Each Halong Bay cruise voyage features a variety of experiences and excursions that show the breathtaking natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its green waters and thousands of limestone karsts rising from the sea. And one of the most exciting ways to see this enchanting marvel is by bamboo boat tour. In this article, we will share everything you need to know about this activity for a wonderful cruise trip in Halong Bay.
1. Bamboo Boat in Halong Bay
A bamboo boat is a traditional mode of transportation for residents of Halong Bay's floating villages. These boats are made by local craftsmen from bamboo, a flexible and sustainable material found in the region. Bamboo boats in Halong Bay are small in form, allowing guests to sail among the bay's hidden corners and discover its natural charm.
Nowadays, bamboo boats serve as taxis for visitors from Halong Bay cruises to explore quiet lagoons, fascinating caves, and secluded areas of Halong Bay. A group of 4 to 6 guests can embark on a bamboo boat rowed by a local to the bay’s attractions. While on the boat, you can immerse yourself in the magnificent seascapes and refreshing air, take stunning photos, or join in a conversation with hospitable villagers.
2. Reasons to Take a Bamboo Boat Ride in Halong Bay
Up-close connection to the natural heritage
Halong Bay is recognized for its stunning natural landscape, which includes numerous rock formations rising from the emerald waters. A bamboo boat trip around Halong Bay brings you very close to these natural treasures. Visitors can explore secret caverns, such as the famed Luon Cave, and discover peaceful lagoons surrounded by flora and towering cliffs.
These natural wonders are not only beautiful to look at; they also have an interesting history and a diverse range of plants and animals. Many of them have their own names. Embarking on a bamboo boat trip lets you observe and appreciate the awe-inspiring islets in Halong Bay and understand why it is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Fascinating insights into Vietnamese culture
Another compelling reason to participate in a bamboo boat trip across Halong Bay is the opportunity to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture. The native boatmen, who might also serve as guides, will paddle you around the bay while telling you intriguing stories about the bay's myths and culture. You’ll learn about local traditions and get a detailed insight into life in this UNESCO-listed wonder.
Sense of peace and tranquility
As you glide gently across the serene waters of Halong Bay in a bamboo boat, you will experience a profound sense of quiet and serenity. The isolated lagoons, the vivid colors of the surrounding nature, and the absence of city noise combine to offer a peaceful feeling you won't find anywhere else.
Safe and relaxing boat trips
Travelers to Halong Bay can choose to discover the area by other means, like kayaking, for instance. However, not all will enjoy this adventure that requires some physical strength, such as elderly tourists and small children. Then, a bamboo boat ride will be the perfect option for all types of guests. Hop on a boat and relax while the local rower takes you into the stunning beauty of Halong Bay.
3. Halong Bay Attractions Offering Bamboo Boat Excursions
Halong Bay offers some spots where you can take a bamboo boat ride and explore around the bay. Here are two of the best attractions you should consider for your next trip:
A well-known attraction in Halong Bay, Luon Cave is a must-see for tourists seeking a quaint experience. You board a bamboo boat and travel leisurely across the bay's emerald waters to the cave’s entrance, which opens to a different world. As you move through the tunnel cave, you will find a serene lagoon encircled by towering rocks. You may also see different plants, birds, and monkeys, which add an intriguing element to your journey.
Highly recommended cruise options: Ambassador Cruise, Paradise Elegance Cruise, Hermes Cruise, Athena Cruise, Alisa Cruise,…
Dark and Bright Cave, Lan Ha Bay
Located in the pristine area of Lan Ha Bay, Dark and Bright Cave is another place that provides tourists with a memorable experience on bamboo boats. With the same structure as Luon Cave, the boat trip will take you through the limestone tunnel of Bright Cave to hidden water surrounded by walls of tall cliffs. When the tide is high, you can even touch the stalactites and stalagmites of the tunnel cave. It’s surely an amazing moment on your cruise.
Highly recommended cruise options: Ambassador Signature Cruise, Paradise Grand Cruise, Stellar of the Seas Cruise, Elite of the Seas Cruise, Capella Cruise,…
4. How to Take a Bamboo Boat Ride in Halong Bay
The best way to participate in bamboo boat activity in Halong Bay is by booking a cruise tour that includes this experience as part of its itinerary.
If you have a short time, day trips to the heritage bay are a fantastic choice. Consider a 6- or 8-hour cruise that still offers you enough time to enjoy the mesmerizing scenery of Halong Bay. Meanwhile, an overnight cruise (2 days, 1 night, or 3 days, 2 nights) enables you to both admire the beauty of the bay and experience the conveniences on board in a relaxing way. Just make sure you carefully check out the itineraries with the included activities.
As one of the world’s New 7 Wonders of Nature, Halong Bay captivates travelers’ attention and leaves them in awe of its unparalleled splendor. And visiting this gorgeous bay on a bamboo boat will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience. If you feel interested in this activity or are planning a trip to Halong Bay, please contact our Halong Bay Cruise sales team for the best cruise options and attractive offers.
