A Guide to Halong Bay Shore Excursions, Transfer and Day Tours Departing from the Cruise Port!

 Visit Halong Bay, the UNESCO World Heritage Site from a cruise ship, looking for a shore excursion. This Quick Guide provide you with information to plan your shore excursion in Halong Bay, from cruise port to tour options and some local experience. The shore excursions offer a unique opportunity for visitors to delve deeper into this stunning destination, providing both adventure and cultural enlightenment.

Vivu Halong is the #1 local Travel Agency for tours and transfer in Halong City, should you need any assistance feel free to reach out to us via WhatsApp: +84.789.455.888  /  +84.961.250.100   or email: sales@vivuhalong.com

Halong International Cruise Port

Halong Bay is serviced by three main cruise ports: Halong International Cruise Port, Tuan Chau Cruise Port, and Cai Lan Port. In the previous time, Cai Lan Port serverd as the hub to welcome international cruise ship.

But now the Halong International Cruise Port, also known as “Sun Port” (built by Sungroup), become the primary hub for international cruise ships embarking on their shore excursions.

• More about Halong Bay Cruise Port: https://vivuhalong.com/en/halong-bay-cruise-ports-and-terminals/

Located in the heart of Halong City’s Bai Chay area, the Halong International Cruise Port is a modern facility designed to accommodate large cruise ships. Its strategic location offers easy access to the city center and various attractions, making it an ideal starting point for your Halong Bay shore excursion

• Location of Halong International Cruise Port on Google Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MWBTssPhK5VTE4hc9

The port boasts a range of amenities designed to ensure your comfort and convenience:

• Spacious terminal building: Air-conditioned and well-maintained, the terminal provides a comfortable environment as you prepare for your excursion.
• Clean restrooms
• Comfortable waiting areas: Relax in designated seating areas while waiting for your tour or transportation.
• Duty-free shops: Browse a selection of local and international products.
• Souvenir stores
• Currency exchange services
• Information desks: Staffed by English-speaking personnel ready to assist with any queries.
• Wi-Fi: Free internet access is available throughout the terminal.

Transportation from Halong Cruise Port

Upon disembarking, you’ll find several transportation options to start your shore excursion:

• Taxis: Readily available outside the terminal. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey, or insist on using the meter. Consider using: Xanh SM Taxi
• Shuttle Services: Many tour operators offer shuttle services to popular destinations such as Hanoi City, Hai Phong, and Ninh Binh. These can often be booked in advance or arranged upon arrival.
• Private Car Rentals: Available for those preferring a more personalized experience. This can be booked with Vivu Halong – the best local travel agency of Halong.

Notable cruise lines like Celebrity Solstice, Oceania Riviera, Norwegian Sun, Viking Orion, MS Westerdam, and Silver Moon begin their excursions here, ensuring a seamless start to your Halong Bay adventure.

> Booking: WhatsApp: +84.789.455.888  /  +84.961.250.100

Things to Do and See During Halong Bay Shore Excursion

Halong Bay Day Cruise with Kayaking

One of the most popular activities in Halong Bay is joining a day cruise combined with kayaking. Visitors can choose from a range of day cruises lasting 4, 6, or 8 hours, with both morning and afternoon tours available.

These excursions, departing from either Halong Cruise Port or Tuan Chau Cruise Port, offer a chance to paddle through tranquil waters, explore hidden caves, and soak in the scenic beauty of the bay.

4-Hour Cruise

• Perfect for those with limited time
• Scenic cruise through the limestone karsts
• Time for kayaking or bamboo boat ride at Ba Hang 
• Visit to one of the bay’s famous caves, such as Thien Cung Cave

More details: https://vivuhalong.com/en/tour/halong-bay-day-tour-4-hour-cruise/ 

6-Hour Cruise

• More comprehensive experience of the bay
• Extended scenic cruise
• Kayaking session in a secluded lagoon (Luon cave)
• Cave exploration (Sung Sot Cave)
• Lunch served onboard, typically featuring fresh seafood and Vietnamese cuisine
• Time for swimming (weather permitting) at the beach of Titop Island 

More details: https://vivuhalong.com/en/tour/6-hour-halong-bay-cruise-ha-long-city/  

