Garden Bay Cruises – Traditional Wooden Boat to Bai Tu Long Bay

An Authentic Voyage to Bai Tu Long Bay: Garden Bay Cruises’ 2-Day/1-Night Experience

When thinking about exploring Vietnam’s iconic Halong Bay, many travelers automatically picture busy, touristy boats packed with crowds. But if you’re after a more tranquil, authentic experience, the Garden Bay Cruise offers a charming alternative — a traditional wooden boat journey through the less crowded but equally stunning Bai Tu Long Bay. For about $165 per person, you get a two-day itinerary filled with peaceful sailing, kayaking, and encounters with local fishermen.

The highlights? The peaceful lagoons of Cap La Island, the chance to kayak and swim in pristine waters, and a visit to the Vung Vieng Fishing Village. The tour stands out for its emphasis on environmental awareness, with activities designed to connect you with nature and local life. Two things we particularly like are the opportunity to relax away from the crowds and the chance to experience Vietnam’s traditional wooden boat culture firsthand. On the downside, some reviews mention that the boat’s condition hasn’t seen much investment over the years, which could impact comfort and facilities.

This tour suits travelers who seek an authentic, relaxed environment with natural beauty at its core. If you’re looking for spectacular views, culture, and a break from commercialized tours, this could fit your travel style well. However, if modern amenities are a priority, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Travel on a traditional wooden boat that emphasizes environmental sustainability and local interaction.
• Natural Beauty: Enjoy kayaking, swimming, and relaxing at pristine beaches in Bai Tu Long Bay.
• Cultural Encounters: Visit Vung Vieng Fishing Village and learn about local life.
• Flexible Activities: Includes kayaking, beach relaxing, cooking classes, and Tai Chi.
• Variable Comfort: The boat is somewhat aged, with reviews citing outdated facilities like bathrooms.
• Price and Value: For $165, this offers a full experience with meals, activities, and authentic scenery, but some facilities may feel basic.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

From Hanoi to Halong Bay

Your adventure begins with a pick-up in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, around 7:30 to 8:30 am, for the roughly 3-hour transfer to the Halong International Cruise Port. The convenience of included transportation means you don’t need to worry about navigating Vietnam’s busy roads — though it’s worth noting that this transfer is only included if you book the Hanoi pickup option. For those arranging their own transport, it’s a straightforward journey, but you’ll need to account for extra costs.

Day 1: Cruising Bai Tu Long Bay

Once at the port, you’ll hop onto your traditional wooden boat, a vessel that’s designed to evoke Vietnam’s maritime heritage. Expect a warm welcome with a drink and safety briefing before your set menu lunch, which features Vietnamese cuisine. The cruise itself is a highlight, offering sweeping views of Bai Tu Long Bay’s less crowded, limestone-draped islands.

One of the key activities here is kayaking — a real gem of this tour. The guide takes you to explore lagoons and Cap La Island, where you can swim, relax on the beach, or just soak in the scenery. The reviews mention that the views are truly stunning, especially at sunset when the sky turns a gentle hue, and the boat drifts quietly in the bay.

Later in the afternoon, there’s a cooking class — a chance to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes. Evenings are relaxed, with a happy hour as the boat cruises towards its anchorage point for the night, followed by a dinner onboard.

Day 2: Fishing Village and Return

Your second day begins early with Tai Chi at dawn, a calming way to start the day. After a light Western-style breakfast, you’ll transfer to Vung Vieng Fishing Village by tender. Here, you’ll get to see local fishermen at work, and even row in a traditional boat with fishermen, which many reviewers say is a memorable, authentic experience.

Back onboard, you’ll enjoy a cruise back through Bai Tu Long Bay, passing iconic limestone formations. The lunch on the boat marks the end of your voyage, and you’ll return to the port by around 12:00 pm.

Return to Hanoi

From the cruise port, you’ll board the bus back to Hanoi, arriving around 3:30 to 4:00 pm. The tour ends with drop-off at your hotel, making for a convenient, stress-free travel experience.

What Travelers Say: Authenticity and Challenges

The reviews highlight a mixed picture. One traveler in 2024 called it a “magic” experience, praising the outstanding crew and guide and describing the views as breathtaking. This suggests that if you value natural scenery and authentic activities, you’ll likely enjoy this tour.

However, a different perspective from 2015 indicates that the boat’s condition has declined over the years. The toilet was described as smelly, and the food was considered mediocre. These comments point to a potential downside: if your expectations include modern comforts and gourmet meals, this might fall short.

What’s Great?

• The peaceful cruising and fewer crowds in Bai Tu Long Bay make for a more relaxed experience than some tours in Halong Bay.
• The kayaking and swimming opportunities allow you to connect closely with nature.
• Visiting the fishing village provides a glimpse into local life, adding depth to the trip.

What’s Less Ideal?

• The aging boat may lack modern amenities, which could lead to discomfort, especially in bathrooms.
• The meals, while included, may not impress everyone, especially if you’re used to gourmet standards.
• The timing of some activities is quite tight, leaving limited time for relaxation or spontaneous exploration.

Practical Tips for Booking

• Book early if you want the Hanoi pickup, as spaces might fill up.
• Consider your comfort expectations; if you’re sensitive to older facilities, be prepared for a more rustic experience.
• Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat for outdoor activities.
• The group size is capped at 30 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate but not overly crowded.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

Garden Bay Cruises’ 2-day/1-night journey offers a genuinely authentic chance to see Bai Tu Long Bay without the crowds. It’s especially suited for travelers who are eager to experience Vietnamese maritime culture, enjoy kayaking, and appreciate natural scenic beauty. The focus on eco-awareness and local interaction adds meaningful depth.

However, if you prioritize luxury accommodations or upscale dining, you might find this experience a bit rough around the edges. Given the mixed reviews, it’s best for those willing to accept a more rustic, traditional boat experience in exchange for quiet, stunning vistas and a slower pace.

Overall, if your goal is to escape touristy chaos and embrace the tranquil waters of Bai Tu Long Bay, this tour could be a memorable choice. Just remember to manage your expectations about comfort and facilities, and bring along your sense of adventure.

FAQ: Common Questions About Garden Bay Cruises

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
Yes, if you book the Hanoi pickup option, your guide will transfer you from Hanoi’s Old Quarter to Halong port. If you arrange your own transport, you’ll need to get to the port independently.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience spans about two days and one night, with activities from midday on the first day to around noon on the second.

What activities are included?
You’ll enjoy kayaking, swimming, relaxing at beaches, visiting Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and participating in a Vietnamese cooking class. Tai Chi is also offered early morning.

Are meals provided?
Yes, the tour includes lunch and dinner on day 1, plus breakfast and lunch on day 2. Beverages and personal expenses are not included.

What’s the condition of the boat?
Reviews suggest that the boat is aged and facilities like toilets might not be in the best shape. This is a rustic, traditional vessel rather than a luxury yacht.

Can I join the tour without prior experience?
Absolutely. The activities are suitable for most travelers, and the guide will assist with kayaking and exploring the fishing village.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a camera to capture the stunning scenery. Remember, onboard facilities may be basic.

How many people typically join?
The group size is capped at 30 travelers, making it a relatively intimate experience.

This tour offers a window into Vietnam’s tranquil waters and local fishing traditions, perfect for those seeking natural beauty and cultural authenticity over luxury. With careful planning and realistic expectations, it can become a highlight of your Vietnam trip — a peaceful escape into the quiet waters of Bai Tu Long Bay.