Meeting point: see photo below.
FULL ITINERARY
Port Pickup & Warmly Welcome
Be greeted by our driver and tour guide at the port. We then transfer to Yen Duc Village, a peaceful countryside destination just outside Halong, offering a cultural highlight of your Halong Bay shore excursion.
Cultural Immersion in Yen Duc Village
Upon arrival, take in the tranquil beauty of green rice fields, garden-lined lanes, and fishponds scattered across the countryside. Visit a local vegetable garden and step inside a traditional Vietnamese family house to learn about rural living. Meet friendly villagers, explore daily life, and stop by a local kindergarten where cheerful children welcome you with bright smiles.
Stroll across the fields to the peaceful Canh Huong Pagoda, surrounded by natural charm. Then, enjoy a captivating water puppet show, a beloved tradition that brings Vietnamese folklore to life through music and movement, performed by talented village artists.
Cruising Halong Bay’s Natural Wonders
Continue by road to Tuan Chau Marina Wharf, where a scenic cruise awaits. Step aboard and be welcomed by the crew before enjoying a seafood lunch served onboard.
As the boat glides through the bay, marvel at famous limestone islets such as Rocky Dog, Incense Burner, and the iconic Fighting Cock. Disembark to explore Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Grotto), a magnificent grotto adorned with intricate stalactites and illuminated chambers. Take in the serene views and capture photos of Halong Bay’s dramatic landscape.
Optional: Hai Au Seaplane Experience
For an unforgettable perspective, enjoy a 25-minute scenic seaplane flight over Halong Bay. Witness the beauty of Bo Hon, Cong Do, and countless scattered islets from the sky, with their hidden lagoons and emerald waters stretching as far as the eye can see. After the flight, land at Tuan Chau Marina, where your guide and driver will be waiting to bring you back to the port in good time for your cruise departure.
Return to Port
Thank you for joining one of our signature Halong Bay shore excursions with Shore Excursions Asia. We look forward to welcoming you again on your next voyage to Vietnam’s most treasured destinations.
Inclusions
- Round-trip transfers from/to the port in a private AC vehicle with an experienced driver
- Private cruise trip in Halong Bay
- 25-minute scenic flight with Hai Au Aviation (optional)
- English-speaking guide
- Lunch
- Parking fee and port fee
- Travel permits (if have) and entrance fee to sightseeing caves
- Bottled drinking water
Exclusions
- Accommodation and visa arrangement
- Alcoholic beverages and other drinks on the cruise
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Other personal expenses
Gerald –
The water puppet show in Yen Duc village wasn’t a flashy production, but that’s exactly what made it so memorable. The puppeteers were locals, and their pride in sharing this tradition was clear. It was unlike anything we’ve seen before.
Linda –
As part of our halong bay shore excursion, we visited Yen Duc village and were treated to a traditional water puppet show. I had read about this art form before, but seeing it live in the peaceful setting of the village made it all the more special. The performance was full of charm, music, and storytelling. Even though we didn’t speak the language, we could feel the humor and warmth in every movement. It was a simple yet unforgettable moment, and a beautiful glimpse into Vietnam’s heritage.
Thomas and Elaine W. –
This was one of the more unique Vietnam shore excursions we’ve done. Yen Duc Village was charming and authentic, not overly commercialized. The villagers welcomed us warmly, and we enjoyed learning about daily life and seeing traditional crafts in action. The cruise through Halong Bay Vietnam was lovely, with smooth waters and majestic views
Sharon –
This was one of our favorite halong bay shore excursions so far. We loved seeing both sides of Vietnam, the iconic bay and a quiet village untouched by tourism. Our guide was kind and informative. The hands-on activities in Yen Duc village were a nice surprise. We didn’t try the seaplane, but several guests did and seemed to enjoy it. For us, the traditional cruise and village visit made the day truly special