Setting Sail on Halong Bay

After leaving my finance job in Seoul to backpack through Southeast Asia, I found myself in Vietnam, eager to explore the famed Halong Bay. I had heard whispers of its beauty from fellow travelers, and the idea of a cruise seemed like the perfect way to experience it. I opted for the Glory Legend 2-day, 1-night cruise, which came highly recommended by a friend. The price was budget-friendly, and the promise of a cabin suite, meals, and activities like kayaking and hiking was too good to pass up.

The journey began with a shuttle transfer from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a service I added to make the trip hassle-free. The ride to Halong Bay was a scenic 3.5-hour drive, and upon arrival, I was greeted by the friendly staff who made the check-in process smooth. While there was a bit of a wait before boarding, the waiting area offered free WiFi and snacks for purchase, which kept me occupied until it was time to embark.

Aboard the Glory Legend

Once on board, I was immediately struck by the cleanliness of the boat and the warmth of the crew. My cabin was cozy, with a spectacular view of the bay. As we set sail, lunch was served—a delightful mix of traditional Vietnamese dishes and some Western options. The food was high quality, and I made a mental note to pace myself, knowing there were more meals to come.

The afternoon was filled with activities. I joined a kayaking excursion, paddling through the emerald waters and marveling at the limestone karsts that rose dramatically from the sea. Later, I participated in a cooking class on deck, learning to make Vietnamese spring rolls. As the sun began to set, I found myself on the sun deck, drink in hand, taking in the 360-degree view of the bay. It was a moment of pure tranquility, one that reminded me why I chose this nomadic lifestyle.

Sunrise and Farewell

The next morning, I woke early to catch the sunrise over Halong Bay. It was a sight to behold, the sky painted in hues of pink and orange as the sun peeked over the horizon. After a light breakfast, I joined a tai chi class on deck, a peaceful way to start the day.

As the cruise made its way back to the port, I reflected on the experience. The staff had been attentive, the activities well-organized, and the food exceeded my expectations. Halong Bay itself was a magical place, one that I would recommend to any traveler visiting Vietnam.

Before heading back to Hanoi, I took advantage of a complimentary street food tour included in the cruise package. Our guide, Kevin, introduced us to local delicacies, and I discovered a new favorite—egg coffee, a Hanoi specialty. It was the perfect end to a memorable adventure, and as I boarded the shuttle back to the city, I felt grateful for the experiences and connections made along the way.