A dreamscape of jade-green waters and towering limestone karsts, Halong Bay is Vietnam’s most iconic seascape. Best explored by luxury cruise, it’s the cast-iron ‘must-see’ of northern Vietnam.
A still, green sea punctuated by hundreds of towering limestone peaks, Halong Bay is nature at its most outrageous.
By far the best way to experience the majesty and mystery of Halong Bay’s 3,000 or more incredible islands is aboard a one- or two-night luxury cruise.
Kayaking is a highly recommended option on most cruises, with opportunities to paddle your way through karst grottoes, around emerald lagoons and to fascinating floating villages.
Cat Ba is the largest island in the bay; nearly half of it is a national park, home to most of the planet’s remaining golden-headed langurs, the world’s most endangered primate.
The 300 or so karst islands and limestone outcrops of Lan Ha Bay are just as beautiful as those of Halong Bay and have the additional attraction of numerous white-sand beaches.
Halong Bay is nature’s grand theatre, where thousands of limestone pinnacles rise imperiously from an emerald sea. This UNESCO World Heritage site is best discovered aboard a luxury small-ship cruise, where personalised service, fine dining and boutique cabins with private balconies come as standard. Premier operators such as Heritage Line and Paradise Vietnam offer immersive itineraries that blend comfort with cultural depth – think sunrise tai chi on deck, kayaking through hidden lagoons and dining on freshly caught seafood beneath the stars.
For those seeking quieter waters, nearby Lan Ha Bay offers all the splendour of Halong Bay but with fewer crowds, while Cat Ba Island is a gateway to jungle trails, mountain vistas and secluded coves. Whether you’re gliding past grottoes, visiting pearl farms or relaxing with a spa treatment as the bay drifts by, this is luxury in motion, to be savoured and enjoyed.
Revealing the beauty of Halong Bay, Paradise Cruises allow passengers to experience specially designed itineraries that capture the essence of these mystical waters. A boutique wooden junk with only 14 cabins and 2 suites, the Paradise Sails blends modern styling with traditional Vietnamese details. A sophisticated dining room serves authentic Vietnamese dishes from an unlimited à la carte menu. A spacious sundeck features comfortable sun loungers overlooking the karst limestone formations and emerald waters, and the spa offers a soothing retreat.
The youngest of 'Three Sisters', the Violet is an intimate vessel with just 6 elegant cabins. Violet offers passengers a uniquely exclusive opportunity to take in the sights of Halong Bay over one or two nights, observing as towering limestone islands dwarf the vessel as it navigates through this magical waterway. Reminiscent of a traditional Asian junk, floor-to-ceiling windows frame the spectacular view, while guest amenities include a scenic spa, restaurant and lounge plus a rooftop sundeck.
Venture south to the less visited Lan Ha Bay, a real hidden gem showcasing a more peaceful and authentic side of Vietnam. Cruise this tranquil waterway on board Ginger, with one night itineraries available. Stay in one of only 12 large suites that fuse traditional Vietnamese and contemporary accents, each flooded with natural light and leading to a spacious balcony. Immerse in the onboard lifestyle, with an almost 360-degree restaurant, live cooking and alfresco area. Retreat to the pool on the terrace deck, compete with comfortable sunbeds, or indulge in the relaxing spa rooms. Two night cruises are available on Ylang, featuring 10 luxurious suites and amenities with a focus on wellness.