Imagine spending three days on a cruise ship in the heart of Vietnam with fellow backpackers. Ha Long Bay Hideaway Tour makes this possible, offering one of my all-time favorite travel experiences.
The journey begins in Hanoi, where I stayed at Central Backpackers Hostel, directly linked to the Hideaway Cruise. Another option is Hanoi Buffalo Hostel. The cruise can be booked online or through these hostels. After a few nights in Hanoi, we departed early, traveling by bus and boat to reach our cruise ship in Ha Long Bay. Despite the five-hour journey, it was smooth and well-organized.
Upon arrival, we enjoyed a family-style lunch. As a vegetarian, I appreciated the diverse and delicious meal options. Our dorm-style rooms were clean, modern, and spacious, each with an en suite bathroom and balcony.
The cruise ship offered numerous amenities, including three hot tubs, a dance floor, multiple bars, and plenty of lounging areas. The friendly staff added to the fantastic experience.
Our first excursion was a beach day on a private island. We played volleyball, enjoyed banana boat rides, swam, and relaxed by the fire. They offered us beers on the beach, and an opportunity to jump off the boat before heading back to the ship.
Returning to the ship, we participated in happy hour, soaking in the hot tub as the sun set, followed by a buffet dinner and a very long night of dancing and partying.
The next day, those staying for three days visited Cat Ba Island. We biked through scenic landscapes and hiked to a stunning viewpoint, followed by lunch at a guest house and a unique fish pond experience. Back on the cruise, we relaxed on board or joined new arrivals for another beach day.
On the final day, we watched the sunrise, enjoyed breakfast, and had the option to go kayaking. Feeling under the weather, I chose to relax on the ship before our return to Hanoi. The journey back was just as organized, getting us back to Hanoi by 5 PM.
This trip was memorable for the incredible people, the well-organized activities, and the luxurious amenities at a great price. Despite some rainy weather, the experience remained vibrant and enjoyable. I highly recommend this cruise for anyone traveling to Vietnam and looking to explore Ha Long Bay.
You can start your cruise from Hanoi or Cat Ba Island, with options for one or two-night stays. For a full experience, I recommend the two-night option. Safe and happy travels!
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