A cruise to Halong bay, a UNESCO world heritage site
Paid pickup from the Hanoi airport or from the city is provided by the cruise team in a shuttle bus. It is advisable to take it. 2 hrs drive to the Halong bay International port. The cruise manager will receive you at the port and get the luggage loaded and complete the check in formalities.
A small “tender” boat always accompanies the Cruise for accessibility to shallow sites.
Day1
Lunch is served and the first meal on the cruise gives a glimpse of what beholds.
In the evening, the tender takes you to a Kayaking area where a 45 min kayak can take you up close to the limestone structures.
From there onwards, a short 1 hr excursion to the Ti Top island wherein you can take a trek upwards to catch a glimpse of the beautiful landscape of the Halong bay.
And some time to swim on the beach.
Since Halong bay is increasing in popularity and getting more commercialized, you can expect a lot of crowd at all these places.
It’s now back to the cruise and time for some rest followed by a cooking show and it’s dinner time.
All meals on board are included in the itinerary and the chef takes care of individual sensitivities and preferences. Menus are preset and served on the table. Steamed prawns, stuffed crabs, oysters, Stir-fried squids, steamed fish, Bun cha (a Vietnamese speciality), salads, fruits.
I have to confess that the dining experience was nothing short of being surreal.
A few board games and post dinner activities, it’s time to doze off after a hectic but fun-filled day at the bay.
Day2:
Starts off with some Tai chi experience followed by a light breakfast.
It’s now time to take off to the Hang Sung Sot caves. Vietnam is well known for its caves. A 45 min trek into the cave and it’s back to the cruise and time for a sumptuous brunch.
The cruise returns to the port for dropping off its guests at 11 am.
The above is the itinerary for a 2D/1N cruise.
A day cruise or 3D/2N options are available as well.
A special mention needs to be made of the cruise manager, Mr. Son, who takes care of all your requests from the time you set foot on the port to the time you are set to say goodbye to this legendary Halong bay.