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Top 10 Best Lan Ha Bay Cruises 2025 for Luxury Overnight & Day Trips



Lan Ha Bay Cruises - Experience Serene Beauty

In recent years, Lan Ha Bay has emerged as a trending cruise destination, attracting visitors with its new cruise options and natural beauty. While Halong Bay is famous for its stunning limestone formations and bustling tourism, Lan Ha Bay offers a more intimate and less commercialized experience.

With its emerald waters, hidden beaches, and rich ecosystem both on land and underwater, the bay’s perfect for kayaking, swimming, and exploring. For those seeking tranquility, breathtaking scenery, and an escape from the crowds, a cruise through Lan Ha Bay is the ideal getaway.

About Lan Ha Bay cruise

Combining luxury services with exciting activities, cruises on Lan Ha Bay offer visitors an unforgettable journey through its breathtaking natural beauty. Currently, BestPrice offers over 25 routes to Lan Ha Bay, featuring ships launched between 2019 and 2023. The fleet includes modern yachts and traditional junk boats, providing a perfect blend of contemporary luxury and classic charm.

The itineraries are diverse, ranging from 1-day tours to multi-day trips lasting 2, 3, or even 4 days. Moreover, 95% of the cruises meet 4-5 star standards, offering luxurious amenities such as outdoor swimming pools, gyms, and upscale bars, ensuring an extraordinary and unforgettable experience for all passengers.

Sailing through majestic Lan Ha Bay on a luxury cruise brings a lifetime experience.

Sailing through majestic Lan Ha Bay on a luxury cruise brings a lifetime experience.

About Lan Ha Bay

  • Lan Ha Bay stands out with its pristine beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and fewer crowds compared to Halong Bay.
  • Lan Ha Bay is located to the east of Cat Ba Island, about 30 km from Hai Phong City and 20 km south of Halong Bay.
  • Covering approximately 70 km², Lan Ha Bay has a crescent shape, surrounded by over 400 large and small islands.
  • Must-visit destinations: Dark & Bright Cave, Ao Ech Area, Viet Hai Village, Ba Trai Dao Islet.

4 reasons to choose a Lan Ha Bay cruise

A tranquil route with less crowded destinations

Unlike the bustling Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for those seeking an intimate and relaxing escape. With fewer tourists, the bay and its cruises provide a calm and private experience, ideal for those who wish to stay overnight or for an extended period. The quieter surroundings ensure a more personal connection to nature, far from the crowds.

Lan Ha Bay offers a less-crowded alternative to Halong, providing an intimate experience.

Lan Ha Bay offers a less-crowded alternative to Halong, providing an intimate experience.

The only route that combines visits to Cat Ba Island

Many itineraries not only explore Lan Ha Bay but also venture to Cat Ba Island, famous for its stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife. The island offers a wealth of unique attractions, including Viet Hai Village, Trung Trang Cave, and Cat Ba National Park. This allows visitors to explore local communities, enjoy the natural beauty, and immerse themselves in a truly authentic experience.

Cycling through stunning landscapes in Viet Hai Village for an immersive experience

Cycling through stunning landscapes in Viet Hai Village for an immersive experience

Diverse activities off and on board

Lan Ha Bay, with over 400 islands, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters, rivals Halong Bay in its scenic beauty, offering plenty of opportunities for kayaking and swimming. Additionally, being close to Cat Ba Island opens up even more possibilities, such as cycling through lush forests, exploring caves, or visiting local villages. 

Besides, the variety of entertaining activities onboard ensures an engaging adventure for every traveler.

Join a speed boat excursion to unspoiled areas of Lan Ha Bay

Join a speed boat excursion to unspoiled areas of Lan Ha Bay

New fleet with 4 - 5-star amenities

Lan Ha Bay's cruise fleet is mostly new, with ships launched from 2019 onward, guaranteeing modern interiors and well-maintained vessels in excellent condition. Moreover, many of the cruises offer 4- and 5-star services, including outdoor swimming pools, mini golf, gyms, fine dining, and upscale bars. With these luxury amenities, your cruise experience will be not only comfortable but truly exceptional.

