From Ninh Binh: Bai Tu Long Bay 3-Day Cruise with Meals
Location: Northern Vietnam, Vietnam
Price: $315 per person
Supplier: NINH BINH LUXURY TOUR
Imagine gliding through shimmering blue waters surrounded by towering limestone islands, all while enjoying authentic Vietnamese meals and engaging activities. This 3-day cruise from Ninh Binh to Bai Tu Long Bay offers an immersive experience that balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight. You’ll visit fishing villages, explore caves, and enjoy stunning sunset views—all on a comfortable boat that feels both intimate and well-equipped.
Two things we especially like about this tour: First, the kayaking through limestone formations provides an up-close encounter with the bay’s dramatic scenery, far more personal than just admiring from the deck. Second, the local fishing village visit offers a genuine glimpse into the lives of those who call these waters home.
A potential consideration is the weather-dependent BBQ dinner on the sundeck, which means if it rains, that special meal might need to be moved indoors or postponed.
This cruise suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic vistas, and cultural insights without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for those looking for a balance of adventure and comfort—especially if you’re keen on trying local cuisine and learning about Vietnam’s fishing traditions.
Key Points
- Stunning limestone scenery: Kayaking and exploring caves offer intimate encounters with Bai Tu Long Bay’s striking formations.
- Authentic cultural experience: Visiting a fishing village helps you understand local life beyond tourist spots.
- Variety of activities: Snorkeling, swimming, squid fishing, and cooking classes keep the days engaging.
- Quality meals included: Enjoy Vietnamese cuisine and fresh seafood, with options for BBQ dinners and light breakfasts.
- Relaxing onboard vibe: Sunbathing, board games, and a sunset party make for laid-back evenings.
- Weather considerations: Some activities, like the BBQ dinner, depend on good weather, so flexibility is key.
A Detailed Look at the Bai Tu Long Bay 3-Day Cruise
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Starting Out in Ninh Binh and Heading to Bai Tu Long Bay
Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel in Ninh Binh, an area already worth exploring for its stunning scenery and ancient temples. From there, you’ll make your way to Sunworld Harbor, where the cruise kicks off. The transfer itself is straightforward, and the anticipation of the next three days makes the journey feel like a prelude to adventure.
Once aboard the Garden Bay Junk Boat—an inviting vessel with cozy cabins and a spacious sundeck—you’ll receive a warm welcome, complete with a drink to set the mood. The safety briefing is brief but important, ensuring everyone feels comfortable setting out on this maritime exploration.
Day 1: Setting Sail into the Scenic Heart of Bai Tu Long Bay
Your first day is about settling in and soaking up the scenery. As the boat cruises toward Cap La Island, you’re treated to views of towering limestone stacks and lush islets, the hallmark of Bai Tu Long Bay. The highlight here is kayaking—an activity that lets you drift close to the cliffs, marveling at the natural sculptures that have formed over millennia.
The menu on board is a delightful surprise: a Vietnamese set meal packed with fresh flavors. We found that the food was both tasty and generous, providing the energy needed for the day’s activities.
In the late afternoon, the boat anchors at Cong Do, a peaceful spot perfect for unwinding. Here, the sunset party on the sundeck is a charming touch, giving everyone a chance to mingle while watching the day close with spectacular colors. The cooking class is a simple but fun way to connect with Vietnamese culture—learning how to roll spring rolls or prune fruits is easy and rewarding.
A BBQ dinner on the deck is the culinary centerpiece of the evening, weather permitting. The combination of fresh seafood and grilled meats, along with local herbs, makes for a memorable meal. For entertainment, squid fishing and board games provide lighthearted options before bedtime.
Day 2: Discovering Hidden Caves and Pearl Farms
Waking up early for Tai Chi is a serene way to start the day—slow and intentional, it helps you wake up gently. Breakfast is light but satisfying, fueling you for the day ahead.
This day takes you deeper into the bay, with a cruise passing through Trinh N Cave, Trong Cave, and into Tung Sau area of Lan Ha Bay. The scenery continues to impress with dramatic limestone formations, some resembling giant sculptures emerging from the water.
