Since November 15, 2024, the Cat Hai District People’s Committee asked businesses, organizations and individuals to stop all activities related to kayaking services in the bays of the Cat Ba archipelago. This decision was taken to ensure that these services comply with the conditions provided for by law.
The chairman of the Cat Hai People’s Committee explained that in recent years, kayaking activities were organized spontaneously, without complying with legal regulations. This represented a potential risk for the safety and public order of tourists.
Measures and monitoring by authorities
The Cat Ba Archipelago Bay Management Council has intensified awareness campaigns, as well as inspections and monitoring of kayaking activities. Any infringement detected will be dealt with in accordance with current regulations.
At the same time, ecotourism and aquatic leisure projects are being developed in three areas: Cua Cai – Minh Tu, Van Ta and Ba Dinh. An official announcement on the opening of these areas will be made soon.
Impact on local businesses
Kayaking is a popular tourist activity in Ha Long and Lan Ha bays, and it is among the main attractions offered by overnight cruises. The suspension of this activity therefore caused confusion among local businesses.
Mr. Nguyen Duy Phu, Chairman of the Lan Ha Bay Cruise Association, expressed his concern. According to him, kayaking is an essential experience for tourists, and the authorities must quickly establish a framework to allow this activity to resume. He suggested a specific zoning for kayaking activities and, in the meantime, a temporary solution where companies could commit to strict rules.
“If Ha Long Bay allows kayaking, it would be unfair for Cat Ba Bays to ban it,” said Mr Nguyen Duy Phu.
Economic consequences
The cessation of kayaking activities risks having a direct impact on the attractiveness of Lan Ha Bay. Without this activity, night cruises become less competitive compared to those offered on Ha Long Bay.
According to tourism professionals, this suspension could considerably reduce the experiences offered to visitors. This would overload the few attractions still accessible, such as the Dark and Bright Cave. In some cases, tourists would have no choice but to stay on board boats without any real activity, which could harm the image of the region and discourage visitors.
“Without kayaking, night cruises will lose their appeal, and tourists may turn to Ha Long Bay, directly impacting local businesses and the region’s economy,” added Mr Nguyen Duy Phu.
