Venezia cruises in less tourist areas with small group

Planning a trip to Vietnam’s stunning bay landscapes often brings up images of crowded, busy cruise ships and mainstream tours. But what if you could explore Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island with fewer travelers, more intimacy, and personalized touches? That’s exactly what Venezia Cruises promises with their 2-day, 1-night experience. With a solid reputation (5.0/5 from over 330 reviews) and a focus on smaller groups, this cruise stands out as a more authentic, relaxed way to see some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking scenery.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on less touristy areas, giving you a chance to enjoy the stunning limestone formations and pristine waters without the crowds. Plus, the small-group setting means more personalized attention from guides and crew, along with a cozy, friendly atmosphere — perfect for travelers who want a more intimate adventure. Of course, no trip is perfect: some travelers note that the price can seem a bit steep compared to larger, more commercial options, but the quality of experience appears to justify the cost for many.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic experiences, scenic tranquility, and engaging activities like kayaking and cycling, this cruise could be just the ticket. However, if you’re looking for a high-energy, party-focused vibe, this might not be your best fit. This tour is ideal for curious travelers seeking genuine, memorable moments on Vietnam’s lesser-visited waters.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances intimacy and personalized service.
• Authentic local cuisine and cooking classes enrich the cultural experience.
• Less touristy areas of Lan Ha Bay offer peaceful, unspoiled scenery.
• Activities like kayaking, cycling, squid fishing, and karaoke add fun and variety.
• Comfortable cabins and good value for those who want a quality but cost-conscious experience.
• Knowledgeable guides make every stop informative and engaging.

Discovering Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island

This tour takes you away from the busy, crowded parts of Vietnam’s tourist scene to a quieter part of Lan Ha Bay, which is often overshadowed by the more famous Ha Long Bay. The itinerary starts with your transfer from Hanoi, giving a scenic two-hour ride into the bay area. The pick-up from Hanoi’s Old Quarter is smooth, and the anticipation builds as you anticipate the peaceful waters and limestone cliffs awaiting you.

The Journey Begins: From Hanoi to the Bay

Your day kicks off early (around 7:05 AM), with comfortable transport to Cat Ba town. Once on board the Venezia Cruises boat, you’re greeted with a welcome drink and a briefing — a thoughtful touch that sets a friendly tone for the trip ahead. The vessel’s cozy size and small groups (max 18 travelers) immediately create a relaxed, intimate atmosphere that many reviews appreciate.

Cruising and Exploring: Limestone Formations and Beaches

After lunch, the cruise navigates through spectacular limestone islets emerging dramatically from the water. The landscape is unlike the typical tourist spots — more rugged, less crowded, with lush greenery covering most islands. The highlight is reaching Ba Trai Dao beach, a tranquil patch of powdery sand surrounded by forested islets, perfect for swimming and kayaking.

Travelers consistently mention the joy of kayaking in the less touristy areas of Lan Ha Bay. One reviewer highlighted the pristine waters, saying, “This is a quiet tourist paradise,” emphasizing the untouched nature of the region. The kayak rides are a chance to get close to the cliffs and hidden caves, with some reviewers noting they felt like explorers in their own private paradise.

Sunset Moments and Culinary Delights

As the day winds down, everyone gathers on the sundeck for the sunset party, with fresh fruit and drinks. Watching the sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin is a memorable moment. The onboard cooking class—where you learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes—adds a fun, interactive element. Many travelers mention how tasty and well-prepared the meals are, often highlighting the delicious local food as a standout feature.

Evening Entertainment and Nighttime Relaxation

After dinner, the night comes alive with karaoke, squid fishing, and drinks on the top deck. Reviewers like Caroline_M praised the crew and guide Anh for their helpfulness and warmth, which keeps the atmosphere lively and friendly. The quiet, starry night skies above the bay make for a lovely backdrop, perfect for unwinding and chatting with fellow travelers.

The Next Day: Exploring Cat Ba and Rural Life

Early risers can enjoy a sunrise or some peaceful photos from the cabin window before a light breakfast. The day’s highlight is the visit to Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island. Here, you’ll hop on an electric car or bike to traverse through lush rainforests and meet locals going about their daily routines.

One reviewer noted the joy of biking through the rainforest, mentioning the journey through a “rainforest tunnel” to the village, which offers a glimpse into local life far from tourist crowds. Meeting villagers, visiting their homes, and seeing their work firsthand makes this part of the trip especially enriching.

Returning and Farewell

After the village visit, you’ll enjoy a delightful lunch aboard the boat before heading back to the port, concluding your tranquil adventure in Lan Ha Bay. The return journey is a relaxed way to reflect on the peaceful waters and beautiful scenery you experienced.

Practical Aspects and Value

This tour costs around $116.90 per person, which, considering the included meals, activities, and accommodation, provides good value for a small-group cruise. The price is typical for similar experiences, but the small size, personalized service, and less crowded route make it stand out. The tour’s emphasis on authentic local experiences—from cooking classes to village visits—adds layers of value that many travelers find worthwhile.

The tour is designed to be accessible, with most travelers able to participate, and the inclusion of pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter means you don’t have to worry about transportation logistics. The mobile ticket system also means a hassle-free entry process.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 18 travelers, the atmosphere remains cozy and friendly. Many reviews mentioned the helpfulness of guides like Anh and Tuan, who made the trip informative without being overwhelming. The small group setting also makes activities like kayaking and biking more enjoyable and less crowded, especially compared to larger, commercial cruises.

Food and Beverages

All meals are included, and reviewers consistently praise the quality of the food. Meals are served onboard, with options for local Vietnamese dishes that are well-spiced and flavorful. The tour offers happy hour deals in the evening, adding a relaxed, social touch.

Activities and Flexibility

The itinerary provides a good balance of activities—kayaking, cycling, squid fishing, and cooking. Reviewers appreciated the variety, especially noting that kayaking in less touristy areas felt more authentic and peaceful. The optional bike tour offers a chance to see Cat Ba Island’s rural charm up close, which many found memorable.

Final Thoughts

This overnight cruise with Venezia Cruises offers an intimate, authentic experience of Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to escape the crowds, enjoy scenic tranquility, and participate in engaging activities without sacrificing comfort or good food.

The knowledgeable guides and friendly crew make a significant difference, turning what could be a standard tour into a memorable adventure. The fact that it’s a small-group experience enhances the feeling of exploration and connection, allowing for more personalized attention.

While the price may be slightly higher than larger, more commercial options, many reviews suggest the quality, authenticity, and peaceful environment justify the cost. The included activities, meals, and visits create a well-rounded experience that appeals to those seeking a genuine taste of Vietnam’s coast and rural life.

In short, if you’re after a peaceful, culturally enriching, and scenic cruise in Vietnam’s less touristy waters, this tour is a fantastic choice. It provides a perfect blend of relaxation, activity, and authentic local encounters, all wrapped up in a cozy, small-group setting.

FAQ

How do I get to the start point?
You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with transfers taking about two hours to the cruise port in Cat Ba town, making the journey smooth and straightforward.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), activities like kayaking and biking, squid fishing, karaoke, cooking demonstrations, and all sightseeing fees. Beverages are not included.

Can I participate if I’m traveling solo?
Absolutely. Solo travelers can book, but there’s a $35 surcharge if you book for just one person on board. The small-group size fosters a friendly environment for solo travelers.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, a maximum of 18 travelers ensures a cozy atmosphere, with most reviews highlighting the benefits of traveling with a small, friendly group.

What kind of activities are available onboard?
Expect kayaking, squid fishing, karaoke, and cooking classes. You can also enjoy watching the sunset from the sundeck and taking part in relaxed evening drinks.

What’s the accommodation like?
The cabins are described as comfortable and clean, suitable for couples or solo travelers looking for a cozy retreat after a day of exploring.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, a hat, camera, and some cash for beverages and souvenirs. The tour provides safety instructions and basic gear for activities.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Overall, Venezia Cruises offers an authentic, peaceful route through some of Vietnam’s lesser-visited waters, with attentive guides, tasty local food, and engaging activities—perfect for those seeking genuine experiences away from the crowds.