Spend a full day paddling and snorkeling between the limestone towers of Lan Ha and Ha Long Bay. This Cat Ba–based boat tour combines kayak exploration, snorkeling at sheltered spots, a beach stop, and views of floating fishing villages.
Spend a full day paddling and snorkeling between the limestone towers of Lan Ha and Ha Long Bay. This Cat Ba–based boat tour combines kayak exploration, snorkeling at sheltered spots, a beach stop, and views of floating fishing villages.
A morning fog lifts off the emerald water as passengers board a traditional wooden boat at Ben Beo Pier on Cat Ba Island, the boat's bow cutting a silent line toward limestone towers. The karsts rise like weathered guardians; currents tug playfully at the hull as the guide points toward a narrow channel that invites a paddle.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Alibaba's Tours · Cat Ba, Hai Phong
A morning fog lifts off the emerald water as passengers board a traditional wooden boat at Ben Beo Pier on Cat Ba Island, the boat's bow cutting a silent line toward limestone towers. The karsts rise like weathered guardians; currents tug playfully at the hull as the guide points toward a narrow channel that invites a paddle.
The route threads Lan Ha and Ha Long Bay, passing Cai Beo Floating Fishing Village — a living cluster of homes and nets that speak to centuries of coastal livelihood. The limestone karsts here are part of a young, fractured karst system sculpted by sea-level changes; UNESCO protection recognizes both their geological significance and fragile ecosystems. Stops commonly include a kayak segment through calm coves, a swim or snorkel over fringing reefs, and a quiet beach landing at Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches Beach). Monkey Island appears on the horizon and its macaques occasionally inspect visitors from rock ledges.
Practical guidance: the full-day outing runs about eight hours with hotel pickup on Cat Ba between 08:00–08:30 and return around 16:00–16:30. Kayaks and snorkeling gear are provided, plus a Vietnamese lunch (vegetarian options) and a 1.5L bottle of water. Expect flat-water paddling with brief swims; basic paddling skills and comfort in water are sufficient. Weather and tides can alter the schedule, so bring reef-safe sunscreen, a light waterproof layer, footwear that grips when wet, and a dry bag for valuables. Respect local life—do not feed wildlife and avoid touching coral—to keep these bays healthy for the next tide.
easy.
8 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; able to sit in a kayak and swim short distances
The tour begins at Ben Beo Pier on Cat Ba Island with hotel pickup between 08:00–08:30 and returns to Cat Ba around 16:00–16:30.
Yes — the tour uses calm, sheltered waters ideal for first-time kayakers; guides provide basic instruction and safety gear.
Included: kayak use, snorkeling equipment, a Vietnamese lunch with vegetarian options, an afternoon snack, and a 1.5L bottle of water.
Monkeys and marine life are commonly seen but are wild and sightings cannot be guaranteed; maintain distance and do not feed animals.
Ha Long Bay's limestones formed over millions of years and the bay has long supported coastal fishing communities such as Cai Beo.
High visitor numbers and boat traffic stress shallow reefs—use reef-safe products, avoid touching coral, and follow local waste rules to reduce impact.
Alibaba's Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




A morning fog lifts off the emerald water as passengers board a traditional wooden boat at Ben Beo Pier on Cat Ba Island, the boat's bow cutting a silent line toward limestone towers. The karsts rise like weathered guardians; currents tug playfully at the hull as the guide points toward a narrow channel that invites a paddle.
A morning fog lifts off the emerald water as passengers board a traditional wooden boat at Ben Beo Pier on Cat Ba Island, the boat's bow cutting a silent line toward limestone towers. The karsts rise like weathered guardians; currents tug playfully at the hull as the guide points toward a narrow channel that invites a paddle.
The route threads Lan Ha and Ha Long Bay, passing Cai Beo Floating Fishing Village — a living cluster of homes and nets that speak to centuries of coastal livelihood. The limestone karsts here are part of a young, fractured karst system sculpted by sea-level changes; UNESCO protection recognizes both their geological significance and fragile ecosystems. Stops commonly include a kayak segment through calm coves, a swim or snorkel over fringing reefs, and a quiet beach landing at Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches Beach). Monkey Island appears on the horizon and its macaques occasionally inspect visitors from rock ledges.
Practical guidance: the full-day outing runs about eight hours with hotel pickup on Cat Ba between 08:00–08:30 and return around 16:00–16:30. Kayaks and snorkeling gear are provided, plus a Vietnamese lunch (vegetarian options) and a 1.5L bottle of water. Expect flat-water paddling with brief swims; basic paddling skills and comfort in water are sufficient. Weather and tides can alter the schedule, so bring reef-safe sunscreen, a light waterproof layer, footwear that grips when wet, and a dry bag for valuables. Respect local life—do not feed wildlife and avoid touching coral—to keep these bays healthy for the next tide.