Overview – Are Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay Really Different?
If you’re planning a trip to Northern Vietnam and looking into cruises, chances are you’ve come across two names repeatedly: Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay.
At first glance, they seem very similar: both offer emerald waters, towering limestone islands, and luxury overnight cruises. But are they really the same destination? And if not, which one should you choose?
👉 In short: Lan Ha Bay is a quieter, lesser-known neighbor of Ha Long Bay, offering a similar landscape with fewer crowds.
Meanwhile, Ha Long Bay is the iconic UNESCO-listed site known worldwide, with a wider variety of cruises and more developed tourism infrastructure.
Here’s why the difference matters:
- Your choice affects the type of cruise experience you’ll have
- It determines where you start your trip (Ha Long City or Cat Ba Island)
- It can impact your budget, crowd level, and itinerary preferences
In this guide, we’ll break down the real differences between Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay—from scenery and atmosphere to cruise styles and pricing—to help you make the right decision based on your travel style.
📌 Would you like an overview of both destinations first? Start with our Ha Long Bay Travel Guide
and the article: Ha Long Bay in Vietnam: What Makes It a Must-Visit Destination?
or explore the Lan Ha Bay Hai Phong Vietnam page for a broader perspective.
Map & Location – Where are they exactly?
Many first-time visitors are surprised to learn that Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay are not the same place, even though they share the same UNESCO-designated geological region and stunning seascape.
Let’s clarify the location, distance, and cruise departure points—so you can understand exactly where you’re going and how to get there.
Where is Ha Long Bay?
- Province: Quang Ninh
- Main Departure Port: Tuan Chau Marina, Ha Long City
- Distance from Hanoi: ~160 km (~3 hours by road)
Visual Map Overview: Ha Long Bay – North, accessed from Ha Long City:
Notable for:
- World Heritage Site
- Hundreds of cruises
- Famous caves (e.g. Sung Sot), Titov Island
- Heavier tourism & infrastructure
✅ Cruises typically start from Ha Long City, making it a popular option for group tours, day trips, and classic overnight cruises.
👉 Check the full guide on the distance from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay
Where is Lan Ha Bay?
- Province: Hai Phong
- Access via: Cat Ba Island
- Main Departure Port: Beo Pier (Cat Ba) or Got Pier (Hai Phong mainland)
- Distance from Hanoi:
- To Hai Phong: ~120 km
- Then ~1–1.5 hour by ferry or speedboat to Cat Ba
Visual Map Overview: Lan Ha Bay – South of Halong, accessed via Cat Ba Island (from Hai Phong)
Notable for:
- Less crowded, quieter atmosphere
- More kayaking/swimming spots
- Newer, boutique cruise lines
- Local fishing villages & hidden lagoons
✅ Lan Ha Bay is technically part of the same archipelago as Ha Long Bay but lies to the south of the main Ha Long tourist route.
How to get there from Hanoi?
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📌 If you’re unsure which route is smoother for your itinerary, explore this detailed guide:
Landscape & Scenery comparison – What makes each bay unique?
Both Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay belong to the same legendary Gulf of Tonkin region, featuring thousands of limestone karsts, emerald green waters, and jungle-covered islets. But when you take a closer look, you’ll notice subtle yet important differences in the scenery and overall vibe.
Ha Long Bay – Dramatic & Iconic Landscapes
- Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994
- Features towering limestone pillars, caves, and large open spaces
- Landscapes are grand and cinematic — perfect for first-time visitors or photographers
- Some spots feel crowded due to high cruise traffic and fixed routes
📌 Famous highlights:
- Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)
- Titov Island (viewpoint + beach)
- Fighting Cocks Islet (symbol of Ha Long)
👉 Ha Long Bay is your go-to if you’re chasing classic postcard views and want to check off a world-famous landmark.
📌 Explore more: Things to do in Ha Long Bay
Lan Ha Bay – Serene, Wild & Less Explored
- Technically an extension of Ha Long Bay, but more secluded
- Features calmer waters, denser karst formations, and more hidden lagoons
- Known for its untouched islets, floating fishing villages, and quiet coves
- Ideal for kayaking, swimming, and spotting local marine life
📌 Scenic highlights:
- Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches) beach
- Ao Ech Lagoon (frog pond for kayaking)
- Local floating houses & aquaculture areas
👉 Lan Ha Bay is perfect for those seeking a more tranquil, immersive, and off-the-beaten-path experience.
