Ha Long Bay, one of the natural wonders of the world, is a place that must be fully experienced to appreciate its extraordinary beauty. I was fortunate enough to spend two unforgettable days cruising through these emerald waters, surrounded by imposing karst formations and breathtaking scenery. Here’s a detailed account of the itinerary, combining adventure, relaxation, and the discovery of a fascinating culture.
Discoveries and fun onboard
Welcome aboard
The journey began with a warm welcome aboard our elegant cruise ship. The friendly and professional staff made us feel right at home, showing us to our comfortable cabins and explaining the activity schedule. The excitement was palpable as the ship gently pulled away from the coast, starting its navigation into the heart of Ha Long Bay.
Shortly after boarding, we gathered in the main lounge for a delicious buffet lunch. The menu featured a variety of Vietnamese and international dishes, with fresh flavors and high-quality ingredients. As we savored the food, the ship ventured among the iconic rock formations, offering spectacular views that perfectly complemented the meal.
Visit to Sung Sot Cave
Our first excursion was to the famous Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest and most fascinating in the bay. This cave, whose name means “cave of surprises,” is a true natural masterpiece with spacious chambers adorned by incredible stalactites and stalagmites. Every corner of the cave seemed to tell a different story, making the visit a captivating experience.
Excursion to Ti Top Island and Ascent to the Viewpoint
Next, we headed to Ti Top Island, a small island with a white sandy beach and a path leading to a breathtaking viewpoint. The climb was a bit challenging, but the view from the top made every effort worthwhile: an endless expanse of rock formations rising from the emerald sea, a panorama I will never forget.
Sunset party
Upon returning to the ship, we enjoyed a relaxing Sunset Party at the bar on the upper deck. As the sun slowly descended on the horizon, painting the sky and water in golden and red hues, we sipped cocktails and toasted to the extraordinary day we had just experienced.
The evening continued with a Cooking Class where we learned to prepare some traditional Vietnamese dishes. It was a fun and engaging activity, followed by a dinner at the main salon. The dinner menu was rich and varied, with dishes meticulously prepared and presented beautifully.
The night concluded with an unforgettable experience: a karaoke session with two Canadian girls and a group of Filipino women. The laughter, singing, and fun created a festive atmosphere that made the evening truly special. After so much enjoyment, it was time to retire to our cabins, ready for another day of adventures.
Sunrises, explorations, and return
The second day began with an early buffet breakfast. Despite the hour, the energy on board was high, and everyone was excited to continue exploring the bay. The hot coffee and a variety of delicious dishes gave us the energy we needed to tackle the day ahead.
Visit to Luon Cave and Bamboo Boat Excursion
The first activity of the day was a visit to Luon Cave. This small cave, accessible only by boat, allowed us to explore a more hidden corner of the bay. Aboard a traditional Bamboo Boat, we navigated through calm, crystal-clear waters, surrounded by imposing cliffs and lush vegetation. It was a tranquil and enchanting experience that gave us a unique perspective to appreciate the natural beauty of the bay.
After the cave visit, we returned on board for a relaxing brunch in the main salon. This final meal on board was a perfect moment to reflect on the incredible experiences we had during the cruise. Shortly after, it was time to check out and prepare to leave the ship.
With hearts full of memories and minds still immersed in the beauty of Ha Long Bay, we returned to Hanoi, confident that we had experienced something truly unmatched.
The two-day cruise in Ha Long Bay was an extraordinary experience, a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery. Every moment, from the excursions to the cooking classes, contributed to making this journey unforgettable. If you ever have the opportunity to visit Vietnam, make sure to include this cruise in your itinerary.
