Extended Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Exploration (3 Days)

The journey commences with an early morning pickup from your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel between 8:00 and 8:30, followed by a comfortable 2.5-hour limousine transfer to Halong Bay. Upon arrival at the Indochina Sails waiting station, guests will complete check-in procedures between 11:45 and 12:00, before being transferred by speedboat or tender to the luxurious Indochine Cruise. A warm welcome awaits onboard, complete with refreshing drinks and a crucial safety briefing from the cruise manager, after which you'll settle into your elegant cabin. A delightful buffet lunch is served as the vessel gracefully sails through the stunning heart of Halong Bay.

In the afternoon, the cruise reaches Dark and Bright Cave, a designated UNESCO Heritage site. Here, you have the option to paddle a kayak through its serene waters or enjoy a tranquil bamboo boat ride, expertly guided by local rowers. This provides a unique opportunity to engage with the ferrymen and learn fascinating stories about the cave and its rich ecosystem, offering a profound sense of peace amidst the magnificent scenery. Following the cave exploration, return to the cruise for a relaxing happy hour and a chance to swim near the ship. As dusk approaches, guests can join a Vietnamese cooking class or a fruit and vegetable carving lesson led by the Indochine's Head Chef, learning to prepare traditional dishes.

The evening culminates with an exquisite full-course dinner served in the main restaurant. Afterwards, the night is yours to enjoy a variety of activities, including trying your hand at squid fishing, engaging in board games like cards or Parcheesi, or indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment.

The second day of your extended journey offers a deeper dive into the region's charm. After a buffet breakfast (served from 7:00 to 7:45), the cruise will take you to Viet Hai Village. Here, an exciting off-the-beaten-path cycling adventure awaits, allowing you to traverse diverse and picturesque routes. You'll pedal through coastal mountains and lush tropical greenery, experiencing the authentic local life and serene landscapes of this hidden village on Cat Ba Island.

Following your cycling excursion, the itinerary includes a visit to the beautiful Ba Trai Dao area, where you can enjoy swimming in the refreshing bay waters. The afternoon provides a relaxed pace, allowing ample time to soak in the stunning surroundings and enjoy the tranquility of Lan Ha Bay. A set menu lunch and dinner are served onboard, prepared with fresh, local ingredients, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. The evening is at your leisure to enjoy the ship's amenities or simply relax under the stars.

Greet the new day with a light breakfast of coffee, tea, and pastries, served from 6:00 in the dining room. Shortly after, an invigorating Tai Chi session on the sundeck helps awaken your senses, providing a perfect moment to witness the glorious sunrise over Halong Bay. Following this peaceful start, the adventure continues with an exploration of Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island, a site renowned for its majestic landscape and thousands of uniquely shaped natural stalactites. Guests will marvel at the ethereal beauty within, experiencing what feels like a heavenly atmosphere.

After discovering the cave's wonders, return to the cruise to begin packing and complete check-out procedures between 9:00 and 9:30. A delightful buffet brunch is then served, offering a final culinary treat before settling any outstanding bills. Bid farewell to the dedicated crew members as you transfer by tender back to Tuan Chau Pier, savoring the last incredible moments of Lan Ha Bay's scenery during the cruise back. The estimated arrival time at the pier is around 11:00.

For guests who opted for the shuttle service, a comfortable bus will transport you from Tuan Chau harbor back to Hanoi, arriving between 14:30 and 15:00, marking the conclusion of your memorable cruise experience.