Scenic Halong Bay, with its emerald seas, rests beautifully over the Red River Delta. This region, "the Bay of the Descending Dragon", is dotted with more than 3,000 mountainous islands, each with its own unique landscape. The islands are famous for their dolomite and limestone rock formations, many of which have been given names. Natural grottos, fjords, land tunnels and inlets are also common. During the Vietnam War, numerous large ships sailed through the open waters of the bay and now an excursion by junk, cruises or fishing boat gives you the memorable experience of sailing past silent, sea-girt caves and around the spectacular formations, tasting fresh and authentic Vietnamese cuisines, breathing cool breezing from the Gulf of Tonkin and enjoying a romantic night with your sweet hearts under the starry sky. That's all we can say how fantastic Halong is and how amazing our junk cruise you will feel because it's simply the best that we can offer you.
Day 2: Halong Bay discovery
Early risers can enjoy a morning view of Bay's landscape. Sitting on the upper deck, you can relax and take in the breath-taking beauty of the rocky islands rising from the crystal-clear water of the bay. Breakfast is at 8:00am. After breakfast, there are 3 options to choose from. All start from 8:30am.
Option 1 (Relaxing): After breakfast, start cruising South to explore Lan Ha Bay, along the way seeing more of the fascinating Limestone formations like Trong (Drum) cave, Con Coc islet, Mieng Giuong islet, floating fishing village, Ba Trai Dao islet, to swim at the quiet beaches of Cat Ba National Park, BBQ lunch on the beach or on board the Lagoon Explorer. More time for swimming & relaxing. Then cruise back to visit Dark & Bright cave, and then cruise to the Drum cave area for sunset. Dinner & overnight on board.
Option 2 (Trekking in Cat Ba National Park - 3 hours): After breakfast, start cruising to Cat Ba National Park, passing floating fishing villages along the way. Trekking through remote Viet Hai Village on winding trail with limestone cliffs rising from ground beside, you will have a chance to discover the traditional life of local residents. Climb up to the peak of the mountain for a panorama view of Halong bay and Viet Hai valley, the heart of Cat Ba National Park, lunch in the village. Trek back to the boat and cruise to the Drum cave area for sunset. Dinner & overnight on board.
Option 3 (Sea Kayak Discovery): After breakfast, cruise south to the kayaking area where you will be given some primary paddling instruction by our expert on how to paddle safely and comfortably. You and your guide will explore the mystical bay. There will be a lot of swimming, visiting hidden beaches or a lagoon cave (depending on tidal condition). BBQ lunch on the beach or on board the Lagoon Explorer. Cruise and explore Dark & Bright cave before heading back to Drum cave area for dinner & overnight on board.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner