Cat Ba Island
1 day
AH-HP04
5/10
$103 USD
CUSTOMIZE TOUR Book Now
WHY THIS TOUR?

This tour is a perfect choice for travelers who want to explore one of the most secluded and fascinating corners of Lan Ha Bay in an active and memorable way. Starting from Beo Wharf, the journey takes you by boat to the Dau Be island group, where you can kayak through the hidden Ba Ham Lake area, a system of three interconnected lagoons linked by cave passages and often explored according to the tide. With 3–4 hours of kayaking, lunch on board or on the beach when conditions allow, and time to discover quiet beaches, caves, and peaceful lagoons, this tour offers a rare mix of adventure, natural beauty, and off-the-beaten-path exploration. 

Highlights:

  • Kayaking around the remote Dau Be island group
  • Exploring the unique Ba Ham Lake lagoon system
  • Discovering hidden caves and quiet beaches
  • Enjoying lunch on the boat or on the beach depending on conditions

 

SUMMARY

  • Departure Point: Cat Ba Island

  • Duration: 1 day

  • Destination: Cat Ba Island

  • Activities: Paddle Boarding (SUP)

  • Min : 5 people

  • Best time: Year-round

  • Max : 15 people

  • Difficulty level: 5/10

ITINERARY
Beo Wharf - Ba Ham Lake - Beo Wharf

08:30  Arriving at Beo Wharf. Boarding a tender boat to the floating house to receive kayak and equipment for the kayaking tour. We will travel by boat from Cat Ba to the Dau Be island group. Ba Ham Lake is a system of three interconnected lagoons linked by caves. Depending on the tide, we may explore this fascinating system of caves and lagoons in the afternoon or morning.

12:00  Having lunch on the boat (if the weather and tide allow, we may have lunch on the beach). After lunch, we keep kayaking to explore the secluded beaches in the surrounding area (or explore the caves and lagoons if we were unable to do so in the morning). Coming back to the dock at 17:30. End of the tour.

* Paddling time: 3-4 hours  

* Meals included: Lunch

 

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

Inclusion:

  • Kayak & gear
  • Boat
  • Meals as the schedule on the itinerary
  • Tour guides
  • Daily drinking water 
  • Fee for entrance tickets
  • Travel insurance 

Exclusion:

  • Other kinds of beverage unlist in the tour program
  • Personal expenses
  • Transportation fee before and after the trip
  • Beverages during meals

 

 

THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

Equipment provided by VAH:

  • First-aid kit
  • Backpack (10L)
  • Reusable bottle
  •  SUP board or Kayak sit – on- top and accessories
  • Life jacket 

     What to bring: 

  • Water shoes / water sandals
  • Backpack (10L–30L)
  • SUP clothing: long-sleeved swimwear (rash guard) or T-shirt and shorts
  • Sun protection: hat/cap, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Personal medications
  • Electronics (Mobile phone, camera, power bank...), appropriate waterproof cases
  • ID or passport

     Also recommended:

  • Hand sanitizer
  • Spare clothing
  • Waterproof phone pouch

 

TOUR EQUIPMENT
IMPORTANT NOTES

1. SUP paddling/ Kayak Notes

  • Distance: The paddling route is approximately 3 to 4 km
  • Terrain: We will paddle across a stunning bay with clear, cool blue waters, dotted with small islands rising randomly from the sea. Ba Ham Lake is a system of three enclosed lagoons connected by dark caves running through the mountains. Entering these lagoons feels like stepping into a mysterious paradise, thanks to their breathtaking beauty and profound tranquility
  • Suitability: This route is ideal for most fitness levels, including beginners. Families are welcome, children from 6 to 10 years old are eligible to participate.
  • Before starting the kayaking activity, the guide will provide instructions on paddling techniques, safety precautions, and the route. All participants are required to wear life jackets.
  • While paddling in the bay, you should watch out for obstacles such as submerged rocks and boats. Avoid paddling too close to cliff faces when there are waves, as they can push you into sharp rock surfaces.
  • When kayaking through caves, you must use a flashlight and follow the guide’s instructions

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