TRIP OVERVIEW
Trip Dates
05 Apr - 11 Apr |
Full
|
12 Apr - 18 Apr |
Full
|
19 Apr - 25 Apr |
Full
|
04 Oct - 10 Oct |
Full
|
11 Oct - 17 Oct |
Private
|
18 Oct - 24 Oct |
3 Spaces
|
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Tour Highlights
Swim among over 300 otherworldly limestone islets and karst islands which jut up dramatically from emerald waters.
Discover world-renowned Vietnamese culture and cuisine as you delve deep into this fascinating part of the world.
Enjoy an unmissable walk up to Hospital Cave, located in the National Park, which was built as a bomb proof hideout as well as a hospital for Vietnam soldiers.
Relax at the end of each day at the Flamingo Cat Ba Beach Resort – a beautiful modern addition to this prehistoric landscape.
Discover the natural beauty of Lan Ha Bay on this truly unique swimming holiday in one of Vietnam’s most picturesque locations. Situated adjacent to Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay is a much quieter location, which spans an area of more than 7,000 hectares – most of which is covered by emerald water and scattered with 300 towering limestone islets and karst islands.
Often referred to as ‘Ha Long Bay’s Twin,’ Lan Ha Bay is ideal for open water swimming as it has much less boat traffic. The largest island in Lan Ha Bay, and our base for the duration of our trip, is the rugged, jungle-filled Cat Ba Island, famous for its history during the Vietnam War.
Due to the runoff from the lush, green islands which make up this beautiful corner of the world, water clarity is sometimes lower than in other open ocean locations, however, it is still suitable for swimming.
Our accommodation for the week is the stunning Flamingo Cát Bà Beach Resort situated in it’s own private bay. The resort offers a spa, private beach, infinity pools, 3 large restaurants, 2 pool bars and even its very own sky bar overlooking the bay.
Who is this trip for?
This trip is designed for those who want to combine spectacular swimming among the karst islands and limestone outcrops of Lan Ha Bay with optional hikes around the area’s dramatic landscapes and a taste of Vietnamese culture. Swims include a mix of coastal exploration and point-to-point crossings. The geography of the bay means it is usually possible to find sheltered waters to avoid any choppiness.
Swimmers should have a basic understanding of open water swimming and be capable of completing the average swim distance and average daily swim distance (over the course of two swims) prior to the start of the trip.
The average swim distance is around 2.5km. The average daily swim distance is around 4km.
We have given this trip a ‘Moderate’ grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.
What's included?
- Fully guided swimming holiday (swimmers only)
- Professional swim guides and full safety escort on all swims (swimmers only)
- Six nights' accommodation
- All breakfasts
- All lunches (swimmers only)
- ABTOT Protection, in accordance with our terms and conditions.
- Transfer from Hanoi Opera House to our accommodation on Cat Ba Island on Day 1
- Transfer from Cat Ba Island to Hanoi Opera House on Day 7
What's not included?
- Travel to and from the start of the trip
- Evening meals
- Drinks and additional activities
Sample Trip Itinerary
Please note that the below daily itineraries are an example of the swims that may take place during your trip, however, actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and swim conditions. Your SwimTrek guides and local boat pilots will determine the most suitable swim locations each day and will communicate the plan with all guests as soon as possible.
Trip Schedule
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Map
Reviews
A perfect combination of swimming, safety, laughs, liberation, fun and friendship via expert guides in stunning locations. I felt I could be my true self and relax while also stretching my comfort levels with specialist support.
What a fantastic experience we had in Lan Ha Bay. From our fellow trekkers, to our amazing guides, and a vast variety of food, we had an amazing time and would recommend this to everyone!
Great SwimTrek leaders, great swimmers and a unique, very special location
My ideal holiday! Swimming in amazing places and meeting a great bunch of like minded people - sharing awesome experiences provided by SwimTrek.
Once again, SwimTrek have delivered a really well-designed and professionally-led swimming tour. Already looking forward to my next one.
Fantastic SwimTrek number 2….. number 3 is already booked!!!!!
An absolutely most enjoyable experience of a lifetime
Swimtrek Vietnam was the most amazing once in a lifetime experience. The guides and boat were top notch, as were the locations and lunches. It could not have been any better!
This was my ninth Swimtrek and another winner! Wonderful swims in a stunning and exotic location with great company, excellent guides and delicious food. Thank you, Swimtrek, I'm certainly up for a tenth trip with you!
The location is stunning, the water as warm as the people. Beautifully organised and realised. A trip to be savoured.