Hanoi Vietnam is the capital and second-most populous city in Vietnam and the gateway to Ha Long Bay, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.
Hạ Long Bay is located in northeastern Vietnam, between E106°55′ to E107°37′ Longitude and N20°43′ to N21°09′ Latitude. The bay stretches from Quang Yen town, past Hạ Long city, Cẩm Phả city to Vân Đồn District, is bordered on the south and southeast by Lan Ha Bay, on the north by Hạ Long city, and on the west by Bai Tu Long Bay. The bay has a 75 mi coastline and is approximately 600 sq mi in size with just under 2,000 islets.
The area designated by UNESCO as the World Natural Heritage Site incorporates 168 sq mi with 775 islets, of which the core zone is delimited by 69 points: Dau Go island on the west, Ba Ham lake on the south and Cong Tay island on the east. The protected area is from the Cái Dăm petrol store to Quang Hanh ward, Cẩm Phả city and the surrounding zone.
The bay itself consists of a dense cluster of some 1,969 limestone monolithic islands each topped with thick jungle vegetation, rising spectacularly from the ocean. Several of the islands are hollow, with enormous caves. There are a number of beautiful beaches on the smaller islands. Only approximately 40 are inhabited.
A community of around 1,600 people live on Hạ Long Bay in four fishing villages; Cua Van
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| Photo: Public Doimain |
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| Photo: Public Domain |
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| Photo: Public Domain |
and Vong Vieng.
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| Photo: Public Domain |
People live on floating houses and survive by fishing and growing marine life. They search the shallow waters for over 200 types of fish and 450 kinds of mollusks. Some of the islands are named based on their unique shape. Names such as Elephant Islet, Fighting Cock Island, Monkey Islet and Roof Islet. There are 989 islands that have been named. Birds and animals, such as bantams, antelopes, monkeys, and lizards, also inhabit some of these islands.
Picture most of these islands as standalone towers in a traditional fenglin landscape. They vary in height from 160 to 330 feet and their height-to-width rations can go up to about six.
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| Photo: Public Domain |
The bay has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a hot and humid summer, followed by a dry and cold winter. The average temperature ranges from
59–77°F and the annual rainfall is between 6.6 and 7.2 ft. Hạ Long Bay experioences a regular daily tide system with tide amplitudes ranging from 11–13 feet.
DAY 1
My 2 day/1 night Ha Long Bay adventure, which I booked through Exoticca, began on November 3, 2024. After a fantastic buffet breakfast at the Chalcedony Hotel in Hanoi, I boarded a bus for the morning trip to Ha Long Bay. Travel is through rich farmlands of the delta where you can see the daily life of the Vietnamese villages. Arrival at the Hera Cruise Docks was just before noon.
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| Waiting area at Hera Cruise Dock |
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| Waiting area at Hera Cruise Dock |
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| Walking to the boat |
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| Boarding the Hera Grand Luxury |
Embarking on the two-day adventure aboard the Hera Grand Luxury junket is a journey into opulence amidst the stunning natural beauty of Vietnam. Hera Cruises is the only ultra luxury cruise offered in Ha Long Bay.
The Hera Grand Luxury features spacious luxury cabin accommodations and as someone who loves to travel and share my experiences, this is certainly a tale worth telling.
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| Hera Grand Luxury Deck Plan |
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| Hera Grand Luxury Route Map |
The Hera Grand Luxury isn’t just a traditional junk boat. From the moment you step on board, you're greeted by an air of sophistication. The vessel boasts modern amenities and a level of comfort that sets the stage for an unforgettable escape.
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| Cabin "Wind"entrance |
As the boat glides through the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, you find yourself surrounded by the limestone karsts and lush greenery. It's a panorama that seems straight out of a postcard.
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| Leaving the marina |
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| View from lunch seating |
The day is filled with a mix of relaxation and adventure. Lounge on the deck, bask in the warmth of the sun, or indulge in some water activities. Whether it's kayaking through hidden lagoons or exploring mystical caves, there's no shortage of things to do.
ITINERARY FOR DAY 1
1:30p Lunch onboard
2:45p Kayaking at Luon cave
4:00p Visit to Titop Island
5:30p Sunset Party & Cooking Class
7:30p Dinner
9:00p Traditional Fashion Show
9:30p Herbal foot bath/Fishing for Squid
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| Restaurant area |
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| Bar |
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| Marci ready for lunch |
As the sun begins its descent, find a cozy spot on the boat to witness one of the most breathtaking sunsets you'll ever encounter. The changing hues of the sky reflecting on the tranquil waters create a magical ambiance – a moment to be captured and savored.
Evenings on the Hera Grand Luxury are a gastronomic affair. The onboard chef curates a culinary journey with a blend of local flavors and international delicacies. Enjoy the candlelit dinner on the deck, surrounded by the gentle sounds of the water and the distant calls of seabirds.
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| Preparing for Squid Fishing |
Traditional Costumes
ITINERARY FOR DAY 2
6:15a Tai Chi class
6:30a Breakfast
7:30a Exploring the Surprising Cave
9:45a Cabin check out time
10:00a Brunch
Start your second day with a rejuvenating sunrise yoga session on the deck. Early risers are invited to participate in a Tai Chi demonstration on the upper bridge.
The serenity of Ha Long Bay combined with the calming movements of yoga create a perfect harmony for a peaceful morning.
Afterwards a light breakfast
was served, and later, a splendid brunch
aboard the boat as we continued to navigate through the myriad
of islands and islets.
The day unfolds with more exploration. Visit fishing villages, interact with the locals, and gain insights into the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Alternatively, you can opt for a spa session on board, pampering yourself amidst the serene surroundings.
Sailing aboard the Hera Grand Luxury at Ha Long Bay is not just a trip; it's an immersion into elegance and nature's wonders. From the comfortable cabins to the exquisite cuisine and the mesmerizing landscapes, every element of this journey is crafted for the discerning traveler.
Hera Grand Luxury 
View from our room
By midday, I had to bid farewell to the fascinating panorama of Ha Long Bay.
If you're ever considering a luxurious escape to Vietnam, the Hera Grand Luxury at Ha Long Bay is undoubtedly a choice that promises to elevate your travel experience.
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