5-star amenities ensure an exceptional experience on the Lan Ha Bay luxury cruise.

5-star amenities ensure an exceptional experience on the Lan Ha Bay luxury cruise.

Cruise Itinerary & Places to visit

The Lan Ha Bay cruise itineraries are diverse, typically ranging from 1 to 3 days, catering to the preferences of various types of travelers. In addition, there are also 4-day, 3-night options for those who wish to experience more and explore the beauty of the bay, and its smaller islands, and enjoy the exciting activities available.

Throughout the journey, guests will have the opportunity to participate in numerous fun and engaging activities, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural beauty of the region. Whether it's kayaking through emerald waters, visiting secluded beaches, or discovering hidden caves, the activities are designed to showcase the best of Lan Ha Bay.

Itinerary Highlight Attractions
1 day (6 - 8 hours) Dark & Bright Caves
2 days 1 night (24 hours) Route 1: Tra Bau Area - Trung Trang Cave Route 2: Ao Ech Area - Dark & Bright Caves
3 days 2 nights  (48 hours) Viet Hai Village - Ba Trai Dao Beach  (adds on the 2D1N attractions)

Places to visit on different Lan Ha Bay cruise itineraries

Places to visit on different Lan Ha Bay cruise itineraries

When you embark on a Lan Ha Bay cruise, you will visit some of the most iconic destinations the bay has to offer. Here are the highlights you will experience.

Dark and Bright Cave

The Dark and Bright Caves in Lan Ha Bay are a must-see, offering an unforgettable adventure accessible by kayak or bamboo boat. As you paddle through narrow passages, you’ll be surrounded by stunning stalactites, gradually leading you into a peaceful lagoon. The journey offers breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility, immersing you in the bay’s pristine natural beauty.

Join kayaking and bamboo boat to admire the beautiful water cave

Join kayaking and bamboo boat to admire the beautiful water cave

Viet Hai Village

Viet Hai Village, located within Cat Ba National Park, offers a peaceful retreat into local life. Surrounded by lush greenery, visitors can cycle through stunning landscapes to reach this charming village. Here, you can explore traditional homes, experience authentic rural life, and even enjoy a refreshing fish massage. Viet Hai Village provides a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation.

Cycle through off-the-beaten-path in Viet Hai Village

Cycle through off-the-beaten-path in Viet Hai Village

Ba Trai Dao Beach

Ba Trai Dao Beach is a peaceful and less-crowded spot known for its clear waters and stunning limestone cliffs. The beach is named after three small islands nearby that resemble peaches. It's a perfect place to relax, swim, and snorkel, offering a quieter alternative to busier beaches. Accessible by Lan Ha Bay cruises, Ba Trai Dao’s natural beauty makes it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the tranquil charm of the bay.

Ba Trai Dao Beach has a calm atmosphere and picturesque beauty.

Ba Trai Dao Beach has a calm atmosphere and picturesque beauty.

Tra Bau

Tra Bau is a serene area in Lan Ha Bay, known for its calm waters, lush greenery, and limestone karsts. Ideal for kayaking, swimming, and other water sports, it offers a peaceful escape from busier parts of the bay. The area’s natural beauty and relatively untouched environment make it perfect for nature lovers. With its stunning landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, Tra Bau is a great destination for those seeking adventure or relaxation.

Tra Bau is perfect for kayaking, swimming, and enjoying nature.

Tra Bau is perfect for kayaking, swimming, and enjoying nature.

Trung Trang Cave

Trung Trang Cave, located in Cat Ba Island near Lan Ha Bay, is a stunning natural wonder known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The cave stretches over 300 meters and features an expansive interior with unique rock formations. Visitors can explore the cave on a guided tour, marveling at the intricate patterns formed by thousands of years of natural processes. Surrounded by lush forests, Trung Trang Cave offers a blend of adventure and beauty, making it a must-visit for those touring Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay.

Trung Trang Cave offers visitors an adventurous and scenic experience.

