Cat Ba Island
1 day
AH-HP02
5/10
$84 USD
WHY THIS TOUR?

This tour offers the ultimate way to discover Lan Ha Bay. Designed as an active, immersive journey, it seamlessly combines the region's premier highlights into a single, seamless itinerary.

Your adventure begins at Beo Wharf, where you will kayak into the very heart of the bay. You will paddle through the tranquil waters of Van Boi before venturing into a secluded lagoon accessible exclusively by kayak. From there, the journey continues to the pristine, white-sand beaches of Ba Trai Dao—one of Lan Ha Bay’s most iconic spots for a refreshing swim.

With a dedicated support boat accompanying the group throughout the day, a fresh lunch served on board, and plenty of time for swimming and scenic photography, this tour strikes the perfect balance between thrilling outdoor adventure, relaxation, and spectacular limestone-and-sea scenery.

Highlights

  • Paddling across Lan Ha Bay to Ba Trai Dao Lagoon
  • Swimming at Ba Trai Dao's pristine beaches
  • Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch served on board your dedicated support boat

 

SUMMARY
  • Start / Finish Point: Cat Ba Town

  • Duration: 1 day

  • Destination: Cat Ba Island

  • Group Size : 2 - 20 pax

  • Best Season: Year-round

  • Difficulty level: 5/10

  • Activities: Kayaking

ITINERARY
Beo Wharf - Lan Ha Bay - Ba Trai Dao Lagoon - Beo Wharf

08:30 Meet your tour guide at Beo Wharf and board the boat to head out into the breathtaking waters of Lan Ha Bay. The vessel will anchor near a scenic beach or a local floating house, where you will gear up for the day's adventure. After a comprehensive safety briefing, putting on life jackets, and receiving your equipment, you will have plenty of time to get comfortable with your kayak.

09:00 Begin paddling toward Van Boi, the serene heart of Lan Ha Bay. Here, you will glide past spectacular limestone karsts and discover charming, pocket-sized beaches tucked beneath the cliffs. The journey takes you deep into a hidden, secluded lagoon—a peaceful sanctuary surrounded by towering rock walls that can only be reached by kayak.

10:30 Continue your active route, paddling across the bay toward Ba Trai Dao. Along the way, we will make a few short stops to rest, float, and capture incredible scenic photos. Around midday, arrive at the iconic Ba Trai Dao area, famous for its cluster of picturesque, white-sand beaches.

12:00 Step onto the support boat to relax and enjoy a delicious, freshly prepared seafood lunch while surrounded by the stunning limestone-and-sea scenery.

13:30 Launch back into the water to explore the pristine beaches, hidden coves, and unique rock formations around Ba Trai Dao. You will have ample time to swim to your heart's content in the crystal-clear waters or simply relax on a secluded shoreline.

15:30 Board the main boat for a relaxing cruise back to the island, taking in the final views of the bay. The program concludes as we arrive back at Beo Wharf.

* Approx. Duration: Boating 20 mins/ Kayaking & swimming 4 hrs/ Lunch break 1 hr

* Meal included: Lunch 

 

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

Inclusion:

  • Transfer vehicle: Hotel - Beo Wharf - Hotel
  • Support boat
  • English speakig tourguide
  • Sit-on-top kayak
  • Lunch
  • Drinking water 
  • Entrance fees & tickets
  • Domestic travel insurance 

Exclusion:

  • Additional food and beverages not stated in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses
  • Transportation fee before and after the trip
  • Tips
THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

Equipment provided by VAH:

  • Sit on top kayak
  • Life jacket
  • Dry bag
  • First-aid kit. 

What to bring: 

  • Water shoes 
  • Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
  • Rash guard for kayaking & swimming
  • Electronics: Mobile phone, camera, power bank, ...
  • Personal medications
  • Reusable water bottle
  • ID or Passport

Also recommended:

  • Sunscreen
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Pocket knife or multi-tool
IMPORTANT NOTES

1.  Kayaking Notes

  • Distance: Approximately 6 to 7 km in total.
  • Terrain & Scenery: Paddlers will cross a stunning bay with clear, cool blue waters, dotted with dramatic limestone karsts and pristine white sandy beaches perfect for resting, relaxing, and swimming. 
  • Suitability: The water is generally calm and the distance is highly manageable, making it accessible even for those with little or no prior kayaking experience. Families are welcome, children from 6 to 10 years old are eligible to participate.

2. Responsible Travel & Environmental Protection

  • Leave No Trace: We strictly follow and promote the Leave No Trace principles in all our outdoor programs. We encourage our guests and partners to apply these ethics to minimize our impact on the natural environment. [See details about Leave No Trace here]
  • Reduce Plastic Waste: To limit single-use plastics, we encourage everyone to bring a reusable Reusable bottle (minimum 1L capacity). Refill stations will be provided throughout the trip.
  • Local Regulations: We kindly ask all guests to comply with the specific environmental regulations and instructions provided by our guides at the destination.

3. Health & Safety

  • Medical Considerations: Your safety is our priority. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions or chronic joint issues (knees, ankles, shoulders, etc.), please consult with your doctor before booking this trip.
  • Physical fitness: Train by running or kayaking/SUP at least two weeks in advance. Run 2–3 sessions per week, about 5 km per session. Alternatively, paddle 2–3 sessions per week, covering 5–7 km per session.
  • Transparency: Please inform our tour guide of any existing health conditions or allergies at the start of the journey so we can support you best