Setting Sail from Hanoi

After leaving my finance job in Seoul to backpack through Southeast Asia, I found myself in Hanoi, eager to explore the less touristy parts of Vietnam. The allure of a traditional wooden boat cruise from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island was too tempting to resist. I had heard whispers of the serene beauty of Lan Ha Bay, and the promise of kayaking, swimming, and even squid fishing was enough to make me pack my bags and hop on a shuttle bus.

The journey from Hanoi to Ben Beo Harbour was a scenic five-hour drive, with a few stops along the way to stretch our legs and grab a quick bite. As we approached the harbor, the anticipation grew. The sight of the traditional wooden boat waiting for us was like stepping back in time. The crew welcomed us aboard with warm smiles, and after a quick briefing, we set sail into the heart of Lan Ha Bay.

Adventures in Lan Ha Bay

Once on board, we were treated to a delicious lunch as the boat gently cruised towards the center of Lan Ha Bay. The landscape was breathtaking, with towering limestone karsts rising majestically from the emerald waters. Our first stop was the Dark & Bright Cave, where we had the option to explore by kayak or bamboo boat. I chose the kayak, eager to paddle through the tranquil waters and get up close to the stunning rock formations.

After a refreshing swim and a few daring jumps off the boat into the cool water, we returned to the cruise for a cooking class. Learning to make traditional Vietnamese dishes while surrounded by such natural beauty was an experience I’ll never forget. As the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, we enjoyed a sumptuous dinner on deck. The evening was filled with laughter, karaoke, and even a bit of squid fishing under the starlit sky.

Biking Through Viet Hai Village

The next morning, after a hearty breakfast, we set off on a biking adventure to Viet Hai Village. Nestled in the midst of jungles and surrounded by the high mountains of Cat Ba National Park, the village was a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The 5 km ride was invigorating, and the lush greenery and chirping birds made it feel like a scene straight out of a nature documentary.

After exploring the village and interacting with the friendly locals, we rode back to the boat for a quick shower and a final meal on board. As we disembarked at Ben Beo Harbour, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the incredible experiences and new friends I had made along the way. The journey back to Hanoi was filled with reflections on the beauty of Cat Ba Island and the unforgettable memories created during this traditional wooden boat cruise.

For those of you who, like me, are budget-conscious travelers seeking authentic experiences, this Traditional Wooden Boat Cruise is a must-do. It’s a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, all set against the stunning backdrop of Vietnam’s natural wonders.