bay that draws tourists from all over with its untouched beauty. In comparison to Halong Bay, it's still clean, not overly crowded, and incredibly charming. When you cruise through the bay, it feels like you've found paradise on Earth.[incredible_toc]With its fantastic marine eco-tours and breathtaking beaches, Bai Tu Long Bay is a dream come true for beach lovers. Halong Bay Cruise Trip will tell you why it is worth doing a Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise!1. The legend of Bai Tu Long BayLegend has it that Mother Dragon and her Child Dragon were sent from the heavens to safeguard Vietnam from foreign invaders. These amazing creatures sprinkled numerous pearls into the sea, creating an unbreachable wall of limestone that stopped the invaders in their tracks. After their triumph, the dragons were so captivated by the stunning scenery and the warmth of the Vietnamese people that they chose to stay on earth instead of returning to heaven.The place where Mother Dragon touched down became known as Halong Bay, while the spot where Child Dragon settled became Bai Tu Long Bay. This enchanting tale adds an aura of magic and intrigue to the bay's rocky islands and captivating green waters of Bai Tu Long Bay.Bai Tu Long Bay Overview2. Things to See & Do in Bai Tu Long BayBai Tu Long Bay Vietnam still maintains its pristine and beautiful natural landscape to this day. When you take a cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay, you'll be amazed by the white sandy beaches, the unique shapes of the islands, and the fresh atmosphere. You can also enjoy views of mangroves stretching out, and may even spot clams and shells on the sand.Some must-see spots include Cong Dam Floating Village, Thien Canh Son Cave, Cong Do Area, Cong Dam Area, Vong Vieng, Da Xep Park, and Tra Gioi Beach. Additionally, you can explore some of the largest and most developed islands like Quan Lan, Ngoc Vung, Cong Dong, and Cong Tay. These islands have beautiful beaches that are perfect for relaxing and soaking up the tranquil atmosphere.Islands in Bai Tu Long Bay3. Things to Do in Bai Tu Long Bay3.1. Hiking in Bai Tu Long BayA visit to Bai Tu Long National Park is an absolute must. It’s one of only seven amphibious national parks in Vietnam for a mix of both land and water-based ecosystems. Established in 2001, the park protects a variety of endangered species of birds, animals, and plants. Hiking here gives you a chance to appreciate both the natural beauty and the wildlife that call this area home.3.2. Kayaking in Bai Tu Long BayOne of the best ways to truly experience Bai Tu Long Bay is by kayaking. Paddling through the bay lets you get up close to the limestone karsts, Bai Tu Long Bay Cave and the quiet life of floating villages. Kayaking also offers access to more remote parts of the bay that larger boats can’t reach.Besides, you can hop on a bike and explore the dense forests on the islands. It’s an exciting and unique way to explore the natural wonders of Bai Tu Long.Thien Canh Son Cave3.3. Swimming in Bai Tu LongIf you’re into swimming or water sports, Bai Tu Long Bay is an ideal destination. The calm waters in Ban Chan Beach and the relatively low number of tourists compared to neighbouring Halong Bay make it perfect for swimming, relaxing, or even trying your hand at sunbathing.4. Weather in Bai Tu Long Bay Bai Tu Long Bay has two main seasons: a hot, humid summer and a cold, dry winter. The temperatures are from 15°C to 25°C, so you can visit any time of year. If you're into beaches and adventure, summer is great for swimming, kayaking, and other water activities in Bai Tu Long Bay luxury cruise. But if you want a more peaceful experience with fewer tourists, consider visiting in the winter. You can still enjoy the beautiful views without the crowds.Bai Tu Long Bay National Park5. Popular Bai Tu Long Bay ItineraryBai Tu Long Bay is suitable for travellers seeking to explore less touristy corners of Vietnam. In addition to the well-known Halong Bay Cruises, there are numerous Bai Tu Long Cruises available for your consideration. Below are popular itineraries for Bai Tu Long