The 6 Best Ways to See Halong Bay

Diverse options can be a bit confusing, especially for first-time visitors. Most tourists favor a day or overnight cruise to glide through the stunning rock formations of Halong Bay. Adventure seekers might prefer hiking trips or more adrenaline-pumping sports activities. Meanwhile, those with a larger budget can indulge in a seaplane ride to enjoy breathtaking views of the bay from above.

Our article aims to provide you with guidance on the most fantastic ways to experience Halong Bay.

Option 1: Embark on an overnight cruise

Cost: USD$150 - USD$350/room/night

Overnight cruises in Halong Bay

For casual travelers, taking an overnight cruise to appreciate Halong Bay's views and partake in various activities remains the most popular choice. This is the perfect way to get close to the natural wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. A wide selection of cruises, ranging from traditional junk boats to more affordable options and luxurious vessels, allows for diverse experiences. Additionally, regular promotions offered by cruise operators and travel agencies can help secure better pricing for your cruise getaway.

For budget-conscious travelers, options like Indochina Junk, Glory Legend Cruise, Oriental Sails, Renea Cruise, and Aclass Stellar Cruise are worth considering. In contrast, cruises like Stellar of the Seas, Heritage Cruise Binh Chuan, and Paradise Elegance are regarded as excellent choices for families or couples seeking a romantic and luxurious overnight experience. The most sought-after itineraries are 2 days 1 night and 3 days 2 nights for vacations on Halong Bay.

The entire journey comprises a variety of activities both onboard and onshore that are consistent across different types of cruises. The primary distinction between traditional and luxurious cruises is in the quality of services and accommodations. While on the ship, you might participate in early morning tai chi classes, enjoy a sunset party, and partake in nighttime entertainment like squid fishing and karaoke. Onshore, activities may include exploring famous tourist sites, kayaking, swimming on tranquil beaches, and venturing through caves or fishing villages.

Option 2: Take a day cruise (4 - 8 hours)

Cost: USD$70 - USD$130

Halong Bay view from a day cruise trip!

Similar to overnight cruises regarding sailing routes and activities, day cruises prove to be a practical option for visitors pressed for time or those wanting to explore the city further. This is often the best choice for budget-conscious travelers. Day cruise tours typically range from 4 to 8 hours in duration, featuring five primary routes to explore Halong Bay:

• Route 1: Thien Cung Cave, Dog Rock, Ba Hang fishing village, Dinh Huong Islet, Fighting Cocks (Ga Choi), Hoa Cuong fishing village.
• Route 2: Sung Sot Cave, Titov or Soi Sim Island, Me Cung Cave, Fairy Lake or Trong Cave or Trinh Nu (Virgin) Cave or Luon Cave and Bo Nau Cave.
• Route 3: Cua Van fishing village, Fairy Cave, Ba Ham Lake.
• Route 4: Co Cave, Father Cave, Vung Vieng fishing village, Cap La, Cong Dam fishing village or ecological zone Tung Ang, Cong Do Island or Xep Islet.
• Route 5: Port, Gia Luan Dock (Cat Ba - Hai Phong): Dog Rock, Ba Hang fishing village, Dinh Huong Islet, Fighting Cocks (Ga Choi), Hoa Cuong fishing village.

Among these, Route 2 is the most popular. Besides enjoying magnificent views of the bay, participants can partake in various activities like kayaking, swimming, mountain climbing, and cave exploration. The ticket price typically covers admission to tourist sites and onboard meals.

Prominent day cruises to consider include Jade Sails, Genesis Day Cruise, Estella Premium Day Cruise, Paradise Luxury Day Cruise, Orchid Day Cruise, and others.

