1. Overview of Lan Ha Bay (Cat Hai, Hai Phong)
1.1. Geographical location and how to get to Lan Ha Bay (Cat Hai, Hai Phong)
Lan Ha Bay is located to the east of Cat Ba Island, in Cat Hai island district, Hai Phong city, with a total area of about 7,000 hectares. Thanks to its connection with Ha Long Bay while maintaining its own tranquility, it has become an attractive option for nature lovers and explorers.
From the center of Hai Phong city, to reach the bay, you can experience the Sun World Cat Ba cable car route, which is quick and convenient, taking only about 15 minutes, while also having the opportunity to admire the majestic seascape from above. If you are departing from Hanoi, you can drive yourself to Got ferry terminal, then take a ferry to Cat Ba Island, or use the Sun World Cat Ba cable car with its departure point in Cat Hai town. Additionally, visitors can choose to take a high-speed boat or ferry to Cai Vieng pier, then continue by taxi or bus to the island center.
1.2. Structure and characteristic landscape of Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay is distinguished by an arc of limestone islands, with about 400 large and small islands, covered in lush green vegetation.
Lan Ha Bay stands out with many majestic limestone islands. (Source: Collected)
Of the total area of 7,000 hectares, over 5,000 hectares belong to the Cat Ba World Biosphere Reserve recognized by UNESCO. The bay features numerous small sandy beaches, emerald green waters, and towering limestone mountains, creating a private space rarely found elsewhere.
With a tropical monsoon climate, the summer here is very suitable for outdoor activities, lasting from April to October. Lan Ha Bay (Cat Hai, Hai Phong) differs from Ha Long Bay in that its islands are covered with lush greenery, even the small ones are vibrant green, creating a lively natural picture.
Located within the Cat Ba Archipelago World Biosphere Reserve, Lan Ha Bay is recognized by UNESCO for its spectacular beauty and rich ecosystem. It features mangrove forests, stratified limestone terrain, natural coral reefs, and many rare marine species. Notably, the Cat Ba golden-headed langur is the symbol of the island area and a strictly protected endemic species, contributing to the bay's outstanding biological value.
Hai Phong City is orienting tourism development linked with ecological conservation, aiming for a model of "soft tourism and sustainable development". Construction projects in the bay area are strictly controlled, limiting concrete construction, prioritizing harmony with nature, and avoiding negative impacts on the marine environment.
2. Outstanding experiences when visiting Lan Ha Bay (Cat Hai, Hai Phong) in 2025
2.1. Exploring the islands and caves system of Lan Ha Bay
When exploring Lan Ha Bay, you can choose to travel by kayak or cruise ship to islands such as Hon But, Van Boi, Nam Cat, Monkey Island, and Turtle Island. Each island stands out with its clear blue waters and unique landscapes, perfect for capturing impressive photos.
The cave system in the bay is also very diverse, including Luuon Cave in the Bo Hon Island area, Sang Cave, and Ang Vem. Many kayak and small boat tours often take visitors to these caves, providing opportunities to learn about the unique limestone geology in the heritage area.
Tourists experience kayaking on the sea in Lan Ha Bay. (Source: Collected)
Cruising on the bay is also a wonderful experience, allowing you to admire the entire scenery of Lan Ha Bay (Cat Hai, Hai Phong) from a special vantage point. The moment of watching the sunset on the boat deck, sipping afternoon tea will be an unforgettable memory for everyone. Most tours connect multiple attractions in a day, helping you make the most of your time effectively.
2.2. Swimming and snorkeling in Lan Ha Bay
The prominent beaches of Lan Ha Bay such as Ba Trai Dao, Cat Dua on Monkey Island, Van Boi and Nam Cat, Ang Vem all have crystal-clear seawater, fine white sand, suitable for relaxation or group activities. Each beach has its own characteristics, from quiet spaces to wide beaches for groups.
Clear seawater and fine white sandy shore at the coast of Lan Ha Bay. (Source: Collected)
The coral diving activity is professionally organized, priced from 750,000 to 1,500,000 VND per person. Participants will be provided with modern equipment and instructors offering thorough guidance to ensure safety.
Seawater conditions at Lan Ha Bay (Cat Hai, Hai Phong) are very favorable for diving due to high clarity and suitable salinity. Outstanding is the rich marine life and colorful coral reefs, creating a vibrant world beneath the jade-green water.
2.3. Climbing and adventure sports activities in Lan Ha Bay
If you love challenges, the climbing spot at Monkey Island (Dao Khi), Nam Cat will offer an exciting natural terrain exploration experience. Adventure tours always have instructors and are fully equipped with safety gear, ensuring tourists fully experience the feeling of conquering nature.