A highlight is visiting a pearl farm, where you can learn about pearl cultivation—a fascinating insight into local industry. Kayaking and swimming are on the menu again, offering opportunities to cool off and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.
The lunch onboard is a seafood feast with grilled dishes and Vietnamese delicacies, showcasing the fresh catches of the day. The afternoon includes exploring Me Cung Cave or Tien Ong Cave, both known for their impressive stalactites and stalagmites—perfect for photography and marveling at nature’s artistry.
More Great Tours NearbyDay 3: Exploring Vung Vieng Fishing Village and Returning to Hanoi
The final morning begins with Tai Chi once more, a calming routine to ease into the day. As the cruise approaches Vung Vieng Fishing Village, you’ll transfer by tender—a small boat ride that feels like stepping into a different world.
Rowing through the village, you’ll get a firsthand look at traditional fishing life. The local fishermen are friendly and eager to share stories, providing a genuine, unfiltered glimpse of their daily routines.
After visiting the village, the cruise retraces different routes back to the harbor, giving you fresh perspectives on Bai Tu Long Bay’s landscape. A fusion-style lunch onboard combines Vietnamese flavors with a touch of international flair, leaving you satisfied before disembarking and heading back to Hanoi.
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What’s Included and What’s Not
For $315, you’re getting a well-rounded package: accommodation aboard the boat, all meals, kayaking, cave visits, and a fishing village tour. The inclusion of activities like Tai Chi, cooking classes, and squid fishing makes this a lively, engaging trip.
However, some extras are on you: drinks onboard, personal expenses, and transportation to and from your hotel aren’t included. The pickup from Ninh Binh is straightforward, but the drop-off at Hanoi requires an additional fee of 400,000 VND per person, which is worth considering when planning your budget.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and your camera—these will come in handy whether kayaking, swimming, or capturing the incredible vistas.
- The BBQ dinner is weather dependent, so be flexible if it’s cloudy or rainy.
- Evening activities like squid fishing and board games are simple but add a fun, social dimension.
- The tour is available to book with a “reserve & pay later” option, offering flexibility if your plans are not yet set.
Who Will Love This Cruise?
This tour suits those who want to experience Vietnam’s scenic beauty in a relaxed, engaging way. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic cultural interactions—like visiting fishing villages—and enjoys outdoor activities like kayaking and swimming, this cruise hits those marks.
It’s also ideal if you’re traveling with friends or family who prefer a mix of adventure and comfort. The meals, activities, and scenic stops are family-friendly, but the boat’s pace and the early mornings may be less suited for travelers seeking pure luxury or intense nightlife.
The Sum Up
For $315, this 3-day cruise offers a well-balanced glimpse into the awe-inspiring Bai Tu Long Bay, combining active exploration with culture and hearty Vietnamese cuisine. You’ll paddle past limestone giants, visit a lively fishing village, and enjoy convivial evenings on deck. The activities are varied enough to keep everyone engaged, but flexible to allow moments of quiet relaxation.
The value lies in the combination of stunning scenery, authentic encounters, and thoughtful touches like cooking classes and sunset parties. It’s an accessible way to see some of Vietnam’s most spectacular natural and cultural sights without breaking the bank.
If you’re eager to experience Vietnam’s waters up close, enjoy a mix of adventure and cultural discovery, and appreciate well-organized tours that focus on genuine experiences, this cruise could be just what you need.
FAQ
What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $315 per person, which includes meals, kayaking, cave visits, and a day in a fishing village.
How long is the cruise?
It’s a 3-day, 2-night experience, with activities scheduled throughout each day to explore Bai Tu Long Bay and nearby attractions.
Are meals included?
Yes, all meals on the cruise are included, featuring Vietnamese dishes, seafood, and barbecue options (weather permitting).
What activities are available?
Kayaking, swimming, squid fishing, a cooking class, visiting caves, and touring Vung Vieng Fishing Village are all part of the experience.
Is transportation included?
Pickup from your hotel in Ninh Binh is included, but the drop-off at Hanoi costs an extra 400,000 VND per person.
Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.
What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, a camera, and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities and weather conditions.
Is the itinerary weather-dependent?
Yes, activities like the BBQ dinner on the sundeck depend on good weather, so flexibility may be needed.
Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic views, and cultural experiences.