Following breakfast, we drive to Haiphong City where we’ll take a ferry to Cat Ba Island, the largest of the 366 islands and islets that make up the Cat Ba archipelago. 

Once we arrive on the island, we’ll hop on our bikes and cycle along the coast to Cat Ba town, and if time permits and we’re feeling up to the challenge we’ll take the long route via Cat Ba National Park. The scenery is outstanding as we cycle through dramatic landscapes of rugged mountains and limestone islands clad in thick green jungle. Overnight in Cat Ba Island.

Cycling distance: 45 km 

After breakfast, enjoy a couple of hours cycling to visit the intriguing Hospital Cave, where a local war veteran will walk us through and explain how this natural cave was used as an army hospital during the Vietnam-American War. 

From here we’ll continue on to the Gia Luan Dock to take a ferry across to Tuan Chau Island, where we’ll join the traditional ‘junk’ boat that will be taking us through Halong Bay, which is one of the natural wonders of the world and one of Vietnam’s five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Over three thousand jagged limestone islands emerge from the emerald green Most of the islands are clothed in thick green vegetation and ring with the sound of bird song in the early morning. Secluded sandy coves are everywhere and in the summer months the warm waters of the bay are ideal for swimming. 

Board a shared traditional wooden junk for a 2 day cruise among the islands, seafood lunch on board. Visit Dinh Huong Island and wander around the impressive Sung Sot Cave, famed for its remarkable stalactites and stalagmites. Continue the cruise stopping at Titov beach for the night. Enjoy a couple of hours kayaking to a lagoon and watch the sunset over the bay. Dine and overnight on board.

What’s included: Transfer, guide, entrance fee, bicycles. Helmet, water, snack, breakfast, lunch, dinner and accommodation. 

Cycling distance: Approx 20km/Easy/Moderate

Accommodation:

Standard class: 3* Bai Tho Junk – Deluxe Cabin

 www.baithojunk.com 

The sound of the ocean wakes you for breakfast and a morning swim if you wish. Continue the cruise past rock formations named after their shape. Enjoy a short trip by sampan Luon cave (tunnel cave) Paddle through the tunnel and emerge into a crater lake, surrounded by impenetrable cliffs and gliding kites. The trip to this cave is dependent upon tidal conditions. Cruise out to Bai Tu Long Bay around Bai Tho Mountain and head back to dry land. Brunch is served on board. 

Transfer by private air conditioned vehicle to Hanoi