Introduction
- Overview of Halong Bay
- Best halong bay cruises 2019 compreso kayak relax swim cave e pasti completi Location and significance
- UNESCO World Heritage status
- Scenic beauty and geological features
Choosing the Best Halong Bay Cruise
- Factors to Consider
- Duration of the cruise (day trip vs. overnight)
- Type of boat (luxury, mid-range, budget)
- Activities offered
- Reviews and reputation
Top Halong Bay Cruises in 2019
- Luxury Cruises
- Paradise Luxury Cruises
- Features and amenities
- Sample itinerary
- Guest reviews
- Orchid Cruise
- Highlights and activities
- Dining experience
- Customer feedback
- Paradise Luxury Cruises
- Mid-Range Cruises
- Bhaya Cruises
- Overview and facilities
- Activity options (kayaking, swimming, etc.)
- Sample menu and meal options
- Pelican Cruise
- Detailed description
- Onboard entertainment
- Customer experiences
- Bhaya Cruises
- Budget Cruises
- Aphrodite Cruises
- Cost-effective options
- Activities and excursions
- Reviews from budget travelers
- Swan Cruises
- Affordable packages
- Overview of services and amenities
- Guest satisfaction
- Aphrodite Cruises
Activities on Halong Bay Cruises
- Kayaking Adventures
- Best spots for kayaking in Halong Bay
- Safety tips and guidelines
- Experiences from previous travelers
- Relaxation and Leisure
- Onboard spa and wellness services
- Sunbathing and lounging areas
- Nighttime entertainment
- Swimming and Beach Visits
- Top swimming spots in Halong Bay
- Hidden beaches and secluded areas
- Ideal times for swimming
- Cave Exploration
- Famous caves in Halong Bay (e.g., Sung Sot Cave, Thien Canh Son Cave)
- Guided cave tours
- Historical and geological significance
Culinary Delights on Halong Bay Cruises
- Full Meals Included
- Typical meal plans on cruises
- Seafood specialties
- Vegetarian and vegan options
- Cooking Classes and Food Tours
- Hands-on cooking classes onboard
- Visits to local fishing villages
- Insights into Vietnamese cuisine
Planning Your Halong Bay Cruise
- Best Time to Visit
- Seasonal considerations
- Weather and climate
- Peak vs. off-peak seasons
- Booking Tips
- How to find the best deals
- Reliable booking platforms
- What to pack for your cruise
Conclusion
- Why Halong Bay Cruises are a Must-Do
- Unique experiences
- Memorable adventures
- Final thoughts and recommendations
Best Halong Bay Cruises 2019: Kayak, Relax, Swim, Cave, and Full Meals
Introduction
Overview of Halong Bay
Nestled in the northeast of Vietnam, Halong Bay is a natural wonder that captivates visitors with its emerald waters, thousands of towering limestone islands, and karst formations. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage. The bay covers an area of approximately 1,553 square kilometers and includes nearly 2,000 islands and islets, each with its unique charm.
The name “Halong” translates to “Descending Dragon,” a nod to the legend that dragons created the bay by spitting jewels and jade into the sea to form islands and protect the Vietnamese people from invaders. Today, Halong Bay remains a symbol of natural beauty and a top destination for travelers seeking adventure and tranquility.
Choosing the Best Halong Bay Cruise
Factors to Consider
When selecting a Halong Bay cruise, several factors can influence your experience. First, consider the duration of the cruise. Options range from day trips to multi-day excursions, each offering different levels of immersion. Day trips provide a quick glimpse of the bay’s highlights, while overnight or multi-day cruises allow for a more relaxed and comprehensive exploration.
The type of boat is another crucial factor. Luxury cruises offer top-tier amenities, spacious cabins, and gourmet dining, while mid-range cruises provide comfort and good value. Budget cruises are ideal for travelers looking to experience Halong Bay without breaking the bank, though they may lack some of the amenities found on higher-end options.
Activities offered by the cruise are essential as well. Popular activities include kayaking, swimming, cave exploration, and on-deck relaxation. Reading reviews and checking the reputation of the cruise operator can provide insights into the quality of service and overall experience.
