Meeting point: see photo below.
FULL ITINERARY
Be picked up by our driver and tour guide at the meeting point. We will transfer to Yen Duc village for an immersive cultural experience. Upon arrival, admire the sweeping view of green fields and small lanes while enjoying the serenity of Vietnamese rural life. Visit a vegetable garden and a traditional Vietnamese family house. Interact with friendly villagers and drop by a local kindergarten to spend some fun time with the lovely kids. Afterward, cross the fields to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Canh Huong Pagoda. Immerse yourself in the rich culture with a mesmerizing water puppet performance, showcasing traditional stories and folklore.
Embark on a scenic journey as we drive to Tuan Chau Marina Wharf, where a Halong Bay cruise awaits amidst the breathtaking landscapes. Be warmly welcomed by the crew team. Lunch will be served onboard with seafood mainly while our cruise sets toward the Islet of Rocky Dog (Hon Cho Da), Incense Burner (Hon Dinh Huong) and Fighting Cock (Hon Ga Choi). Our cruise then docks at Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Grotto) for a visit, a magnificent grotto with intricate stalactite formations. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Halong Bay and capture memorable moments.
*Optional for Hai Au Seaplane (Your choice, before or after the cruise)
Up in the sky, enjoy a 25-minute scenic flight over the spectacular Halong Bay, offering amazing panoramic views of thousands of islands and islets in different unique shapes and sizes. From this height, you'll also see Cong Do and Bo Hon with their hidden lagoons. After 'The Flight of life,' land in Tuan Chau where our driver and guide will be waiting, ready to escort you safely back to the port in good time for your ship’s departure. Thanks for choosing Halong Bay shore excursion with Shore Excursions Asia!
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