Characterised by thousands of limestone karsts and islands, it’s easy to see why Halong Bay’s turquoise waters and otherworldly landscape makes it onto the bucket lists of so many travellers. Halong Bay itself covers an area of more than 1,500 km2, within which around 2,000 islets can be found. While nature lovers find it amazing that more than 70 plant and animal species are found in Halong Bay and nowhere else in the world, movie buffs recognise the location from many films, including Kong: Skull Island.

The spots that most Halong Bay travellers go to include Halong City – complete with its high-rise hotels, bars and casinos – and Cat Ba Island, the largest island in Halong Bay. Halong Bay cruises are par for the course too, with hundreds of companies offering boats and cruise experiences of all shapes and sizes. However, when you’re in a part of the world which can be so closely described as paradise, what you really want is to get off-the-beaten track to find a corner of Halong Bay for yourself.

With that in mind, here are some Halong Bay cruises and tips that help you have a more authentic experience surrounded by some of the world’s most gorgeous scenery.

Tips for more authentic Halong Bay cruises and experiences:

•    Choose a Halong Bay cruise that offers activities with local guides and experts. For example, the 5* Starlight Cruise and the 4* Calypso Cruise run sunrise Tai Chi classes, bamboo rowing trips with local rowers and cookery classes with local cooks.
•    Add an extra experience onto your Halong Bay cruise, such as a private dinner on a beach on one of the islands, which is a possibility on the 5* Paradise Cruise. Alternatively, the 3* Oriental Sails cruise has the option to add on a private dinner on a sundeck or in a wine cellar.
•    Choose a Halong Bay cruise that takes in some of the less visited bays. For example, the 4* Gardenbay Cruise takes in Halong Bay and the particularly off-the-beaten-track Bai Tu Long.
•    Some of the Halong Bay cruises are in small boats with a large number of cabins. For a more peaceful cruise experience, choose one of the more spacious cruise boats in Halong Bay, such as the boat used for the 5* Azalea Cruise.

Halong Bay cruises are an essential part of a Vietnam itinerary for many travellers. With our tips, you can find your own slice of Halong Bay heaven, mixing together one of the world’s most loved locations with experiences led by locals.

Find out more about Halong Bay cruises with Mr Linh’s Adventures.