A Day to remember!
Vietnam's Natural Wonder
Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most iconic destinations in Vietnam. Located in the northeastern part of the country, about 170 kilometers from Hanoi, it is renowned for its emerald-green waters and over 1,600 limestone islands and islets scattered across the bay. These dramatic karst formations create a mesmerizing seascape that has become a magnet for tourists seeking natural beauty and adventure. Beyond its striking visuals, Halong Bay is also home to a diverse habitat that includes various fish species, coral reefs, and even rare animals like the Cat Ba langur, an endangered primate. For anyone visiting Vietnam, experiencing Halong Bay’s natural wonders is a must
Getting to Halong Bay
Halong Bay is conveniently accessible from Hanoi, making it a popular day or overnight trip. The journey typically takes around 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on your mode of transport. You can choose from options like buses, taxis, or even motorbikes for the adventurous. For our trip, we opted for an organized tour that we found on Booking.com. The Cozy Bay Classic Cruise 2D1N offered convenient transportation via expressway transfer, making the experience smooth and hassle-free. The setup was quite similar to our Ninh Binh trip, which you can read about for more travel inspiration.
Travel Tip: Carry Cash for a Hassle-Free Experience
Vietnam remains a largely cash-based society, especially in smaller towns and on activities like ferry rides or tours. While credit cards might be accepted in larger establishments, it’s a good idea to carry enough Vietnamese Dong for meals, drinks, tips, and any extras you may want during your Ha Long Bay adventure. This is especially true on boats, where card payment may not be available.
Day 1: Exploring Ha Long Bay’s Gems
After a few hours on the road, we arrived at Tuan Chau Harbor, where we waited for about 30 minutes before boarding the boat. The crew welcomed us warmly, providing keys to our cozy cabin. Our room was small but clean, featuring a compact shower, a toilet, and a ceiling fan that was a pleasant alternative to noisy air conditioning. While the boat itself was a bit dated, it had a certain charm, and the cleanliness and friendly atmosphere made it feel like home for the night.
Our group was intimate, with around 30 people joining the tour. Shortly after settling in, we gathered in the dining area for lunch. The spread was impressive, offering plenty of vegan and vegetarian options, which we greatly appreciated. The bar served beverages, but these were charged separately at the end of the trip.
Discovering Sung Sot Cave
Our first stop was Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), located on Bo Hon Island. Known as the most beautiful cave in Ha Long Bay, it didn’t disappoint. The cave features a series of large chambers filled with awe-inspiring stalagmites and stalactites, some of which resemble animals or mythical figures. Walking through the cool, crisp air of the cave was refreshing, and the natural formations were truly mesmerizing. The experience lasted about an hour, giving us plenty of time to soak in the grandeur of this geological marvel.
Ti Top Island: Views Worth the Climb
Next, we visited Ti Top Island, a small yet iconic destination in Ha Long Bay. The island offers a sandy beach perfect for swimming, though we opted to climb to a viewpoint instead. The climb, while steep, rewarded us with panoramic views of Ha Long Bay. From the top, we could see countless green islands rising majestically from the calm waters, with cruisers dotting the bay below.
Ti Top Island holds historical significance, as it was named after Russian astronaut Gherman Titov, who visited in 1962. The scenic beauty and historical charm make this spot a must-visit.
Evening Delights and a Natural Show
Back on the boat, we had some downtime to relax before a spring roll-making class on the top deck. It was a fun, interactive experience that added a touch of Vietnamese culture to our trip. Dinner followed, offering another generous spread, and the evening wrapped up with karaoke for the brave-hearted.
A thunderstorm stole the show that night, illuminating the bay with flashes of lightning and the distant rumble of thunder. Sitting in the quiet darkness of the boat, surrounded by nothing but nature’s powerful display, was a highlight of the trip. The boat’s stability ensured a peaceful sleep, with little movement to disturb us during the night.
Day 2: Kayaking and the Final Farewell
We woke early on the second day, packed our bags, and prepared for an exciting morning activity—kayaking. Each pair was given a two-person kayak and safety jackets, with the freedom to explore the bay at our own pace. Paddling close to the towering cliffs and around small islets was both relaxing and invigorating.
One highlight was gliding near a pearl farm, a reminder of Ha Long Bay’s rich pearl industry. These farms cultivate high-quality pearls using sustainable methods, contributing to the local economy while preserving the bay’s natural beauty.
After kayaking, we returned to the boat for an early lunch. The meal was as satisfying as the previous ones, with plenty of variety to suit all dietary needs. With full bellies and fond memories, we disembarked at Tuan Chau Harbor and made our way back to Hanoi via the same expressway transfer.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit Destination in Vietnam
Our Halong Bay cruise with Cozy Bay Classic Cruise was a memorable experience filled with stunning natural beauty, exciting activities, and moments of tranquility. Whether it was the refreshing air of Sung Sot Cave, the panoramic views from Ti Top Island, or the peaceful morning kayaking session, every part of the trip added something special. For travelers seeking to experience one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations, a cruise on Halong Bay is the perfect way to immerse yourself in its unique charm.
Let us know in the comments if you’ve visited Halong Bay or plan to include it in your Vietnam itinerary! For more travel adventures, check out our blog at A Day to Remember.