📌 Explore more: Things to do in Lan Ha Bay
Quick Visual Comparison
| Feature | Ha Long Bay | Lan Ha Bay |
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💡 Summary:
- If you want to see the famous Ha Long skyline and join a traditional cruise, Ha Long Bay is the iconic choice.
- If you prefer something quieter and more nature-focused, go for Lan Ha Bay.
Crowds, Vibe & Atmosphere – Peaceful Escape or Tourist Hotspot?
Ha Long Bay – Iconic, but Crowded
Being world-famous comes with a cost: tourist traffic. Ha Long Bay welcomes millions of visitors each year, especially during high season (October to April).
- Cruise routes are often similar → expect many boats in the same area
- Some spots (like Sung Sot Cave or Titov Island) can feel very busy
- Good for travelers who don’t mind sharing the view for the sake of iconic status
Lan Ha Bay – Quieter, More Relaxed
Because it’s less commercialized and further from mass tourism centers, Lan Ha Bay offers a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Fewer cruise boats = quieter experience
- Great for couples, photographers, and nature seekers
- Better chance of feeling like you “have the bay to yourself”
Cruise Types & Tour Options
Both bays offer a range of cruise options, but the experience differs in terms of routes, style, and operators.
Ha Long Bay Cruises
- Wide range: Budget → mid-range → 5-star luxury
- More companies, more departure time slots
- Traditional wooden junk boats to modern steel ships
- Day trips, 1-night & 2-night cruises available
📌 Check more:
👉 Book now or chat with our travel team for free planning help:
📞 Hotline / WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 | +84 915 815 535
Lan Ha Bay Cruises
- Fewer, but more boutique & eco-focused options
- Often newer ships with better cabin design
- Depart from Got Pier or Cat Ba Island, sometimes with speedboat shuttle included
- Itineraries include less-visited areas, kayaking lagoons
📌 See more:
- Lan Ha Bay Day Tour from Hanoi
- Lan Ha Bay Day Tour from Cat Ba Town
- Top Best Lan Ha Bay Cruises
👉 Book now or chat with our travel team for free planning help:
📞 Hotline / WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 | +84 915 815 535
Pricing – Which is more Budget-Friendly?
While both bays offer budget to luxury options, Ha Long Bay tends to have more competitive pricing due to higher volume and competition.
Typical Price Range:
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💡 Note: Lan Ha Bay cruises often include speedboat transfer from Hanoi or Hai Phong, which can add value.
📲 Message our team via WhatsApp for free planning help:
+84 974 805 797 | +84 915 815 535
Activities & Things to Do
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Accommodation: Staying in Ha Long vs Cat Ba
| Ha Long city | Cat Ba island |
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📌 Plan your full route here: Ha Long Bay Itinerary
Which Bay is Best for you? (Quick Decision Guide)
Still undecided between Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay? Let’s simplify your choice based on your travel style, expectations, and time.
Choose Ha Long Bay if you:
- Want to see the most iconic, UNESCO-listed sites
- Prefer a classic itinerary with popular landmarks
- Need more budget or group tour options
- Only have one day and want easy access from Hanoi
- Don’t mind sharing the experience with other tourists
Choose Lan Ha Bay if you:
- Value peace, quiet, and fewer crowds
- Prefer kayaking, swimming, and nature-focused experiences
- Are looking for newer, boutique-style cruises
- Want to explore Cat Ba Island as part of your trip
- Are okay with a slightly longer transfer
📌 Still not sure? Reach out to our local team — we’ll help match the best bay to your needs.
📲 Message our team via WhatsApp for free planning help:
+84 974 805 797 | +84 915 815 535
FAQs
Is Lan Ha Bay part of Ha Long Bay?
- Technically no, but it is geologically connected and often included in the broader “Gulf of Tonkin” cruise region. It offers a more peaceful alternative.
Which bay is better for kayaking?
- Lan Ha Bay. The waters are calmer, less crowded, and many itineraries include hidden lagoons and private beaches perfect for kayaking.
Is Ha Long Bay too touristy?
- During peak season, yes—it can feel crowded, especially at major stops like Sung Sot Cave. But it’s still worth visiting if it’s your first time in Vietnam.
Can I book a cruise that covers both?
- Some 2-night luxury cruises explore both bays, or you can do a combo of Ha Long Bay + Cat Ba stay with a Lan Ha day tour. Ask our team for custom options.
Ready to Book Your Cruise?
Whether you’re drawn to Ha Long’s famous karsts or Lan Ha’s peaceful lagoons, choosing the right bay starts with the right itinerary.
📲 Message our team via WhatsApp for free planning help: +84 974 805 797 | +84 915 815 535