Friendly monkeys at Monkey Island. (Source: Collection)
2.4. Traditional fishing village cultural experience
Viet Hai village is nestled within Cat Ba National Park, famous for its ancient cultural values preserved through generations. You can join a cycling tour through the forest to reach the village, chat with the locals, and learn about the unique working life of the fishing community here.
Many floating villages in Lan Ha Bay are floating 'homes' on the water, where fishermen maintain their fishing trade from generation to generation. You can try being a fisherman, participate in fishing, or enjoy renowned fresh seafood right at the fishing village, fully experiencing the connection with the sea.
Cai Beo fishing village stands out with its "houses" on the water. (Source: Collected)
The cultural features of the fishing village are not only shown in the profession but also through cuisine, festivals, and community spirit. Interesting stories about the sea and fishermen will help you understand more deeply the traditional values of Lan Ha Bay (Cat Hai, Hai Phong) .
2.5. 5-star yachting resort on Lan Ha Bay
High-class yachts such as Serenity Cruises, Heritage Binh Chuan, Stellar of the Seas, Elite of the Seas, Jade Sails, Catamaran Cruise, and Ambassador Cruise all have standard itineraries for 2025 with spacious sea-view cabins. Guests can relax with spa services, enjoy world-class cuisine, and experience unique private tours through each small bay.
Staying overnight on a yacht brings the feeling of a luxurious resort at sea, with 5-star standard rooms, romantic afternoon tea watching the sunset, and BBQ parties under the starry sky, all leaving an unforgettable impression.
The price for a 2-day, 1-night Lan Ha Bay yacht tour with an overnight stay on a 4-5 star yacht is usually from 2,800,000 VND/person upwards, offering a premium experience with comfortable cabins, luxurious dinners, and watching the sunrise amidst the bay.
3. Services and costs for Lan Ha Bay Cat Hai tourism 2025
3.1. List of entrance ticket prices and yacht tours
The price of yacht tours for Lan Ha Bay (Cat Hai, Hai Phong) currently fluctuates quite flexibly, usually from 700,000 to 1,100,000 VND/person for day trips. Prices may vary depending on the type of yacht, departure time, or tourist season. 5-star yachts often have luxurious spaces, moderate capacity, helping visitors enjoy the fresh air and poetic scenery amidst the bay.
Within this price range, visitors usually include a seafood lunch, drinks, entrance tickets, along with many recreational activities such as kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, or checking in at the Ba Trai Dao area. Some high-class yachts also provide professional guides, freshwater shower rooms, and private sunbathing areas, offering a relaxing, complete journey amidst the magnificent scenery of Lan Ha Bay.
To save money, you should book tours online at least one month in advance to enjoy early bird discounts. Traveling in large groups also helps reduce costs, suitable for families or groups of friends who want to explore Lan Ha Bay (Cat Hai, Hai Phong) at a reasonable price.
Experience the luxurious Capella cruise in Lan Ha Bay. (Source: Collected)
3.2. Accommodation system in Lan Ha Bay
Renowned resorts such as Cat Ba Island Resort and Spa, Flamingo Cat Ba, or Monkey Island Resort all offer rooms with stunning international-standard views of the bay. The convenient location of these resorts allows you to admire the scenery of Lan Ha Bay right from your room, especially at dawn and dusk.
Currently, room prices at high-end resorts in Lan Ha Bay vary widely, depending on location, standard, and room type. Monkey Island Resort offers prices ranging from approximately 1,000,000 to 4,500,000 VND/night, depending on the room type and booking time. Meanwhile, MGallery Cat Ba, a luxurious 5-star resort, can have room prices up to 22,200,000 VND/night for premium room categories, while lower rates start from around 3,690,000 VND/night. During peak tourist seasons like June to August, or holidays, service fees are usually higher, so visitors should check the official prices on the website and book early for better rates.
Choosing accommodation near the pier will facilitate your sightseeing, travel, and save transportation costs. Many resorts also offer free shuttle services to the port, making it easy for guests to join tours exploring Lan Ha Bay (Cat Hai, Hai Phong) without worrying too much about getting around.
3.3. What to eat when visiting Lan Ha Bay?
The cuisine in Lan Ha Bay captivates visitors with fresh seafood such as razor clams, grouper, mantis shrimp, horseshoe crab, and specialty Cat Ba crab. Pure fish sauce and squid cake prepared by fishermen using traditional recipes add an unforgettable rich flavor.
