Summary
When cruising in Vietnam, should you visit Halong Bay or the lesser-known Bai Tu Long Bay? This post will help you decide!
Halong Bay in Vietnam is incredibly popular, attracting over 6 million visitors each year. Unfortunately, due to its popularity, the bay often suffers from pollution, making swimming less appealing.
However, there is an alternative, and Bai Tu Long Bay might just be the solution!
In this article, we will compare the well-known Halong Bay with the more tranquil Bai Tu Long Bay, allowing you to make an informed choice for your cruise experience.
Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay
Are you in search of a breathtaking cruise that takes you into a stunning realm of limestone islands surrounded by clear turquoise waters? Many travelers flock to Halong Bay, hoping for a serene experience, but often leave feeling overwhelmed by the vast number of fellow tourists.
Which one should you choose for your cruise?
We will explore the advantages and disadvantages of both locations, providing helpful tips to choose the best cruise company for your journey through Vietnam.
Halong Bay vs Bai Tu Long Bay
Let’s delve deeper into Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay so you can utilize this information to your advantage as you consider your options.
1. Touristy Halong Bay
Halong Bay is undoubtedly one of the most famous destinations in Vietnam. As a consequence, the staggering number of tourists means that you may often find yourself vying for space and views with countless others.
Consequently, your view from the boat might just be another vessel, and the water quality may leave much to be desired.
What will you love about Halong Bay?
- Halong Bay is arguably more stunning than Bai Tu Long Bay because of its dense collection of limestone islands.
- There are remarkable sights to explore, such as Surprise Cave and Titov Island. The journey through Surprise Cave reveals the vibrant, rugged cave interiors, leaving visitors in awe. Meanwhile, Titov Island offers breathtaking panoramic views of the bay from one of its highest peaks.
What might you not be so fond of in Halong Bay?
- The heavy influx of tourists can lead to crowded conditions, diminishing your relaxation and peace in certain parts of the bay.
- Water pollution is a notable issue, often resulting in unpleasant sights and trash floating in the water.
2. Peaceful Bai Tu Long Bay
This may be the first time you are learning about Bai Tu Long Bay. Located northeast of Halong Bay, it serves as an alternative destination, providing a quieter atmosphere to enjoy romantic moments away from bustling tourist sites.
What will you love about Bai Tu Long Bay?
- Bai Tu Long Bay comprises about three-quarters of the entire UNESCO World Heritage Site. Being less on the tourist radar, this bay tends to be more serene and cleaner than its counterpart.
- The tranquil environment offers visitors a chance to experience local culture, including visits to floating villages.
- This bay features beautiful attractions like the Cong Do area, Vung Vieng fishing village, Da Xep Park, Cong Dam area, Thien Canh Son cave, and Tra Gioi beach.
What might you not be so fond of in Bai Tu Long Bay?
- The islands are less densely packed than in Halong Bay, resulting in larger open water spaces.
- During inclement weather, the boats may be more susceptible to waves, causing potential seasickness among travelers.
Things to Consider Before You Go on the Cruise
Choosing the Right Cruise Operator
Given Halong Bay’s popularity, there are numerous cruise operators available. Consequently, you may find better deals and a wider selection of vessels to choose from.
Our suggestion is to select a cruise operator that offers itineraries for both Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay. Note that not all cruise companies are permitted to enter Bai Tu Long Bay, enhancing the likelihood of a more peaceful experience (potentially at a higher cost).
How Many Days Do You Want to Cruise For?
In our experience, cruising Bai Tu Long Bay typically requires selecting either a 2-night or 3-night option. We personally favored a 3-day/2-night cruise, which provided ample time to truly appreciate the wonders of both bays.
A 3-day/2-night itinerary allows for daily exploration of breathtaking scenery, relaxation in the evenings, and further sightseeing on subsequent days. Alternatively, shorter cruises may be available, but they won’t leave as much time for exploration away from large crowds.
Double-check What’s Included with the Cruise
It is essential to verify whether meals, activities, and transfers are included in the cruise package. While some cruises may appear inexpensive initially, a closer look at the included services may reveal hidden costs.
We prefer all-inclusive packages, as they provide a more relaxing experience without surprise expenses.
Our Personal Recommendation
We recommend considering a 3-day, 2-night cruise that includes both Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay, renowned for their stunning views and serene waters. Conduct thorough research and communicate with the cruise company to determine the specific bays included in the itinerary.
Have a wonderful journey and immerse yourself in the breathtaking allure of this remarkable region of Vietnam!
