Northern Vietnam’s waterways serve up some of the best paddling adventures in Southeast Asia. Simply put, if you’re looking to explore limestone karsts and hidden caves, you can’t go wrong here.
The standout trips include the intimate Bai Tu Long day cruise in Halong Bay – perfect for those short on time but big on experiencing the bay’s grandeur. For a more complete experience, I’m particularly fond of the Doris Cruise through Lan Ha Bay, which smartly combines kayaking with creature comforts like an onboard pool.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the 3-day Ba Be National Park expedition, where you’ll paddle through pristine lakes and forests. Meanwhile, Halong Bay’s overnight cruises offer that magical mix of kayaking, cave exploration, and comfortable accommodations.
Let’s explore the top kayaking and canoeing tours that showcase the best of Northern Vietnam’s waterscapes.
Good To Know
- Bai Tu Long Luxury Day Cruise offers small-group kayaking experiences in Halong Bay with 100% traveler recommendation and wheelchair accessibility.
- Doris Cruise in Lan Ha Bay provides 2-day multi-day cruises with kayaking, swimming pool visits, and bamboo boat tours, though not wheelchair accessible.
- Ba Be National Park trekking and kayaking tour spans 3 days with private transport, an English-speaking guide, and local homestay accommodations.
- The Halong Bay Boat Trip includes kayaking and bamboo boat options, with a maximum of 45 travelers for an intimate experience.
- Rita Cruise Transfer Service offers overnight kayaking and cave exploration with round-trip shared transfer, meals, and accommodations, though not wheelchair accessible.
Halong Bay Day Tour on a Luxury Cruise – Small Group With Kayak
For a luxurious day in Halong Bay, the Bai Tu Long Luxury Day Cruise offers a small-group experience with kayaking.
Boasting 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this cruise includes an English-speaking guide, sightseeing fees, and a range of amenities like lunch, sunset tea, and beverages.
Pickup is available from Hanoi hotels or the designated meeting point, with a 9:45 AM arrival at the port for boarding. The tour starts at 7:00 AM and ends back at the meeting location.
Pricing starts at $109 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and discounts for children.
This wheelchair-accessible tour is suitable for most travelers.
Read our full review: Halong Bay Day Tour on a Luxury Cruise – Small Group With Kayak Review
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2-Day Doris Cruise With Swimming Pool Visit Lan Ha Bay Discovering and Kayaking
This 2-day Doris Cruise offers travelers the opportunity to explore the captivating Lan Ha Bay.
With a maximum of 30 travelers, the cruise includes a variety of activities such as visiting a swimming pool, kayaking, and bamboo boat tours.
The cruise also provides meals, entrance fees, guide services, and transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle.
While not wheelchair accessible, the cruise is suitable for most travelers, excluding those with back problems, heart issues, or pregnant women.
Priced from $203 per person, the Doris Cruise has received overall positive reviews, though no 5-star ratings.
Advance booking is recommended, as the cruise is non-refundable.
Read our full review: 2-Day Doris Cruise With Swimming Pool Visit Lan Ha Bay Discovering and Kayaking Review
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Ba Be National Park Trekking & Kayaking 3 Days 2 Nights
The Ba Be National Park trekking and kayaking experience offers travelers a chance to enjoy the serene natural beauty of Northern Vietnam.
Over three days and two nights, visitors can explore the park’s lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and limestone caves by foot and by kayak.
The tour includes private transportation, an experienced English-speaking guide, all necessary equipment, and accommodations at local homestays.
Meals, entry fees, and 24/7 support are also provided.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, this adventure requires a moderate level of fitness.
Priced from ₹48,880.58 per person, the Ba Be National Park tour promises an unforgettable journey into Vietnam’s breathtaking northern landscapes.
Read our full review: Ba Be National Park Trekking & Kayaking 3 Days 2 Nights Review
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Halong Bay Boat Trip With Sung Sot Cave – Kayaking – Titop Island
Exploring the stunning Halong Bay is a must-do activity for many visitors to Northern Vietnam. The Halong Bay Boat Trip with Sung Sot Cave, Kayaking, and Titop Island offers a comprehensive experience of this iconic destination.
Priced from £29.58 per person, the tour takes travelers to the picturesque Halong International Cruise Port, where they’ll enjoy a boat trip, kayaking or a bamboo boat ride, and a visit to the impressive Sung Sot Cave.
Lunch, drinks, and tips are included, making it a hassle-free adventure. With a maximum of 45 travelers, the tour provides an intimate experience amidst the stunning limestone formations of Halong Bay.
Most travelers can participate, making it an accessible option for a wide range of visitors.
Read our full review: Halong Bay Boat Trip With Sung Sot Cave – Kayaking – Titop Island Review
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2 Days Bai Tu Long Bay Luxury Cruise With Kayaking and Swimming
Travelers seeking a luxurious escape in Northern Vietnam can embark on a 2-day Bai Tu Long Bay Luxury Cruise that offers an immersive experience.
Accommodations are in air-conditioned cabins, and the cruise includes meals, a welcome cocktail, and permits for Ha Long Bay. Guests can enjoy kayaking and swimming, and the cruise provides water, tea, and fresh fruit.
Transportation is available from Hanoi, with pickup options in the morning or at the Hanoi Opera House. Additional costs may apply for gratuities, personal expenses, and holiday surcharges.
This cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for travelers with back problems, with a maximum of 50 guests.