Bay, including 2-day-1-night and 3-day-2-night options.5.1. Bai Tu Long 2-day 1-night itineraryDAY 1: Hon Gai Harbour – Bai Tu Long – Thien Canh Son (L, D)07:30 – 08:00: Our van will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter for the drive to Hon Gai International Harbour.12:00 – 13:00: Board a traditional junk boat and start your journey towards Bai Tu Long Bay. Enjoy a welcome drink and safety briefing before setting sail.13:00 – 15:00: Relish a delicious lunch while cruising past the iconic limestone formations.15:15 – 18:00: Arrive at Thien Canh Son Cave for a guided exploration, followed by time at Hon Co Island to swim, kayak, or relax on the white sand beach.18:00 – 20:00: Enjoy dinner on board with fresh seafood, and relax under the stars as you cruise back.Bai Tu Long in SummerDAY 2: Cap La – Vung Vieng Fishing Village – Hon Gai (B, L)07:30 – 08:30: Start the day with breakfast and a serene view of Bai Tu Long Bay.08:30 – 09:30: Visit Vung Vieng Fishing Village by traditional rowboat and experience local life on the water.10:00 – 12:00: Return to the junk boat, check out, and enjoy lunch while cruising back to the harbour.14:00 – 17:30: On the way back to Hanoi, stop at Yen Duc Village for a traditional water puppet show performed by local artists.Swimming in Bai Tu Long Bay5.2. Bai Tu Long 3-day 2-night itineraryDAY 1: Hon Gai Harbour – Bai Tu Long – Cong Do (L, D)7.30 - 8.00: Our van will pick you up at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter and head towards Hon Gai International Harbour.12.00 - 12.30: Climb an ancient red-sail junk boat to your home for the next 2 nights. 12.30 - 13.00: Enjoy a welcome drink upon checking in and listening to a quick safety briefing.13.30 - 15.00: Take in the astounding rock pillar formations from the deck on the cruise to Bai Tu Long Bay while indulging in a succulent local lunch.15.00 - 17.30: We wind around the plethora of stunning limestone outcrops and head to the ancient Cap La Fishing Village and stunning Tra San Bay which can be explored via swimming or kayaking.17.45 - 19.00: We head back to the junk boat and freshen up for dinner.19.00 - 21.00: Eat a delicious seafood dinner as the night rolls in. Relax on the deck or in your cabin as we drop anchor in the serene Cong Do area for the night.Visit Bai Tu Long Bay local villageDAY 2: Cap La – Cong Dam – Thien Canh Son Cave (B, L, D)07.30 - 08.00: Take in the morning view of Cong Do with a cup of tea or coffee. A beautiful breakfast will be served in the newly formed shadows of the landscape.08.00- 10:00: The boat will start its cruise to Cong Dam in Bai Tu Long Bay along the rock-sided path.10:00: In the hidden lagoons and open air you can kayak around the stunning geological park of Cong Dam.12:00: We will rest on a hidden beach and enjoy a barbecue lunch.13:30: Climb back aboard as we start the cruise back to Cong Do.16:30: We arrive at Hon Co Island and walk to the well-concealed Thien Canh Son Cave for a thorough exploration of its peaceful interior.17:30: Head back to the boat for a well-earned drink as we cruise back to Cap La.19:00: Have dinner in the sanctity of Cap La as we drop anchor there for the night.DAY 3: Cap La – Vung Vieng Fishing Village – Hon Gai (B, L)06:45: Wake up on your final day to breakfast on board as we begin our cruise to the Vung Ha area of Halong Bay.08:00: We arrive at the remarkable Vung Vieng Fishing Village by rustic rowboat and discover a completely different way of life.10.00: We climb back aboard our junk boat one last time to check out of the cabins and set sail towards Hon Gai International Harbour with lunch.11:30 - 14.30: We disembark from the boat and begin our drive to Yen Duc Village, where local artists will display their craft in water puppetry.14.45 - 17.30: We arrive back in Hanoi for the end of the tour.Enjoying beach getaway in Bai Tu Long BaySo, if you want to get some experience like Halong Bay but an intimate one, you should consider booking a Bai Tu Long cruise. And Halong Bay Cruise Trip is here to assist with any request for a Bai Tu Long Bay tour with premium promotions and the best deals!

