Northern Vietnam: Hanoi, Ninh Binh & Halong Bay Cruise – 4 Days

Your day begins with a morning pickup from your Hanoi hotel, embarking on a full-day excursion to the Quang Phu Cau incense village and the stunning landscapes of Ninh Binh. Upon arrival at Quang Phu Cau, you'll embark on a walking tour, observing the intricate process of traditional incense making. Witness local artisans chopping bamboo, dipping sticks in vibrant dyes, crafting incense paste, and drying the finished products under the sun. This offers a unique opportunity to interact with villagers and learn about the historical significance of their craft.

After immersing yourself in the village's unique atmosphere and capturing memorable photographs of the colorful incense bundles, the journey continues to Tam Coc in Ninh Binh. A delicious lunch awaits your arrival, preparing you for the highlight of the afternoon: a captivating 2.5-hour boat trip. Glide along serene waterways, exploring a complex of mystical caves including Sang Cave, Toi Cave, Ba Giot Cave, and Nau Ruou, all set amidst the dramatic limestone karsts often referred to as "Ha Long on land."

Following your tranquil boat adventure, prepare for a moderate climb to Mua Cave. The ascent to the peak of Ngoa Long Mountain rewards you with an awe-inspiring panoramic vista of the Tam Coc region and the sprawling city of Ninh Binh. This elevated perspective offers a breathtaking view of the rice paddies, winding rivers, and towering limestone formations.

In the late afternoon, a comfortable bus transfer will take you back to Hanoi. Upon your evening arrival, enjoy dinner before returning to your hotel for some well-deserved leisure time.

Today, you will depart from your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel for a scenic transfer to Halong Bay. Upon reaching Tuan Chau International Cruise Port, you'll be warmly greeted by the cruise staff in the waiting lounge and complete the check-in formalities for your luxurious overnight cruise.

Boarding the Amanda Cruise, the crew will welcome you with a refreshing drink and cold towel before you settle into your cabin. The vessel then sets sail from Tuan Chau Marina, commencing your captivating voyage through the stunning beauty of Halong Bay. As the cruise navigates towards Trinh Nu Cave, you'll be treated to magnificent views of the bay's iconic limestone islands. A delectable lunch will be served in the onboard restaurant while the ship continues its journey.

In the afternoon, after a brief rest in your cabin, prepare for an exciting kayaking adventure in the Trinh Nu Cave area. You'll be transferred by tender to the cave, where you can paddle around ancient limestone formations. To reach the pristine Trinh Nu beach, a short 5-minute walk through the cave is required, revealing a secluded spot with white sands and clear emerald waters.

Returning to the cruise ship in the late afternoon, you'll participate in a lively sunset party and a hands-on cooking class. Enjoy relaxing moments on the sundeck, sipping traditional Vietnamese tea or coffee while admiring the beautiful sunset over the tranquil bay. Learn to prepare delicious traditional Vietnamese steamed rice rolls from the chef and savor your own creations. Happy hour offers a

Begin your final day on Halong Bay with an invigorating Tai Chi class on the sundeck as the sun rises. Following this, a light breakfast of coffee, tea, cake, and fruit will be served, preparing you for the morning's exploration.

The day's main activity involves exploring Sung Sot Cave, also known as Surprise Cave, one of the largest and most impressive caves in Halong Bay. The path to its entrance is shaded by a canopy of leaves, and ascending the steep stone steps creates a sense of adventure as you climb towards the sky, discovering unique rock formations unparalleled elsewhere.

After your cave exploration, return to the cruise ship. You'll have time to relax in your cabin, enjoy a complimentary herbal foot bath, sunbathe on the sundeck, capture more photographs of Halong Bay's stunning scenery, or browse for souvenirs on board. Check-out procedures will commence, requiring you to place luggage outside your cabin and return the room key to reception. Our staff will assist with luggage transfer to the waiting area.

An early lunch buffet will be served in the restaurant, allowing time to settle any outstanding bills. Finally, the cruise will arrive back at Tuan Chau Marina. From there, you will be transferred directly to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi to catch your evening flight, VN973 at 18h20, back to Mumbai, concluding your memorable North Vietnam adventure.