We recently did a three-day cruise through Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay with Indochina Junk, and honestly... what a bucket list experience. I don’t usually use the word “magical” when talking about boats, but this one deserved it.

We went with the Dragon Legend – one of their luxury 5-star options – and it was all-inclusive (except drinks), which made the whole experience super easy. You get picked up directly from your hotel in Hanoi in a very fancy van (more like a lounge on wheels), and taken straight to the port, where your floating hotel is waiting.

The boat itself is beautiful – traditional design, wood everywhere, but with proper modern comforts. Our room was massive, air-conditioned, and had the kind of bath-with-a-view situation that makes you stop and go: “Wait… how is this real?” Once we set sail, it was all limestone cliffs, jade-green water, and not a single stress in sight.

What made it even better is that they go through Bai Tu Long Bay – which is kind of like Ha Long’s quieter, more untouched sibling. Less touristy, fewer boats, and it genuinely felt like we had the bay to ourselves most of the time.

The itinerary is pretty packed (in a good way). We kayaked through hidden lagoons, swam off remote beaches, visited a floating fishing village, and learned how pearls are farmed. There was also a spring roll cooking class, and sunrise Tai Chi on deck if you’re more of a morning person (we tried, once – the views made it worth it).

And the food. Wow. Every meal was about five courses – plated and served restaurant-style – and really delicious. Lots of Vietnamese flavours, loads of fresh seafood, and veggie options too. We never went hungry, that’s for sure.

One of the biggest highlights was the private beach BBQ on the second night. Indochina Junk is apparently the only company with permission to do this, and it’s something I’ll remember forever. The whole crew sets up dinner on this quiet little beach, with candles and fairy lights and music, and everyone just eats together, barefoot in the sand. It felt really special.

The whole trip costs around R7,400 per person, which covers all the food, activities, and the two nights on board. It’s not the cheapest, but when you factor in what’s included – and how unique it felt – we honestly thought it was great value.

The crew were lovely too. Super professional, really kind, and clearly love what they do. It’s also family-friendly and felt really safe, which is always something I look for.

If you’re heading to Vietnam and want to do Ha Long Bay without the chaos, this is 100% worth looking into. It’s the kind of trip that just sticks with you – the views, the stillness of the bay, the quiet mornings out on the water. Very, very glad we did it. 🐉🇻🇳