Ha Long Bay is one of those names that pops up constantly when you start planning a trip to Vietnam. It’s one of the country’s most famous destinations, and with those dramatic limestone cliffs rising out of the sea, it’s easy to see why. Instagram makes it look like an otherworldly paradise—quiet, mystical, and unforgettable. But after spending two days and one night cruising the bay, I walked away feeling… underwhelmed.
Here’s what my Ha Long Bay experience was really like.
Booking the Cruise: Fantasea Cruises
I went with Fantasea Cruises, one of the many budget-friendly operators offering overnight trips. The total cost was around $160 USD, which included round-trip transport from Hanoi, an overnight stay on the boat (private room with bathroom), and meals onboard. Drinks weren’t included, which is pretty standard for these types of trips.
The booking process was smooth and easy, and the staff were friendly and helpful. But once we got on the boat, it was clear that this was a “you get what you pay for” kind of deal. The boat was… fine. A little dated, a little cramped, and definitely not the luxurious cruise you might be picturing. If you’re considering a trip like this, I’d highly recommend spending a bit more for one of the nicer boats. There are options that offer better food, more comfortable cabins, and a generally more polished experience.
The Itinerary: Caves, Kayaking & Crowds
Once we were out on the water, the views were exactly what you’d expect—giant limestone cliffs rising dramatically from the sea, little floating villages in the distance, and misty skies that made the whole scene feel cinematic. But the magic didn’t last long.
Our first stop was a cave. It was big and impressive, but so full of people that it felt more like a theme park than a natural wonder. After that, we had the chance to go kayaking, which was by far the highlight of the trip. Paddling between the towering rock formations and away from the noise of the big boats was the only moment that felt peaceful and close to nature.
Later, we stopped at a small beach for swimming. I skipped it. The water didn’t look very clean, and to be honest, I didn’t feel like wading into a crowded bay just to say I did it. Some people swam, but I wasn’t the only one who opted out.
The Reality: Tourist Overload
Even though I visited during the low season, every single stop felt packed. Dozens of boats were following the exact same route, arriving at the same time, and letting off their passengers in waves. Any sense of tranquility or discovery was pretty much gone. It felt like we were on a set itinerary, moving from one photo op to the next.
I couldn’t help but think that Ha Long Bay has become a bit of a victim of its own popularity. The scenery is undeniably beautiful, but the sheer volume of tourists makes it hard to enjoy.
Would I Recommend It?
Honestly? I’d say skip it. If you’re craving epic rock formations and turquoise waters, you can find similar landscapes in places like Krabi or Phang Nga Bay in Thailand—with fewer crowds and better swimming conditions. Plus, many of those Thai destinations are easier to explore independently, without the need for a tightly scheduled tour.
That said, if you’ve always dreamed of seeing Ha Long Bay, just go in with realistic expectations. Spend a little more on a nicer cruise, bring your patience for crowds, and try to focus on the moments of beauty that still manage to break through.
Final Thoughts
I’m glad I went—I think part of traveling is figuring out which places live up to the hype and which ones don’t. But for me, Ha Long Bay was more of a checkbox than a highlight.
If you’re short on time or budget, my advice is to skip it and explore some of Vietnam’s other incredible destinations—like Ninh Binh (which some people call the “Ha Long Bay on land”), Phong Nha for cave adventures, or even the lesser-known Bai Tu Long Bay for a more peaceful alternative.
Travel isn’t always picture-perfect, and that’s okay. Sometimes the best stories come from the places that surprise us—not just the ones that go viral on Instagram.