3-Day Luxury Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise on the Dragon Pearl Junk Boat

Hanoi , Vietnam

3-Day Luxury Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise on the Dragon Pearl Junk Boat

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(4 reviews)

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a 3-day luxury cruise on Halong Bay aboard a traditional Vietnamese boat known as a junk, which takes you to the quieter waters of Bai Tu Long Bay, leaving behind the crowds. Experience the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage–listed natural wonder as a guide shows you hidden lagoons, forested islets, stunning limestone rock formations and secluded bays where you can swim and kayak. You'll even have one memorable dinner inside a cave. The crew provides exceptional personalized service throughout this tour, limited to 24 people.

Available options

3-Day Luxury Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise on the Dragon Pearl Junk Boat

Pickup included

What's included

Shared mini bus, English speaking guide on boat

Lunch

Dinner

Breakfast

What you'll see

Day 1: Hanoi – Halong Bay (L, D)

A minivan arrives at your Hanoi hotel to pick you up in the morning and transfer you to Halong Bay, a journey of about four hours. When you arrive, your guide welcomes you aboard the Dragon Pearl and shows you to your cabin. Once you have settled in, receive a briefing about the ship, and feast on a freshly prepared seafood lunch as your captain cruises to Bai Tu Long Bay, a neighboring bay home to more of Halong Bay's famous rock formations but with fewer crowds.

Stop near Cap La fishing village, and go with your guide on an easy kayak trip over to the village, which consists of floating houses occupied by about 80 families. Paddle around the village for a little while, and then return to the junk to continue to Cong Do island. Admire the tropical scenery of this large forested island, where lagoons shelter various species of shrimp, crab, fish and squid, as well as a large coral reef. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure on the junk, with free time to swim, sunbathe, kayak and watch the sunset from the deck before the crew serves dinner.

Overnight: Ensuite cabin aboard the junk

Day 2: Bai Tu Long Bay (B, L, D)

If you wake up early, watch the sunrise and soak in the tranquility of Halong Bay at dawn. After breakfast, cruise toward the fishing village of Cong Dam, and listen to your guide's informative commentary about the geology and mythology of the bay, including how the thousands of islands and inlets were formed. Stop near the village and learn about the livelihood of the villagers, including how they catch fish, oysters and mussels.

After lunch on the junk, motor over to Hon Co island where you can lounge, swim and kayak along a spectacular white-sand beach. Then enjoy free time on the junk until the evening, when your guide takes you to shore for dinner by candlelight inside Thien Canh Son cave.

Marvel at the spacious cave, whose illuminated stalactites sparkle from the ceiling, and dine on a multicourse meal served on long tables covered with tablecloths. After dinner, your guide takes you back to the junk for the night.

Overnight: Ensuite cabin aboard the junk

Day 3: Halong Bay – Hanoi (B, L)

Enjoy your final morning on Bai Tu Long Bay with a short ride on a traditional wooden rowboat rowed by local residents. Slip across the water and get up-close views of pretty inlets and rock formations, and then return to the junk and head slowly back toward the main harbor, stopping for a swim in the bay and lunch on the junk.

Around midday, say farewell to your crew and set off for Hanoi by van. Stop along the way at a small village where local artists perform a traditional water puppet show. Your tour ends when you arrive in Hanoi in the early evening.

What's not included

Drinks (soft, beers, wine), tips are excluded in the tour cost

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.3

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Passport name, number, expiry and country are required at time of booking for all participants

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Please note that Dragon Pearl might be subject to availability, however, if this is the case you will be accommodated on a different boat, no extra charge.

Infant seats should be required at time of booking

About Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Known for its French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and rich culinary scene, Hanoi offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.

Top Attractions

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a serene oasis in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by lush greenery and historical landmarks. The lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the historic and cultural heart of Hanoi, featuring narrow streets lined with traditional shops, temples, and colonial-era architecture. It's a vibrant area with a rich history and bustling atmosphere.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a historic Confucian temple dedicated to education and literature. It's a serene and culturally significant site, featuring beautiful architecture and a peaceful garden.

Historical 1-2 hours 30,000 VND

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant historical site where the embalmed body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, is displayed. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of Vietnam's history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture, featuring elegant design and a rich history. It's a popular venue for cultural performances and events.

Architecture 1-2 hours for a performance Varies by event

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat, typically beef or chicken.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bun Cha

Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich with a crispy baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Snack/Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Egg Coffee

A unique Vietnamese coffee made with strong drip coffee, condensed milk, and a frothy egg yolk mixture.

Drink Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay Trekking in Sapa Boat ride in Hoan Kiem Lake Coffee at a local café Exploring the Temple of Literature Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Swimming and snorkeling in Ha Long Bay Egg coffee tasting

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hanoi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, and travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable taxi companies and insist on using the meter or agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Noi Bai International Airport • 28 km from city center

By train

Hanoi Railway Station

By bus

Giap Bat Bus Station, My Dinh Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Hanoi is affordable and covers most of the city. However, it can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Quarter French Quarter Ba Dinh District Tay Ho District

Day trips

Ha Long Bay

165 km from Hanoi • Full day to overnight

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, emerald waters, and scenic beauty. It's a popular destination for cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves.

Ninh Binh

90 km from Hanoi • Full day

Ninh Binh is known as 'Halong Bay on land' due to its stunning limestone karsts, rice paddies, and historic sites. It's a popular destination for cycling, boat rides, and exploring ancient temples.

Sapa

320 km from Hanoi • Overnight to multi-day

Sapa is a mountainous region known for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) • January or February (based on the lunar calendar) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (based on the lunar calendar) Hanoi International Film Festival • October or November (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Explore the city's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural and the Temple of Literature.
Try local street food and visit markets for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Use a navigation app, such as Google Maps or GrabMaps, to help you get around the city and avoid getting lost.
Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation, to avoid petty crime and scams.