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Lan Ha Bay

Lan Ha Bay

Lan Ha Bay is part of the Halong Bay Complex, situated to the east of Cat Ba Island and to the south of Halong Bay. Getting from Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay by car or bus is easy. You can hop on a Lan Ha Bay cruise to explore this stunning area and take in the beauty of both Halong and Lan Ha Bay. [incredible_toc]Although Lan Ha Bay is actually in the Cat Ba Island area in Hai Phong, it's often mistaken as part of Halong Bay due to its similar landscape, featuring hundreds of islands. With around 400 large and small islands, Lan Ha Bay is a paradise for tourists for many activities like kayaking, swimming, and the option to stay overnight in this beautiful bay. So, is Lan Ha Bay the same as Halong Bay?  Halong Bay Cruise Trip will tell you what makes Lan Ha Bay special in this travel blog. Beautiful Lan Ha Bay 1. What to see in Lan Ha Bay? Lan Ha Bay is pretty special with over 300 limestone islands and a bunch of nice beaches. When cruising in Lan Ha Bay, you'll spot lots of hills with all sorts of shapes like Wooden Shoe Island and Bat Grotto. Moreover, you can check out about 139 lovely little sandy beaches so that tourists can love the islands with sandy beaches nestled among the stone mountains in this stunning bay. Islands in Lan Ha Bay2. What to do in Lan Ha Bay?2.1. Go swimming in Lan Ha BaySwimming in Lan Ha BayCalm and clean water of small beaches in Lan Ha Bay will be a good place for you to come and you can head to Monkey Island with its crystal-clear waters, or relax at the lesser-known Van Boi Con Island, where the serene environment makes it an ideal swimming spot.2.2. Do kayaking in Lan Ha BayWith its many secluded beaches and hundreds of small islands, Lan Ha Bay is a kayaking paradise. You can rent a kayak and explore the natural beauty of the bay, paddling through spots like Cai Beo Floating Village, the Van Boi Center, the serene Ba Trai Dao Area in Lan Ha Bay, or the picturesque Monkey Island. Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay2.3. Climb in Lan Ha BayFor adventure enthusiasts, in Lan Ha Bay there is rock climbing opportunities with the help of the International Rock Climbing Center. You can book either a half-day or full-day tour to climb some of the most thrilling cliffs in the area, such as those around Moose Island or Butterfly Valley.Cycling in Viet Hai Fishing Village2.4. Visit Viet Hai Fishing Village and Cai Beo Floating MarketTake a best luxury Lan Ha Bay cruise you will have a chance for visiting not only the bay but also the local life of Viet Hai Fishing Village and Cai Beo Floating Market. At the Cai Beo Floating Market, explore one of Vietnam's oldest floating markets, where you can observe the daily trade of fresh seafood and local goods.2.5. Stay at a Private Beach in Lan Ha BayThere are private Lan Ha Bay beaches where locals have built bungalows for overnight stays, such as Monkey Island Resort, Sandy Beach Resort, Castaway Bungalow, and Cove Beach Bungalow. You can book one of these bungalows and enjoy various Lan Ha Bay activities in the bay such as kayaking, swimming, and playing beach volleyball.3. Best Time to Visit Lan Ha Bay If you love swimming and kayaking, summer is the ideal season to visit Lan Ha Bay. Autumn is also a great option, especially if you plan to explore both Lan Ha Bay and nearby Cat Ba Island. However, be prepared for cooler temperatures and the possibility of storms during this season. At other times of the year, taking a Lan Ha Bay cruise can still be an enjoyable experience. Summer in Lan Ha Bay4. How to get to Lan Ha Bay?4.1. From the center of Cat Ba If you're already in Cat Ba, head to Ben Beo to buy a sightseeing ticket. From there, you can hire a boat to take you wherever you'd like to go in Lan Ha Bay. For a more local experience, you can rent a small boat from a local fisherman to explore the coastline and nearby spots.4.2. From Hanoi to Lan Ha BayBy local bus or private carGetting to Lan Ha Bay from Hanoi is pretty straightforward nowadays, thanks to the new highway connecting Hanoi and Hai Phong. A bus or private car ride takes about 2 hours to reach Got Ferry Port, where you'll catch a ferry to Cai Vieng Port and then drive straight to Cat Ba. Once you arrive in Cat Ba, booking a local boat to explore Lan Ha Bay is simple.By shuttle bus or private car with a luxury cruise packageIf you prefer a more luxurious experience, you can book a shuttle bus or private car with a cruise package. Many travelers now choose Lan Ha Bay over Halong Bay since the latter can get quite crowded with hundreds of cruises. In contrast, Lan Ha Bay offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. The cruise bus typically picks you up in Hanoi around 9:30 AM for a 2-hour drive to Got Ferry Port, where you'll hop onto a luxury Lan Ha Bay boat trip for an overnight (or two-night) trip. This is a hassle-free way to explore Lan Ha Bay, which, though part of Halong Bay, feels more secluded.If you don’t want to take the cruise bus, you can also opt for a private car from Hanoi. The car will take you directly to Got Ferry Port, where the cruise staff will greet you. The driver will wait for you to finish your cruise and then bring you back to Hanoi.5. Popular Lan Ha Bay Cruise Itinerary5.1. Lan Ha Bay 2 day 1 night Cruise DAY 