Top Halong Bay Cruises in 2019
Luxury Cruises
- Paradise Luxury CruisesParadise Luxury Cruises stands out for its impeccable service, luxurious amenities, and carefully curated itineraries. Guests can enjoy spacious cabins with private balconies, fine dining experiences, and a range of activities such as cooking classes, tai chi sessions, and kayaking excursions. A typical itinerary includes visits to Sung Sot Cave, Titov Island, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.Guest Reviews: Travelers rave about the attentive staff, gourmet meals, and stunning views from the private balconies. The well-organized activities and luxurious accommodations make Paradise Luxury Cruises a top choice for discerning travelers.
- Orchid CruiseOrchid Cruise offers an elegant and intimate experience with its modern design and top-notch facilities. Highlights include spacious suites with private balconies, a panoramic bar, and a wellness spa. The cruise itinerary covers attractions like Lan Ha Bay, Dark and Bright Cave, and a traditional Vietnamese fishing village.Customer Feedback: Guests appreciate the personalized service, delicious meals featuring fresh seafood, and the serene atmosphere on board. The smaller size of the boat allows for a more intimate experience, making it perfect for couples and small groups.
Mid-Range Cruises
- Bhaya CruisesBhaya Cruises provide a perfect blend of comfort, affordability, and engaging activities. The fleet includes classic wooden boats with modern amenities, offering cabins with sea views, a sundeck, and a dining room serving Vietnamese and international cuisine. Activities include kayaking, cooking demonstrations, and visits to floating villages.Sample Menu: Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes, including seafood spring rolls, grilled fish, and tropical fruits. Vegetarian options are also available upon request.
- Pelican CruisePelican Cruise offers a comfortable and enriching experience with its well-equipped cabins, dining options, and entertainment. Guests can participate in activities like squid fishing, sunbathing, and exploring caves. The cruise visits popular spots such as Thien Canh Son Cave and Vung Vieng Fishing Village.Customer Experiences: Travelers praise the friendly and helpful crew, the variety of activities, and the comfortable accommodations. The cruise provides good value for money, making it a popular choice for mid-range travelers.
Budget Cruises
- Aphrodite CruisesAphrodite Cruises offer a budget-friendly way to explore Halong Bay without compromising on essential amenities. The boats are well-maintained and feature cozy cabins, a dining area, and a sundeck. Activities include kayaking, swimming, and visits to local attractions like Pearl Farm Village and Sung Sot Cave.Reviews from Budget Travelers: Guests highlight the affordability, decent meals, and friendly service. While the amenities may not be as luxurious as higher-end options, Aphrodite Cruises provide a satisfying experience for budget-conscious travelers.
- Swan CruisesSwan Cruises are known for their affordability and quality service. The boats offer clean and comfortable cabins, delicious meals, and a variety of activities such as kayaking, cooking classes, and cave tours. Popular destinations on the itinerary include Bai Tu Long Bay and Thien Canh Son Cave.Guest Satisfaction: Budget travelers appreciate the value for money, the engaging activities, and the hospitable crew. Swan Cruises are a great option for those seeking a memorable Halong Bay experience on a budget.
Activities on Halong Bay Cruises
Kayaking Adventures
Kayaking is one of the most popular activities on Halong Bay cruises, offering a unique perspective of the bay’s stunning landscape. Paddling through the calm, emerald waters allows you to explore hidden lagoons, caves, and floating villages up close.
Best Spots for Kayaking: Some of the best areas for kayaking include the Luon Cave, Dark and Bright Cave, and the serene waters around Cat Ba Island. These spots offer a mix of natural beauty and tranquility, making them perfect for a kayaking adventure.
Safety Tips and Guidelines: Always wear a life jacket, follow the guide’s instructions, and avoid kayaking in rough weather or strong currents. It’s also advisable to go kayaking in pairs or groups for added safety.
Experiences from Previous Travelers: Many travelers highlight kayaking as a highlight of their Halong Bay cruise, praising the opportunity to get up close to the limestone formations and explore less-visited areas of the bay.
Relaxation and Leisure
Cruises in Halong Bay offer plenty of opportunities for relaxation and leisure. Onboard amenities such as spa services, sunbathing areas, and evening entertainment ensure a well-rounded and enjoyable experience.
Onboard Spa and Wellness Services: Many luxury and mid-range cruises feature spa facilities where guests can indulge in massages, facials, and other wellness treatments. The serene surroundings of Halong Bay provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Sunbathing and Lounging Areas: The sundeck is a popular spot for guests to soak up the sun, enjoy panoramic views of the bay, and unwind with a good book or a