Cruise and visit of Lan Ha Bay
Everyone knows Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but do you know its little sister, Lan Ha Bay? Nicknamed “lost paradise”, this bay is an alternative for travelers looking for tranquility and far from the tourist crowds.
Located in the southwest of Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay covers an area of over 7,000 hectares, of which 5,400 hectares belong to Cat Ba National Park. It is one of two adjacent pristine bays that offer the same breathtaking scenery as Halong Bay. You can visit the bay on a cruise from Cat Ba Island.
With emerald waters, Lan Ha Bay is home to 400 green islands and islets, many floating villages, and secluded beaches. During a cruise, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the sea and many activities: swimming, sea kayaking, cycling, etc…
While Ha Long Bay is crowded with boats, Lan Ha Bay is less crowded. It is here that you will experience a unique moment on a small traditional junk. In the middle of limestone peaks, you will feel alone in front of this incredible nature. An authentic experience that reminds you of the most beautiful scenes of films about Indochina.
How to get to Lan Ha Bay ?
To get to Lan Ha Bay, you have to take the road from Hanoi or Ninh Binh to Hai Phong. Upon arrival, head to Pha Got pier. From there, you can take the ferry and cable car to land on Cat Ba Island.
The easiest way is to book a cruise from Hanoi with the operator who provides the transfer service.
When to go to Lan Ha Bay ?
You can visit Lan Ha Bay all year round for an unforgettable experience, but the best time is from March to May and from October to November. During these months, the weather remains mostly sunny, and it is not as hot and rainy as in summer. The good weather offers good conditions to enjoy the many activities offered.
June to September: It is often hot and humid. The weather will be more unstable and there is a greater chance of typhoons and tropical storms.
November to February: The bay is often foggy. The sky is quite gray and drizzle is common during the winter.
What to do during a cruise in Lan Ha Bay ?
Enjoy the exceptional landscape of the bay
While sailing in Lan Ha Bay, you can enjoy the immense beauty of the natural landscape. Hundreds of steep limestone rocks of different sizes and shapes are submerged in turquoise water. All the islands and islets in Lan Ha Bay are covered with lush vegetation. The landscapes are breathtaking.
Visit the floating fishing villages
Nestled among small islands in the bay are traditional floating fishing villages. You can see how the locals make a living from fish farming and seafood fishing. These villages add charm and authenticity to this heavenly setting.
Kayaking
To discover this sublime bay, you can kayak in the lost places, in the middle of the magnificent karst landscapes. On a small kayak, you will paddle through the islets to discover the rocks and the aquatic caves… What could be more amazing than that !
Enjoy the most beautiful sunset
What better way to end the day than lounging on a deck chair with a cocktail while watching the sunset.
Swimming in the sea
Unlike Halong Bay, Lan Ha has many wild beaches ideal for swimming in turquoise waters. Take a dip in the calm water and enjoy a breathtaking view of the bay to relieve your fatigue after a long day of sightseeing.
Participate in a cooking class
The cruise offers cooking classes so you can learn how to make egg rolls or spring rolls. At the time of the meal, you can proudly say that you have eaten one of your own dishes!
Cycling in Viet Hai village
Nestled in a small valley on Cat Ba Island, Viet Hai Village is surrounded by pristine limestone mountains. Cycling is probably the best way to discover this village. From the pier, you will cycle to Viet Hai village through a tunnel cave, rice fields and mountains.
Do a Tai Chi session
Some cruises offer an early morning Tai Chi class on the upper deck. You can also enjoy the scenery of the sunrise over the bay.
With its splendid beauty, Lan Ha Bay is a small paradise to relax. You will spend unforgettable moments in the middle of nature.
