Tourists visiting Vietnam often consider Halong Bay to be a must-see destination due to its breathtaking caves and islands; however, there is another bay that offers even more. Lan Ha Bay is located to the east of Cat Ba Island and is increasingly becoming a viable alternative to Halong Bay.

How to get to Lan Ha Bay from Hanoi?

Since the last time I visited, getting from Hanoi to Cat Ba island and then taking a day boat to explore Lan Ha Bay is needed. You will now visit Lan Ha Bay on an overnight cruise without having to go to Cat Ba island; it is possible to travel from Got Pier to Lan Ha Bay.

The most common and convenient route is to take a bus from Hanoi to Dinh Vu port: Good Morning Cat Ba (350.000vnd/way), Cat Ba Express (340.000vnd/way).

Another recommended choice is to hire a private van (which is ideal for large groups or families with children). 2.600.000VND every way (16 seat van). Because of the Hanoi-Haiphong Expressway, it will only take you 2 hours.

At Dinh Vu port, get on a speedboat, also called hydrofoil to Cai Vieng port on Cat Ba Island (~30 minutes). From the access point Cat Ba, you can continue to visit Lan Ha Bay.

How to explore Lan Ha Bay? 

You can also book a Lan Ha Bay 2 day 1 night or 3 days 2-night cruise with Focus Asia Travel with a transfer, all meals, activities, and tourist fees included. Focus Asia Travel will take you to the less crowded areas of the bay with untouched destinations and exciting activities.

Visit Tra Bau, a remote and pristine location in Lan Ha Bay. This is regarded as a kayaking paradise. Kayaking is the perfect way to explore the brilliance of Lan Ha Bay because it allows for very close access that other large boats cannot.

Bright Cave is a serene circular lake enclosed by trees and high dangerous stone walls, resembling a stadium surrounded by a high stage.

Trekking and cycling in Viet Hai to see old homes, photograph forest trees and see people and buffalos working on green fields.

• Swimming on Ba Trai Dao beach or just jumping down from the boat.
• Fishing with locals: participate in fishing activities with local people; have a go at using fishing gears and put yourself in a real fishing life.

Other events include visiting Cai Beo floating village, swimming at Van Boi Con island, diving in Ba Ham pool, rock climbing at the international Rock climbing center, and visiting the Cat Ba National Park.