8-Hour Cruise

• Full-day immersion in Halong Bay
• Extensive scenic cruise covering a larger area of the bay
• Experience kayaking or bamboo boat rides
• Visit a floating village to observe local life
• Exploration of cave
• Sumptuous lunch with a variety of local dishes
• Swimming and sunbathing opportunities
• Cooking demonstration or fruit carving class onboard

More details: https://vivuhalong.com/en/tour/halong-bay-day-cruise-8-hour/

>> Booking: WhatsApp: +84.789.455.888  /  +84.961.250.100  

Scenic Flight on Seaplane

• Depart from Tuan Chau Island (10km from Halong Cruise Port)
• Daily Schedule: 09:00, 10:50, 11:45, 12:30, 13:50, 14:50, 15:50, 16:50
• Duration: 25 minutes

For a bird’s-eye view of Halong Bay, consider a scenic flight on a seaplane. This 25-minute aerial tour provides breathtaking panoramas of the bay’s iconic karst formations.

Booking a seaplane ride is straightforward, and passengers can expect a thrilling experience as they soar above one of the world’s most stunning landscapes.

More details: https://vivuhalong.com/en/seaplane-ha-long-bay/

Discover Halong City

Beyond the bay, Halong City itself offers a wealth of attractions. The Quang Ninh Museum provides insights into the region’s history and culture, while a stroll through local markets offers a glimpse into daily life. Cultural sites like Long Tien Pagoda add a spiritual dimension to your visit.

Quang Ninh Museum:

• A modern, architecturally striking museum showcasing the region’s history, culture, and geology
• Interactive exhibits and informative displays covering topics from prehistoric times to the present day
• Special focus on the formation of Halong Bay and the area’s coal mining history
• Located in the city center, easily accessible from the cruise port (5km from Halong Cruise Port)
• Allow 1-2 hours for a comprehensive visit

Local Life:

• Stroll through Bai Chay Market for a glimpse of daily Vietnamese life. Here you’ll find a vibrant array of fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties.
• Visit the night market (open from 6 PM) for street food, souvenirs, and a lively atmosphere. It’s an excellent place to sample local snacks and pick up handicrafts.
• Observe locals practicing Tai Chi or participating in group exercises along the waterfront in the early morning or evening.

Long Tien Pagoda:

• Beautiful Buddhist temple with intricate architecture, featuring ornate roofs and detailed carvings
• Peaceful atmosphere away from the bustling city center, offering a serene retreat
• Panoramic views of Halong Bay from the pagoda grounds
• Opportunity to learn about local Buddhist practices and beliefs

Bai Tho Mountain:

• For the adventurous, a climb up Bai Tho Mountain offers spectacular views over the city and bay
• The hike takes about 30-45 minutes and requires a moderate level of fitness

(Need to check the opening of Bai Tho Mountain, it is limited for visit)

Yen Tu Pagoda

For those interested in Vietnam’s spiritual heritage, a trip to Yen Tu Pagoda is highly recommended. Located about 80 km from Halong Bay, this ancient Buddhist complex is perched atop Yen Tu Mountain, offering not only religious significance but also stunning natural beauty.

Historical Significance:

• Birthplace of Truc Lam Zen Buddhism in Vietnam, founded by Emperor Tran Nhan Tong in the late 13th century
• Important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from across the country, especially during the Yen Tu Festival in spring
• The mountain has been a center of Buddhist study and meditation for over 700 years in Vietnam.

Getting There:

• Private car transfer from Halong Cruise Port (approximately 2 hours)
• The journey itself is scenic, passing through rural landscapes and small villages
• Cable cars are available for easier ascent to the pagoda, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains

What to See:

• The bronze statue of Emperor Tran Nhan Tong at the summit, standing 15 meters tall
• Ancient pagodas and temples along the mountain path, each with its history and significance
• Hoa Yen Pagoda, one of the main structures, featuring beautiful architecture and intricate wood carvings
• Breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, especially from the summit
• Various artifacts and relics related to the history of Vietnamese Buddhism

The Trail:

For those with time and energy, the traditional pilgrimage route involves climbing over 6,000 stone steps to reach the summit. This challenging but rewarding journey takes you past numerous shrines, pagodas, and scenic viewpoints.

