Early morning departure from Hanoi to Halong Bay (around 2 hours). Arrive at the Halong tourist pier. After boarding the boat you will start a relaxing and wonderful cruise through World Nature Heritage Halong Bay, passing bizarre rock formations, such as the Dinh Huong (the Incense Urn), Cho Da (the Stone Dog), islands with sandy beaches, and Ga Choi (the Fighting Roosters) islets. You will discover HalongBay, listed as a World Heritage of outstanding natural beauty, known in Vietnamese as “Dragon descending to the sea“.
The picturesque Halong Bay has more than 3,000 limestone islets rising from the clear emerald water, many of them containing beautiful grottoes. You will visit Thien Cung and Dau Go grottoes situated on the south-west side of the bay, 4 km from the wharf outside of Halong City. The way to Thien Cung grotto is covered on both sides by thick forest. After entering a narrow gate, the grotto’s 130-meter-long girth opens up. Getting in you will be more astonished in front of the very animated and splendid beauty which is made from the stalactites. On the east wall of the grotto, there is a grandiose and imposing picture with characters of tales. Going out of the Thien Cung grotto, you will have a sensation of just watching a unique, meticulous, interesting fine-art museum which is made by nature. This grotto is one of the most beautiful ones in Halong Bay. Legend has it, that beautiful young lady named May (cloud), caught the eye of the Dragon Prince and he fell in love with her. They were betrothed, and their wedding lasted seven days and seven nights in the very centre of the grotto.
Bring along swimwear & towels as you may want to go for a refreshing swim in the bay if weather permits. In the late afternoon, sail back to shore and disembark for the drive back to Hanoi. Your full-day tour ends with a visit to Dong Trieu ceramic village en route to your hotel
English or French-speaking local tour guide
Tips and Gratuities for guide and driver
