Garden Bay Cruises – Traditional Wooden Boat to Bai Tu Long Bay

Introduction

Our review of the Garden Bay Cruises 2-day, 1-night itinerary offers a closer look at what travelers can expect when exploring Bai Tu Long Bay aboard a classic wooden boat. While the experience promises stunning views, memorable activities, and a chance to interact with local fishermen, there are some mixed reviews that suggest potential pitfalls.

What we love about this tour is its authentic boat design, offering a traditional vibe that makes you feel closer to nature. The variety of activities, from kayaking to cooking classes, keeps the journey engaging. Plus, the environmental focus and visits to less crowded areas like Cap La Island and Vung Vieng Fishing Village are definite pluses.

However, a possible drawback is the state of the boat and facilities, which has been a concern among some travelers. Be prepared for a rustic experience that isn’t ultra-luxurious but offers genuine charm.

This tour is best suited for adventurers and nature lovers looking to experience Bai Tu Long Bay without the crowds, and willing to accept some imperfections in comfort.

Good To Know

• Authentic wooden boat experience offers a traditional feel and stunning views.
• Activities like kayaking, swimming, and fishing village visits create immersive moments.
• Variable boat condition and amenities may impact comfort levels.
• Itinerary includes cultural interactions and cooking classes, enriching the journey.
• Cost offers good value for those wanting multiple activities and scenic beauty.
• Reviews highlight stunning scenery, though some mention boat and food quality concerns.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Hanoi to Bai Tu Long Bay

The day begins early, with pickup from your Hanoi hotel in the Old Quarter, followed by a roughly three-hour transfer to Halong International Cruise Port. While the transfer is included only if you book a pickup through the tour, it’s a smooth way to leave the bustling city behind and head toward the quieter waters of Bai Tu Long Bay.

Once at the port, you’ll hop onto the boutique wooden boat, which exudes a traditional charm that many travelers find appealing. The cruise departs around noon, cruising through the less crowded Bai Tu Long Bay, which is often praised for its peaceful, untouched scenery compared to the more visited Halong Bay.

Lunch on board features a set menu, typically simple but hearty, with some reviewers noting the food is mediocre, so don’t expect gourmet cuisine. The focus is more on the experience than five-star dining.

In the afternoon, you’ll paddle kayaks to explore lagoons, swim in the calm waters, or relax on Cap La Island’s beaches. These activities are perfect for travelers wanting a more engaging experience than just sightseeing. One traveler noted, “The kayaking and beach time make the trip worthwhile,” emphasizing how these moments let you connect with nature.

As the sunset approaches, the boat cruises to a quieter anchorage area near Cong Dong-Cong Do. The evening kicks off with a cooking class, where you can learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes — a fun, interactive addition that many find memorable. Dinner follows, often described as decent but not exceptional, with some reviewers mentioning the need for better food quality.

Day 2: Exploring Bai Tu Long Bay and Vung Vieng Fishing Village

The second day begins early with a Tai Chi session at sunrise—a peaceful way to start the day. After a light Western-style breakfast, the boat moves toward the famous Vung Vieng Fishing Village.

Here, you’ll transfer by tender and hop on a rowboat guided by local fishermen, offering insight into traditional fishing life. Reviewers appreciated this authentic interaction, with one saying, “Riding with the fishermen gave a real glimpse of their daily routines.” It’s a quiet, slow-paced experience that lets you see how locals live in harmony with the bay.

Back on the main boat, you’ll cruise back to harbor, passing through scenic spots and enjoying the panoramic views. Lunch on board provides a decent meal before disembarking and returning to Halong Cruise Port.

Additional Considerations

While the itinerary promises a variety of scenic and cultural experiences, some travelers expressed concerns about the boat’s condition. One reviewer from 2015 noted it was “relatively ok,” but a more recent review mentioned the boat’s poor shape and smelly toilets. This suggests that comfort might not be the primary focus of this cruise.

