Halong Bay, spanning over 1,500 km2 with more than 2,000 scattered islands, creates a magnificent landscape. Day cruises, overnight stays on the bay, seaplane rides for panoramic views – these are experiences every traveler should try at least once.
Weather
Halong Bay has a tropical climate with hot and humid weather, divided into two main seasons. Winter lasts from November to March, with an average temperature of 15-20°C, dropping below 10°C. Summer spans from May to September, with an average temperature of 25-29°C, reaching up to 37-38°C at its peak. Additionally, there are two transitional seasons: spring (April) and autumn (October).
Transportation
After exploring the city, visitors can choose suitable means to explore the bay. If you’ve booked a cruise or a tour, detailed instructions will be provided. For those buying tickets individually, check information at the two main ports in Halong: Tuan Chau International Passenger Port (12 km from Halong City center) and Halong International Passenger Port in the city center, with fewer ships than Tuan Chau.
Tour Options
Day Cruises
A variety of boats, from standard to luxury, offer different routes. Tickets might have a slight increase during weekends or Tet holidays, but not exceeding 30%.
Overnight Cruises
Private enterprises provide cruise services with boats featuring 1 to 40 bedrooms. Prices for a one-night stay range from around 2 million to 4 million VND per person.
Aerial Views
Seaplane rides offer a new perspective on the bay. Although helicopter services have temporarily stopped since April, hydroplane services provide a unique bird’s-eye view of Halong Bay’s beauty. Prices start from 1.6 million VND for Vietnamese visitors and 2 million VND for international visitors for a 25-minute flight.
Tickets
Given the vastness of Halong Bay, it’s nearly impossible to cover all spots in just a few hours. The bay management arranges tours on different routes, each with its own theme and five types of tickets. Prices are per person per trip.
Day Tours (from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM)
- Route 1: Port – Vạn Cảnh Park: Thien Cung, Dau Go, Hon Cho Da, Hang Ba Hang, Hon Dinh Huong, Hon Trong Mai – Ga Choi. Ticket: 290,000 VND.
- Route 2: Port – Cave Park: Soi Sim Beach, Titov Beach, Sung Sot Cave, Me Cung Cave, Bo Nau Cave, Luon Cave, Trong Cave, Trinh Nu Cave, Dong Tien Lake. Ticket: 290,000 VND.
- Route 3: Port – Cultural Conservation Center: Cua Van Floating Cultural Center, Tien Ong Cave, Ba Ham Lake, Ba Men Temple, Ang Du. Ticket: 240,000 VND.
- Route 4: Port – Sea Entertainment Center: Co Cave, Thay Cave, Cua Do Cave, Cap La Cave, Vong Vieng, Tung Ang Eco-Park – Cap La, Hon Xep Park. Ticket: 240,000 VND.
- Route 5: Port – Gia Luan Wharf (Cat Ba – Hai Phong): Thien Cung, Dau Go, Hon Cho Da, Hang Ba Hang, Hon Dinh Huong, Hon Trong Mai-Ga Choi. Ticket: 290,000 VND.
Overnight Tours (maximum stay one night is 24 hours; maximum stay two nights is 48 hours from departure)
- Tour 2 and stay one or two nights. Ticket: 590,000 VND and 790,000 VND.
- Tour 3 and stay one or two nights. Ticket: 540,000 VND and 690,000 VND.
- Tour 4 and stay one or two nights. Ticket: 540,000 VND and 690,000 VND.
- Overnight visit fees vary and are included in the overnight cruise service fees.
Sightseeing Spots
Titov Island
Titov Island, situated along Cat Nang Channel, boasts a rich history. Formerly known as Cat Nang Island, it was renamed after a visit by President Ho Chi Minh and Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin in 1962. Visitors can ascend the 170m peak for panoramic views, enjoy the 500m2 beach area, and partake in various activities like swimming, beach sports, kayaking, and high-speed boat rides.
Sung Sot Cave
Recognized as the largest cave in Halong Bay, Sung Sot Cave holds significant geological value. Exploring its expansive chambers, adorned with peculiar rock formations, is a mesmerizing journey. The cave’s name, “Surprise Cave,” originates from the awe-inspired reactions of visitors as they navigate its wonders.
Luon Cave
Nestled within the Bo Hon Island cluster, Luon Cave resembles a submerged tunnel with water flowing beneath. To access the inner lake, visitors can choose between bamboo boat rides or kayaking. The unique experience of gliding through the partially submerged cave, especially during high tides, contributes to its name, Luon Cave.
Trong Cave
With an area of about 300m2, Trong Cave is an archaeological site belonging to the Soi Nhu culture, dating back 7,000 to 18,000 years. The cave preserves traces of brownish-yellow sediment layers and freshwater mollusk shells. Exploring Trong Cave offers an immersive encounter with stalactite formations, echoing winds, and the subtle sounds reminiscent of a drum.
Hon Trong Mai (Rooster and Hen Island)
Comprising two small islets standing at approximately 12m tall, Hon Trong Mai resembles a pair of roosters. These islands, delicately poised with their beaks almost touching, create an enchanting sight. As boats gently pass by, the formation momentarily transforms, resembling a giant fish swimming in the sea.
Hon Cho Da (Stone Dog Island)
Included in both tour routes 1 and 5, Stone Dog Island is approximately 2.5 km from Tuan Chau International Tourist Wharf and 6.4 km from Halong International Tourist Wharf. With a height of around 8m, this island takes the shape of a colossal dog. In the past, when fishing villages thrived in Halong Bay, the locals considered Stone Dog Island a symbol safeguarding the villagers’ peace.
These iconic spots, among others like Cua Van Fishing Village, Me Cung Cave, Thien Cung Cave, Trinh Nu Cave, Dau Go Cave, Co Cave, Ngoc Vung Island, Hon Dau Nguoi Island, contribute to the breathtaking allure of Halong Bay. Each destination carries unique stories, cultural significance, and natural wonders, making the bay a treasure trove for travelers seeking enchanting landscapes and rich experiences.
Note
During winter, the bay experiences strong winds and cold temperatures. Visitors are advised to bring warm clothing.
For boat trips, bring swimwear, hats, and sun protection. For kayaking or high-speed boat rides, wear a life jacket.
Ensure you buy tickets from official sources and arrive at the dock on time.