ITINERARY:
Day 1: Good morning Hanoi – Water Puppet Show Art (Dinner)
At the airport, your guide will be ready to take you to your hotel to drop off your luggage. Check into your room at 2 pm (earlier depending on availability). Water Puppet Show at 5 pm before a welcome dinner at a colonial restaurant. Overnight in Hanoi
Day 2: Ha Noi – Experience the rich heritage capital of Viet Nam (Breakfast/Lunch)
To begin your visit in Hanoi, you will visit the Temple of Literature, the site of the oldest university in Hanoi. You will have an hour to take a cyclo-ride in the old city of Hanoi, then you discover the old quarter on foot with its many streets organized by trades, each bearing the name of a corporation. Take a gentle stroll to the surroundings of Hoan Kiem Lake where you will visit some local markets. Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 3: Ninh Binh – Exploring scenery from King Kong (Breakfast/Lunch)
The Ninh Binh trip begins with a visit to the 2 temples of Hoa Lu, dating from the 11th century, and dedicated to the ancient kings, Dinh and Le. These temples are surrounded by beautiful hibiscus gardens, basins with lotus flowers, and frangipani flowers that spread a delicate perfume across the area. Continuing to Van Long Lagoon, a boat awaits you for an unforgettable ride through the beautiful natural landscape where scenes from King Kong were shot. Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Day 4: Bike Tour Tam Coc – Bich Dong – Thung Nham (Breakfast/Lunch)
Today you will discover the charm of Tam Coc, Bich Dong, and Thung Nham by bike. Also known as”Halong Bay on land” or the “2nd best cave in Vietnam”, the entire region consists of a system of limestone caves and historic sites related to the Vu Lam Palace of the Tran Dynasty.
We then board a small sampan for a trip to the Thung Nham Bird Reserve, home to over 40 different species, and around 4000 birds. The reserve will give you the chance to see the beauty of local wildlife while taking remarkable photographs.
You will also explore Hang But (Buddhist Cave), about 500m in length with a magical view of the stalactites and stalagmites. It also features a large Buddha-shaped stalactite sitting beside an underground river, as well as an orchard with many succulent fruits from the region.
Day 5: Ninh Binh – Bai Tu Long – Vung Vieng Fishing Village (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
A road trip to Halong Bay, and upon boarding, you will be greeted by our friendly crew and enjoy a complimentary welcome drink. A delicious lunch will be served as we slowly cruise through the magnificent limestone formations which make up Halong Bay. Head to Vung Vieng Fishing Village by local rowing boats or kayaks to explore the interesting daily lives of its inhabitants.
Back on board, we invite you to & enjoyhappy hour with a special drinks menu. Join us in a Vietnamese cuisine cooking class where you can participate in the preparation of these mouth-watering local delights. Your dinner this evening will be served in our main restaurant.
The evenings are beautiful in Halong Bay, and just because the sun goes down doesn’t mean the night is over. Take advantage of our onboard facilities or just relax to your heart’s content. Chill out at our fully stocked bar with an assortment of local and international favorites, try your luck at night squid fishing, watch a documentary film, or just unwind on on the roof deck.
Day 6: Sandy Beach Cong Dam (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Early birds are welcome to attend sunrise Tai Chi on our upper deck, and it is an excellent way to get your energy levels up for today’s adventures. You will be fascinated by the exquisiteness of Halong Bay in the early hours as you enjoy a tea or coffee.
Enjoy a buffet breakfast with the best local coffee brand and fresh fruit juices.
The day trip boat heads to Cong Dam, best known for its crystal-clear sandy beaches. Enjoy kayaking, swimming or just relax on a stunning secluded beach.
Have lunch with Signature set menu on our day boat.
Back on board the signature Cruise, take some time to freshen up, take a nap or just relax at your leisure as we cruise to our overnight area. Witness one of the most brilliant sunsets you will ever see. Enjoy a cooking demonstration to discover our Vietnamese cuisine of traditional spring rolls. A special dinner will be served to offer you outstanding food and quality service. Overnight on board.
Day 7: Thien Canh Son Cave – Bai Tu Long – Ha Noi (Light Breakfast – Brunch)
The best time to observe Halong Bay is in the early morning, and we suggest that if you didn’t get to witness it the day before, then now is your last chance. Tai Chi will be conducted again today on our upper deck and is a terrific way to feel at one with the peaceful surroundings.
Light breakfast will be served and you can enjoy the last stage of your trip in Thien Canh Son Cave and the surrounding islets. This is a wild and mysterious place in the center of a World Heritage listed site.
Check out of your cabin and enjoy the last stage of your trip with a delicious brunch as we continue to cruise back towards harbor through the beautiful scenery. After a final farewell from our staff, you will be transported back to Halong City Wharf via our tender for your transfer back to Hanoi. We trust you had a pleasant journey on Mandarine Cruise Halong Bay and hope to have the pleasure of your company with us again. End of service.
