Discover Halong Bay: Must-Take Scenic Cruises for Unforgettable Experiences

If you’re planning a trip to Halong Bay, Vietnam 🇻🇳, I highly recommend booking a two-day, one-night cruise to fully immerse yourself in the leisurely life on board. It’s an ideal choice for families with children, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Each cruise company has its own unique itinerary, but they generally follow a similar pattern. Early in the morning, a driver and guide will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi and take you to the Halong Bay pier. Along the way, you’ll stop at a pearl farm, much like a shopping stop in China, where you can listen to informative presentations, admire the displays, and even purchase some souvenirs.

From there, you’ll head straight to the pier, switch to a smaller boat, and set sail towards your cruise ship 🛳️. I opted for a three-star cruise with private rooms, which was both comfortable and budget-friendly. Our group consisted of only 17 tourists, with 9 crew members, and we were the only Chinese among mostly foreign travelers. (It’s worth noting that Chinese tourists often prefer five-star cruises).

After a delicious lunch, we explored a massive cave filled with stunning stalactites. The sheer size and natural beauty of the cave were awe-inspiring. Next, we visited an island where you could either swim at the beach or climb a mountain for a breathtaking panoramic view of Halong Bay. The scenery was simply breathtaking. My child, however, preferred splashing in the water 🏊🏻‍♀️. There was an Indian child in our group, and the two of them had a fantastic time playing together.

In the evening, we enjoyed a sunset 🌇 tea on the deck, followed by a delightful dinner. At night, we had the opportunity to go squid fishing 🐟~! My partner was particularly excited about this activity.

The next morning, we were treated to a perfect breakfast, indescribable in its beauty. Enjoying our meal amidst a landscape that looked like an ink painting ⛰️, it was one of the most beautiful breakfasts I’ve ever experienced. After breakfast, we went kayaking, and we were thrilled to see wild monkeys 🐵 leaping around on the cliffs. My child was absolutely delighted by the sight.

Back on the ship, there was a hands-on activity for the kids to make Vietnamese spring rolls. It was the first time my child had ever made spring rolls, and they thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

As the ship slowly made its way back, everyone gathered on the deck to bask in the sun, feeling incredibly relaxed. My child even learned to unwind and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. After a satisfying lunch, we disembarked, and our two-day, one-night adventure came to an end 🔚. Saying goodbye was truly bittersweet!