RITA Cruise 5* Lan H-Cat Ba 3 days 2 nights with 2 ways transfer

Exploring the RITA Cruise 5* Lan H-Cat Ba 3-Day Tour: An Authentic and Comfort-Filled Sea and City Experience

This 3-day, 2-night cruise adventure takes you through some of Vietnam’s most captivating sights—Lan Ha Bay, Halong Bay, and the historic streets of Hoi An—combined with city highlights of Hanoi. It’s a package that balances comfort, scenic beauty, and culture, all wrapped in a well-organized itinerary. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel to the final farewell, this tour promises a blend of relaxing cruising, active explorations, and immersive local dining.

What stands out most about this experience is the value for money—for $459 per person, you get hotel transfers, two days on a well-maintained cruise, and a variety of activities that showcase Vietnam’s natural charm. The authentic local cuisine served onboard, including Vietnamese seafood and traditional dishes, really enhances the sense of place.

One thing to consider is the schedule’s pace, especially with early mornings and packed days, which might be a lot for travelers seeking complete relaxation. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive taste of both land and sea, enjoying scenic vistas and cultural highlights in one go.

Key Points

• Comfort and Convenience: Private transfers between Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Hoi An ensure a smooth experience.
• Scenic Highlights: Stunning limestone formations, caves, beaches, and traditional villages make for picture-perfect moments.
• Cultural Insights: Visits to famous landmarks like Linh Ung Pagoda, Marble Mountain, and the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An add depth.
• Authentic Food: Local dishes like Cao Lau and fresh seafood are highlights, along with on-board meals.
• Well-Reviewed Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Value for Money: All activities, transfers, and most meals are included, making this a comprehensive package.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay

The adventure kicks off early, with a pickup around 8:20 am from your hotel in Hanoi. The journey to Halong Bay takes roughly 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to settle in and appreciate the scenic drive.

You’ll stop briefly in Hai Duong province for a quick 20-minute rest before heading to Tuan Chau harbor. Here, the transition from land to water begins with a speedboat transfer to the Rita Cruise. The arrival itself sets an inviting tone—the ship’s simple, elegant design hints at a relaxing yet stylish stay.

Once aboard, you’ll enjoy a welcome drink and settle into your cabin. The buffet lunch, featuring Vietnamese seafood, is a good way to fuel up while crusing past limestone formations that seem to rise directly out of the water. As one reviewer mentioned, “The cruise sails through limestone caves and natural scenery, and you breathe in the wonderful air,” which perfectly captures the essence of this journey.

In the afternoon, the boat heads toward the Dark & Bright Cave, a highlight where the dramatic limestone islets and emerald waters make the landscape feel almost surreal. This part of the bay is perfect for photography, leisurely sightseeing, or just soaking in the scenery.

Day 2: Exploring Lan Ha Bay and Viet Hai Village

The second day offers more active pursuits. Around 8:20 am, you’ll transfer to a smaller boat to explore the southern part of Lan Ha Bay, heading toward Viet Hai Village—an authentic rural escape away from tourist crowds. The journey itself is scenic, with the boat skimming past towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery.

Cycling for about 5 km around the village is a favorite part for many travelers, giving a glimpse into local life and rural Vietnam. “We enjoyed a short bike trip to the village,” one reviewer notes, highlighting how this adds a personal touch to the experience. After cycling, you return to the boat for lunch with panoramic views, making the most of the peaceful surroundings.

In the afternoon, kayaking around Tai Keo cave—a tunnel cave—is a highlight, especially if you love being on the water. The calm, clean waters are ideal for paddling, and the additional time spent swimming at hidden beaches around the Three Peaches area lets you cool off and relax in nature.

Day 3: Cat Ba & Return

The final morning begins with optional Tai Chi on the sundeck, an activity praised for its peaceful start to the day. A buffet breakfast follows, offering a chance to enjoy the stunning landscape as the ship passes by the Frog Pond area, known for its film ties—“King Kong” was filmed here, if you’re a movie buff.

You’ll have the option for sea swimming or kayaking, which many reviewers found to be the perfect last-minute adventure. Afterward, it’s time to check out of your cabin, enjoy a buffet lunch, and prepare for the cruise back to harbor, ending your trip with a relaxed view of the bay.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

Many reviews mention the well-maintained cruise ship with full facilities and the crew’s professionalism. Guests appreciated the delicious, plentiful meals, especially the seafood buffet, which felt both authentic and satisfying. The guide’s knowledge was also frequently praised—reviewers highlighted how guides explained the caves’ formation and stories in fluent English, making the experience more engaging.

Another favorite aspect was the stunning scenery—the limestone formations, caves, and beaches—paired with the peaceful atmosphere onboard. The opportunity to meet travelers from around the world and share stories over campfire-style dinners or on the deck made the experience memorable.

Authenticity and Value

Reviewers appreciated that the cruise isn’t overly luxurious or pretentious—it’s simple, elegant, and focused on natural beauty and genuine experiences. One reviewer said, “The views in the boat are very pleasurable, especially those of the caves which are almost magical,” underlining how the scenery leaves a lasting impression.

Practical Considerations

The early start and busy schedule might not suit travelers looking for complete relaxation, but for those wanting a comprehensive and engaging experience, it hits the mark. The inclusions—transfers, activities, meals—offer good value, especially considering the scenic and cultural richness packed into the trip.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This cruise is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see some of Vietnam’s most scenic spots while enjoying comfortable accommodations and authentic food. If you love a mix of sightseeing, active pursuits like cycling and kayaking, and cultural highlights, this trip will check all your boxes.

It’s a great choice for those who value guided insights—the knowledgeable guides can turn a good trip into a memorable one—while also appreciating the peaceful moments on deck with spectacular views.

However, if you prefer a very leisurely pace or a more luxurious cruise experience, you might want to weigh the early mornings and packed schedule. Still, for the price and what’s included, this tour delivers a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally immersive adventure that many travelers find worth every penny.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $459 fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, two-way bus transfers between Hanoi and Halong Bay, all activities, meals (including lunch on both days and dinner), coffee and tea, and guided tours.

Are drinks included?
Alcoholic beverages are not included in the package, so you might want to bring some if you enjoy wine or beer.

What type of accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay on a cruise with private cabins, which are described as well-maintained with full facilities. The reviews suggest the ship’s decor is simple yet elegant.

Is the tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
Yes, this tour is private and suitable for groups, couples, and solo travelers. The activities are flexible, and the guided nature makes it friendly for those traveling alone.

What should I bring for activities like kayaking and cycling?
Comfortable clothes suitable for water and outdoor activity, water shoes, and a hat or sun protection are advisable. Equipment is provided, but packing light and practical is best.

Can I join the tour if I don’t want to participate in all activities?
Absolutely. The itinerary offers some free time, and you can opt-out of specific activities like kayaking or cycling without issue.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While not explicitly stated, generally, the best weather in Northern Vietnam is from September to April, avoiding the rainy season and high heat.

This RITA Cruise tour offers a smooth blend of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and comfort, making it a worthwhile choice for travelers wanting to experience Vietnam’s natural wonders and historic charm—all in a well-organized, authentic setting.