Orchid Cruises - Ha Long Bay (Blog)

Orchid Cruises - Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is at the top of nearly every serious traveler’s bucket list, as it should be, but pictures simply do not do it justice. Orchid Cruises took this already magical experience and made us feel at home on the water—providing exceptional service with warm smiles, morning to night.

From the moment we stepped on the boat, it was evident that they have the experience down to a science. Every meal is carefully coordinated—and delicious—and there is seemingly always something to partake in, from Tai Chi at sunrise to the cooking classes at night. We strongly encourage you to take advantage of all the cruise has to offer. We opted to do the two-day trip, which we would highly recommend as one night did not feel like enough time to take it all in. 

Our one full day on the boat was actually an excursion on a smaller one that takes you further south around Cat Ba island, and then a journey inland. With the option to bike or ride in an electric cart, everyone can participate, but we would encourage you to bike—if able—to make the experience more memorable. After a 25-minute windy ride through a beautifully dense, green jungle, the group comes to a quaint little farming village named Viet Hai. While they are still gearing up to accommodate tourists as a whole, the villagers were welcoming and our guide, David, gave us a great history lesson about the archipelago and the village itself. 

While your trip and meals are paid for before you get on the boat, drinks are not, so remember to bring cash for that and for a tip! We felt we were so well taken care of—the staff was amicable and helpful—a tip was the least we could do.

All in, this was a highlight of our trip—in large part due to Orchid Cruises and the employees making it so special.