What to Expect on a Ha Long Bay Cruise: Tips for American Travelers

Introduction

Have you ever seen a dragon descending from the sky? Well, take a visit to Ha Long Bay and you’ll know what a descending dragon looks like. Situated in the Quảng Ninh province of Vietnam, Ha Long Bay literally translates to a “descending dragon” due to the thousands of rock structures and limestone formations that have been witnessing Vietnam’s rich history for millions of years.

Listed under the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is an essential place that every traveler must see during their trip to Vietnam.  The best way to explore this scenic beauty is through a Ha Long Bay cruise. Depending on the type of traveler that you are, there are several options on the type of cruise that you’d like to take. Are you an adventurer who doesn’t care for soft beds and swimming pools? Or is someone looking to respite in the warm Vietnamese sun with a margarita in hand and surrounded by the beauty of Ha Long Bay? Well, this world heritage site… has it all.

Choose Your Cruise (Best Time To Visit)

It almost feels like you’re a luxurious pirate going on an adventure while you’re on one of the cruises exploring the islets of Ha Long Bay. For different preferences and styles, there are hundreds of different cruises available for you to choose from. If you’re traveling with Threeland Travel on one of our Vietnam tours, you don’t need to worry about bookings. However, if you’re a solo wanderer, here are some types of cruises that you should know before grabbing the Ha Long bus:

Modern Luxurious Style: The name says it all. These types of cruises are modern, sleek, and offer a comfortable and gentle ride along the thousands of islets of the Ha Long bay.

Traditional: Made with wood and built like the olden days of sailing, the traditional cruises offer a more natural feel to your exploration, adding the feeling of being one with nature.

Yachts: A sleek metal machine churning the waters of Ha Long Bay that will offer you privacy, uninterrupted views, and a chance to sit down in a bubbling swimming pool with your loved ones.

October to December is generally considered the best time to visit Ha Long Bay since the weather becomes quite pleasant during that time. The waves are gentle, and the sun gives a gentle warmth that doesn’t get too hot nor does it get too cold. The humidity levels drop considerably along the bay and the temperatures generally range from 55°F (13°C) to 131°F (21°C).

Exploring Ha Long Bay

Having 1,969 limestone islands spread across an area of 1,553 sq. kilometers, there’s a lot to Ha Long Bay than meets the eye. The serene landscape offers unparalleled beauty, and scenic views of untouched nature, beautifully wonderous caves, and calm and lonely beaches.  However, this is just the tip of the iceberg.

 

The iconic bay offers travelers a plethora of fun-filled activities and adventure sports that people can take part in and make their memories unforgettable. Want to take a dive into the blue-green-grey colors of Ha Long Bay? Well, hop on some scuba gear and dive into the depths of this majestic water body as Ha Long Bay offers fun-filled activities such as kayaking, swimming, hiking, canoeing, diving, and to top it all off… some beachside BBQs!

Pro tip: Research the stories and myths associated with Vietnam before you visit this country so that you can be mindful of the traditions and cultural norms while you’re traveling. Plus, it makes for a great experience when you realize the significance of the place that you’re visiting.

What To Pack?

Before we head into the nitty-gritty of things, Threeland Travel recommends that you create a checklist of all the essentials that you will need to carry for your trip. Other than the obvious (i.e., passport/IDs and cash), here are a few things that you will need to pack when you’re on one of the Ha Long Bay cruises.

• Electrical adapter
• Insect repellent
• Binoculars
• Sunscreen
• Umbrella/raincoat
• Swimming gear
• Water bottle
• Hiking shoes

We also recommend that you carry a bag of toiletries with you for a comfortable journey without interruptions. If you’re traveling with Threeland Travel on one of our Vietnam holiday packages, you can simply sit back, relax, and soak in the warm sun and have an uninterrupted journey worth remembering.

Conclusion

More than just limestones and islets, the Ha Long Bay is a blend of natural beauty and modern traveling. A place where people’s sense of amazement and wonder knows no bounds and a cruise that remains unforgettable in your mind even after several years. Here are some additional things that you should know before hopping on your next adventure along Ha Long Bay:

• Research the place and book in advance (if you’re making your own booking).
• Bargain at the floating markets but do so respectfully.
• Pack light and comfortable clothing for a convenient journey along this world heritage site.
• Stay hydrated, wear sunglasses, and use generous amounts of sunscreen for your protection while you’re on the Ha Long Bay cruise.

From adventurous activities to relaxing on a modern yacht, the Ha Long Bay is not just a tour. It’s an experience that you should not miss. For a seamless experience, make sure to book your tour through a well-known Vietnam Travel Agency for a worry-free journey.