Trung Trang Cave offers visitors an adventurous and scenic experience.

How to get to Lan Ha Bay Cruise

Most cruises to Lan Ha Bay depart from Tuan Chau Cruise Port, Halong City.

From Hanoi

For BestPrice Travel customers, the company offers pick-up and drop-off services by luxury shuttle bus or private car from hotels in Hanoi's Old Quarter to the port, with the following costs:

Transportation Price Duration
Shuttle bus (round trip) US $40/person 2.5 hours
Private car (round trip) US $178/person  

From Halong City

For tourists currently staying in Halong City, local taxis are recommended for a quick transfer from the city center to the cruise port, which is just a 5 -10-minute drive away. The price for a one-way taxi ride is approximately US $4 - $4.5.

Choosing your Lan Ha Bay Cruise and Prices update

You can discover the following cruises at BestPrice that take you through the stunning Lan Ha Bay:

Cruise Why Choose Price
Sena Cruise 4* Best for Budget Travellers US $142/ pax
Peony Cruise 4* Top 4-star Cruise in Lan Ha Bay US $159/ pax
Paradise Grand Cruise 5* Outstanding luxury service US $170/ pax
Ambassador Signature 5* Action-packed itinerary US $174/ pax
Mon Cheri Cruise 5* Best Cruise for Relaxation and Wellness US $175/ pax
Orchid Classic Cruise 5* Perfect Blend of Calm and Adventure US $189/ pax
Indochine Premium 5* Luxury Cruise with Modern Facilities US $197/ pax
Heritage Binh Chuan 5* Best Cruise to Explore Vietnamese Culture and Beauty US $208/ pax
Capella Cruise 5* Diverse Onboard Entertainment Options US $222/ pax
Elite of The Sea 5* Top-tier services and unique itineraries US $333/ pax

Note: All price quotes reference 1 person sharing in a double/ twin cabin. The exact price is based on availability and the season.

Overall, choosing Lan Ha Bay is a perfect alternative to the classic Halong Bay route. To book a cruise, please opt for one of our top recommendations and send us an email with your request, and our travel adviser will assist you with booking.

Lan Ha Bay Cruise Reviews 2024

BestPrice rates the Lan Ha Bay cruise as one of the top choices for travelers looking to explore the stunning natural beauty and enjoy exciting activities. Consider the following pros and cons of Lan Ha Bay cruises:

Pros Cons
  • Less Touristy
Compared to Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay attracts fewer tourists, giving a more peaceful and authentic experience.
  • Secluded Beaches
Lan Ha Bay is home to some beautiful, quieter beaches like Bai Trai Dao, which are perfect for relaxing away from the hustle and bustle of other tourist hotspots.
  • Variety of Activities
The Lan Ha Bay Cruises often include activities like kayaking, swimming, visiting floating villages, fishing, and hiking to viewpoints, offering a diverse experience.
  • Higher Price Range
Most Lan Ha Bay Cruises are 4- and 5-star, which means the price range tends to stay in the premium bracket. This can make it less affordable for travelers on a budget, with limited 3-star options available.

Overall, Lan Ha Bay is an outstanding choice for anyone eager to discover breathtaking natural beauty and enjoy a variety of thrilling activities. With its untouched landscapes and top-notch services, Lan Ha Bay cruises offer an unforgettable experience, providing moments of relaxation and awe-inspiring views.

TripAdvisor highly recommends this route for travelers who want to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in tranquility. Whether it's kayaking through crystal-clear waters, exploring mysterious caves, or visiting charming fishing villages, the range of activities on offer ensures that even the most discerning guests will be thoroughly impressed. If you're seeking a serene and enriching experience, Lan Ha Bay is truly the perfect destination.

FAQs

It is definitely worth visiting Lan Ha Bay thanks to its stunning beaches and one-of-a-kind rock formations.

There are 3 main reasons you should do a cruise in Lan Ha.

  • Less touristy: Unlike the famous Halong Bay, Lan Ha reserves more unspoiled beaches and isolated islands.
  • Luxury services: Most cruise ships are brand new and provide high-end services and facilities at 4- to 5-star standards.
  • Cat Ba Island discovery: It is the greatest way to discover Ha Long Bay-Cat Ba Archipelago on a single cruise tour.

Based on service quality, cruise program, and budget, we have selected and hand-picked the best Lan Ha Bay cruises in 2024 for different travel styles.

Cruise Price per pax Why book
Mon Cheri From US $175 Best seller with great deals & services
Orchid Classic From US $186 Best value with traditional junk style
Scarlet Pearl From US $175 Best luxury modern ship
Peony From US $153 Top favorite 4-star ship
Capella From US $218 Best entertaining cruise

For more details, please contact our travel consultant to plan your wonderful trip.

The average Lan Ha Bay cruise prices vary depending on services, facilities, and prices included.

  • 2 days 1 night: US $140 - 218 per pax
  • 3 days 2 nights: US $246 - 500 per pax
  • 1 day: US $91 - 129 per pax

You can choose your preferred cruise then put your duration, start date, and the number of persons. Click "check rate" to see the final price for your trip.

Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay both offer breathtaking karst formations and stunning islets. However, each bay features its own characteristics.

While Lan Ha is perfect for high-end travelers and vibrant trips, Bai Tu Long would be ideal for off-the-beaten-path and tranquility seekers.

Lan Ha

Bai Tu Long

Availability

Plenty of options

Most modern ships

 

Fewer choices

Most junk boats

Facilities

Luxurious facilities: poker, live kitchen, spa, fitness, mini golf, etc.

 

Old-fashioned furniture: bar, restaurant, and jacuzzi

Cruise price

From US $140 - $300/pax

 

From US $123 - $198/pax

So based on your preference, you can decide on either Bai Tu Long or Lan Ha Bay.

Right next to each other in the bay complex, both Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay feature hundreds of islets, limestone caves, and fishing villages. Nevertheless, here are the key differences between the two bays.

Lan Ha

Halong

Location

Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong

 

Halong City, Quang Ninh

Places to visit

More secluded parts: Ba Trai Dao, Viet Hai Village, Dark & Bright Cave

 

Well-known and touristic attractions: Titop Island, Luon Cave, Surprising Cave

Overall, Halong Bay is a must visit for first-time travelers with a rush itinerary, while Lan Ha Bay is more suitable for a relaxing trip.

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Questions & Answers (163)

Ask a Question
Q
08/10/2024

I would like to take a luxury cruise to Lan Ha Bay. Do any of the cruises include cave kayaking and visit to a cave?

1 Reply
1
08/10/2024
@Anita:

If you can do 2 nights program it will included both.

1 Like Reply
Q
05/10/2024

Does the Emaurade Cruise line go to Ha Long Bay?

1 Reply
1
06/10/2024
@Fran Gleeson:

No it go through classic route.

1 Like Reply
Q
29/05/2024

Hello, I'm checking out some 4 or 4,5-star cruises for our group of 6. Right now, I'm fond of Peony, Sena, and La Casta Cruise. Can you check which cruise has three cabins available on July 1 & 2 for us?

1 Reply
1
30/05/2024
@Nemari Ran:

Hi! Sena might has available cabins for your travel date, for 3 separated cabins, 2d1n trip, the total price is from $966 for your group. Please check your email for more information.

1 Like Reply
Q
13/05/2024

I'm looking for a cruise to Lan Ha for 3 days from June 18th. 3 pax, 1 vegetarian. We'd need a Triple room, can you show me some available cruises?

1 Reply
1
13/05/2024
@Adam J:

Hi! For your request, we suggest you should consider some of our best options below:

About your request for vegan food, all of our cruises above can provide that, pls don't forget to note with our travel consultant at least 2 days before your trip.

1 Like Reply
Q
30/04/2024

If I join Lan ha bay cruise, shall I also have opportunity to view halong bay on the route?

1 Reply
1
02/05/2024
@Sylvia leung:

Yes you will transfer via main Halong to Lan Ha.

1 Like Reply
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