Read our full review: 2 Days Bai Tu Long Bay Luxury Cruise With Kayaking and Swimming Review
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Lan Ha Bay, Halong Bay & Kayak With Escape Sails
With the stunning UNESCO-listed landscapes of Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay as the backdrop, travelers can embark on a one-day cruise that offers an immersive experience.
The tour starts at 7:30 am with pickup from Hanoi, followed by a meeting at the international port in Hai Phong.
Onboard, guests can enjoy a delicious lunch and choose between a kayak or bamboo boat excursion to explore the serene waters up close.
The cruise also includes beverages such as alcoholic drinks, bottled water, and coffee/tea.
With a maximum of 30 travelers, this tour provides an intimate and personalized adventure in northern Vietnam.
Read our full review: Lan Ha Bay, Halong Bay & Kayak With Escape Sails Review
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Full Day Kayaking Visit Amazing Cave Halong Bay Diamond Cruise
On this full-day excursion, you will kayak through the stunning landscapes of Halong Bay, exploring the renowned Amazing Cave.
They’ll enjoy a Vietnamese lunch with seafood and be transported by air-conditioned vehicle. An English-speaking guide will accompany the group of up to 90 travelers.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, most travelers can participate.
Reviews for this activity are limited, with just one 2-star rating across Viator and Tripadvisor.
Additional costs include VAT, drinks, private expenses, and tips.
Read our full review: Full Day Kayaking Visit Amazing Cave Halong Bay Diamond Cruise Review
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Overnight Rita Cruise Transfer Service & Kayaking
The Rita Cruise Transfer Service & Kayaking experience takes participants on an overnight adventure exploring the captivating landscapes of Northern Vietnam.
This package includes round-trip shared transfer from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and overnight accommodation. Guests will have the opportunity to kayak and discover the region’s stunning caves.
The tour is led by a professional guide and has a maximum group size of 12 people. Travelers should note that this activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
With a price starting from $420 per person, this immersive experience offers a chance to take in the natural beauty of Northern Vietnam.
Read our full review: Overnight Rita Cruise Transfer Service & Kayaking Review
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Halong Excursion Deluxe Cruise With Lunch, Kayak & Sunset Party
Departing from the Cafe Ông Bầu Tuần Châu at Tuan Chau International Marina, this Halong Excursion Deluxe Cruise offers a 6-hour exploration of the captivating Halong Bay.
The cruise includes a set menu lunch and sunset party, along with an English-speaking guide and entrance fees.
Travelers can enjoy the optional private car pickup and the choice of kayaking or a bamboo boat experience at Luon Cave.
However, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
Priced from $48 per person, this cruise provides a delightful way to discover the natural beauty of Halong Bay with flexible booking options.
Read our full review: Halong Excursion Deluxe Cruise With Lunch, Kayak & Sunset Party Review
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From Ninh Binh: Halong Bay 2 Days on Cruise, Biking & Kayaking
Journeying from Ninh Binh, this 2-day cruise through Halong Bay offers travelers a chance to enjoy the region’s natural splendor.
The maximum group size is 26, ensuring an intimate experience. Activities include biking, kayaking, swimming, and even a fish massage. Meals, deluxe cabins with air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms, and an English-speaking guide are all included.
Pickup is available from Tam Coc, Trang An, or Ninh Binh city. Priced from $145 per person, the cruise features a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, this Halong Bay experience delivers.
Read our full review: From Ninh Binh: Halong Bay 2 Days on Cruise, Biking & Kayaking Review
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Cozy Bay Halong 5-Star Day Cruise, Buffet, Cave, Kayak and Island
Offering a 5-star day cruise experience in Northern Vietnam’s renowned Halong Bay, Cozy Bay Halong presents travelers with a chance to enjoy the region’s stunning natural beauty.
The cruise features a buffet lunch with seafood and Vietnamese dishes, as well as English-speaking guides and entrance fees. Guests can enjoy 6 hours of exploration, including a kayaking or bamboo boat experience at Luon Cave.
Roundtrip transportation from Hanoi is available upon request, and the cruise accommodates up to 79 travelers.
With a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation policy, Cozy Bay Halong provides a convenient and luxurious way to discover the wonders of Halong Bay.
Read our full review: Cozy Bay Halong 5-Star Day Cruise, Buffet, Cave, Kayak and Island Review
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Wego Halong Cruise Day Trip Visit Cave and Kayak From Harbor
The Wego Halong Cruise Day Trip provides travelers with a comprehensive 4-hour exploration of Halong Bay’s stunning natural landscapes.
This superior cruise caters to groups of up to 45 people, offering a private car pick-up and drop-off, a Vietnamese-inspired lunch, and an English-speaking guide.
Guests can admire the bay’s iconic limestone formations, explore a scenic cave, and have the option to rent a kayak or bamboo boat for an additional fee.
However, the experience may not be suitable for those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant individuals.
Travelers can secure their spot through a reserve now, pay later policy, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
Read our full review: Wego Halong Cruise Day Trip Visit Cave and Kayak From Harbor Review
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The Sum Up
Northern Vietnam offers a variety of exciting canoe and kayak experiences. Visitors can explore the stunning Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Ba Be National Park. These tours typically include a cruise, swimming, and opportunities to kayak through the picturesque landscapes. Whether it’s a day trip or a multi-day excursion, these water-based activities provide a unique way to discover the natural beauty of this region.