Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam's most famous sights, and the choice of how to see it changes your whole experience.
Day trip from Hanoi
Best if you are short on time. You drive about 2.5 hours each way, board a boat at Tuan Chau, have lunch on board, visit Sung Sot Cave, kayak or take a bamboo boat at Luon Cave and swim or hike at Ti Top Island. It is a full, tiring day, but it covers the highlights.
Overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay
Our recommendation if you can spare two days. You have time for kayaking, a sunset on deck and the quiet of the bay after the day boats leave. Dinner is on board and breakfast comes with sunrise views.
Bai Tu Long Bay cruise
Next to Ha Long Bay and with similar scenery, Bai Tu Long is usually quieter. Our two-day cruise there includes kayaking and swimming around Cap La Island, Thien Canh Son Cave and a cooking demonstration on board.
When to go
October to April is cooler and clearer. May to September is hotter, and storms can disrupt sailings. We always keep a backup plan.