Option 3: Take a seaplane tour over Halong Bay

Cost: USD$120 - USD$150 per person

Aerial view of Ha Long Bay from a seaplane flight

A seaplane tour is an exceptional way to appreciate Halong Bay from a bird's-eye perspective, showcasing areas that might otherwise remain hidden from view. While this service does come with a higher price tag, the unforgettable experience makes it well worth it if your budget allows. Seaplane flights are exclusively provided by Hai Au Aviation, the company also offering flights connecting Hanoi airport and Halong city. The seaplane's unique ability to take off and land on water adds an exciting element to the journey. During the flight, you're sure to capture stunning views of the bay from your window seat.

The scenic flight lasts approximately 25 minutes, flying at low altitudes of 300 to 150 meters. There are around 8 scheduled flights daily, bookable through travel agencies or directly with Hai Au Aviation. If you're traveling as a group, consider chartering a flight with prices ranging from VND 25,000,000 (approximately USD$1135) for a fixed itinerary to VND 40,000,000 (approximately USD$1825) for a custom route.

Option 4: See Halong Bay from the Queen Cable Car and Sun Wheel

Cost: USD$12 - USD$18 per person

Queen Cable Car

This option provides a unique perspective of Halong Bay, allowing you to admire its beauty from a distance. Riding on the cable car or Sun Wheel offers experiences akin to those on a seaplane, yet at a fraction of the cost.

The Queen Cable Car and Sun Wheel are part of the Sun World Halong entertainment complex, which features a myriad of activities suitable for various ages. Notably, the Queen Cable Car holds two Guinness World Records for having the highest passenger capacity per cabin (up to 230 passengers simultaneously) and the tallest cable car tower, soaring at 189 meters.

The cable car transports you to the summit of Ba Deo Hill, where visitors can revel in the breathtaking panorama of Halong Bay. A round trip takes approximately 5 minutes, costing VND 400,000 for adults and VND 300,000 for children taller than 1.3 meters.

The Sun Wheel, standing 215 meters above sea level, offers an ideal vantage point for capturing sweeping views of Halong Bay. It is among the largest Ferris wheels in Vietnam, featuring 64 cabins that accommodate up to 1,200 guests each hour. A ticket for the Queen Cable Car includes a free ride on the Sun Wheel.

Option 5: Enjoy Halong Bay views from the top of Titop Island

Cost: Included in cruise itinerary

Titop Island peak

Titop Island is a must-visit for those seeking great views of Halong Bay. Located just 7-8 km from Halong City, it is part of almost every cruise itinerary. The island features a beautiful crescent-shaped beach with soft white sand, popular for swimming among tourists.

To experience the breathtaking views from the highest point, climbers must ascend approximately 400 steep steps to reach the peak of Titop Island, where a view from about 100 meters elevation rewards them with a stunning vista. The limestone mountains surround you, while Bai Tho Mountain and the iconic Bai Chay Bridge come into view to the north.

Reaching Titop Island is simple, as guests can book day cruises following Route 2 or an overnight cruise traversing Halong Bay.

Option 6: Capture Halong Bay's panoramic scenery from Bai Tho Mountain

Cost: Free of charge

Halong sunrise from Bai Tho Mountain

Climbing to the summit of Bai Tho Mountain is the most economical way to soak in the breathtaking views of Halong Bay from above. Prepare for a moderate hiking trip to the top, situated 200 meters above sea level, which takes approximately 30 minutes. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and pack essentials such as water bottles, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera.

You can access Bai Tho Mountain via two routes: the first is from 104A Le Thanh Tong street (open daily from 5:30 am to 7:00 pm), and the second route runs alongside Long Tien Street, adjacent to Long Tien Pagoda.

Summary

Local Tips

• Halong Bay is best admired at sunset.
• Avoid mountain climbing or cable car rides during foggy or rainy weather, as diminished visibility can hinder your view. On such days, a cruise or overnight cruise may be a wiser choice.
• Pack appropriate gear for your activities. Comfortable clothing, insect repellent, sunscreen, and sturdy footwear are essential for outdoor pursuits, whereas enjoying Halong Bay's views from a cruise is more straightforward.