Cruise visiting Halong Bay
Dotted with thousands of sugar loaves emerging from the sea, Halong Bay is one of the most fascinating seascapes in the world. This bay, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see during a trip to Vietnam.
This natural wonder is located in the northeast of Vietnam, in the province of Quang Ninh, 160 km from the capital of Hanoi. The bay covers an area of about 1600 km² and has 1969 karst islands and islets. These are generally jagged limestone columns rising from the sea. Geologists explain these rock formations so singular by the erosion of rocks that lasts for hundreds of millions of years.
Ha Long means “descent of the dragon” in Vietnamese. According to the legend, dragons would have descended from the sky, sent by the Jade Emperor, to help the Vietnamese fight against the invaders. They spat out thousands of pearls which turned into islands. When the enemy’s boats arrived, they crashed against the rocks. The Vietnamese then won the battle.
In 2011, Halong Bay was selected as one of the seven natural wonders. It attracts millions of Vietnamese and foreign tourists every year. Hundreds of boats and tourists are in the bay every day, especially during the high season.
How to get to Halong Bay ?
To take a cruise in Halong Bay, you have to go to the pier of Tuan Chau. The journey from Hanoi is done by car or bus and lasts about 3h30.
When to go to Halong Bay?
Choose the right period to enjoy your stay in Halong Bay in the best conditions.
From December to February, the climate is unfavorable. It is cold and windy. Some days are foggy and rainy.
March to May is generally a good time to visit Halong Bay. The temperature rises gradually, between 19 and 25°C. The weather is nice and sunny. Slight rains sometimes.
From June to September, the climate is not very favorable. The temperature rises up to 35°. Beware of storms and typhoons which can cancel your trip.
October to November is the best time to enjoy Halong Bay.
The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is from October to November and from March to May, when the dry climate and pleasant temperatures allow most outdoor activities.
Also, don’t forget to check the Vietnamese vacation periods (Lunar New Year, 30/4, 1/5, 2/9….). During these periods, Halong Bay is very busy.
What to do during a cruise in Halong Bay ?
The best way to enjoy the scenery of Halong Bay is to take a boat cruise. If you want to book an excursion in advance, you can easily book it online. Indeed, many travel agencies offer this type of excursions.
According to your desires and wishes, you can choose a cruise based on the following criteria: duration of the excursion (one day, one night or two nights), budget (cheap, medium or luxury), type of boat (modern or traditional, collective or private).
Admire the incredible landscapes of Halong Bay
The cruise will allow you to fully appreciate the incredible beauty of Halong Bay, which is covered with thousands of limestone islands emerging from the emerald waters. Famous for its millions of years old karst formations, the bay offers many photo spots. You will find strange rocks of all shapes and sizes: couple of fighting cocks, man’s head, island of thumbs, island of the turtle…
Faire du kayak
Kayaking is a must-do activity during a cruise in Halong Bay. It is an opportunity to go to inaccessible places of the bay by boat. You can paddle through caves and islands and enjoy the beauty of the natural landscape. It will be an unforgettable experience for all visitors.
Explore the Sung Sot cave
Located on Hon Bo Island in the heart of Ha Long Bay, Sung Sot Cave (Cave of Surprises) is considered one of the most beautiful caves in Halong Bay. It was discovered by the French in 1901. The cave covers about 10,000 m2 and has many stalactites and stalagmites from the entrance to 500 meters deep. Inside, artificial lighting highlights the fabulous masterpieces of Mother Nature.
Climb to the top of Ti Top
Ti Top was named after the visit of the famous Russian cosmonaut Gherman Stepanovich Titop. The activity not to be missed is to climb the 400 steps that lead to the top of Ti Top Island. You will have a panoramic view of Halong Bay.
Participate in the cooking class
Most boats offer cooking classes that teach you how to make simple dishes such as egg rolls or spring rolls. It is an interesting activity to discover the traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
Doing Tai Chi on the upper deck
Early in the morning, on the upper deck of the boat, you can attend the Tai Chi class. Nothing better to wake up the body and mind in a sublime setting of Halong Bay. It is also an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the bay as the first rays of the sun gradually reveal the amazing shape of the limestone peaks.
Visit the pearl farming village
Here you can visit a floating pearl farm and learn about pearl making. In addition, you will have the opportunity to buy beautiful pearl souvenirs at a reasonable price.
With splendid landscapes and various activities, without any doubt, a cruise in Halong Bay will leave you unforgettable memories of Vietnam !
