Vietnam is fast becoming one of the most popular travel destinations in Southeast Asia, and with its breathtaking landscapes, limestone islands, enchanting heritage, beautiful beaches, friendly locals, lush rice fields, forested mountains, magical temples, and quite possibly, the best street food in the world, the popularity of this exotic gem is set to grow.

Travelling throughout Vietnam is easy, and while the vast influx of international travellers has pushed accommodation and transport prices up over the years, it is still a great value destination.  Short haul flights between Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh (Saigon), or Hanoi and Da Nang, can cost as little as $50 USD per person during flight sales, and with hotels to suit every budget, Vietnam caters for everyone.

Image source: Bhaya Cruises

There is so much to see and do in Vietnam that you could easily spend a year travelling from its northern borders to the picturesque seaside towns in the south, but if there is one place that you simply shouldn’t miss during your stay, it would have to be Halong Bay.

Known for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands topped with rainforests, Halong Bay is a magical UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts intrepid travellers from across the globe, and while you can take day trips out to the rocky outcrops, there is nothing better than taking a mini-cruise that will show you the very best of what the region has to offer.

A 2 Day / 1 Night Halong Bay Cruise is perfect for those who are short on time, and if you like the idea of sailing the Gulf of Tonkin on a traditional boat, here is a sample of what your trip might look like with Bhaya Cruises…

DAY 1: LAN HA BAY

• 12:00: Arrive at Tuan Chau Island
• 12:45: Board: Welcome drinks and a quick briefing
• 13:00: Enjoy lunch as the boat cruises towards South East Halong Bay
• 14:45: Arrive at the Dark and Bright Lagoon for an afternoon of swimming
• 16:30: Return to the boat for a Spa Treatment, or simply relax on board
• 17:00: Bar opens for the Happy Hour “Buy one get one free”
• 17:30: Watch a traditional Vietnamese Cooking demonstration on the sundeck
• 18:00: Cruise to overnight anchorage at Ho Dong Tien
• 19:30: Dinner under the stars
• 21:00: Retire to the deck with a drink or head to reception for a spot of squid fishing

DAY 2: HALONG BAY

• 06:15: Make the most of every moment with an early morning Tai Chi Class on the sundeck
• 07:00: Grab a light breakfast before the boat arrives at its next destination
• 07:45: Discover Surprise Cave, one of the biggest caves in Halong Bay with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites
• 09:00: Return to the boat
• 09:30: Brunch is served as the boat heads back to harbour
• 10:30: Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina