Discover the stunning natural beauty of Ha Long Bay with this breathtaking full day tour. Travel through the picturesque villages of northern Vietnam before boarding a traditional Chinese junk to sail through placid waters dotted with some 2,000 islets. Explore the many limestone karsts and enjoy a seafood buffet while taking in the bay’s paradisiacal scenery.
Escape the organised chaos of Hanoi and head into the bucolic countryside, admiring the pastoral scenes during the three-and-a-half-hour drive to Ha Long Bay. There will be a break at a handicraft centre en route.
Board the junk at Ha Long City and receive a welcome drink for the cruise in the bay, which is famous for the spectacular limestone karsts jutting out of the peaceful green waters. The views are simply spellbinding as the boat winds among hundreds and hundreds of islets. Ha Long Bay, which means Bay of the Descending Dragon, is a Unesco World Heritage Site and was recently voted one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature in 2011.
Hear the legends and myths associated with this dreamlike bay then feast on the fabulous seafood lunch. The cruise also explores some of the grottos that have formed in the many of the isles and there is a charming visit to a quaint fishing village, where you can meet the locals and find out about their lives and customs. It also provides a great photo opportunity before the return by road back to Hanoi.
Meeting point/pick-up: Collection from centrally located hotels in Hanoi.
Duration: 11-12 hours.
Start/opening time: 7.30am-8am.
End or closing time: 6.30pm-7pm.
Languages:English.