Onboard Experiences & Activities on A Halong Cruise: What to Expect

Halong Bay delights visitors with not only captivating scenery but also exciting experiences. And the best way to enjoy all that this natural wonder has to offer is to join a cruise.

From majestic cave tours to laughter-filled kayaking, from serene morning Tai Chi to a vibrant sunset party, Halong cruises know how to cater to every visitor, from active explorers to peace-seekers. This article shares all the incredible experiences and activities that you can find on Halong cruises, helping you plan an unforgettable journey.

Is there any difference in activities and experiences among cruises?

Usually, the longer the itinerary, the more diverse the sightseeing activities will be. Additionally, luxurious cruises often feature more modern facilities and amenities, providing a wider array of onboard experiences for travelers.

Onboard Experiences

More than just cruising, a Halong cruise is an all-in-one floating paradise, offering abundant onboard experiences.

Admire stunning landscape from the deck

Let the tranquility and majestic beauty of Halong Bay's limestone mountains embrace you as soon as you step on board. From your private balcony room or the airy top deck, the bay's awe-inspiring scenery is a feast for your eyes, from sunrise to starlight.

Make Vietnamese traditional food in cooking class

An engaging cooking demonstration is surely a highlight for not only food lovers but also all travelers of all ages. Try your hand at rolling traditional spring rolls with your little kids or carving vegetables for stunning garnishes. Pay close attention, as our expert chef might share a secret recipe that you can remake at home. This activity isn't just about food; it's a fantastic way to interact with fellow travelers and know more about Vietnam's rich cuisine.

Join Sunset party and Happy Hour with snacks

Imagine the sky is filled with hues of pink and red as you sip a refreshing cocktail and enjoy crispy snacks on the sundeck. Sunset party and Happy Hour is the perfect setting for fun conversations with your loved ones or simply enjoying peace and a spectacular view of the bay.

Dip in the outdoor swimming pool

A refreshing dip in the outdoor pool amidst the tranquil ambiance of Halong Bay is unbeatable. Grabbing some cool beer from the bar, doing some laps, or simply floating in the pool. Pool service is usually included in mid-range to luxury cruises.

Pamper yourself with massage treatments

A massage followed by an active day of exploration is the best way to truly unwind and revitalize. On most 4 and 5-star cruises, exquisite spa and massage services are available upon request. We recommend you book this service in advance to ensure it fits perfectly into your schedule.

Try your luck with squid fishing

After dinner, squid fishing is a favorite activity on all cruises. No need to go far, you will be provided with fishing equipment and guided on how to catch squid with traditional technique right at the stern. While it requires patience and a bit of luck, squid fishing is also a great opportunity to connect and interact with other travelers.

Practice morning Taichi

Start your day with a relaxing Tai Chi session on the rooftop while watching the sunrise over the bay. These gentle movements combined with focused breathing help relax your mind and body, an ideal way to get ready for exploration activities ahead.

Offboard Activities

Explore caves with stalactites and stalagmites

Explore Halong's iconic caves – from the giant Sung Sot Cave to historical Me Cung Grotto. Climb up to hidden entrances, follow unwinding paths into grand chambers inside. Caves in Halong Bay amaze you with not only thousands-of-years-old stalactites and stalagmites but also magical geological processes and unique legends.

Kayak or take a sampan boat through emerald waters

Active explorers can kayak through Halong Bay's emerald waters, while those seeking relaxation can hop on a sampan boat rowed by a local to discover this stunning water area. Either way, getting closer to rocky islands, exploring unique half-submerged caves, and immersing in tranquility at hidden lagoons are unmissable activities in the heritage.

Hike to the top of the mountain

Opt for a cruise including Titop or Soi Sim Island in the itinerary if you want to take an extraordinary hike to the summit of the mountain. Conquer the top and you'll be rewarded with a mesmerizing panoramic view of the entire bay dotted with thousands of islands. It's also a second-to-none opportunity to connect with nature and snap breathtaking photos with loved ones.

Swim in the calm bay

Like a giant natural swimming pool, Halong Bay invites you to soak in its calm and clear waters. Imagine jumping into the emerald water, floating effortlessly, or taking a few laps while being surrounded by majestic mountains. It's the ultimate way to unwind and live in the present.

Sunbathe on the beach

There's nothing better than soaking up the sun with coconut water or a cold beer in hand after a refreshing swim. If you prefer a larger shore, go with a Halong Bay cruise that visits Titop or Soi Sim Beach. For those seeking smaller but pristine beaches, choose a longer itinerary (from 3 days) as these spots are usually located deeper in the bay. Be aware that these can be affected by tide and weather conditions.

Visit floating fishing villages

Beyond its stunning natural beauty, Halong Bay cruises also offer meaningful cultural activities. Visit a floating fishing village to discover its rustic charm, observe fishermen's daily life, and learn about their tough life on water. Kayak or sampan boats are available for this activity.

Cycle around an ancient village

For an authentic local experience, cycling around Viet Hai village on Cat Ba Island is a must. As you ride along peaceful paths through dense jungles, you'll enjoy a refreshing atmosphere, witness majestic mountains, visit traditional houses, and mingle with friendly locals. This unique excursion is normally offered on a 3-day program of a Lan Ha Bay Cruise.