Lan Ha Bay Cruises

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Lan Ha Bay, located in the south of Ha Long Bay, is a hidden treasure with spectacular natural beauty and sandy beach. The bay, unlike its more famous neighbor Halong Bay, is less congested and provides a calm getaway from the rush and bustle of city life. Taking a cruise is one of the greatest ways to explore this amazing area.
However, choosing the ideal Lan Ha Bay cruise might be difficult with plenty of options. We’ve put up a complete guide to Lan Ha Bay and the best cruises in their range to help you arrange your perfect trip.

9.8 Excellent | 4 reviews

(4 customer reviews)
Highlights

Boutique Steel Boat sailing less touristy route!

Cozy rooms with private balcony and bathtub

Outdoor Swimming Pool with Bay View

Hot Summer 22% OFF
from US
$185
$145 /pp

9.7 Excellent | 1 reviews

(1 customer review)
Highlights

Vintage design with wooden interiors

Each room features private balconies

Exceptional service

Hot Summer 25% OFF
from US
$180
$135 /pp

9.8 Excellent | 43 reviews

(43 customer reviews)
Highlights

Travel both Halong Bay and Lan Ha bay

38m2 cabins with private balcony

Excellent services

Hot Summer 54% OFF
from US
$325
$150 /pp

9.7 Excellent | 3 reviews

(3 customer reviews)
Highlights

Elegant cabins and public areas furnished with natural wood

All cabins offer a luxury bathtub and a private balcony

24/7 front desk for help and privacy.

Hot Summer 19% OFF
from US
$180
$145 /pp

9.7 Excellent | 11 reviews

(11 customer reviews)
Highlights

The only cruise featuring a floating water slide on the sea

Each room features a modern Indochine style

World-class event services: From wedding to corporate parties

Hot Summer 27% OFF
from US
$295
$215 /pp

9.7 Excellent | 6 reviews

(6 customer reviews)
Highlights

Inspired by the legendary “King of Ships” Bach Thai Buoi

Cabins with soft lighting and intricate vintage paintings

Private balcony in all cabins

Hot Summer 31% OFF
from US
$295
$205 /pp

Why taking a Lan Ha Bay Cruise? 

 

 

 

It’s less touristy

 

Halong Bay and its extension, Lan Ha Bay, are both popular tourist sites in Vietnam. While they share many characteristics, Lan Ha Bay is growing in popularity among travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience. The bay, which is usually overshadowed by its neighbor Halong Bay, attracts fewer tourists each year.

As a results, travel with a Lan Ha Bay cruise allow you to fully immersed in nature and enjoy numerous activities such as swimming, tai chi, kayaking, and attend cooking class without worrying about the crowded.

 

Lan Ha Bay Cruises are newer

 

Lan Ha Bay has only recently gained popularity. That’s why, the cruises that travel the Lan Ha routes are entirely new. These cruises are large and luxurious, with modern facilities like air conditioning, private toilets, and Wi-Fi. One unique feature that most Lan Ha Bay cruises provide is a private balcony, allowing you to completely enjoy the breathtaking views without leaving your cabin.

Not only that, but the cruise crew is pleasant and professional, ensuring that your time on board is nothing short of extraordinary.

 

Travel to destinations others can’t

 

Lan Ha Bay, offers destinations that other routes do not. Traveling on a Lan Ha Bay Cruise, you can do kayaking on famous Dark and Bright Cave, swim at Ba Trai Dao Beach, or simply ride a bicycle around Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island.

You’re also could find plenty of cultural activities during a Lan Ha Bay Cruise. Visit fishing village or learning about daily local life at floating village are just some of many.

There’re also some hidden gems likes Ao Ech area or Trung Trang Cave. However, not many cruises have these on their schedules, so make sure to check with your operators.

