Embark on an unforgettable overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay, where you'll witness the splendor of the bay's limestone karsts and isles in various sizes and shapes. The cruise typically starts with a welcome drink and a brief introduction before setting sail. Guests can enjoy sumptuous meals on board, usually including a blend of Vietnamese and international cuisine. Activities may include kayaking around the drumlins, swimming in the emerald waters, visiting local fishing villages, and exploring caves such as Sung Sot (Surprise Cave) or Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace Cave). Evenings can be spent on the top deck, where you might partake in squid fishing, enjoy a cooking demonstration, or simply relax under the starry sky. Sleeping on the boat offers a peaceful experience, with the gentle rocking of the waves and the sound of the ocean for company.
A day trip to Ha Long Bay with kayaking and swimming presents an opportunity to get up close to the bay's natural beauty. Visitors will be taken by boat to popular spots such as Luon Cave, a perfect place for paddling through to a tranquil, enclosed lagoon. The experience continues with a visit to Titov Island, where guests can swim in the turquoise waters or hike up to the island's peak for a panoramic view of the bay. The kayaking adventure is suitable for all skill levels and provides an intimate look at the karst formations and calm inlets. Along the way, there's a chance to see local wildlife, including various bird species and maybe a monkey or two. Lunch is often provided on these tours, featuring fresh seafood and local dishes.
Sung Sot Cave, known as the 'Surprise Cave,' is one of the largest and most impressive in Ha Long Bay, located on Bo Hon Island. The tour to Sung Sot Cave starts with a climb up steep stairs, leading to the cave's mouth. Once inside, visitors are greeted by vast chambers and incredible stalactite and stalagmite formations. The caverns are atmospherically lit to highlight the features and grandeur of the cave. The 'Surprise' comes from the seemingly small entrance that opens up into the expansive interior, as well as the variety of formations that inspire the imagination. English-speaking guides explain the cave's history and geological significance, making the experience not only visually impressive but also educational.
The floating villages of Ha Long Bay, such as Cua Van or Vung Vieng, are nested within the sheltered inlets and offer a glimpse into the traditional water-based way of life. A visit to these villages allows tourists to see the intricacies of daily life on the water: floating homes, fishing nets cast into the sea, and children paddling to school. Visitors can roam in small bamboo boats rowed by the villagers or a kayak, navigating the calm waters and interacting with the friendly local community. Local guides provide insights into the villagers' history, culture, and reliance on the bay for their livelihood. This immersion into the local way of life is both fascinating and humbling and gives guests a deeper appreciation of the bay's cultural and ecological significance.
Part of the larger Ha Long Bay World Heritage Site, Cat Ba Island offers an array of activities for adventurers. Visitors can hike through Cat Ba National Park, which is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered Cat Ba langur. The park offers various trails, with the most popular leading up to Ngu Lam Peak for panoramic views of the island's lush mountains. Other attractions on Cat Bat Island include Hospital Cave, a secret, bomb-proof hospital from the Vietnam War, and Cannon Fort with its historical remnants and stunning bay views. For beach lovers, there are several serene sandy spots to relax or swim in the clear waters. Cat Ba also has a range of restaurants serving fresh seafood and local Vietnamese cuisine.
For a thrilling and unique perspective of Ha Long Bay, a seaplane tour offers breathtaking aerial views of the area's iconic limestone pillars, islets, and clear waters. The flight showcases the vastness and grandeur of the bay, providing an unparalleled vantage point. Seaplane tours often depart from Tuan Chau Island and can include a variety of packages, such as a simple scenic flight or a combination of flight and cruise experiences. Flying at a low altitude, passengers can capture incredible photographs and fully appreciate the scale of Ha Long Bay's natural wonders. The seaplane experience also includes the excitement of taking off and landing on water, adding an extra element of adventure to the journey.
Cycling is a delightful way to explore Cat Ba Island's rugged terrain, rural landscapes, and small local villages. Renting a bike or joining a guided cycle tour enables visitors to traverse the island's scenic routes at their own pace. The road along the coast offers stunning views of the sea, limestone mountains, and lush valleys. Cycling in the national park area, tourists can spot wildlife and visit remote areas not easily accessible by car. Biking tours may include stops at hidden coves, secluded beaches, and attractions like Trung Trang Cave. This activity is an eco-friendly and healthy way to experience the island's natural and cultural sights, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking an immersive travel experience.
Joining a night squid fishing excursion in Ha Long Bay is an unforgettable nighttime activity that offers fun and a taste of local fisherman life. Travelers can hop onto a fishing boat equipped with fishing rods and gear and learn the traditional techniques used by the locals. The boat's lights attract squid, making them easier to catch as darkness falls over the bay. Aside from the excitement of attempting to catch your own squid, the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to gaze at the starlit sky add to the experience. The crew often prepares the caught squid on the spot for a fresh, delicious treat. This activity provides a deeper connection with the bay's waters and the opportunity to enjoy serene moments under the night sky.
Experience an exclusive and romantic dinner inside one of Ha Long Bay's spectacular limestone caves. This luxury dining experience begins with a private boat ride to a secluded cave, which has been transformed into a dining venue with a cozy, ambient atmosphere. Surrounded by the natural beauty of stalactites and stalagmites, guests are treated to a gourmet meal, typically featuring a fusion of Vietnamese and international cuisine. The flicker of candles and the soft glow of the cave walls create an enchanting setting that's perfect for special occasions. A cave dinner in Ha Long Bay is not only a meal but a once-in-a-lifetime event that combines fine dining with the extraordinary backdrop of one of nature's marvels.
Take to the skies with a helicopter sightseeing tour for an adrenaline-pumping journey over Ha Long Bay's majestic landscape. As you ascend, you'll get a bird’s-eye view of the myriad of emerald waters and countless towering karst limestone pillars scattered across the bay. This luxurious experience provides a whole new perspective on the UNESCO World Heritage Site's splendor, uncovering the sheer scale and beauty that can't be seen from the ground or water. With the comfort and speed of a helicopter, visitors can cover more of the bay in a shorter time, ensuring a comprehensive and unforgettable aerial tour of this natural wonder. The helicopter's large windows offer exceptional viewing and photo opportunities, making it a photographer's dream.
