As you set sail for your trip along Halong Bay, savor your first hours in the bay on the sun deck and let your eyes wander over the breathtaking scenery during your first hour of cruising.

Cua Van is one of the last remaining floating fishing villages in Halong Bay, which some fishermen still use as a base for fishing and aquaculture activities. Take a look at the floating structures built using bamboo boats rowed by locals in this calm and secluded area to gain insight into village life. If you prefer to be more active, borrow a kayak and paddle around, a perfect way to move and explore this part of the bay. The fishing village also hosts the Cua Van Cultural Center, operated by residents to preserve and introduce visitors to the village’s history and culture. On display are many archaeological artifacts and photographs depicting life in Cua Van.

By tender, transfer to the nearby Tien Ong cave. The cave shows evidence of human civilization dating back to 10,000 – 8,000 BC. Fossil evidence also proves that the cave was part of the mainland continent ages ago before Halong Bay became the marine wonder it is today. Tien Ong cave reaches a depth of 50 meters and covers a total area of roughly 1,000 square meters. Follow your guide as you loop through and learn about interesting details about this cavern.

After returning to the boat, continue sailing to the overnight mooring area. During this magical “blue hour,” Halong Bay reveals its magnificent beauty. Unwind on the sun deck with your favorite drink and be fully present. As you sail along, you may like to join the cooking class with the onboard chef. You are welcome to practice these easy but very tasty classic Vietnamese recipes for yourself, then cook them for your loved ones back home.

After a brief period of relaxation, dinner is served. Passengers aboard Heritage Line’s luxurious Violet can choose from international or local favorites from a multi-course à la carte menu.

After dinner, the onboard guide offers an intriguing presentation about the bay’s unique and fascinating insights. Alternatively, give yourself a try at squid fishing together with our staff - always an entertaining experience. While away the rest of the evening and treasure this special moment amidst the magical landscapes before falling into a restful slumber in the middle of Halong Bay were, once upon a time, sparkling jewels cascaded from heavenly dragons.

In the dining room, tea, coffee, and pastries are available in the morning. Once again, a Tai Chi class is offered on the sun deck to awaken your mind and muscles. In the morning, sail to the small Ti Top Island. Formerly named Cat Nang, the island received a name change after former president Ho Chi Minh and the second man to orbit the Earth, Russian astronaut German Titov, toured Halong Bay in 1962. since the cosmonaut was so fascinated with this picturesque islet and named the spectacle Ti Top Island to honor Titov and as a gesture of friendship between their two countries.

Once arriving at Ti Top, you can go for a refreshing morning swim on a sandy beach beneath towering rock formations. If you prefer to be a bit more active, climb the 400 stone steps, which take about 20 minutes to reach the island’s top, to see the stunning panoramic views over the bay. There is also a viewing platform about halfway up with great vistas framed by lush greenery – perfect for photos.

Back on board, you can take a shower and freshen up. Now is the time to enjoy the final sailing as you head back to the harbor while breakfast is served. Until you reach the pier, relax on the sun deck or in the dining room while savoring the last views of this iconic site.