Heritage Line Violet Junk on Halong Bay | 2 days 1 night

Get acquainted with the facilities on board as we set sail and cruise into the bay. Savour your first hours in Halong Bay on the sun deck and simply let your eyes wander over the breathtaking scenery.

We arrive at Cua Van, one of the last remaining floating fishing village in Halong Bay which some families and fishermen still use as a base for their fishing and aquacultural activities.
 
With a small bamboo boat rowed by locals, we have a look at the floating structures in this calm and secluded area to gain some insight into village life. If you prefer to be more active, rent a kayak (extra fee) and paddle around by yourself. This is the perfect way to freely move about and explore this part of the bay.

The fishing village also hosts the Cua Van Cultural Center, operated by local residents to preserve and introduce visitors to the village’s history and culture. On display are many archaeological artifacts and photographs depicting life in Cua Van.

By tender, we transfer to the nearby Tien Ong cave. The cave shows evidence of human civilization dating back to 10,000 – 8,000 BC. Fossil evidence also proves that the cave was part of the mainland continent ages ago before Halong Bay became the marine wonder it is today. Tien Ong cave reaches a depth of 50 metres and covers a total area of roughly 1,000 square metres. Follow our guide as we loop though and learn interesting details about this cavern.
 
After returning to the boat, we sail to the overnight mooring area. During this time - the magical “blue hour” - Halong Bay reveals its true, magnificent beauty. Unwind on the sun deck with your favourite drink and be fully present in this moment. As we sail along, our chef demonstrates the preparation of popular Vietnamese dishes. You are welcome to join and practice along; remember these easy, but very tasty classic Vietnamese recipes and take them back home with you.

After a bit of downtime, dinner is served with an à la carte menu is served with choices of tasty international or local dishes. 

If you are still eager to learn more about Halong Bay, our on-board guide offers an enlightening presentation about the bay’s unique and intriguing insights after dinner. Alternatively, give yourself a try at squid fishing together with our staff - always an entertaining experience.

While away the rest of the evening and treasure this special moment amidst the magical landscapes before falling into a restful slumber in the middle of Halong Bay where, once upon a time, sparkling jewels cascaded from heavenly dragons.

For early risers, tea, coffee and pastries are available in the dining room. A Tai Chi class is offered on the sun deck to awaken your mind and muscles.
 
In the morning, 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 second man to orbit the Earth, Russian astronaut German Titov, toured Halong Bay together in 1962. Since the cosmonaut was so fascinated with this picturesque islet, Uncle Ho would rename the spectacle Ti Top Island to honour Titov and as a gesture of friendship between their two countries.
 
One arriving at Ti Top, you can go for a refreshing morning swim on a sandy beach beneath towering rock formations. If you prefer to be a bit more active, climb 400 stone steps (which takes about 20 minutes) to the island’s top and be rewarded with stunning, panoramic views over the bay. There is also a viewing platform about half-way up with great vistas framed by lush greenery – perfect for photos. 

Back on board, you can take a shower and freshen up. Now is the time to enjoy the final moments of sailing as we head back to the harbour while breakfast is served. Until we reach the pier, relax on the sun deck or in the dining room while savouring the last views of this iconic site.