Viet Hai restaurants and seaside eateries in the center of Cat Ba town all serve seafood meals with sea views. The restaurant at Monkey Island Resort also consistently offers a menu of fresh, seasonal specialties, ensuring food quality.
The cost for a seafood meal in this area ranges from 200,000 to 500,000 VND per person, depending on appetite and dish selection. If traveling on a tour, you can opt for a pre-set menu to save money while enjoying the distinctive local delicacies of Lan Ha Bay (Cat Hai, Hai Phong) .
4. Suggested 2D1N Itinerary for Exploring Lan Ha Bay Cat Hai
Day 1: Sun World Cat Ba Cable Car – Lan Ha Bay – Kayaking – Overnight on Cruise
In the morning, visitors travel to the Cat Hai cable car station, experiencing the modern Sun World Cat Ba cable car line with panoramic views of the stunning bay. After arriving on the island, a shuttle bus takes you to Got ferry terminal to check in for the cruise to explore Lan Ha Bay. The journey takes you to discover highlights such as Bright Cave – Dark Cave, the Ba Trai Dao area, combined with kayaking, swimming, and enjoying a seafood lunch on board. In the afternoon, watch the sunset on the deck, participate in night squid fishing, and stay in a luxurious cabin in the heart of the bay.
Cat Hai cable car station is vast.
Day 2: Cai Be Fishing Village – Monkey Island – Return to Cat Hai
In the morning, visitors admire the sunrise over the bay, have a light breakfast, and visit Cai Be fishing village to learn about the fishermen's lives. On the way back to the pier, the cruise stops at Monkey Island – a famous check-in point with panoramic views of Lan Ha Bay. At the end of the journey, the boat takes you back to Cat Hai, then you continue by Sun World Cat Ba cable car to conclude the impressive 2-day, 1-night trip.
To save time, it is advisable to choose an all-inclusive tour that covers meals and sightseeing. Booking cable car tickets online in advance will help you manage your schedule, while renting a bicycle or motorbike will allow for flexible movement when exploring Lan Ha Bay (Cat Hai, Hai Phong).
5. Useful tips for traveling to Lan Ha Bay (Cat Hai, Hai Phong)
5.1. Choosing the ideal time
The suitable time to visit Lan Ha Bay is from April to October, when the weather is sunny and beautiful, making it favorable for swimming, snorkeling, and climbing. During these months, the weather is mild, the seawater is warm, and tourist services are also at their busiest.
From November to March, the bay's weather is cool, suitable for relaxation, leisure, and sightseeing, but underwater activities are somewhat limited due to low water temperatures. However, during this season, the bay's scenery becomes somewhat mystical thanks to a light mist.
The peak tourist season falls in the summer from June to August, with warm sunshine and more vibrant attractions. If you prefer a peaceful atmosphere, you can plan to visit in the autumn, from September to November, when the climate is pleasant and the bay becomes tranquil, suitable for enjoying natural beauty.
5.2. Packing and clothing preparation
The list of essential items for visiting Lan Ha Bay includes swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, non-slip sports shoes for climbing, and a waterproof camera. Environmental protection items such as cloth bags and reusable water bottles are also highly recommended to avoid single-use plastics.
For clothing, choose light dresses and tops, bright colors, quick-drying materials, and items that allow for easy movement, along with effective sun protection accessories. Minimize nylon items and opt for environmentally friendly products to contribute to protecting the bay's landscape.
Tourists choose comfortable, easy-to-move-in attire.
A light jacket is suitable for evenings on the cruise, and soft-soled shoes for safe movement. Additionally, you should prepare seasickness medication and basic personal medications to make your trip to Lan Ha Bay (Cat Hai, Hai Phong) more complete.
5.3. Safety Precautions and Nature Protection Rules
When participating in activities at Lan Ha Bay, always follow safety regulations such as wearing a life jacket when swimming, kayaking, or diving, and pay attention to and follow the instructions of the dedicated staff.
Keep the environment clean by not littering into the bay, minimizing the use of single-use plastic products, and protecting coral areas and rare animals. These actions contribute to preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of the bay.
Before departing, you should check the weather forecast and update necessary information with the tour operator or hotel to ensure safety. Always stay in touch with family and bring enough personal medication to help your excursion to Lan Ha Bay (Cat Hai, Hai Phong) proceed smoothly and with peace of mind.
Lan Ha Bay is a convergence of pristine natural beauty, environmental conservation values, and a complete tourism service system. To make your holiday more complete, you can refer to and contact eco-tours at Sun World Cat Ba, ready to experience unforgettable impressive moments.
