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Description: Today, we start our journey with a pass by Cửa Vạn Relic, a former floating fishing village in Hạ Long Bay, where fishermen once used it as a base for their fishing and aquacultural activities. Glide through this serene area in a small Bamboo boat rowed by locals, offering a glimpse into the village and understand how once whole families used to live on water here. For the more active ones, take a kayak and paddle around the floating hamlet for a very personal exploration (complimentary). Next, we transfer by tender to Tien Ong Cave, providing evidence of human civilisation dating back to 10,000 - 8,000 B.C. This small cave provides some fascinating understandings of Hạ Long Bay’s geological history. Returning to the ship, we sail to the overnight mooring area, where the ‘Blue Hour’ unveils Hạ Long Bay's magical beauty. Relax on the sun deck with your favourite drink, absorbing the tranquil moment. You can engage in a cooking class with our chef and practice classic Vietnamese recipes to impress your loved ones at home later. As evening descends, a multi course À la carte dinner is served. If you like, join in later for an onboard presentation about the Bay's unique features and secrets. Alternatively, try your hand at Squid fishing with our staff for a delightful and entertaining experience. Spend the rest of the evening embracing the magical landscapes in the heart of Hạ Long Bay, where once upon a time, sparkling jewels cascaded from heavenly dragons.
Description: Awaken to the gentle waves and the aroma of freshly brewed Coffee, complemented by Pastries in the dining room. Engage in the morning Tai Chi Class on the sun deck for a harmonious start into the day. Enjoy breakfast onboard before starting a day boat outing to explore some truly interesting sights of Hạ Long Bay. Spanning 10,000 square meters, Sung Sot features two chambers with the outer one adorned with stalactite chandeliers and the inner chamber known as the Grand ‘Opera House’. Marvel at the pond, plant life and stunning rock formations crafted over millions of years. We head back to the boat for some relaxing time before you have the chance to explore the marine landscape by kayak. The cliffs stretch vertically out of the water and you feel a sense of freedom while meandering through this green medley of water and tree topped Islets. We continue the journey to a Floating Pearl Farm, where you will discover the intricate process of cultivating, harvesting and processing various Pearls. Witness a skilled technician delicately implanting seeds into Oysters. Although the odds are low, successful outcomes yield beautiful gemstones after several years. Sail back to the ship to return to your suite offering time for sunbathing, spa or embracing the captivating ‘Blue Hour’ on the open deck. After dinner you have another chance to join the crew for a funny Squid fishing activity or you can just recline on a lounger, absorbing the serenity of Hạ Long Bay before retiring for the night.
Description: For early risers, Tea, Coffee and Pastries are available in the dining room and a Tai Chi Class is offered on the sun deck to awaken your mind and muscles. We set sail to the small Ti Top Island formerly named Cat Nang. The island received a name change after former president Ho Chi Minh and the 2nd man to orbit the Earth, Russian Astronaut ‘Gherman Titov’, toured Hạ Long Bay together in 1962. Since the cosmonaut was so fascinated with this picturesque Islet, Uncle Ho would rename the Island to honour Mr. Titov and as a gesture of friendship between their two countries. Upon arriving at Ti Top Island, you can go for a refreshing morning swim on a sandy beach or if you prefer to be more active, climb the 400 steps ‘approx. 20 minutes’ to the island’s top with stunning, panoramic views over the bay. Back onboard, enjoy the final moments of sailing as we head back to the harbour while breakfast is served. Relax on the sun deck or while savouring the last views of this iconic site. • Travel Information Visa Requirements: Please ensure your passport is valid more than 6 months from the date of return for every country you are visiting. Please also ensure there is sufficient space in your passport to allow for all immigration procedures, taking note that some South East Asian countries take up a full page for the visa sticker and need yet more space on a separate page for entry and exit stamps. Kindly note that visa service is not included in our proposal. Please contact Europe Holidays for any visa service or guidance. Please note the following general information is subject to change concerning visas. For Vietnam, a one month single entry visa is available upon arrival with a pre-arranged visa invitation authorisation letter. The visa invitation letter processing time is two weeks, rush service may be available at additional cost. Trip and Travel Insurance: The tour price does not include personal insurance. Travellers are highly recommended to purchase Travel Insurance upon commitment of the booking. Europe Holidays can assist with your travel requirements. Travel Advice for New Year: If your dates of travel fall during Tet, the Vietnamese New Year ‘Jan 31 – Feb 04, 2025’, travellers who are visiting larger cities like Sài Gòn or Hà Nội may encounter empty streets and deserted parks as Vietnamese people return to their home town to celebrate the New Year with their families. Most businesses are closed during TET holiday.
