We did the lazy way here: joined a tour out of Hanoi by Vega Tours. Turned out great. It came recommended by a young French Canadian couple that we met in Hoi An. (checkout their video link at end of post).
The trip was three days/two nights: one night on the boat and the other on Cat Ba.
Taken from ride into area and a hike up mountain overlooking Ha Long Bay.
The first half of trip was on a boat that nicely accommodated the 16 of us. Weather was iffy but view still breath-taking in the mist.
Top: Our guide showing us the route. Middle: dining area; bottom: beautiful passage.
Our small ‘large boat’ had lovely bedrooms with ensuite. The food was abundant, varied and excellent.
We did two stints of kayakking. The second day was particularly peaceful. At this point our group was only 8 as we had left the others to board a smaller vessal for inner bay exploration (the other half had opted for a two day tour).
Kayakking: Note the humongous jelly fish. Am glad I saw this after swimming!
We biked a circular route on Cat Ba Island stopping in a village to sample snake wine and other home brew.
It was a remarkable trip and we highly recommend Vega Tour and the three day vs the 2 day version. The extra day was actually the most fun – off the more touristy routes and lots of biking and kayakking.
In French but great video of our tour by young Quebec couple:
Kerry Travels 
This is such a spectacular tour. we did the same a few years ago. Loved every minute of it. Looks like you’re having a blast.
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Hi Kerry and Barry
Pictures are great..what a trip!
Couldn’t see the video but imagine that is wonderful too.
Won’t be long before you are home. See you soon!
All our love Gary & Donna
Sent from my iPad
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Hi Donna…we just got back. No reliable internet connection for last bit of trip so doing catch up for last stops of our journey which was indeed amazing. Thx for joining us in our travels!
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Enjoying the arm-chair travel! What a fantastic trip you and Barry are having!
Hugs,
Anita
P.S. Happy Easter! Hope the Easter Bunny finds you!
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