Romance & Relaxation: A Halong Bay Cruise Experience
You’re lounging on the deck of a beautiful cruise ship, the sun is setting behind limestone cliffs that rise dramatically out of the sea, and all you can hear is the gentle sound of water lapping against the boat. This isn’t a dream – this is Halong Bay, Vietnam. If you’re looking for the perfect mix of romance, relaxation, and adventure, Halong Bay has to be on your travel bucket list.
We knew we had to see Halong Bay during our trip to Vietnam, and after a lot of research (aka reading tons of reviews), we settled on the Dragon Legend Cruise. Here’s why it was the highlight of our honeymoon and why you should absolutely add it to your Vietnam itinerary.
Booking the Dragon Legend Cruise: Luxury on a Budget
One of the great things about traveling in Vietnam is that you can experience luxury without breaking the bank. We opted for the Dragon Legend cruise, and it was worth every penny.
We found the Indochina Junk Cruises company through a recommendation, and they had stellar reviews online. Our one-night cruise was around $200 USD per person, which included all meals (and, trust me, these were not just meals, they were 15-course feasts). Drinks were extra, but even with some indulgence, we didn’t spend more than $60 on drinks over the two days.
The cruise itself was a great balance between luxury and relaxation without feeling overly fancy or stuffy. It was the perfect place to unwind after a few hectic days in Hanoi.
First Impressions: A Sparkling Arrival
The journey to Halong Bay took about 3-4 hours by van from Hanoi. After a quick stop at a tourist market (you know the type – the ones designed to get tourists to spend money, which of course we did), we arrived at the port. From there, we boarded a small tender that took us to our boat, and wow.
You know that feeling when you see something in real life and it’s even more impressive than you imagined? That’s what it felt like when we first saw the Dragon Legend. As the two boats parted to make way for our ship, I felt like I was stepping into a postcard. The boat was beautiful, with classic wood detailing and spacious, modern cabins.
Our cabin had huge windows with panoramic views of the bay, a massive tub, and a comfortable bed – all perfect for gazing out at the limestone cliffs.
Kayaking, Limestone Cliffs, and 15-Course Feasts
Once we settled into our cabin, it was time for lunch. And when I say lunch, I mean 15 courses of Vietnamese culinary perfection. We dined al fresco on the upper deck, enjoying one dish after another of fresh seafood, local specialties, and perfectly prepared small bites. There was a bit of everything – from Green Papaya Salad to Grilled Pork with Avocado Sauce and Indochina Junks' traditional mackerel on a sizzling plate.
After the food coma wore off, we spent the afternoon kayaking through the towering limestone formations of the bay. It felt surreal to paddle through this otherworldly landscape, and for a while, we were the only ones out there, which made the experience even more magical.
One thing that stood out to me about the scenery is that Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you can see why. The limestone cliffs were formed over millions of years, and the way they rise up out of the emerald water is breathtaking. For those who want a quieter, more intimate experience, Bai Tu Long Bay is often recommended as it’s less crowded than Halong Bay itself.
Sunset Magic: A Moment We’ll Never Forget
After kayaking, we headed up to the sundeck to catch the sunset. It was one of those perfect, cloudless evenings where the sky turns a fiery orange, and the reflections off the water make everything glow. I wrote in my journal, “We enjoyed a PERFECT cloudless sunset from the roof,” and that pretty much sums it up.
With a drink in hand, we sat back and soaked in the view as the day slowly faded into night. It was easily one of the most romantic moments of the entire honeymoon.
What We Skipped: The Crowded Cave Tour
The next morning, we had the option to visit one of the famous caves in the bay, but we decided to skip it. Don’t get me wrong – the photos looked beautiful, but from what we heard, the caves were packed with tourists, and we weren’t really in the mood to fight crowds. Instead, we chose to relax on the top deck of the boat, enjoying the last few hours of tranquility before heading back to shore. In hindsight, this was the best decision. Sometimes, skipping the "must-see" attractions in favor of a peaceful moment is worth it.
Why You Should Visit Halong Bay (Or Bai Tu Long Bay)
If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, Halong Bay is probably already on your radar – and for good reason. The dramatic landscapes, peaceful waters, and stunning sunsets make it one of the most beautiful places in the world. But I’d also recommend considering Bai Tu Long Bay, where we cruised, for a less crowded experience. You’ll get the same jaw-dropping scenery but with fewer boats and more time to yourself.
For a honeymoon or any romantic getaway, this area of Vietnam is unbeatable. Whether you’re kayaking through limestone cliffs, sipping cocktails at sunset, or indulging in a 15-course meal on the deck, Halong Bay offers a little bit of everything – adventure, relaxation, and endless beauty.
What You Need to Know Before Booking
Choose the right cruise: There are a lot of options for Halong Bay cruises, ranging from budget to ultra-luxury. I recommend going for a mid-range or luxury option like Dragon Legend, especially if you want a more comfortable and less crowded experience.
Plan for one or two nights: If you have more time, a two-night cruise gives you the chance to explore more of the bay and fully unwind.
Go for Bai Tu Long Bay: If you want a quieter experience away from the crowds, Bai Tu Long Bay is the way to go. It’s just as beautiful as Halong Bay but with fewer tourists.
Prepare for seafood: The meals on board are heavy on seafood, so if you’re not a fan, make sure to let the cruise company know in advance, and they’ll accommodate you with other options.
Conclusion: Halong Bay is a Must-See for Every Traveler
Whether you’re on your honeymoon or just looking for a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience, Halong Bay is one of those places that will leave you speechless. The combination of stunning natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation made it the highlight of our trip to Vietnam, and I can’t recommend it enough. Just be sure to pack your sense of adventure – and maybe an extra camera battery, because you’re going to want to capture every second of this magical place.
Useful Links for Future Travelers:
Dragon Legend Cruise: Indochina Junk Cruises
