Halong Bay kayaking: A detailed travel guide for tourists to discover an incredible bay

Halong Bay is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Vietnam, with thousands of limestone islands and caves. If you want to experience the beauty of Halong Bay in a close and exciting way, you should not miss the kayaking activity on the bay. Kayaking is a small boat that can accommodate from 1 to 2 people, used to paddle on the water. You can freely explore the secluded bays, the mysterious caves, and the unique floating villages when kayaking on Halong Bay. In this article, I will guide you on how to choose the best time, place, and cruise to join the kayaking activity on Halong Bay, as well as some safety tips when kayaking.

Why should you try Halong Bay kayaking?

Kayaking on Halong Bay is an adventurous and fun activity, giving you many unforgettable experiences. You will have the opportunity to:

• Explore the majestic limestone islands and the amazing caves, which not every cruise can access.
• Enjoy the fresh air and the natural beauty of Halong Bay, as well as the stunning sunset and sunrise moments on the water.
• Interact and learn about the culture and life of the local people, when visiting the traditional floating villages, such as Vung Vieng or Cua Van fishing villages.
• Challenge yourself and improve your health, when you have to paddle through the waves and currents.
• Create memorable memories with your friends, relatives or partners, when you join a fun and useful activity together.

When should you go to Halong Bay for kayaking?

Halong Bay has a mild climate all year round, but you should choose the appropriate time to have the best kayaking experience. According to the experience of many tourists, the best time to kayak on Halong Bay is from March to May, and from September to November. These are the months with cool weather, less rain, less fog, and fewer storms, so they are very convenient for paddling and sightseeing. You can also kayak in the summer, from June to August, but you have to endure high temperatures, harsh sun, and possible storms. You should avoid kayaking in the winter, from December to February, because the weather is cold, humid, foggy, and can be dangerous for paddling.

Best kayaking places on Halong Bay and price

Halong Bay has many suitable places for kayaking, but I will introduce you to some of the most outstanding and popular places, as well as their prices.

Luon Cave

Luon Cave is one of the most beautiful and famous caves on Halong Bay. It is a water cave, located at the foot of Bo Hon mountain, about 14 km from Tuan Chau port. To enter Luon Cave, you have to paddle through a small entrance, only 1.5 to 4 meters high depending on the tide. Inside Luon Cave is a clear water lake, surrounded by winding limestone walls and green trees. You can also see many wild animals, such as monkeys, birds, fish, and especially the lovely sea otters. Luon Cave is an ideal place for you to relax, admire the scenery and take photos.

Price: You can rent a kayak at Tuan Chau Port or on the cruises on Halong Bay. The price of renting a kayak ranges from 100,000 to 200,000 VND per hour, depending on the type of boat and the time. You can also join the tours that include kayaking, with prices from 500,000 to 1,000,000 VND per person, including entrance fees, guide services, and insurance.

Vung Vieng Fishing Village

Vung Vieng Fishing Village, nestled within the picturesque Bai Tu Long Bay of Vietnam, stands as a testament to tradition and heritage. This well-preserved enclave boasts a unique culture and history, tracing its roots back to the 17th century.

Exploring Vung Vieng Fishing Village unveils a tapestry of experiences:

• Navigate the village’s vibrant waterways via kayaks or bamboo boats, where you can admire the colorful houses, fishing vessels, and thriving fish farms. Engage with the welcoming locals to gain insight into their rich culture and way of life.
• Immerse yourself in the village’s history by visiting the floating museum, where you can peruse artifacts, utensils, and documents that shed light on its heritage. Discover the intricate process of pearl cultivation, a cherished traditional craft of the village.
• Savor the bounty of the sea with delectable seafood offerings, including fish, shrimp, crab, and oysters, expertly caught and prepared by the village’s skilled residents. Don’t miss the chance to sample local delicacies like rice wine and fermented fish sauce.
• Bask in the tranquil ambiance of the village, surrounded by verdant limestone islands and the azure waters. Witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the bay, leaving an indelible mark on your memory.

Price: To explore Vung Vieng Fishing Village, consider joining guided tours that encompass kayaking experiences, with prices ranging from 500,000 to 1,000,000 VND per person, inclusive of entrance fees, guided services, and insurance. Alternatively, opt for cruises like Paradise Vietnam Cruise, which offers complimentary kayaking opportunities in this enchanting corner of Bai Tu Long Bay. Prepare to embark on a captivating journey through this captivating realm.

Cua Van Fishing Village

Cua Van Fishing Village is a renowned floating community located approximately 20 kilometers away from Tuan Chau Port. It stands as one of Halong Bay’s largest and most distinguished fishing villages, housing around 700 residents who derive their livelihoods from fishing. Within Cua Van Fishing Village, there is an impressive museum showcasing various artifacts, tools, and documentation that provide insights into the history, culture, and daily life of its inhabitants. Visitors can explore the village by paddling through its picturesque waterways, where they can admire the charming stilt houses, traditional bamboo boats, and enclosures used for fish, shrimp, and crab farming. Engaging with the local community offers opportunities to participate in activities such as fishing, net weaving, cooking, and savoring the delightful seafood offerings.

Price: you have the option to rent a kayak either at Tuan Chau Port or on various cruises operating within Halong Bay. The cost of kayak rental varies, ranging from 100,000 to 200,000 VND per hour, depending on the type of kayak and the time of day. Additionally, for those interested in guided tours that include kayaking activities, there are options available with prices ranging from 500,000 to 1,000,000 VND per person.