The group size is limited to around 30 travelers, which helps maintain a more intimate atmosphere. The price of $165 per person is reasonable considering the activities, meals, and included transfers, but it’s worth considering whether the boat amenities meet your comfort expectations.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the package are meals (dinner, breakfast, and two lunches), fully furnished cabins with sea views, and activities such as kayaking and visits to fishing villages. Entrance fees and guides are also covered, which adds value.

Not included are the roundtrip bus transfer from Hanoi (though it can be arranged upon request), beverages, personal expenses, and tips. If you plan to travel from Hanoi, consider whether the additional cost of transportation fits your overall budget.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book transfers in advance if you want a hassle-free journey from Hanoi, as they are optional and incur extra costs.
• Be prepared for rustic conditions — the boat’s condition may not be luxurious, and toilets have been described as smelly. Pack some toiletries and patience.
• Bring your own snorkeling or swimming gear if you want to spend more time in the water, as these are not provided.
• Check your expectations for food quality, as some travelers found it mediocre, but the focus is more on the experience and scenery.
• Arrive early for the cruise if you’re booking from Halong City, to ensure timely boarding and avoid last-minute stress.
• Travelers seeking authentic, less crowded scenery will appreciate the relative tranquility of Bai Tu Long Bay compared to its more commercialized neighbor.

Authentic Experiences and Atmosphere

Despite some shortcomings, many travelers find the scenery breathtaking. The quiet lagoons, limestone karsts, and fishing villages provide a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese life away from tourist-heavy spots. One reviewer said, “The views are so stunning, they make the entire trip worthwhile,” highlighting how the natural beauty is the main draw.

The interaction with local fishermen at Vung Vieng is particularly valued, offering a genuine look at everyday life in the bay. The kayaking and swimming give you a chance to actively engage with the environment, making the trip memorable beyond just sightseeing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is best suited for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts willing to accept modest amenities for the chance to see Bai Tu Long Bay’s quieter, less commercialized corners. It appeals to those interested in authentic boat experiences and interactive activities like kayaking and fishing village visits.

If you’re looking for luxury and high-end comfort, this might not meet your expectations, as some reviews point to boat condition issues. However, if your priority is scenic beauty, outdoor fun, and authentic interactions, this tour delivers plenty of value.

The Sum Up

The Garden Bay Cruises 2-day, 1-night offers a genuinely scenic, activity-filled way to explore Bai Tu Long Bay. Its traditional wooden boat gives a rustic charm, and stops at fishing villages and lagoons add cultural depth. Price-wise, it provides good value for those who want more than just a sightseeing cruise.

The experience’s success depends largely on your expectations for comfort. While some found the boat in poor shape and the food mediocre, others loved the peaceful scenery and authentic local interactions. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see Bai Tu Long’s quieter side, especially if you’re open to rustic accommodations.

For those seeking a laid-back, scenic escape that emphasizes nature and culture over luxury, this tour offers a memorable adventure at a reasonable price. Just pack your patience and an appreciation for genuine, unpolished experiences.

FAQs

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
Transportation is included only if you book a pickup through the tour. You’ll be transferred from your Hanoi hotel to Halong Cruise Port, which is roughly three hours away.

What activities are available during the cruise?
You can enjoy kayaking, swimming, relaxing on beaches like Cap La Island, visiting fishing villages such as Vung Vieng, and participating in a Vietnamese cooking class in the evening.

How long is the cruise each day?
On Day 1, the cruise departs around noon and stays out until late evening, while Day 2 involves an early Tai Chi session, a visit to Vung Vieng, and disembarkation around noon.

What’s included in the price?
The package includes meals (dinner, breakfast, two lunches), accommodation in a seaview cabin, entrance fees, guide, kayak activities, and visits to fishing villages.

Are the facilities comfortable?
Some travelers have noted the boat’s condition isn’t up to high standards, with issues like smelly toilets and basic amenities. Prepare for a rustic experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 6 days before the experience for a full refund. Shorter notice may incur penalties or no refund.

In summary, the Garden Bay Cruises offer a heartfelt, scenic journey ideal for those seeking genuine local interactions and quiet natural beauty over luxury. While the boat’s condition might not impress everyone, the views, activities, and cultural encounters make it a worthwhile choice for the right traveler.