Halong Bay is an awe-inspiring archipelago composed of almost 3000 limestone islands. Some of these islands are thickly forested, while others are bare rock. The spellbinding region is one of the greatest natural wonders of Vietnam, and is best explored leisurely by boat. During this Halong Bay cruise you'll weave slowly through the maze of islands on a traditional Chinese junk boat. This will allow you to take in the breathtaking scenery and observe local people going about their daily lives while you relax on deck with a cold beer.

You'll spend one magical night aboard the comfortable Huong Hai junk, complete with its set of characteristic red sails. You'll anchor at several of the tiny islands in this mysterious bay and explore atmospheric sea caves. If you need to cool off during this two-day Halong Bay cruise, you can dive into the waters and watch the exotic fishes scatter under the surface.
Please note that the weather can deteriorate during August, September and October due to the typhoon season. In cases of bad weather, the module may have to be adjusted slightly.
offered daily from Hanoi Accommodation: 1 night aboard a comfortable, traditional junk boat
accommodation category 2-3 Price: from $225 per person - based on 2 people sharing
Includes: transport from Hanoi to Halong Bay, one night accommodation aboard Huong Hai junk boat, all meals, cruise through Halong Bay, English speaking guide, 5 US dollar entrance fee for two days
Transport: air-conditioned bus and Huong Hai junk
Excludes: all drinks other than tea and coffee, kayak hire, entrance fees to caves and other cruise stopoffs

Day 1: Departure Hanoi - Huong Hai Junk

This morning, you'll be collected from your hotel at approximately 8:00 AM and taken to the coastal town of Halong, where your traditional junk awaits you. Once onboard, you'll kick off your trip with a lunch caught fresh from the sea. The aromas escaping the kitchen are sure to create quite an appetite. Afterwards the boat will begin its superb Halong Bay cruise through the region passing Dinh Huong Island, Dog Island, Fighting Chicken Island, Sail Island, Finger Islet and passing the Hoa Cuong fishing village. These small limestone islands, some of which are thickly forested, others are inhabited and yet others have secretly secluded sandy beaches. During your Halong Bay cruise you'll visit Sung Sot cave, one of the most alluring of all the hidden caves. You'll also be able to take a dive into the azure waters from one of the tropical beaches of Soi Sim or Titov. There will be an opportunity for you to stretch your legs and climb Titop mountain, which offers a captivating view of your surroundings and a greats spot for a photo. The Junk will set anchor in Lom Bo for the night. Fishing enthusiasts can attempt to catch their evening meal with a traditional rod and tackle. During dinner, you can mull over the impressions of the day and watch the sunset whilst enjoying a glass of Vietnamese wine. Life really doesn't get much better than this.

Day 2: Huong Hai Junk - Hanoi

The next morning you'll be woken by the wafting scent of a delicious breakfast. You'll then begin your morning Halong Bay cruise, exploring Bai Tu Long Bay, a visit to Tam Cung mountain ranges, passing Baby Dog Island, Dragon's Head Island and other various islands. This entire area is a photographer's paradise, so be sure to keep your camera ready. Lunch will be served aboard the junk during your return to Halong. Upon arrival at Halong pier, a transfer will be waiting to take you back to Hanoi. This is where our module will end.

Halong Bay Legend

Ha Long literally means ‘descending dragons’ and legend holds that this is precisely what happened at Halong Bay. A long, long time ago when the ancestors were fighting invaders from the north, the gods decided to send help. They sent a family of dragons from heaven to help the local people defend their land. The dragons descended into Halong Bay and began to spew jewels and jade. As soon as these gems touched the water they turned into islands, forming a barrier to keep the invaders away. This allowed the ancestors to keep their land and form Vietnam. After the victory, the dragons liked Earth so much that they decided to stay. Legend has it that the mother dragon still lies in Halong and her children lie in Bai Tu Long. The tails of the dragons form the Bach Long Vi area.

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