Which bay to choose for a cruise in Vietnam?
Halong Bay is a vast region of karst islands highly popular in Vietnam. But there are other bays, equally beautiful, located right nearby: Bai Tu Long and Lan Ha bays. Seemingly similar, each has its own
Halong Bay is a vast region of karst islands highly popular in Vietnam. But there are other bays, equally beautiful, located right nearby: Bai Tu Long and Lan Ha bays. Seemingly similar, each has its own characteristics and advantages…
Cruising in Vietnam: which bay to choose?
Halong Bay
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is a natural masterpiece located in the Tonkin Gulf (Quang Ninh province). Dotted with 1,600 islets, it covers an area of 43,400 hectares and offers a karst landscape composed of arches, turrets, and notches sculpted by time and the sea. It is also home to:
- Sung Sot Cave: considered one of the most beautiful in the bay, it houses splendid stalactites and stalagmites, highlighted by clever lighting effects. It is equipped with a dock and easily accessible.
- Thien Cung Cave: renowned for its rock formations and mysterious frescoes, it offers a panoramic view of Halong Bay at the end of the tour. Access requires a short mountain hike.
- The pearl farm: a fascinating visit that teaches you all about cultured pearls!
While it is the most touristy, Halong Bay can be explored away from the crowds…
Bai Tu Long Bay
Located within Bai Tu Long National Park, this bay is smaller than Halong, but also less touristy. Renowned for its dragon legends, it also offers beautiful attractions:
- Thien Canh Son Cave: located in the Cong Do protected zone, this cave is known for its natural sculptures, resembling seals or lotus flowers… Access requires a short hike along a cliff face!
- Vung Vieng floating village: located 25 minutes from the coast, this fishing village is a gem of authenticity at the heart of Bai Tu Long. To access it, you must take a shuttle from Tuan Chau port.
- Hon Dau Nguoi head: in this 25-meter-high islet, you will make out a profile with a striking resemblance to the Sphinx…
Lan Ha Bay
Nicknamed "the lost paradise" because of its wild beauty, Lan Ha Bay is home to 400 islets and nearly one hundred beaches. Also renowned as a kayaking paradise, it is also home to:
- Monkey Island: known for its free-ranging primates, Cat Ba Island (its real name) is located 2 km from Cai Beo floating village.
- Bat Cave (Trung Trang): located on Cat Ba Island, the entrance to this cave is situated at 300 m altitude on a cliff face. It is highly appreciated for its splendid limestone formations.
- Turtle Islet (named for its zoomorphic shape).
Cruises in Halong, Tu Long, or Lan Ha bay: which one is best?
Advantages and disadvantages of each bay
Unsure between the three bays? Here is an overview of their advantages, and a few remarks to guide you in choosing your cruise:
|
The bays |
Advantages |
Remarks |
|
Halong |
Home to the emblematic caves of the karst islands region. Evenings are lively. |
Very touristy, the bay experiences significant tourist influx (and the disadvantages associated with crowds: noise, relative cleanliness concerns, etc.). Not conducive to discovering local life and authenticity. |
|
Bai Tu Long |
A good alternative to the overcrowded Halong Bay. Home to Bai Tu Long National Park. Less exposed to mass tourism, Bai Tu Long Bay guarantees peaceful nights once anchored at sea. |
Outings and nightlife are virtually nonexistent.
|
|
Lan Ha |
Hosts far fewer boats than the other two bays. It is still possible to cruise aboard a traditional junk. |
The caves in this bay are less spectacular than those in the other two bays (but also far less crowded). Cruises in the "Kayaking Paradise" include water activities during the cruise. |
Tips for choosing your cruise wisely
1. Choose the right season: all three bays can be visited year-round, though certain periods are preferable. Our advice? Check the climate for your intended travel dates – and avoid typhoon season!
2. Choose your cruise duration and destinations to visit: you can cruise for one or more days. To decide, consider the number of activities planned (cave visits, island stops, water activities, etc.).
3. Determine your budget and comfort level: cruise prices vary depending on the type and size of vessel (junk, cruise ship), as well as the services offered (standard/premium itinerary, private/group, etc.). Also inquire about meals: are they included?
4. Target your cruise type and book: for a comfortable trip to Vietnam, don't hesitate to contact a local agency to avoid disappointments once you're on the South China Sea!
Audrey Deajean
