Published on December 14, 2023 · Written by Zack Fenech
Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a tourist trap – a natural wonder and a resort. It’s a combination of opposites, which left me conflicted about how I feel about my trip to this iconic spot in Northern Vietnam.
I’ll say this: I did not regret visiting Ha Long Bay. There were, however, some things I did not enjoy about it.
In this Ha Long Bay travel guide, we’ll be revisiting my trip and sharing what the experience was actually like on one of these unique overnight cruises.
Important Things to Know Before Visiting Ha Long Bay
- Cruises: There are many cruise options available at Ha Long Bay. We chose a three-star cruise, which was comfortable but far from luxurious. Our cabin had a king-sized bed and standard hotel amenities, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included. Activities included kayaking, cave tours, and beach visits. You can book tours in advance to secure the best options.
- Getting There: Getting to Ha Long Bay was surprisingly confusing. We travelled from Ninh Binh and booked a two-hour shuttle bus through GoAsia. Despite confirming the drop-off point, the bus left us at the wrong location and we ended up taking a Grab to the terminal. Most cruises depart from the Ha Long International Cruise Port. Check our transportation guide for tips on booking travel in advance.
Things to Do and Places to Visit in Ha Long Bay
One of my biggest gripes with Ha Long Bay was that it felt very limiting – though in hindsight, what did I expect from an overnight cruise? If you’re planning a visit, research the specific sites you’d like to see and confirm that your chosen cruise includes them in its itinerary.
1. Ha Long Bay
The main attraction is, naturally, Ha Long Bay itself. The beautiful waters winding between dramatic limestone karsts offer picturesque views of the marina, fishing boats, and a truly spectacular sunset.
2. Ti Top Island
Ti Top Island is a small island featuring a beautiful beach, caves, and a viewpoint you can climb for sweeping panoramic views over the bay. Most cruises stop here for the day, offering a mix of tours and relaxation for passengers.
3. Sung Sot Cave
Colloquially known as Surprise Cave, Sung Sot Cave contains breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites in a spacious, well-lit, and well-maintained interior. Guided tours are available, and it is far more accessible and less intimidating than many other caves we visited in Vietnam.
Final Thoughts: Is Ha Long Bay Worth Visiting?
If you’re planning to visit Ha Long Bay, consider the cost carefully. It’s one of the most heavily touristed destinations in Vietnam, and many travellers feel it doesn’t live up to the hype. Personally, I found it too commercial for my taste – being on a boat means sticking to a fixed schedule with very little flexibility.
The food and drink on board weren’t particularly impressive, though the five-course dinner was excellent and featured a great spread of seafood. On the downside, the cruise offered constant upselling of overpriced massages and drinks, and bringing your own beverages will cost you a corkage fee.
The scenery was undeniably beautiful, but if I’m honest, I would have preferred to spend that time visiting another city on the way to Hanoi. That said, this is a personal opinion – everyone’s different, and it’s worth seeing for yourself. Don’t forget to arrange travel insurance before your trip.
FAQs about Ha Long Bay
Is Ha Long Bay in Hanoi?
No. Ha Long Bay is not in Hanoi. It is approximately two and a half hours away from the city.
How long does a cruise last?
Most Ha Long Bay cruises last around 24 hours. You can book for multiple days if you’d like to stay longer.
Is Ha Long Bay a tourist trap?
Ha Long Bay has a reputation for being a tourist trap, and there is some truth to that. However, there are genuinely enjoyable moments on the trip, and the natural scenery is hard to argue with.