Ao Ech – Frog Pond

Frog Pond, also referred to as Fairy Pond lies peacefully within Halong Bay, roughly 17 kilometers away from Tuan Chau Port. This serene and secluded bay is enveloped by limestone islands and lush forests. As you explore the bay, you’ll be captivated by the uniquely shaped limestone cliffs that resemble various creatures, including dragons, turtles, birds, fish, and most notably, frogs. The echoing calls of frogs within the bay further add to the enchanting and mysterious ambiance. Frog Pond is an ideal destination for relaxation, sightseeing, and photography.

Price: There are several options available. Kayak rentals can be arranged at Tuan Chau Port or aboard various cruises within Halong Bay. The cost of renting a kayak varies, ranging from 100,000 to 200,000 VND per hour, depending on the kayak type and the time of day. Alternatively, you can opt for guided tours that incorporate kayaking activities, with prices typically falling between 500,000 and 1,000,000 VND per person.

Dark and Bright Cave

This is an extraordinary cave boasting two contrasting entrances—one known as the Bright Cave and the other as the Dark Cave. As you venture into this cave, you’ll be captivated by the striking juxtaposition between the two sides: one bathed in radiant light, and the other cloaked in impenetrable darkness. Inside the Bright Cave, you’ll discover a pristine crystal-clear lake, enveloped by winding limestone walls and lush vegetation. Abundant wildlife, including monkeys, birds, fish, and charming sea swallows, can also be spotted here. The Bright Cave offers an idyllic setting for relaxation, sightseeing, and photography.

Price: you have several options. You can rent a kayak from Tuần Châu Port or select from various cruises available in Halong Bay. Kayak rental rates vary between 100,000 and 200,000 VND per hour, depending on the type of boat and the time of day. Alternatively, you can choose to participate in guided tours that incorporate kayaking activities, with prices ranging from 500,000 to 1,000,000 VND per person.

Cruises for free Kayaking in Halong Bay

If you want to save money and time for renting a kayak, you can choose the cruises that offer free kayaking on the bay. There are many cruises that provide this service, but one of the best cruises Halong bay is Paradise Vietnam Cruise. This is a luxury cruise that operates in Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, and Lan Ha Bay, offering you a variety of options and packages to suit your needs and preferences. You can enjoy free kayaking on the bay, as well as many other interesting activities and services on the cruise.

Paradise Vietnam Cruise

Paradise Vietnam Cruise is a 5-star cruise that has a fleet of 11 boats, each with a different design and capacity. You can choose from the Paradise Elegance, the Paradise Luxury, the Paradise Peak, the Paradise Prestige, the Paradise Sails, the Paradise Explorer, the Paradise Grand, the Paradise Suite, the Paradise Delight, the Paradise Dream, and the Paradise Escape. Each boat has its own features and facilities, such as spacious cabins, private balconies, jacuzzis, a spa, a restaurant, a bar, a sundeck, and more. You can also enjoy free kayaking on the bay, as well as many other interesting activities and services on the cruise.

Other interesting activities of Paradise Vietnam Cruise

Besides kayaking, you can also join other interesting activities on Paradise Vietnam Cruise, such as:

Tai chi or yoga session

You can start your day with a refreshing and relaxing Tai Chi or Yoga session on the sundeck, led by a professional instructor. You can practice some gentle movements and breathing exercises while enjoying the beautiful view of the bay and the sunrise.

Squid fishing at night

You can try your luck and skill at squid fishing at night, with the help of the crew. You can use a fishing rod and a lure to catch the squid, which are attracted by the light of the boat. You can also cook and eat your catch, or share it with other guests.

Discovering caves

You can explore some of the most amazing caves on the bay, such as Sung Sot Cave, Thien Cung Cave, Dau Go Cave, and more. You can admire the stalactites and stalagmites, the rock formations, and the colors of the caves, which are illuminated by artificial lights. You can also learn about the legends and stories behind the caves, as well as the history and geology of the bay.

Read more: Halong Bay Boat Tours – Navigating the Beauty of Vietnam’s Treasure

Safety tips when Kayaking in Halong Bay

While kayaking in Halong Bay promises excitement, it’s essential to adhere to safety guidelines to prevent accidents and issues. Here are some key safety tips:

• Wear provided life jackets and helmets. Additionally, wear comfortable attire and footwear, and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and water.
• Follow the instructions and guidance of the staff or guide regarding paddling techniques, steering, kayak control, route information, and time limits. Stay informed about weather forecasts and tide conditions and avoid kayaking in adverse weather or during high tide.
• Stay close to your group and guide, avoiding straying too far from the cruise or shoreline. Also, steer clear of large boats, rocks, and caves, which can be hazardous or off-limits.
• Respect the environment and local communities. Do not litter, damage, or disrupt the natural surroundings. Avoid touching or feeding wildlife like monkeys, birds, or sea otters, as it can be harmful or provoke aggression.

Conclusion

Halong Bay kayaking is not only an exciting activity but also an excellent opportunity to explore the magnificent beauty of Halong Bay. With options like Paradise Vietnam Cruise, travelers have the chance to experience moments of relaxation on a kayak while marveling at the breathtaking natural landscapes. It’s crucial to always adhere to safety guidelines and respect the environment to ensure a memorable experience and preserve the beauty of Halong Bay for future generations.