Stay there

In the mountains, there is a luxury resort where you can stay and experience the spiritual heritage of Vietnam.

• Details here: https://vivuhalong.com/en/legacy-yen-tu-mgallery/ 

Yen Duc Village

For a taste of traditional Vietnamese life, a visit to Yen Duc Village is a must. This charming village offers activities such as rice farming experiences and the chance to savor local cuisine, providing an authentic cultural immersion.

Activities:

• Rice farming experiences (seasonal): Try your hand at planting or harvesting rice, depending on the time of year.
• Water puppet shows: Enjoy this traditional Vietnamese art form, performed on a pond in the village.
• Cooking classes: Learn to prepare local specialties using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• Bicycle tours: Explore the village and surrounding countryside on two wheels, passing through lush rice paddies and quaint farmsteads.

Cultural Immersion:

• Interact with local farmers and artisans: Learn about their daily lives and traditional practices.
• Participate in traditional crafts
• Visit a local home: Experience the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality and observe daily family life.
• Enjoy home-cooked meals with village families: Savor authentic, home-style Vietnamese cuisine.

Hanoi City Tour

For those with more time, a day trip to Hanoi from Halong Bay is highly recommended. Highlights include the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, the bustling Old Quarter, and the city’s numerous museums, each offering a unique window into Vietnam’s rich history and culture.

Hanoi City Tour

You can join a group tour or organize a private tour for a customized itinerary. This city tour offers a visit to some cultural and historical site of Hanoi: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hoa Lo Prison, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and Temple of Literature… you have a chance to enjoy the water puppet show and local food of Hanoi.

Details: https://vivuhalong.com/en/tour/full-day-hanoi-city-tour/

Hanoi Jeep Tour

With the Hanoi Jeep Tour, where you’ll explore the vibrant streets and hidden gems of Vietnam’s capital in a classic military jeep. Experience the city’s rich history and culture as you navigate through bustling markets, serene parks, and iconic landmarks, all while enjoying the thrill of an open-air ride. With knowledgeable guides sharing intriguing stories and local insights, this tour promises a unique perspective of Hanoi that you won’t want to miss.

>> Booking: WhatsApp: +84.789.455.888  /  +84.961.250.100  

Transfer from Halong Bay Cruise Ports

Private car transfers are available from Halong Cruise Port to key destinations such as Hanoi, Yen Tu, and Yen Duc. Estimated travel times are approximately 2.5 hours to Hanoi, 1.5 hours to Yen Tu, and 1 hour to Yen Duc, making these excursions easily accessible for travelers.

Halong Cruise Port to Hanoi: Approximately 3 hours

• Distance: About 180 km
• The route passes through industrial areas and rural landscapes
• Modern highway makes for a comfortable journey
• Time: 2,5 – 3 hours

Price

>> Booking: WhatsApp: +84.789.455.888  /  +84.961.250.100  

Halong Cruise Port to Yen Tu Pagoda: Approximately 2 hours

• Distance: About 80 km
• Scenic route through mountainous terrain
• Road conditions are generally good, but can be winding in parts
• Time: 1,5 hour

Halong Cruise Port to Yen Duc Village: Approximately 1.5 hours

• Distance: About 70 km
• Journey through typical North Vietnamese countryside
• Opportunity to see rural life along the way
• Time: 1 hour

Restaurants in Halong City

Halong Bay boasts a variety of dining options, from local eateries to upscale restaurants. Seafood is a highlight, with dishes like grilled squid and steamed crab being must-tries. Vietnamese cuisine, rich in flavors and textures, offers an unforgettable culinary experience.

Some local restaurant can be found here: https://vivuhalong.com/en/top-rated-restaurants-halong/

Useful Information for Travelers

The best time to visit Halong Bay for shore excursions is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant. Travelers should pack accordingly, considering weather variations and bringing essentials like sunscreen and comfortable footwear. Safety tips include securing travel insurance and respecting local customs. While English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases can enhance your experience.

Shore excursions in Halong Bay provide a gateway to the area’s natural beauty and cultural depth, not only in Halong city but in Hanoi Capital city and nearby areas. Hope this article help you plan a nice shore excursion when docking at Halong Bay.