Located on the Northeast coast of Vietnam, Halong Bay is the kind of place that leaves you in awe. Its breathtaking limestone karsts rising dramatically from emerald waters will have you feeling like you’ve been transported to another world as you float through its calm, narrow waterways. We had the pleasure of spending 3 days and 2 nights taking in the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site on a 5-star Luxury Cruise, and while it was an incredible experience, there were definitely some things we wish we had known before making the trip. For that reason, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 things to know before you set sail on your Halong Bay cruise!
⬇️ Watch our Halong Bay Cruise video for a closer look at our experience! ⬇️
1. Choose the Right Cruise for You
Halong Bay offers a variety of cruise options, from budget-friendly day trips to luxurious multi-day excursions and everything in between. The most popular options are the budget-friendly day trips and the 2-day, 1-night cruises, but we personally recommend spending the extra time (and money) to go on a 3-day, 2-night cruise. With this option, you not only get the luxury of spending an extra night on the boat, you also get to join a day cruise and explore further into the bay for a more immersive experience. That said, consider what kind of experience you want—whether it’s a quick tour or an immersive journey with activities like kayaking, cave exploring, and Tai Chi at sunrise, the beauty of Halong Bay is sure to leave you speechless.
Note: When you book a cruise through a booking site like GetYourGuide or Viator, unless the listing specifically states the name of the cruise company/boat, there is no way to know what boat you are booking and you won’t be made aware of what boat you are booked on until arrival. For example, if the listing says “3-Day 2 Night Ha Long Bay 5-Star Cruise” you could be booked on any of the cruises classified as a 5-Star Luxury Cruise. However, if it says the boat’s name in the listing, that is the boat you will be booked on. All of that to say, if you have a specific boat that you want to cruise on, we recommend booking directly with that company. If the specific boat doesn’t matter to you, then booking with GetYourGuide or Viator can be a hassle-free way to book your Halong Bay cruise.
2. Plan Your Transportation
Most Halong Bay cruise operators offer transportation to and from your starting destination but it does need to be arranged in advance. Thankfully, they make it pretty easy! You’ll just need to select the transportation add-on when booking. This is what we did and it worked out perfectly. We were picked up by a limousine bus from our hotel in the Old Quarter of Hanoi and transported 2.5 hours to our cruise’s departure point in Halong Bay. And while there are more budget-friendly transportation options, the convenience and extra peace of mind that this method provides are well worth the extra cost in our opinion.
3. Check the Weather Forecast
Halong Bay’s weather can be unpredictable, with fog, rain, and even the occasional storm. The best time to visit is September-November and March-May when the weather is cooler and drier. That said, we visited in March and it was cloudy, rainy, and foggy for the majority of our visit. So regardless of when you’re visiting, check the forecast a few days before your trip to avoid any surprises.
4. Pack Smart and Light
Space on the boats can be somewhat limited, so packing smart and light is a must, but don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, a bathing suit, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent, nicer clothes for dinners onboard, and a light jacket depending on the season you visit. Also, remember that throughout your cruise, you’ll likely be partaking in a variety of activities that require different attire so keep that in mind when packing. Be sure to check the cruise schedule and activities so you’ll know what you’re in for, and check out our Halong Bay Packing List for ideas on what to bring!
5. Prepare for Limited Connectivity
Wi-Fi is available on most cruise boats, but the connection can be spotty and cell phone connection isn’t likely. As long as you know that going in, you can prepare accordingly and embrace the opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings, and enjoy some digital detox. And when you’re back on dry land and in need of cell connection, we recommend purchasing an eSIM from Sim Local!
6. Be Ready for Early Mornings
Halong Bay cruises often start early, with some boats departing as early as sunrise. Once you’re on board, that doesn’t change. Whether it’s sunrise Tai Chi or an early morning kayak tour if you want to take advantage of all that your cruise offers, you’ll probably be waking up with the birds. And while waking up at the crack of dawn might not be your idea of a vacation, the serene morning views are worth it. Plus, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax and explore!
7. Expect Crowds
I wish I could say that Halong Bay is all rainbows and butterflies, and while it is stunning and well worth a visit, it is far from a hidden gem. In fact, more than 2.5 million people visit the UNESCO World Heritage site each year, so be prepared for large crowds and long lines at some of the area's more popular sights like Titop Island, Sung Sot Cave, and certain kayak excursions to name a few. This is why we recommend spending the extra time and money to go on a 3-day, 2-night cruise. This way you’ll get to venture further into the bay and explore areas that many of the shorter cruises never make it to.
8. Try the Local Cuisine
Meals are typically included with your cruise package, which makes for a fantastic opportunity to sample different Vietnamese dishes. Expect fresh seafood, delicious spring rolls, and other local specialties. We especially enjoyed the spring rolls (fresh and fried), the Cha Muc (Grilled Chopped Squid), and the fresh local fruit! If you have dietary restrictions, be sure to inform your cruise operator in advance.
9. Don’t Miss the Nightlife on Board
Most cruises offer evening entertainment like squid fishing, karaoke, or just stargazing from the deck. Regardless of the activity, it can be a fun way to meet other travelers as you wind down after a day of exploring, and it adds an extra layer to your Halong Bay experience.
10. Bring Cash for Tips and Extras
While most of your cruise expenses will be covered, it’s customary to tip the crew. Additionally, if you plan to purchase drinks or souvenirs, or participate in optional activities, having some cash on hand is helpful.
A Halong Bay cruise is more than just a sightseeing tour; it’s an unforgettable experience that allows you to connect with nature, enjoy local culture, and escape the hustle and bustle of the big city. We hope these tips help you make the most of your Halong Bay adventure, and if they did, consider following us on Instagram and subscribing to our YouTube Channel for more travel content! Safe travels and smooth sailing!
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