Discover Halong Bay
Dotted with jagged limestone pinnacles, Halong Bay stands as one of Vietnam’s premier attractions, welcoming over 10 million visitors every year. The vast majority of tourists arrive aboard day and overnight cruises, making it essential to navigate the multitude of options available.
Make the Most of Your Visit
Halong Bay retains its otherworldly charm, with jungle-clad islands rising from deep emerald waters. Access has become more convenient with the construction of an expressway connecting Halong City and Hanoi, along with the opening of Van Don International Airport, just 50km from the bay.
However, the escalating popularity of Halong Bay has sparked concerns regarding overcrowding, water pollution, and littering, prompting the Vietnamese government to enforce strict regulations. Boats now adhere to five designated routes, creating a unique experience as overnight cruises operate almost in tandem, highlighting key attractions. Furthermore, swimming is permitted only at a select few beaches, all monitored by drones to ensure compliance.
Your choice of cruise significantly impacts your Halong Bay experience, so consider your options carefully.
Luxury Cruises
If you’re looking to indulge, Halong Bay boasts luxurious cruise options resembling floating five-star hotels. While the itinerary may not differ from typical cruises, these trips offer first-class amenities, ensuring a lavish experience as you soak in breathtaking sunsets over picturesque islands.
For a luxury cruise, budget approximately US$300-350 per cabin.
- Pros: A remarkable experience featuring high-quality meals, superior amenities, and access to Halong Bay.
- Cons: Those seeking value might find better options within the midrange category, as overnight trips may afford only 24 hours or less on the vessel.
Budget and Midrange Cruises
Many visitors favor midrange and budget cruises due to the extensive range of pricing and value. Ultra-budget options can be rustic, while quality midrange choices provide comfortable cabins, knowledgeable guides, and opportunities for kayaking. If you’re on a tight budget, consider a day cruise with a reputable operator over an overnight trip that may lack essential comforts.
Prices for budget cruises start at around US$60 per person for day trips, with overnight midrange cruises typically ranging from US$110 to US$130.
- Pros: Intense competition results in added perks such as kayaking and private transfers from Hanoi.
- Cons: The vast array of choices can be daunting, so thorough pre-trip research is recommended.
Day Cruises
For those pressed for time, sightseeing in Halong Bay via a day cruise is a common choice. Departing from Tuan Chau Marina in Halong City, cruise boats can be hired for around US$30 per hour (accommodating up to 20 passengers), or you may join a four- to six-hour cruise for about US$50 per person. Prices often vary, so it’s advisable to verify whether meals like lunch are included.
- Pros: Affordable and easily arranged tours, with entertaining karaoke sessions on board.
- Cons: Can be crowded and noisy, with limited stops along the way.
Kayaking Adventures
Most reputable midrange cruises offer kayaking excursions, allowing you to paddle amidst the stunning karsts for an intimate encounter with the hardy limestone formations. For seasoned kayakers, kayak-only tours are available through operators in nearby Lan Ha Bay (off Cat Ba Island), providing additional scenic experiences with fewer tourists.
Full-day kayaking tours from Cat Ba Island generally cost between US$25 and US$30 per person.
- Pros: A kayak trip offers a welcome escape from the crowds.
- Cons: A complete kayaking tour limits the extent of exploration; consider a cruise with kayaking opportunities for a broader experience.
Safety Considerations
Safety ranks as a primary concern when choosing a cruise. Following a tragic boat sinking in 2011, stricter regulations were established, but some operators still neglect safety standards. Always verify that kayaking excursions include a guide, especially in areas with unpredictable currents prevalent near the limestone islands.
Essential Booking Tips
While most trips commence from Hanoi, you also have the option to stay in Halong City. Keep the following tips in mind when planning your cruise:
- The Halong Bay entry fee is US$13 per person for day cruises and US$25 for overnight trips, usually included in ticket prices, though verify with budget options.
- While comparing prices, ascertain whether transfers between Hanoi and Halong Bay are included, along with whether it utilizes the new expressway.
- Even though the expressway facilitates quicker travel times to 2½ hours, this timeframe is applicable primarily to private vehicles. Expect shuttle buses to take around three to 3½ hours.
- Determine whether overnight rates are based per cabin or per person; expect single travelers to pay 70-80% of the full cabin price.
- One-night cruises often schedule a packed itinerary with various activities, leaving little time for relaxation. Opting for a two-night cruise allows for more leisurely exploration with fewer crowds.
Choosing the Right Operator
Here are recommended operators:
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Vega Travel offers excellent overnight and two-night tours, featuring comfortable cabins with kayaking included, and is highly rated by travelers.
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Cat Ba Ventures runs tours from Cat Ba Island, covering both Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay.
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Indochina Sails features a traditional Chinese junk equipped with modern comforts.
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Handspan Adventure Travel provides authentic sailing experiences, avoiding engine noise, and also organizes full kayaking tours in Lan Ha Bay.
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Hai Au Aviation features Vietnam’s only seaplane flights, including 25-minute scenic trips over Halong Bay, which present the landscape from a breathtaking perspective.
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L’Azalée Private Premium Cruise offers the only single-cabin cruiser for an exclusive experience, though it commands a premium price.
Best Times to Visit
November marks one of the ideal times to explore Halong Bay, offering abundant blue skies, moderate temperatures, and favorable sea conditions. However, from May to September, be prepared for tropical storms, particularly during peak domestic tourism from June to mid-August.
February to April tends to be cool and often drizzly, with fog creating an ethereal atmosphere; however, low visibility may affect your trips. Cruises can also alter their itineraries or experience cancellations due to weather or sea conditions. Always review the fine print regarding refund policies when booking your cruise.
