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Posted by Kelsey Wenger on September 27th, 2024
Designated a World Heritage site in 1994 for its natural beauty and geologic significance, it’s no surprise that the ethereal landscape of Halong Bay is one of northern Vietnam’s most visited sites. The question we get most from travelers is whether it’s still worth a visit or if the bay has been loved to death.
To start, there’s no denying that Halong Bay is a breathtaking landscape of emerald-green waters, towering limestone karsts, and hidden caves. I’ll never forget my first experience on the bay, floating serenely on a traditional junk, kayaking through tranquil waters, hiking to the top of jungle clad mountains, and discovering floating villages. Some things are popular for a reason, and Halong Bay is certainly one of them. You will see amazing landscapes – and you’ll also see a lot of other boats and people.
Many don’t know that the Halong Bay area is actually home to three separate bays: Halong, Lan Ha, and Ba Tu Long. The three bays have virtually indistinguishable karst landscapes but if you prefer a quieter and more secluded atmosphere, Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay might be better suited to your taste. Below is a little more information to help you decide.
The official UNESCO site and the most iconic and easiest to access of the bays. Renowned for its iconic towering limestone karsts, Sungsot Cave, and Titov Island. Due to its ease of access and name recognition, it is the most crowded of the 3 bays. Halong will have both overnight and day cruise ships.
Cruise Options: Based on its ease of access, Halong can be a great option if you only have one night to explore the area. It also has the widest variety of ship options, from very basic to true 5* luxury. Check out: Violet, Paradise, Emperor
Lan Ha Bay is located to the south of Halong Bay. A less crowded alternative, the beauty of Lan Ha lies in its diversity of attractions. With over 400 islets, this area offers some great snorkeling, adventurous hikes, cycling, and diverse wildlife viewing (land & water). Cat Ba island, Cai Beo floating village, and Bright Cave are some highlights.
Cruise Options: Some of our favorite boutique boats sail Lan Ha Bay. These boutique boats are small and offer top-notch service, food, and accommodation. Check out: Orchid, Ginger, Ylang, Elite of the Seas, Paradise Grand
Bai Tu Long Bay is located to the east of Halong Bay and is the most remote and least developed of the three. Enjoy uncrowded beaches, local floating villages, lush mangroves, and abundant wildlife in this relatively untouched area. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this area and escape the crowds, Bai Tu Long is the right choice for you.
Cruise Options: Bai Tu Long does not have any true luxury boats that sail in its bay. Bhaya, one of our preferred ships in the area, does have a number of charter options (from 1 cabin to 3 cabins) that you can charter to sail Bai Tu Long Bay. Having a ship and crew to yourself in this uncrowded corner of the Halong area is one of the most exclusive ways to explore and truly engage with the natural beauty of the area.
There are a number of options for how long to spend exploring the bay – from day trips to four-night expeditions. While we don’t think there’s a wrong answer, the bay is about a three hour drive from Hanoi (unless you take the scenic seaplane to arrive! A very cool way to see the bay from above) so a day trip can feel quite long.
A one-night cruise on the bay can be a great way to experience the area if you’re short on time. Keep in mind that you’ll board in the afternoon and disembark the next morning, so you have less than 24 hours on the boat itself.
A two-night cruise is our favorite way to see the bay. It allows for a full day of exploration as well as some time to relax on the sun-deck and take in the magnificent views around you. Especially if you’re looking to visit Lan Ha or Bai Tu Long, a two-night cruise will feel well worth it.
Hopefully we convinced you that Halong Bay is popular for a reason and, with so many options, there’s a right way to explore the bay for everyone. Check out some of our Vietnam itineraries that feature Halong Bay or reach out to a Vaya Destination Specialist to discuss your specific interests a bit more.
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