Halong Bay is a very famous place for tourists in Vietnam, with its unique landscape of rock islands and stunning sandy beaches. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam and wondering whether to visit Halong Bay, here are 9 reasons why you should pay a visit and book a Halong Bay cruise.
1. Beautiful Landscapes
The stunning limestone rocks that come out of the sea are what make Halong Bay so beautiful. They are like guardians watching over the water and protecting the secrets of the bay that have been there for a very long time. The seasons change in Halong Bay and each season makes the place feel different. In the winter, it gets cold and the bay looks dreamy but quiet. In the summer, it gets hot and there are more things to do with water activities. If you are a nature lover, Halong Bay is definitely a must-visit spot in Vietnam.
2. Relaxing Voyage
Far away from the hustle and bustle of city life and staying isolated in the middle of the sea is what you will feel while visiting Halong Bay. Even when you take onboard a cruise, you can choose to do nothing: no water activities, no cave excursions. Just stay there and soak it all in. You can pamper yourself with a full body massage, enjoy an afternoon tea, relax in your comfy cabin or simply sit on your private balcony and watch the bay passing through.
3. New 7 Wonders of Nature
Besides being recognized twice as a World Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1994 and 2000, Halong Bay was proud to be one of the New 7 Natural Wonders of the world since 2011. Then why not visit a destination with world recognized beauty? Sometimes you could believe the hype. The emerald green water and over 3,000 islands of towering limestone of Halong Bay are truly a natural scenery you should witness once in a lifetime.
4. Floating Village Experience
There are not many floating villages in Halong Bay these days, but several cruise lines still put them in a Halong Bay sailing itinerary. Some of the best-known villages are Cua Van, Vung Vieng, Cong Dam, and Ba Hang. Here, you will see how the villagers carry out a lot of activities like fishing, net weaving, fish farming, and pearl processing. It’s the best way to get a close look at Halong’s long history and deep-rooted culture.
5. Kayaking Adventure
Whether you are new to kayaking or a big fan of it, paddling in Halong Bay is a refreshing and enjoyable adventure. The calm and still water makes it easy to smoothly glide around the bay and discover the hidden areas even for beginners. Imagine yourself paddling to secret beaches or navigate around towering rock formations and immerse in one of the most stunning places on Earth.
6. Picturesque Sunrises and Sunsets
There is nothing like the sunrise and sunset sceneries on Halong Bay. As the new day starts and the sun gradually lights up the green waters, cruise passengers will join a Tai Chi class on the sundeck. Slow and deliberate movements of the exercise will help you feel full of energy and at one with the surroundings. Meanwhile, as the sun goes down and twilight approaches, you’ll get a front-row seat to witness one of the most magical moments that an overnight cruise can offer. The sky is painted with purple, pink, and orange hues, and slightly fading into the dark before twinkling lights of other cruise ships turn on and light up the bay area.
7. Legendary Caves to Explore
The magnificent caves are a big reason to visit Halong Bay. They have beautiful rock formations and intricate carvings that were made by nature over millions of years. One of the most famous caves, called Sung Sot Cave or "Surprise Cave", has a stunning chamber inside that resembles an opera house, with large stalagmite formations in a cavernous space and a colorfully lit pathway winding through. Other popular caves can be mentioned as Thien Canh Son Cave, Thien Cung Cave, Trung Trang Cave, etc.
8. Sumptuous Seafood & Local Cuisine
Fine dining experience is another reason why you should cruise Halong Bay. Most cruise operators offer many options for different flavors and tailor-made dishes with a wide range of fresh, local ingredients. It’s a great chance to savor local seafood as well as a menu of easter and western dishes. No matter your taste preferences, you can choose something that you like. Even if you have special dietary requirements, professional chefs onboard will surely satisfy your taste buds with a surprisingly fancy and enjoyable dining experience.
9. Overnight Cruise Experience
Staying overnight on a Halong Bay cruise is surely a unique experience you’ll ever have. Cabins onboard are like land-based hotel rooms with comfortable beds, fully-equipped bathrooms, and glass windows for the best night views over the bay. Some cruise ships provide a lot of night activities, such as squid fishing, movie watching, live music show, singing karaoke, etc. Or you can simply relax on the sundeck with a cool drink, look up the starry night sky, and admire the extraordinary night views of Halong Bay.
There are many reasons to cruise Halong Bay, but the only way to truly understand its value and beauty is to visit and see it for yourself. Halong Bay Cruises has been planning and organizing amazing cruises in Halong Bay for more than 14 years. We offer luxurious, authentic, and unforgettable experiences for our customers. Come and enjoy the amazing things that Halong Bay has to offer by booking with Halongbaycruises.com
