Marketing itself as one of Vietnam's most beautiful bays, Lan Ha Bay has steadily repositioned itself and developed a new personality beside its world-famous counterpart Halong Bay by its natural and cultural heritage. Here are 5 reasons why cruising Lan Ha Bay is a great option if you're looking for a location to get away from it all.
1. The first interprovincial World Heritage Site by UNESCO in Vietnam
On September 16, 2023, Ha Long Bay-Cat Ba Archipelago was officially announced a World Natural Heritage by UNESCO at the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This event makes Ha Long Bay-Cat Ba Archipelago the first interprovincial UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site in Vietnam with boundaries located in Quang Ninh province and the neighboring Hai Phong city.
With more than 360 islands making up the southeastern edge of Lan Ha Bay, the Cat Ba Archipelago is the biggest limestone archipelago in Vietnam, earlier designated as a world biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 2004. Meanwhile, Ha Long Bay got the same title twice in 1994 and 2000 for its spectacular seascape of limestone islands and islets rising from the sea in a range of sizes and forms.
After the recognition, Lan Ha Bay surrounding Cat Ba Island drew the attention of travelers from around the world coming to admire its splendor. As a result, the cruising activity in Lan Ha Bay becomes more active and unveils plenty of hidden gems to cruisers.
2. New cruises from reputable brand names
With its rising popularity, Lan Ha Bay is gaining a huge attraction from big and reliable cruising companies. The bay welcomes some new launches of 5-star or even 6-star vessels sailing through its emerald waters. To name a few, they are:
Orchid Cruises: Orchid Classic Cruise, Nostalgia Cruise, Orchid Premium Cruise, and Orchid Trendy Cruise
Paradise Group: Paradise Grand Cruise and Ambassador Signature Cruise
Big Bay Group: Peony Cruise and Mon Cheri Cruise
Aclass Group: Elite of the Seas Cruise and Stellar of the Seas Cruise
Some other outstanding lines can be mentioned as Capella Cruise, Scarlet Pearl Cruise, and Indochine Cruise.
3. Perfect alternative to Halong Bay with fewer boats
Though Lan Ha Bay has new ships each year, the number is still smaller than the neighboring Halong Bay, and you can find your cruise with its own space without the blocked views by other cruises. The bay maintains the dramatic and rugged landscapes of towering limestone karsts, crystal-clear waters, and undiscovered beaches, providing a pure and pristine setting for tourists to immerse themselves in nature. Furthermore, with fewer boats, there is less pollution, which adds to the natural beauty of Lan Ha Bay.
4. Better service and modern facilities
Knowing that customer satisfaction is a top priority in the service industry, practically all cruises in Lan Ha Bay are luxurious and recently built, meeting the highest requirements of tourism ships. Inheriting successes and drawbacks of Halong Bay cruises, operators in Lan Ha Bay are offering guests better service quality with well-trained staff and a wide range of modern facilities, such as a jacuzzi, mini golf course, karaoke rooms, spa & massage, gym, and more. They can please even the most discerning customers.
5. A variety of outdoor activities
A diverse range of outdoor activities in Lan Ha Bay will cater to all interests, ensuring everyone can find enjoyment in its serene waters. The bay is perfect for kayaking since nature allows you to paddle past magnificent caverns like Dark & Bright Cave to an isolated lake where you can soak in peace of mind.
Lan Ha Bay is also well-known for numerous white-sand beaches scattered over its area of 7,000 hectares, which aren't found at its superstar neighbor. Beachgoers can easily find their own small, secluded space situated between two karst mountains to lie on the sand or indulge in the clean and warm water.
Adventurers to Lan Ha Bay can enjoy other thrills like rock climbing up the limestone islets, trekking through the lush forest of Cat Ba National Park, or cycling to Viet Hai village, which is often included in a Lan Ha Bay cruise itinerary.
Lan Ha Bay is a paradise for those seeking tranquility and relaxation, away from the stresses of everyday life. Words are never enough; come and witness the real allure of nature yourselves. If you’re planning a Vietnam trip with an experience of a Lan Ha Bay cruise, feel free to contact our Cruise Halong travel consultants for detailed information and great itineraries.
