Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking natural wonders and a must-see for any traveler. Nestled in the northeast of the country, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its stunning emerald-green waters and over 1,600 limestone islands. Whether you’re seeking adventure or serenity, a trip to Ha Long Bay should be at the top of your Vietnam itinerary. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect visit:
- How to Book a Ha Long Bay Day Trip
- What Your Day Trip Will Look Like
- Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay: Which is Best?
- What to Bring for Your Ha Long Bay Trip
1
How to Book a Ha Long Bay Day Trip
There are two primary ways to book your trip to Ha Long Bay:
1. Through your accommodation (hostel/hotel):
We booked our trip through the JW Marriott Hotel for three people. The hotel offered various options, and we chose a catamaran tour with fewer people instead of the typical boat tour, which tends to have more tourists. Meals (except breakfast) and transportation from the hotel were included.
The vast majority of hotels and hostels in Hanoi offer Ha Long Bay excursions directly from their reception. Just ask them for their different options and book with them, without having to worry or complicate things further.
Remember: When booking, always ask about the specific activities included. Each company offers different activities, pickup times, and inclusions, so it’s important to check what’s included in your tour.
2. Online with a tour company:
There are numerous options online for booking a Ha Long Bay tour, depending on what you want to do. Some highly-rated companies include GetYourGuide and TripAdvisor. It’s recommended to book a few days in advance to guarantee a spot on the boat you want. Don’t hesitate to DM the company you found on GetYourGuide or TripAdvisor if you have more specific questions—they usually respond quickly.
Pro Tip: Look for tours that include smaller groups to ensure a more personalized experience and fewer crowds.
2
What Your Day Trip Will Look Like
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect on a typical day trip to Ha Long Bay:
- Departure from Hanoi: Pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting point between 7:30 and 8:00 AM.
- Travel to Ha Long Bay: The drive takes approximately 2.5 to 4 hours in an air-conditioned shuttle bus or minivan.
- Boarding the boat: You’ll board the cruise boat between 10:30 AM and 12:00 PM.
- Cruising Ha Long Bay: Your cruise will take you through the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. You’ll have time to take in the incredible scenery of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Lunch on board: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch while cruising. The menu will depend on the tour company, but expect to eat some local dishes.
- Activities:
- Kayaking or Bamboo Boat Ride: Paddle through serene lagoons and caves. You may even spot some wildlife, such as monkeys, while exploring!
- Sung Sot Cave: Explore one of the largest and most famous caves in Ha Long Bay.
- Ti Top Island: Hike to the top of Ti Top Island for breathtaking panoramic views, or relax on the pristine beach.
- Return: You’ll return to the harbor around 4:00 to 4:30 PM and arrive back in Hanoi between 8:00 and 9:00 PM.
Pro Tip: If you’re hoping to capture stunning photos of Ha Long Bay, sit on the upper deck of the boat and have your camera ready as you cruise past the limestone formations.
3
Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay: Which is Best?
You can explore Ha Long Bay either with a day trip or by staying overnight on a boat cruise. Both options have their advantages:
Day Trip:
We chose a day trip, and it was fantastic! It’s more affordable (prices range from $50 to $150 CAD per person), and it gave us more time to explore Hanoi. Since we only had three weeks in Vietnam, this option worked best for us. However, the downside is that your time in Ha Long Bay is shorter, and you’ll spend a lot of time traveling.
Overnight Stay:
If your budget allows, an overnight stay is a wonderful option (prices range from $150 to $300 CAD per person). You’ll have the opportunity to experience both the sunset and sunrise on Ha Long Bay. Plus, with more time, you can enjoy activities without feeling rushed. Staying overnight gives you a deeper experience of the bay’s natural beauty and serenity.
In the end, both options offer incredible experiences. Your choice will depend on your budget and the time you have in Vietnam.
Pro Tip: For the overnight stay, look for smaller boat cruises that offer more personalized service, and book early, as these tend to fill up fast.
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4
What to Bring for Your Ha Long Bay Trip
To fully enjoy your day trip, make sure to bring these essentials:
- Swimsuit: You’ll likely have the opportunity to swim either from the beach or the boat.
- Microfiber towel: A quick-dry towel is ideal for drying off after swimming.
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses: These are essential for sun protection during the cruise.
- Motion sickness medication: If you’re prone to seasickness, bring medication just in case.
- Fanny pack: Keep your phone, wallet, and other valuables close and secure.
- Day backpack: For carrying larger essentials like a towel, sunscreen, swimsuit, and a reusable water bottle.
- Insect repellent: The bay area can have mosquitos, so it’s good to be prepared.
- Waterproof bag: To protect your belongings during water-based activities like kayaking or the bamboo boat ride.
- Power bank: To keep your phone charged throughout the day.
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Day in Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is undoubtedly one of Vietnam’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Whether you opt for a day trip or an overnight cruise, the breathtaking scenery and tranquil atmosphere will leave you impressed. With careful planning and a few essentials packed, you’ll be ready for an unforgettable adventure in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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