Cat Ba Island Cruises: Best Overnight & Day Tours 2025

Yes, Cat Ba Island is definitely worth visiting—especially if you're looking for a less crowded, more nature-focused alternative to Halong Bay.

For those who are in search of unique experiences, please consider 3 reasons why you should choose Cat Ba Island over Halong Bay.

• Off the beaten path: Trung Trang Cave, Viet Hai Village, and Cat Ba National Park are the secluded parts where you can go cycling or trekking.
• Best cruise quality: Most cruises in Cat Ba Island have 4-5 stars of luxury facilities and services.
• Chances to visit Lan Ha Bay: Don't miss out on the hidden gem for its primitive beauty and less touristy atmosphere.

There are different price ranges, from 4-star to 5-star options. For the most part, a 1-night cruise costs around US $140 - 280/pax, and a 2-night cruise costs about US $330 - 500/pax.

Let's take a look at our best recommendations for Cat Ba Island cruises in 2025.

(Price per pax)

For further details, you can check rates and availability on our website. Scroll down to the "Cabin & Rates" section, and choose the Duration and Start Date. Remember to type a number of persons, then click "Check Rates". You will see the final price for your trip.

Most Cat Ba Island cruises depart from Tuan Chau Pier in Ha Long City, where guests are transferred by speedboat or tender to the cruise anchored near Cat Ba and Lan Ha Bay. A few cruises may also depart from Halong International Cruise Port (Ha Long City) or Beo Wharf (Hai Phong City).

How to get to departure port

• From Hanoi (165 km): 2.5–3.5 hours by limousine/shared bus/private car offered in most cruise packages.
• From Ninh Binh or Sapa (180–400 km): Best to book a car or shuttle via a travel agent for a smooth connection to the cruise pier.
• From Halong City (12 km): 20 minutes by taxi or car.

Tip: Always check your exact departure port and transfer options when booking, as they vary by cruise line.

Yes, you absolutely can! Many travelers choose to stay an extra night or two on Cat Ba Island after their cruise to explore more at a relaxed pace. You can enjoy activities like:

• Trekking in Cat Ba National Park
• Swimming and kayaking at Cat Co beaches
• Exploring local fishing villages or taking a motorbike tour

Just let your cruise operator or travel agent know in advance so they can help arrange drop-off and any necessary transfers to your hotel on the island.

Here are some affordable and well-rated cruise options from Cat Ba Island, offering great value without compromising on comfort:

• Verdure Lotus Classic (from US $119/pax): A 3-star cruise featuring cozy cabins, friendly service, and activities like kayaking and cave visits.
• Calypso Cruise (from US $135/pax): Includes comfortable cabins and classic excursions through Lan Ha Bay.
• La Casta Cruise (from US $148/pax): Offers a boutique-style experience aboard a wooden junk ship, with small-group tours to hidden lagoons.

These options strike a solid balance between affordability and quality—great choices for budget-conscious travelers who still want a full cruise experience on Cat Ba.

Some of the best luxury cruises departing from Cat Ba Island include

• Heritage Line Ylang (from US $599/pax): A wellness-inspired journey featuring spa treatments and a boutique luxury design.
  
• Elite of the Seas (from US $340/pax): A 6-star modern yacht with spacious suites, an infinity pool, a mini golf course, and fine dining.
• Orchid Premium (from US $287/pax): Known for its traditional junk boat design, exceptional service, and scenic Lan Ha Bay routes.

These high-end cruises provide a more exclusive and tranquil experience, ideal for honeymooners, wellness seekers, or those seeking true comfort.

Yes, several Cat Ba cruises now feature swimming pools, especially among the luxury lines. If you're looking for cruises with the most spacious and beautifully designed pools, consider these top picks:

• Lyra Grandeur Cruise – A new-generation luxury ship with a stylish infinity pool and panoramic views of Lan Ha Bay.
• Heritage Cruise Binh Chuan – Features a spacious outdoor pool with a heritage-inspired design and elegant deck area.
• Indochine Cruise – Offers a large pool surrounded by sun loungers, perfect for a relaxing afternoon onboard.
• Paradise Grand Cruise – Includes a well-sized pool and premium sun deck amenities, ideal for families and upscale travelers.
• Elite of the Seas Cruise – Boasts one of the largest four-season pools on any Cat Ba route, perfect for swimming and sunset photos.

These cruises are ideal if you want to combine scenic cruising with leisure and comfort onboard.