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Clear all filtersAs part of the expansive Halong Bay complex, Bai Tu Long Bay Vietnam is less known compared to its neighbors, Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. However, this feature is what gives it a peaceful charm, attracting travelers who wish to avoid crowds. If you're one of those visitors seeking tranquility, then a Bai Tu Long Bay cruise is ideal for you. At Halong Bay Cruise Trip, we’ll help you find the best Bai Tu Long cruises to suit your needs.
Bai Tu Long Bay is located to the northeast of Halong Bay and directly east of Lan Ha Bay. While Halong Bay is world-renowned and sits at the heart of the region, Bai Tu Long stretches further away from the tourist-heavy areas. Lan Ha Bay, on the other hand, lies to the south of Halong Bay, near Cat Ba Island. This geographical positioning means Bai Tu Long Bay remains quieter and less frequented by mass tourism compared to the other bays.
Then, Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay? Many travelers often ask whether to visit Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay. Halong Bay is absolutely stunning and has a UNESCO World Heritage site status, but it tends to be busier with bigger cruise ships and lots of tourists. On the other hand, Bai Tu Long Bay offers equally breathtaking limestone karsts and clear waters, but with a more peaceful and less commercial vibe.
For the best experience, the best time to visit Bai Tu Long Bay is between October and April which is the same as Halong Bay. This time of year is perfect for cruising, kayaking, and exploring caves. It's best to avoid the summer months (May to September) due to the possibility of tropical storms affecting the region.
Cruises in Bai Tu Long Bay are typically smaller and more intimate than those found in Halong Bay or Lan Ha Bay. Most Bai Tu Long Bay cruises are made of traditional wooden boats or junks for a more rustic experience. The reason for smaller boats is that Bai Tu Long Bay focuses on preserving its quieter, more natural environment, and large cruise ships are discouraged from keeping the bay peaceful and eco-friendly. Smaller Bai Tu Long Bay private cruises can also navigate more secluded areas, giving passengers a more exclusive journey through the bay.
When it comes to pricing, due to fewer large operators and less crowding, you can often snag better deals on mid-range or private Bai Tu Long Bay cruises. For Bai Tu Long luxury cruises, you can expect to pay between $150 - $300 per person for 2-day, 1-night trips.
There are typically 3 types of cruise itineraries in Halong Bay: Halong Bay day cruise, Halong Bay Cruise 2 days 1 night, and Halong Bay Cruise 3 days 2 nights. However, since Bai Tu Long Bay is located further away and has fewer operators, it’s recommended to opt for a Bai Tu Long Bay 2 days or 3 days cruise to fully enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Below is a sample Bai Tu Long Bay 2 Nights itinerary for both options.
07:30 – 08:00 A.M.: Your luxury van will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi and take you to Halong City, heading to Hon Gai Harbour.
12:30 P.M.: Arrive at the harbor, you’ll enjoy a welcome drink as you board your elegant vessel.
01:15 P.M.: While cruising, you’ll see the first stunning limestone formations of Bai Tu Long Bay. Sit down for a delicious lunch as you admire the view.
03:00 P.M.: Visit the floating Vung Vieng Fishing Village, where you can explore by kayak or take a traditional sampan boat ride. A local villager will guide you through the village and share insights into life on the water.
04:30 P.M.: Return to the cruise for relaxation time, you can join the Happy Hour at the bar.
05:30 P.M.: Attend a cooking demonstration where you’ll learn to make Vietnamese spring rolls.
07:15 P.M.: Enjoy a full-course dinner under the stars as the boat anchors for the night.
08:45 – 12:00 P.M.: Spend the evening watching movies, playing board games, or trying your hand at squid fishing. You can also relax at the bar or in your cabin before bed.
06:30 A.M.: Start the day with Tai Chi on the sundeck while enjoying the peaceful morning.
08:00 A.M.: A buffet breakfast is served, including fresh juices and premium local coffee.
09:00 A.M.: Board the day boat and sail to the Cong Dam Area, known for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. You’ll have plenty of time to relax, swim, and kayak.
12:00 P.M.: A set menu lunch will be served on the day boat.
03:30 P.M.: Return to the main cruise, where you can unwind on the sundeck or enjoy Happy Hour at the bar.
05:30 P.M.: Another cooking demonstration will teach you how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes.
07:15 P.M.: A wonderful dinner awaits in the dining room, prepared by the talented onboard chefs.
08:45 – 12:00 P.M.: You can enjoy a movie night, play board games, or head to the bar for more fun and socializing.
06:30 A.M.: Begin your day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, watching the sunrise over the bay.
07:30 A.M.: Enjoy a light breakfast as the boat sets sail again.
08:30 – 09:30 A.M.: Explore Thien Canh Son Cave, known for its heavenly rock formations and panoramic views over Bai Tu Long Bay.
09:30 A.M.: A brunch will be served on board as the boat returns to Hon Gai Harbour.
11:15 A.M.: Disembark and begin your drive back to Hanoi.
03:00 P.M.: You’ll arrive back at your hotel, concluding your 2-day, 1-night trip with Bai Tu Long Cruise.
Tips: The Bai Tu Long Bay 1-night cruise is essentially the same as the first and last days of the Bai Tu Long Bay 3-day, 2-night itinerary. If you're curious about the details, feel free to click on a specific cruise for more info or contact Halong Bay Cruise Trip directly!
So, above is some essential information about Bai Tu Long Bay that we believe travelers should know before visiting. If you're interested in booking a Bai Tu Long Bay overnight cruise or need more details, feel free to contact Halong Bay Cruise Trip to assist with your arrangements.