There are some experiences in life that leave a lasting imprint on your heart—our Halong Bay cruise was one of them. We chose the Arcady Boutique Cruise for our 2 days, 1-night journey, and trust me, it was one of the best decisions ever!
The Journey to Halong Bay
Our trip began in Hanoi, where we hopped on a mini-bus to Halong Bay. The ride was smooth, and by 12 noon, we arrived at the port. The moment we stepped out, our excitement doubled—our luggage was taken care of, and we were escorted to the cruise via a small boat.
As we approached, we noticed so many other cruises in the bay. But we had specifically chosen Arcady Boutique Cruise because every room had a private balcony with a table and chair—the perfect spot to soak in the stunning limestone mountains surrounding the bay.
First Impressions & Settling In
As soon as we stepped on board, we were welcomed with a delicious lunch. The menu was international, which made it a bit challenging for vegetarians, but we managed with fresh fruits and a few veggie dishes. After lunch, we checked into our room, took some rest for an hour, and got ready for the first adventure—kayaking!
Kayaking Through Caves & Limestone Cliffs
By 2 PM, we set off for water activities. There were three options:
✅ Kayaking
✅ Bamboo boat
✅ Steamer boat
Even though we had never tried kayaking before, we decided to give it a shot. At first, it felt tricky, but within minutes, we figured out how to navigate. As we paddled through the crystal-clear waters, we found ourselves inside a cave, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. It was breathtakingly beautiful! We even played some music, making the moment even more magical.
A Sunset to Remember
After returning to the cruise, we witnessed one of the most stunning sunsets of our lives. The sun slowly dipped behind the limestone formations, painting the sky in hues of orange and red. It was a once-in-a-lifetime moment—something you should never miss in Vietnam!
Exploring Titop Island & Surprise Cave
The next morning, after a delightful breakfast, we headed to Titop Island. Climbing to the top was a bit challenging, but the panoramic view was totally worth it! The highlight of the day? Surprise Cave! True to its name, the cave was massive, with breathtaking formations inside. As a sweet gesture, the cruise team even clicked our pictures and gave us a keychain souvenir—such a thoughtful touch!
After that, we returned to the cruise, checked out, and bid farewell to this unforgettable journey.
Final Thoughts
Our Halong Bay cruise was a dream come true—stunning views, fun adventures, and unforgettable memories. If you’re planning a Vietnam trip, don’t miss this experience!
