Floating serenely through 2,000 bizarrely shaped limestone islands as they protrude sharply through the emerald Ha Long Bay is an experience not to be missed. Many people are not aware of this but Ha Long Bay UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of 3 different bays and thousands of islands. Our cruise sailed through the overcrowded Ha Long Bay where 300 – 500 boats a day said and ventured into the more serene Bai Tu Long Bay. With only 40 other boats in the area we could somewhat pretend we had this magical place to ourselves.
Islands as far as the eye can see.
We boarded our aptly named boat “Christina” and were instantly relaxed by our unbelievable accommodations and surroundings. The boat had 16 cabins and Jon and I were expecting something similar to our Galapagos boat where we could barely more. However, we were astounded when we opened our cabin door to find we had the corner unit which was decorated beautifully decorated, had two full walls of windows and our own little deck. The next 24-hours were going to be heaven.
Our wall of windows.
View from bed in the morning.
View in the morning from our deck.
In the afternoon we took a boat through a traditional fishing village in the middle of the bay. This originally was a true working village but the park officials could not figure out how to get rid of the trash and waste from hundreds of people. The government ended up relocating the people (all but a few who refused to leave) to the mainland providing them with new housing and money to purchase a bigger fishing boat. After we were able to kayak around to see the limestone cliffs up close.
Boating through the fishing village and kayaking.
After our adventure wine and appetizers were waiting for us on the top deck where we enjoyed the sunset. Dinner was several courses and after we enjoyed squid fishing. The next day after a buffet breakfast we visited a cave on one of the islands and enjoyed learning how to make spring rolls (and eat them!) as we cruised through the magnificent islands for the last time.
Sunset from the top deck.
Jon enjoying some wine.
Poor squid that was caught, cooked and gobbled up.
Our trip on the Christina for 2 days/1 night was approximately $120 per person and included transportation to/from Hanoi, accommodation, activities and all food. It was worth every penny and in fact if you have the time I would recommend the 2 night. Christina is one of the only boats in which each cabin had their own balcony.
The Christina from the top of one of the islands.
Journey with Christina 