Mysterious waters and countless islets shape this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site. Halong and Bai Tu Long share the same celestial legend: when invaders threatened the bay, dragons descended from heaven, spitting gems into the sea to form an impassable barrier - creating today’s dramatic seascape. The dragons decided to stay, with the mother dragon remaining the eternal guardian of Halong Bay and her children shielding the eastern region known as Bai Tu Long.
This three-day journey named “Pearls of the Bay“, offers the most authentic and unspoiled cruise experience in the bay, passing Halong and sailing to the far-flung reaches of Bai Tu Long. A slow-paced, privatized passage filled with joy and perpetual peace.
Day 1:
Your journey begins at Tuan Chau Marina with a warm welcome aboard ‘Violet’. The ship then sails into the remote waters of Bai Tu Long Bay, a quieter and less-visited extension of Halong Bay, renowned for its serenity, pristine scenery, and dramatic limestone karsts.
Join a short welcome presentation by the cruise director introducing the Halong and Bai Tu Long Bay regions, offering insight into the legends and local traditions. Then, enjoy your free time on the terrace deck or your private balcony as the ship glides deeper into the bay, revealing its unspoiled beauty.
In the afternoon, the first excursion takes place in the Tra San area, where you explore calm waters by kayak, weaving through limestone cliffs in one of the bay’s most peaceful corners.
Back onboard, savor an à la carte dinner in the restaurant before the ship moors overnight in this tranquil area.
Day 2:
Early risers are greeted with freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries, followed by a Tai Chi session on the terrace deck.
Explore the prehistoric Thien Canh Son Cave after breakfast. A gentle hike of around 100 steps leads through impressive stalactites and stalagmites, revealing the bay’s ancient geological history, before you are rewarded with a scenic viewpoint at the cave exit.
Visit the Vung Vieng floating fishing village, where local families engage in fish and oyster farming. A local host shares insight into daily life in this unique waterside community.
Back onboard, lunch is served and the ship sails westward. The early afternoon features an engaging onboard workshop or presentation hosted by the crew, offering deeper insight into the region’s culture and heritage. Time is then set aside to unwind at a secluded beach. Swim in emerald waters, enjoy sundowner drinks with canapés, or simply take in the bay as blue hour settles over the limestone scenery.
After dinner, gather for a cosy movie night before ending your day in comfort.
Day 3:
Begin your final morning with warm coffee and pastries, followed by a gentle meditation session among the bay’s limestone islands.
Breakfast is served in the restaurant. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely time in your suite as the ship glides back toward the marina, taking in the ever-changing beauty of Halong Bay before disembarkation.