1: Hanoi – Lan Ha Bay Cruise (L/D)09:00 – 09:30: Your day begins as our comfortable van picks you up from your hotel in Hanoi and transports you to Hai Phong.12:00: Arrival at the bay, where you'll board our luxury boat tour Lan Ha Bay. Upon boarding, you'll be welcomed with a refreshing drink and given a short safety briefing. After checking into your cabin, take some time to relax or head to the deck to admire the beautiful surroundings.13:15: Savor a special lunch featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies as we start our journey. As you dine, enjoy the views of the open sea. We'll then set sail for Lan Ha Bay, passing Da Chong Islet with its historic French-built lighthouse.15:00: Prepare to be amazed by the sight of over 300 limestone islands as we cruise through Lan Ha Bay. We’ll visit Ba Trai Dao Beach, where you can choose to explore via kayak or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.17:00: Return to the cruise and unwind before the evening festivities.17:30 – 18:30: Happy Hour kicks off at the bar with special offers on a variety of drinks.18:00: Join a complimentary Vietnamese cooking demonstration to learn how to make delicious local appetizers.19:15: Indulge in a Signature Dinner at our elegant restaurant.20:45 – 00:00: The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy. Sip exotic cocktails under the stars, relax with a spa treatment, or try squid fishing. Alternatively, you can head to the rooftop deck to soak in Lan Ha Bay at night. Do kayak in Lan Ha BayDAY 2: Lan Ha Bay Cruise - Dark & Bright Cave – Ha Long Bay - Hanoi (B/Br)06:30: Mornings on Lan Ha Bay are simply magical. Start your day with Tai Chi on the top deck or relax with a cup of tea or coffee while admiring the sunrise.07:00: Enjoy a light breakfast of pastries and beverages.07:30 – 09:15: Explore the Lan Ha Bay Dark and Bright Caves on traditional rowing boats, guided by local boatmen. Witness the stunning natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.09:30: Return to the cruise, pack up, and check out. After an early brunch, say your farewells to the crew at 11:30. A transfer boat will take you back to the mainland, where you'll catch the bus returning to Hanoi. Do Tai Chi on cruise5.2. Lan Ha 3 day 2-night CruiseDAY 1: Hanoi – Lan Ha Bay Cruise (L/ D)09:00 – 09:30: Our van picks you up from your Hanoi hotel and drives you to Lan Ha Boat Harbour.12:00: Upon arrival, board our luxury cruise ship. Enjoy a complimentary welcome drink as the crew introduces themselves and provides a brief safety overview. Once checked in, take some time to explore the ship and enjoy the stunning scenery.13:15: Dive into a delightful lunch showcasing local cuisine, including freshly caught seafood. We'll then sail towards Lan Ha Bay, passing the historic French lighthouse on Da Chong Islet.15:00: As we journey through the Cua Van Area into Lan Ha Bay, marvel at the surrounding limestone formations. You'll have the chance to explore Ba Trai Dao Beach by kayak or take a swim in the bay's clear waters.17:00: Return to the cruise ship and prepare to anchor for the night.17:30 – 18:30: Enjoy Happy Hour at the bar with two-for-one drink specials.18:00: Participate in a Vietnamese cooking class, learning to make tasty local appetizers.19:15: Sit down for a delicious Signature Dinner at our onboard restaurant.20:45 – 00:00: Spend your evening as you wish. Try squid fishing, enjoy a spa treatment, or relax with a cocktail at the bar.DAY 2: Lan Ha Bay Cruise - Viet Hai Village - Ba Ham Lake (B/L/D)06:30: Rise early for a Tai Chi session on the upper deck, soaking in the serene atmosphere of Lan Ha Bay at sunrise.08:00: Indulge in a buffet breakfast with various beverages.09:00: Transfer to our day cruiser for a trip to Viet Hai Village. Enjoy an easy bike ride (or an electric car ride for an additional fee) through beautiful rice paddies and lush rainforest. Experience village life as you explore the traditional homes of Viet Hai.12:00: Return to the boat for a set menu lunch.13:45: Choose to kayak or swim around Ba Ham Lake, a tranquil spot surrounded by towering cliffs.16:00: Back on board, take some time to relax or freshen up as we cruise towards our overnight area.17:30 – 18:30: Another Happy Hour awaits at the bar.18:00: Join a demonstration on how to make Nem Ran, traditional Vietnamese spring rolls.19:15: Enjoy a special dinner featuring a selection of local dishes.20:45 – 00:00: End your evening with a movie night, board games, or another visit to the bar for drinks. Cycling to explore Viet Hai VillageDAY 3: Lan Ha Bay Cruise Dark And Bright Cave – Ha Long Bay - Hanoi (B/Br)06:30: Kick off the day with a Tai Chi session or a stroll around the deck in the morning sunlight.07:00 – 09:15: After a light breakfast, head out on a local rowing boat to explore the stunning Dark and Bright Caves.09:30: Return to the main cruise, pack up, and get ready to disembark. After a farewell brunch, you’ll board the bus around noon to make the journey back to Hanoi. Kayaking to caves in Lan Ha BayWith all the information above from Lan Ha Bay blog, I hope Lan Ha Bay has captured your interest for your next adventure. If you're ready to explore its beauty, contact Halong Bay Cruise Trip to book your Lan Ha Bay tours today and make the most of your holiday!

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