Ha Long Bay, a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, has become one of the most popular attractions in Vietnam. Situated in the north of the country, this area is spectacular for its multitude of vegetated limestone islands and towering limestone pillars rising from the sea. Honestly, it was not my favorite destination during my 16-day Vietnam itinerary. It’s a really unique place that’s worth a stop, but I found other destinations even more beautiful. As this destination has become quite popular, I’ve created this helpful Ha Long Bay Travel Guide.
If your next destinations are Ninh Binh, Hanoi or Hoi An, be sure to check:
• 6-Day Hoi An Itinerary: Ultimate Guide for First-Time Visitors;
• Best Things To Do in Hanoi: Complete Travel Guide;
• 3-Day Ninh Binh Itinerary: Ultimate Guide for First-Time Visitors;
• Best Things to do in Ninh Binh: Complete First-Timer’s Guide.
How to Get to Ha Long Bay from Hanoi or Ninh Binh
There are multiple options to get to Ha Long Bay. One of the most common ways is to book a one-day cruise or a two-day, one-night cruise, and most tours include transport from the Hanoi Old Quarter to the boat. Another best option is to take a private car from Hanoi or Ninh Binh.
Best Time to Visit Ha Long Bay
There are two main seasons that I consider the best to visit Ha Long Bay. One is from March to May, and the other one is from September to November. I visited at the end of March, and the weather was really good.
Ha Long Bay vs Lan Ha Bay vs Bai Tu Long Bay
Now, the big question that is worth asking yourself before booking your cruise. What is the difference between these three areas? Here are the explanations you are looking for.
Ha Long Bay
The most well-known area, Ha Long Bay, has become very popular, so it is very crowded. Most tours operate only in this area without visiting Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay. If you want a wider variety of luxury cruises, then this is the best place.
Lan Ha Bay
It is situated south of Ha Long Bay, with access to Cat Ba Island. One difference is that you can start from different ports: Tuan Chau Island (Ha Long City), Got Pier (Hai Phong City), or Beo Pier (Cat Ba Island). It has also become touristy. It is more popular with people who want to visit Cat Ba Island, and it is also home to more floating villages.
Bai Tu Long Bay
It is situated to the northeast of Ha Long Bay, and it is even less crowded. There aren’t so many tours that operate here, and they leave from Halong International Port, Vung Duc Port, or Ao Tien Port. It offers a peaceful experience.
In the end, it depends on what you wish for in an excursion. All of them offer unique and beautiful experiences.
- Ha Long Bay: For a bigger group and a wider variety of cruises.
- Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba: For a more dynamic and adventurous experience and less crowded experience.
- Bai Tu Long Bay: A less crowded and more peaceful experience, but with fewer varieties of cruises.
Ha Long Bay Travel Guide: How Many Days Do You Need?
There are several options to visit Ha Long Bay, but these are the most common ones: a one-day cruise, a two-day, one-night cruise, or a three-day, two-night cruise. I recommend choosing a two-day, one-night cruise because otherwise you will be in a rush.
How to Choose the Best Ha Long Bay Cruise?
With so many cruises available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, I’m here to help. The best cruise for you depends on your travel style. If you really want to enjoy the experience, I don’t recommend booking the cheapest $12 option. There are many companies offering budget, mid-range, and luxury cruises. I found a website that makes it easy to compare and book them: https://www.halongbaycruises.com/.
We chose Arcady Cruise, and the rooms and service were excellent. However, if you also want to visit Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay, you should choose a different cruise.
How Much Does a Ha Long Bay Cruise Cost?
To be honest, cruises in Ha Long Bay aren’t cheap, but I still wouldn’t recommend booking the $12 option. It was my first cruise, so I was surprised by the prices too. Most overnight cruises start at around $120 per person. If you go for something significantly cheaper, you should expect lower comfort and service. If that doesn’t fit your budget, I think a one-day cruise is a much better choice than booking the cheapest overnight option.
Ha Long Bay Travel Guide: Best Things to Do
Most cruises schedule the activities for you, but I can share some of the most common activities you can do in this area.
Ha Long Bay Travel Guide: Kayaking Through Luon Cave
It truly was a really beautiful experience, so I really recommend it. One negative thing was that it was too crowded at that moment. You just need to find one area where you can avoid the crowds, even if that area is not very big.
Explore Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave
Your cruise schedule may include several caves that are worth a stop, so take the chance to explore them. In our itinerary was Sung Sot Cave but I’m sure that are more.
Ha Long Bay Travel Guide: Tiptop Island
A well-known island in the area. Many cruises stop here. You can also enjoy swimming or playing something on the beach. Or you can hike to the top of the hill to see the views from above. I don’t think you’ll have time for both of these activities
Join a Vietnamese Cooking Class
Most cruises have a cooking class included. You can participate to learn how a traditional Vietnamese dish is made eight on a cruise.
Visit Cat Ba Island
Even if it’s situated in Lan Ha Bay, there are some cruises that take from Ha Long Bay through Lan Ha Bay, or the other way. If you choose one type of these cruises then you’ll have the opportunity to see one of the most beautiful islands.
Explore Cua Van Floating Village
There some cruises that includes Cua Van Floating Village in the itinerary. Even if I didn’t visit the village, I decided to tell you about this option.
Frequently Asked Questions of Ha Long Bay Travel Guide
Absolutely. Despite becoming more crowded over the years, Ha Long Bay is still one of the most spectacular destinations in Vietnam and is well worth visiting. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is famous for its thousands of limestone karsts rising from the emerald waters, creating one of the country’s most iconic landscapes.
Yes, you can swim in Ha Long Bay. Many cruise itineraries include stops at beaches where you can safely enjoy the water, especially during the warmer months. One of the most popular places for swimming is Ti Top Island, which has a sandy beach and calm, clear waters.
Yes, Ha Long Bay cruises are a great option for families. Most cruise operators welcome children and offer comfortable cabins, family-friendly meals, and activities suitable for all ages, such as kayaking, visiting caves, swimming, and exploring islands.
Final Thoughts on Ha Long Bay Travel Guide
It was truly an unforgettable experience and one of the highlights of our trip to Vietnam. Seeing this UNESCO World Heritage Site in person was even more impressive than we had imagined. Cruising through the emerald waters surrounded by thousands of towering limestone karsts was breathtaking, and the scenery was really beautiful. It’s one of those places that looks just as beautiful in real life as it does in the photos.
