Lan Ha Bay is one of the most exquisite and captivating tourist destinations on Cat Ba Island, located in Hai Phong Province. Spanning over 7,000 hectares—with 5,400 hectares managed by the Cat Ba National Park—Lan Ha Bay boasts over 400 large and small limestone islands blanketed in diverse vegetation, pristine white sandy beaches, enchanting caves, and crystal-clear emerald waters ideal for scuba diving and coral reef exploration. It is a masterpiece that easily rivals Ha Long Bay.

Lan Ha Bay Sightseeing Route 3 features a departure point distinct from Route 1 and Route 2. This itinerary is specifically tailored for travelers seeking an unforgettable overnight cruise experience on the bay. The journey encompasses: Got Pier – Gia Luan – Tra Bau – Ong Cam Lagoon – Dark & Bright Cave – Got Pier.

To ensure travelers can fully immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of Ha Long and Lan Ha Bays, tour operators and the Lan Ha Bay – Cat Ba Management Board have meticulously designed a variety of routes catering to diverse preferences and travel styles. Among them, Route 3 is expertly crafted to accommodate overnight luxury cruises in Lan Ha Bay.

General Overview of Lan Ha Bay Sightseeing Route 3

Route 3 invites guests to explore iconic destinations within Lan Ha Bay, such as the ancient Quai To Fishing Village, Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches Islets), and Dark & Bright Cave. This exclusive itinerary offers travelers an intimate glimpse into the daily lives of local fishing communities while uncovering the mesmerizing cave systems and unique ecosystems of the Lan Ha Bay – Cat Ba archipelago.

Lan Ha Bay Route 3

Lan Ha Bay Route 3

  • Itinerary: Got Pier – Gia Luan – Tra Bau – Ong Cam Lagoon – Dark & Bright Cave – Got Pier.
  • 3 to 5-Star Cruise Rates: Prices range from 1,000,000 to 3,000,000 VND per person (depending on the class and luxury standards of the cruise)

Highlights of Sightseeing Destinations on Lan Ha Bay Route 3

Guests embark on their journey from Got Pier (Cat Hai Town) aboard a refined excursion boat. The vessel glides past the Phu Long mangrove forests, home to the distinctive flora and fauna of the Cat Ba Archipelago World Biosphere Reserve. Along the way, guests will be enchanted by fascinating tales and folklore surrounding the coastal land and people of Phu Long. The cruise then proceeds to Gia Luan, where visitors have the opportunity to explore Hoa Cuong Cave, situated 50 meters above sea level. Adorned with shimmering stalactites and surreal formations, the cave presents a magical masterpiece sculpted by nature. From Gia Luan, the voyage follows the maritime boundary between Cat Ba and Quang Ninh, guiding guests past the aquaculture farming areas of Tra Bau and Ong Cam Lagoon. Here, travelers can embark on kayaking or bamboo boat excursions to navigate into Dark & Bright Cave and admire the surrounding grandeur.

1. Ong Cam Lagoon

Ong Cam Lagoon is a mesmerizing destination within the majestic Cat Ba archipelago, situated in the east-northeast region of the islands. It encompasses a serene expanse of secluded valleys, pristine lagoons, and calm waters covering approximately 5 square kilometers. This area forms a strictly protected zone of the Cat Ba National Park due to its exceptional terrestrial and marine biodiversity. The name “Ong Cam Lagoon” also refers to the pristine primary forest conservation area on the mainland.

Ong Cam Lagoon

Ong Cam Lagoon

The uniquely concave mountain known as “Ong Cam Islet” once housed a Vietnamese Navy radar station on its peak. During the American War (1965–1968), Ong Cam Islet endured fierce attacks by American bomber aircraft. In July 1965, a fierce air-naval battle took place here between the U.S. air force and the Vietnamese Navy. Today, historical remnants such as water tanks and the foundations of the radar station still remain atop the mountain.

2. Tra Bau

Tra Bau is an exceptionally unique destination on the journey through the enchanting bays of the Cat Ba archipelago. Located in the northeast of the islands adjacent to Ong Cam Lagoon, it spans approximately 6 square kilometers of islands, valleys, and tranquil waters. It overlooks the bustling maritime channel that marks the boundary between the Cat Ba archipelago and Ha Long Bay in Quang Ninh Province, remaining in close proximity to renowned Ha Long Bay landmarks such as Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, Titov Island, Soi Sim Island, and picturesque coconut groves.
The Tra Bau and Ong Cam Lagoon areas feature numerous tranquil, wave-free marine lagoons and valleys, serving as the premier overnight anchorage for cruise ships, alongside neighboring overnight vessels from Ha Long Bay. As night falls, this area transforms into a vibrant floating city upon the sea, while also providing a safe, sheltered sanctuary for boats and ships during tropical storms and depressions.

3. Dark & Bright Cave

Dark & Bright Cave is a breathtaking marine water cave located in Lan Ha Bay within the Cat Ba archipelago, right at the confluence of Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. This extraordinary cavern pierces directly through a towering limestone mountain, stretching nearly 100 meters in length, about 4 meters wide, and towering roughly 3 meters above the water’s surface. To explore this wonder, travelers glide gracefully on kayaks, following the gentle current to uncover the hidden mysteries within.

Dark & Bright Cave

Dark & Bright Cave

Dark & Bright Cave creates an ethereal ambiance as towering stone islands converge to form a majestic sea cavern. This offers an unparalleled opportunity for visitors to experience a uniquely captivating landscape. Gliding past monumental limestone cliffs, travelers are filled with a profound sense of awe and wonder at nature’s supreme artistry.

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