HA LONG – LAN HA BAY – CAT BA ISLAND – TAM COC (3D/2N)

Experience the Best of Northern Vietnam: World Heritage Bay & "Ha Long on Land"

(Combination of Group Cruise & Private Ninh Binh Tour)

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

·        Off-the-beaten-track: Explore the tranquil Lan Ha Bay and the hidden gems of Cat Ba Island.

·        Active Adventure: Kayaking through tunnel grottos, swimming in emerald waters, and cycling in a National Park valley.

·        Cultural Immersion: Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the "Jade Cave" (Bich Dong).

·        Panoramic Views: Conquer Mua Cave for the most iconic photography spot in Ninh Binh.

·        Flexibility: Professional mix of group activities on the cruise and a personalized private tour in Ninh Binh.

DETAILED ITINERARY

DAY 01: HANOI – HA LONG BAY – LAN HA BAY (L/D)

·        08:00 – 08:30: Pick up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter for a scenic drive through the Red River Delta.

·        11:30: Arrive at Tuan Chau Wharf.

·        12:30: Welcome aboard Vega Cruise. Enjoy a refreshing tropical drink and meet the crew before checking into your cabin.

·        13:00: Savor a fresh lunch while cruising past the majestic limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay toward the quieter Lan Ha Bay.

·        Afternoon Exploration:

o   Navigate the "hidden route" passing Dark & Light Cave, Frog Lagoon, and unique rock formations like Stick Islet and the Buddhist Statue stone.

o   Kayaking & Swimming: Paddle through narrow lanes of karst mountains and explore stunning lagoons. Relax on the secluded sands of Ba Trai Dao beach.

o   Admire the sunset over the crystal-clear bay from the sundeck.

·        Evening:

o   Enjoy a gourmet dinner on board.

o   Activities: Try your luck with squid fishing or simply relax in the peaceful atmosphere of the bay overnight.

DAY 02: LAN HA BAY – VIET HAI VILLAGE – NINH BINH (B/L/D)

·        06:00: Start your day with a breathtaking sunrise on the sundeck, followed by a light breakfast.

·        07:10: Transfer by tender to Cat Ba Island.

·        Cycling Adventure: Enjoy a 30-minute bike ride through shadowed paths to Viet Hai Village, nestled in a beautiful valley of Cat Ba National Park. Visit a local home and school to experience authentic island life.

·        10:30: Return to the cruise and check out. Enjoy a sumptuous brunch while the boat navigates a different scenic route back to the harbor.

·        12:30: Disembark and meet your private driver for a 200km journey to Ninh Binh.

·        16:30 – 17:00: Arrive in Tam Coc, check into your bungalow/villa.

·        Late Afternoon: Walk to explore the "Jade Cave" (Bich Dong Pagoda) – a series of three ancient pagodas built into the mountainside.

·        Evening: Dinner and overnight at a peaceful bungalow in Tam Coc.

DAY 03: HOA LU – TAM COC – MUA CAVE – HANOI (B/L)

·        08:00: Early sampan boat trip in Tam Coc. By going early, you avoid the crowds and peacefully glide through three stunning caves (Hang Ca, Hang Hai, Hang Ba).

·        Cycling: Bike through traditional farming villages to discover the "Real Vietnam."

·        Mua Cave: Climb to the peak of Dragon Mountain for a spectacular panoramic view of the Ngo Dong River and the rice fields below.

·        Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Visit the historic temples of King Dinh and King Le, learning about Vietnam's history in the 10th century.

·        17:00 – 17:30: Return to Hanoi OR drop off at Ninh Binh Train Station for your journey South (to Hue/Da Nang/Hoi An).

Note: The itinerary is subject to change based on weather, tide conditions, or local port authority regulations

TOUR PRICING (USD per person)

INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS

Included:

·        Transportation: Group transfer Hanoi – Ha Long; Private Car for the Ninh Binh & return leg.

·        Accommodation: 01 night on Vega Cruise; 01 night at Tam Coc Ngoc Linh Bungalow (or equivalent).

·        Guided Tours: English-speaking guide (Group on cruise, Private in Ninh Binh).

·        Meals: All meals mentioned (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).

·        Activities: Kayaking, cycling, sampan boat, all entrance fees.

Excluded:

·        Drinks, personal expenses, and tips (Gratuities).

·        Travel insurance.

Essential Packing List for 3D/2N Tour

1. Documents & Essentials

·        Original Passport: Required for check-in on the cruise and at hotels.

·        Cash (VND): While the tour is mostly inclusive, guests will need cash for drinks on the boat, personal snacks, and tips.

·        Portable Power Bank: To keep devices charged during long days of sightseeing and biking.

2. Clothing & Footwear

·        For the Bay: Swimwear (essential for kayaking and swimming) and a light change of clothes.

·        For Biking/Trekking: Comfortable, breathable sports clothes for cycling in Cat Ba and climbing the 500 steps at Mua Cave.

·        Footwear:

o   Walking shoes/Sneakers: With good grip for climbing and cycling.

o   Flip-flops/Sandals: For the boat and beach.

·        Modest Outfit: A set of clothes that covers shoulders and knees for visiting Hoa Lu Ancient Capital and Bich Dong Pagoda.

3. Health & Protection

·        Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses (the reflection off the water can be very strong).

·        Insect Repellent: Especially important for the cycling trip in Viet Hai Village and the bungalow stay in Tam Coc.

·        Personal Meds: Motion sickness pills (for the cruise or car journey) and any personal prescriptions.

·        Rain Gear: A lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella (the weather in Northern Vietnam can change quickly).

4. For Activities

·        Dry Bag: Highly recommended for keeping phones and cameras safe while kayaking.

·        Reusable Water Bottle: To stay hydrated while biking and climbing (most hotels and cruises provide refills)

  🌟 Why Book With Vega Travel?

-        True Tour Operator: We own our cruises and equipment—no middlemen, best quality.

-        Off-The-Beaten-Path: Unique routes designed to avoid crowded tourist areas.

-        Hassle-Free Extensions: Direct bus connections to Ninh Binh.

-        Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees. What you see is what you get.

-        20+ Years of Excellence: Trusted by travelers worldwide with high TripAdvisor ratings.