A two day, one night cruise of Halong Bay is perfect for those looking to experience this stunning World Heritage site within a limited time frame. You will be able to enjoy a leisurely, insightful cruise around the 3000 islands and rocky outcrops, whilst learning more about Vietnamese culture, cuisine and daily life in the remote floating villages around the bay. An example itinerary of a typical cruise is shown below, although this is of course just a guideline and if you don’t fancy any activities then just sit back and enjoy the breath-taking scenery (different boats will vary and the cruise itinerary will be confirmed to you before departure or upon arrival at the pier);
Day 1: Hanoi to Halong Bay
Depart Hanoi in the early morning to transfer to Halong Bay, stopping along the way at a local craft village for refreshments. Arrive at the pier for check in and board your boat at approximately 12:30pm for a welcome briefing about the boat, safety procedures and your itinerary for your cruise.
1:00pm – Enjoy a buffet lunch whilst your boat cruises into the bay, passing Chicken Rock and Titov Island along the way.
3:15pm – Visit bat cave by bamboo boat, kayak around the towering limestone karsts or visit Vung Vieng floating village. You may also a stop at a beach in the bay for swimming or a walk to the top of the hill to enjoy beautiful views over the bay.
5:00pm – Cooking lessons of traditional Vietnamese food, time for relaxing on the deck or enjoy a massage in the spa. Follow this with a drink and a chance to take some stunning photographs of the bay (happy hour on most boats in the bay from 5:30pm).
7:30pm – Enjoy your dinner in the restaurant as the sun sets on the bay.
8:30pm – Evening relaxation – enjoy movies, a chat around the bar, board games, magazines or even some squid fishing on the back of the boat!
Day 2: Halong Bay – Hanoi
6:15am – After a cup of tea or coffee to start your morning, enjoy an early morning Tai Chi demonstration on the sundeck.
7:00am – Enjoy a light breakfast in the restaurant as the boat cruises towards Song Sot Cave. Upon arrival at the caves enjoy a short excursion for an early morning walk to tour the cave.
9:00am – Check out of your boat and enjoy a delicious full breakfast in the restaurant as the boat cruises back towards the harbour.
11:30am – Arrive back at Tuan Chau pier where you will disembark your cruise and return to Hanoi for your onward travel.
