Day 1: (L, D): Hanoi – Ha Long

9:00am pick up at your hotel and drive to Ha Long. On the way to Ha Long city, enjoy the journey through the rich farmlands of the Red River Delta with its scenery of rice fields, water buffalo, and everyday Vietnamese village life. The boat sets sail into the bay. Find yourself getting acquainted with the facilities onboard. A delectable buffet lunch is served in the restaurant. Savor your first hours on Ha Long Bay on the sun deck by simply letting your eyes wander around the scenery. We arrive at the area of Cua Van, a floating fishing village. From here we start to explore a cave, named Tien Ong, as well as the floating fishing village. Tien Ong shows evidence of human civilization dating back to 10,000 – 8,000 BC. The cave is just 5 meters above sea level, 50 meters deep, and covers 1,000 square meters. Our guide takes you on a loop though the cave and explains the historical findings and the cave’s particulars. The voyage continues to the fishing village. With a small bamboo boat rowed by local villagers, we move around on the calm waters of this secluded area and gain an insight into the village life. You can also paddle by yourself in a kayak, which is a perfect way to freely move around the area and typical village life on the water. After returning to the boat we sail to the overnight mooring area of Luon Bo. During this time, Ha Long Bay reveals its most magnificent beauty, known as the “blue hour.” Unwind on the sun deck with a drink of your choice and let the moment sink in. During sailing, our chef demonstrates the preparation of particular Vietnamese dishes. Feel free to join in. Dinner is served in the restaurant either à la carte or buffet style (note: Jasmine serves BBQ or dinner buffet). Afterwards the night is yours to kick back and abundantly enjoy these unique moments amidst a surreal landscape. A presentation with interesting facts and insights into Ha Long Bay is also offered after dinner in the dining area. We wish you a good night on the bay, where once upon a time dragons played with sparkling jewels. Overnight on join-in Violet Boat with 01 DBL Imperial Suite Cabin.   

 

Day 2: (B): Ha Long – Hanoi 

For early risers (around 6:30 am), tea, coffee and pastries are available in the dining room. A Tai Chi class is offered on the sundeck to ease mind and muscles. The boat sails to Ti Top Island. By tender boat we arrive at this little landmass in the bay. Take a refreshing morning swim on a sandy beach beneath high rock formations. If you prefer to be more active, climb up to the hill to the top of Ti Top Island, from where you’ll have stunning views over Ha Long Bay. It takes 400 stone steps up and about 20 minutes to the top; minimal fitness and proper footwear is required. There is also a viewing platform about half-way up with a great panoramic view. Back on board (around 8:45 am), you may like to shower and freshen up. Enjoy the last of your sailing time back to the harbor. A full breakfast is served in the dining room. Relax on the sun deck or in the dining room while savoring the last cruise moments of this iconic site before arriving back on shore. Our crew bids a fond farewell and helps with your belongings. Pick up and drive back to Hanoi and drop off at your hotel around 15:00.