 

 

Q&As

Often overshadowed by Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay is a hidden gem that offers equally stunning scenery. Cruising in Lan Ha provides a more authentic and less touristy atmosphere compared to its famous neighbor.

a-cruise-in-Lan-Ha-Bay
 

Besides, since new cruises are no longer permitted to operate in Halong Bay, most operators now choose Lan Ha Bay to launch their new boats. As a result, Lan Ha cruises tend to be newer, more modern, and equipped with better amenities. Most cabins on these cruises have private balconies.


Thanks to a lower entrance fee, Lan Ha Bay cruises also offer better pricing compared to similar-quality boats in Halong Bay—making it a great option if you're looking to save money without compromising on experience.

sundeck-in-a-luxurious-suite-of-Lan-Ha-Bay-Cruise
 

Lan Ha Bay Cruise prices vary based on factors like facilities, travel time, and cruise duration. They can be grouped into 3 price categories:

Luxury
Starting from $150 USD per person per night, luxury cruises feature modern designs, private balconies, en-suite bathrooms, and extra amenities like panoramic pools, spas, golf courses, or movie theaters.
Recommended options: Grand Pioneers Cruise (one of the top 5-star yachts) and Scarlet Pearl Cruises (renowned for 5-star service and boutique style).

Mid-Range
For a comfortable yet budget-friendly experience, choose a mid-range cruise priced between $130–$150 USD per person per night. These cruises may be smaller but still offer spacious rooms with balconies, full amenities, and quality dining.

Recommended options: Dragon Bay Premium Cruise, Le Journey Elegance Cruise

Budget
Budget cruises are under $130 USD per person and offer essential amenities for a pleasant trip. Consider Le Journey Luxury Cruise or Calypso Cruise.

Dark and Bright Caves
This dual-cave system can only be accessed by kayak due to its narrow entrances and shallow water. Kayaking allows you to explore every corner and fully appreciate the natural beauty within.
Tra Bau Area
Located in the heart of Lan Ha Bay, Tra Bau is a floating village hidden behind towering stone islets. It's a perfect calm waters for kayaking or taking a bamboo boat to discover hidden lagoons and caves.
Cat Ba Island
The largest island in the bay, Cat Ba offers a chance to explore Vietnam’s biodiversity, with over 3,000 species of terrestrial and marine flora and fauna, many of which are protected in the island’s national park.
Viet Hai Village
On the second day of many cruises, you’ll visit Viet Hai Village, where you can meet locals and hear fascinating stories about their culture and way of life. The village offer various activities, including: sightseeing by electric car, biking, fish massage, etc.

Lan Ha Bay cruises offer a wide variety of activities both onboard and in the bay’s emerald waters.
Onboard, most cruises host cooking classes where you can learn to make Vietnamese dishes and enjoy your creations. Some cruises also feature fashion shows during dinner. For fitness lovers, don’t miss early morning Tai Chi or Vovinam (Vietnamese martial arts) sessions at sunrise.

Swimming-in-Lan-Ha-Bay
Water activities are a must-do. You can swim, kayak, leap from the cruise deck, or take a sampan boat ride through the limestone karsts.

Lan Ha Bay cruises offer two itinerary options: 2 days 1 night or 3 days 2 nights.

2 Days 1 Night

If you're on a tight schedule, the 2-day 1-night Lan Ha Bay cruise is a great choice. You'll spend 24 hours onboard, with check-in around noon on the first day and check-out at 11:00 am on the second day.

Day 1
From 12:00 to 12:30, check in at Tuan Chau Marina. The cruise departs around 13:15 and sails to Lan Ha Bay. During this time, you can enjoy a buffet lunch while admiring the stunning landscape.
After nearly two hours of sailing, the cruise will anchor in the Tra Bau area. You'll then have time to swim, kayak, or simply enjoy onboard facilities like the spa, gym, or sky bar.

Around 17:00 is typically "Golden Hour," when you can enjoy a special cocktail from the sky bar and relax. Dinner is served at 19:00, followed by optional evening activities onboard.

