We were not suppose to take the Halong Bay trip. This was the reason why we chose the more expensive small group tour in Ninh Binh.  I initially followed the recommendation of a friend to skip the touristy places in Vietnam. On the way back to Hanoi from Ninh Binh, we made the last minute decision to book a trip to Halong Bay. Armed with a great internet connection (Thank you Shopee for the affordable and reliable Vietnam sim), I booked a trip via Klook. We took the small group tour in a Limousine bus in Hanoi with buffet lunch for Php 2,282.25 per head. If you have more time and patience, you can look for coupon codes from vloggers and influencers from Tiktok. Another option is taking the standard bus, with a price difference of around Php 300. In our case, we chose the small group tour for that much needed comfort and convenience. 


We were fetched at the Hanoi Opera House by the tour operator. We love the reclining chairs and head support from the seats. Even the elevated seats from the last row, which was our initial seat assignment was comfortable. 

The bus trip took around two hours. Along the way, we were brought to a pearl store and factory. This is something you have to deal with when availing of Klook tours. Good thing though, the place was equipped with clean toilets and food shops. We grabbed light snacks and drinks, which I highly recommend. It will save you from the time needed to wait for the cruise tour. Though if you want to save, I advise that you bring chips, bread or some light snacks. 

It didn't take long before we were able to alight to our designated cruise. The tour operator gave seat assignments, which is something you can't control. We were given some reminders and soon enough, we were served with buffet lunch. 

Prior to the cruise, we were told that bringing bottled water and other drinks are prohibited. You can however bring your own tumbler. It's  part of their environmental policies to protect Halong Bay. Though surprisingly, the cruise ship sells varied drinks in tin cans. Drinks however are no longer part of the tour package. Since this is a tourist activity, expect it to be a bit expensive. 

The cruise ship was spacious and equipped with an excellent air conditioning system. 

The view and the great meal 

The weather was unpredictable during our trip. It was cloudy in some areas. Eventually, we experienced a better weather on the way. 

The upper deck provided a great view of Halong Bay

I finally get to experience a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the 7 Wonders of Nature. 

Our first stop is the Sung Sot Cave, which gave another breath taking view of Halong Bay. 

Unlike the rocky mountains of Ninh Binh, Halong Bay's Sung Sot Cave is more forgiving for older millennials to senior citizens. The government created smooth pathways and flatter stairways for everyone's safety. 

The cave is also well ventilated. 


After finishing the trail, we had another view of Halong Bay

We went to another stop, which allowed us to further experience Halong Bay. The tour operator offered us three options:

1. Speed Boat

2. Kayak

3. Bamboo Boat

These are already optional tours, which meant additional fees. We opted for the Speed Boat and Bamboo Boat tours. 

Riding the speed boat in Halong Bay is one for the books. Imagine experiencing Fast and Furious' Tokyo Drift : Water Sports Edition. We were speeding and crossing the limestones inside Halong Bay. 


The Kayak and Speed Boat provided lighter and slower version of exploring Halong Bay. The Kayak would have been a better option, if you are well versed on navigating a kayak boat. There's a narrow area you have to share with the bigger bamboo boats. I did not risk it. We decided to take the Bamboo boat instead. 

And it suddenly rained, which somehow ruined the experience . The boat operator was in a hurry and we were forced to spend for the raincoats. 

We were suppose to have a sunset cruise, but the weather ruined it. We instead stayed inside the cruise ship and were served with light snacks. Cocktails and other light alcoholic drinks are also available for an additional fee. In our case, we stayed in the shaded area of the upper deck, relaxing on the recliner seats and enjoying the shortest sunset of the unpredictable weather. 

On the way home, we rode the same bus to Hanoi. We made another stop to another local shop selling embroidered paintings. We were already tired, but we have to abide with rules. 

Overall, I enjoyed our last minute Halong Bay Tour. I owe it to Klook because we were able to purchase tickets, less than 24 hours of our trip. We may not be able to fully experience the best of Halong Bay, but I would still highly recommend the tour to anyone visiting Vietnam.