Cat Ba Island
1 day
AH-HP03
5/10
$103 USD
WHY THIS TOUR?

This expedition is the ultimate choice for travelers seeking to uncover one of the most secluded and captivating corners of Lan Ha Bay. Setting sail from Beo Wharf, a scenic boat transfer carries you to the remote Dau Be island group. Here, you will spend 3 to 4 hours kayaking through the enigmatic Ba Ham Lake—a hidden system of three pristine lagoons interconnected by low cave passages that can only be navigated as the tide allows.

Complete with a relaxing lunch served on board (or directly on a secluded beach, conditions permitting), this itinerary offers a rare, highly active blend of rugged adventure, raw natural beauty, and true off-the-beaten-path exploration.

Highlights:

  • Kayak around the remote, untouched cliffs of the Dau Be island group.
  • Explore the unique Ba Ham Lake, a system of three hidden lagoons linked by secret cave tunnels.
  • Venture into hidden sea caves and unwind on pristine, crowd-free beaches.

 

SUMMARY
  • Start / Finish Point: Cat Ba Town

  • Duration: 1 day

  • Destination: Cat Ba Island

  • Group Size : 2 - 15 pax

  • Best Season: Sept - May

  • Difficulty level: 5/10

  • Activities: Kayaking

IMAGES / VIDEOS
ITINERARY
Beo Wharf - Ba Ham Lake - Beo Wharf

08:00 Meet your tour guide at your hotel lobby in Cat Ba for a quick transfer to Beo Wharf.

08:15 Arrive at Beo Wharf and step aboard to reach our floating house. Collect your kayak and safety gear before cruising out to the remote Dau Be island group. Here lies Ba Ham Lake—a spectacular system of three pristine lagoons interconnected by secret cave tunnels.

12:00 Savor a freshly prepared lunch hosted on board. If the weather and tidal conditions allow, we will set up a unique dining experience directly on a secluded beach.

13:00 Continue your paddling expedition to discover the surrounding area's quietest beaches and hidden coves, or head into the Ba Ham lagoons if you haven't yet done so.

17:30 Conclude your deep-wilderness kayaking journey and cruise back to Beo Wharf for your hotel drop-off. Trip ends.

* Approx. Duration: Boating 2hrs/ Kayaking & swimming 4 hours/ Lunch break 1 hr

* Meal included: Lunch 

* Depending on the day's tide, we will explore this fascinating lagoon system either in the morning or the afternoon.

 

 

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

Inclusion:

  • Transfer vehicle: Hotel - Beo Wharf - Hotel
  • Support boat
  • English speakig tourguide
  • Sit-on-top kayak
  • Lunch
  • Drinking water 
  • Entrance fees & tickets
  • Domestic travel insurance 

Exclusion:

  • Additional food and beverages not stated in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses
  • Transportation fee before and after the trip
  • Tips
THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

Equipment provided by VAH:

  • Sit on top kayak
  • Life jacket
  • Dry bag
  • First-aid kit. 

What to bring: 

  • Water shoes 
  • Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
  • Rash guard for kayaking & swimming
  • Electronics: Mobile phone, camera, power bank, ...
  • Personal medications
  • Reusable water bottle
  • ID or Passport

Also recommended:

  • Sunscreen
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Pocket knife or multi-tool
IMPORTANT NOTES

1.  Kayaking Notes

  • Distance: Approximately 4km in total.
  • Terrain & Scenery: Paddlers will navigate a world-class marine landscape featuring deep blue waters, dramatic karst formations, and secluded pocket beaches ideal for resting and swimming. The terrain transitions into a thrilling cave expedition at Ba Ham Lake. Here, a series of three secret, interconnected lagoons are hidden deep inside the limestone cliffs.
  • Tide-Dependent Itinerary Note: To guarantee safe passage through the low cave tunnels of Ba Ham Lake, the exact timing of our lagoon exploration (morning vs. afternoon) is flexible and will be determined by our guide based on the daily tidal calendar. The rest of the day’s activities, including lunch and beach relaxation, will be adjusted seamlessly around this highlight.
  • Suitability: The water is generally calm and the distance is highly manageable, making it accessible even for those with little or no prior kayaking experience. Families are welcome, children from 6 to 10 years old are eligible to participate.

2. Responsible Travel & Environmental Protection

  • Leave No Trace: We strictly follow and promote the Leave No Trace principles in all our outdoor programs. We encourage our guests and partners to apply these ethics to minimize our impact on the natural environment. [See details about Leave No Trace here]
  • Reduce Plastic Waste: To limit single-use plastics, we encourage everyone to bring a reusable Reusable bottle (minimum 1L capacity). Refill stations will be provided throughout the trip.
  • Local Regulations: We kindly ask all guests to comply with the specific environmental regulations and instructions provided by our guides at the destination.

3. Health & Safety

  • Medical Considerations: Your safety is our priority. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions or chronic joint issues (knees, ankles, shoulders, etc.), please consult with your doctor before booking this trip.
  • Physical fitness: Train by running or kayaking/SUP at least two weeks in advance. Run 2–3 sessions per week, about 5 km per session. Alternatively, paddle 2–3 sessions per week, covering 5–7 km per session.
  • Transparency: Please inform our tour guide of any existing health conditions or allergies at the start of the journey so we can support you best