Day 2
Start your day at 6:30 am with a Tai Chi session on the deck. A buffet breakfast is served at 7:30 am.


After breakfast, most cruises visit the Dark and Bright Caves, where you’ll have an hour to explore by kayak. After returning to the cruise, check out, settle your bill, and enjoy an early lunch before heading back to the marina at 11:00.

3 Days 2 Nights

A 3-day, 2-night Lan Ha Bay cruise offers more time to explore the core of the bay, including destinations like Cat Ba Island. You’ll also enjoy additional activities like biking, hiking, or visiting secluded beaches.

Day 1
The itinerary begins at noon with check-in at Tuan Chau Marina. The cruise departs at 13:15, heading to Lan Ha Bay as you enjoy lunch onboard.


At 15:00, the cruise anchors in calm waters where you can swim, kayak, or relax in the jacuzzi. After about 90 minutes, return to the cruise for “Golden Hour” cocktails. Dinner is served at 19:00, followed by onboard activities and an overnight stay.

Day 2
Start your day early with a Tai Chi session at 5:30 am, followed by a light breakfast at 6:30 am.


From 8:30 to 8:45, disembark for a day boat trip to Cat Ba Island.

At 10:00, you'll arrive at Viet Hai Village for a 5-kilometer bike tour to explore the island’s natural beauty. The locals are friendly and happy to share stories about their lives. If you prefer, you can opt for an electric car instead of biking.


Return to the day cruise for a buffet lunch, then head to Ba Trai Dao Beach for swimming.


At 16:30, return to the main cruise and join a cooking class on the sundeck, where a chef will teach you to make traditional Vietnamese dishes like spring rolls. Dinner is served at 19:00, and the night is yours to enjoy.

Day 3
On your final day, explore the hidden beauty of the Dark and Bright Caves by kayak, after Tai Chi and breakfast between 5:30 and 6:30 am.


At 8:30, return to the cruise, check out, enjoy brunch, and head back to Tuan Chau Marina, ending the tour at 11:00.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Halong Bay cruise better than Lan Ha Bay cruise?

No—it depends on your travel style. Lan Ha is less crowded and more peaceful, giving you more privacy and better cruise quality. Halong Bay, as a major tourist spot, offers more activities and attractions.

Find out more in our detailed guide here

How do I get to the cruise?

Normally, Lan Ha Bay Cruise operators offers a package with transfer from Hanoi included. These transfers will pick you up from your hotel and take you back later on. 

Please kindly reference our complete guide about getting to Lan Ha Bay here: https://cruiseinhalongbay.com/before-you-go/hanoi-to-lan-ha-bay/

When is the best time to cruise Lan Ha Bay?

Lan Ha Bay shares similar weather patterns with Halong Bay. The best times to visit are from February to April or October to December when the weather is stable and ideal for outdoor activities.

Can I swim in Lan Ha Bay?

Yes, swimming is allowed. All the cruises include swim stops at beaches like the Tra Bau or Ba Trai Dao.

Can I bring my own drinks on board?
No you can't. The cruise don't allow you to bring your own drinks on board, especially plastic bottle. There'll be daily bottle of water for free, and others drinks will be charged.
What's the cheapest Lan Ha Bay cruise?

The cheapest Lan Ha Bay cruise is Le Journey Luxury Cruise. The cost for 2 days 1 night itinerary is only from 120usd per person and 2 nights trip is start from 240USD per person. 

These rates are included all meals board, activities and rooms.

What should I pack for Lan Ha Bay Cruise?

When packing for a Lan Ha Bay Cruise, the most important items to bring are comfortable clothing, swimwear, and sunscreen. If you travel during winter months (November to Feb), you may also need to pack a light jacket or sweater to keep warm during cooler evenings.

 Typically, each cruise provides 1 – 2 bottles of water for free every day, and you will not be allowed to bring your own drinks. So, if you want to stay hydrated, bring some money (the drinks on board are a little pricy).

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