We have been looking forward to our cruise around Halong Bay ever since we started planning the trip so were super excited when it came around - and we weren't disappointed. A big thank you to Al and Anna for treating us to such a big highlight of the trip so far.
 |
| Halong Bay is full of junk. |
We were picked up from our hostel in Hanoi and whistled off to Halong City within a few hours, from where we boarded our boat 'the Aurora'. A welcome drink and lunch later and we set off cruising through the nearly 2000 karsts rising out of the sea throughout the bay. Weirdly, it wasn't how either of us expected it would be... but somehow despite having seen so many photos beforehand, even more beautiful! After an hour or so cruising we anchored and got in the water for a bit of kayaking. I was the motor this time as Matt's arm was still suffering from our last kayaking experience!
 |
| Beautiful scenery for kayaking |
Back on board we swum off the side of the boat before evening drinks and a delicious seemingly never-ending dinner of seafood, stir-fried meat, rice, noodles and so on. Definitely feeling like luxury after so long on the backpacking trail!
 |
| Our first Halong Sunset |
The crew knew it was our honeymoon so had decorated our cabin for us - the petals shaped as a heart on the bed were romantic.. the petals on the toilet lid a little less so!
 |
| Most romantic bathroom ever |
The next morning we climbed aboard a smaller boat with just one other couple who were also doing the three day cruise to explore the bay properly.
 |
| Early morning cruising |
We also had the chance to do some more kayaking through caves and into an isolated bay (you can only access it via a tiny cave) absolutely full with jellyfish, . Later on we visited a quiet beach on one of the larger islands and swum in crystal blue waters... before a couple of beers on the small boat as we cruised back. A bit of squid fishing (unsuccessful) and karaoke (much more successful!) after dinner rounded off a fantastic day.
 |
| Dangling for some squids. |
The next morning we were up early for a visit to our first proper cave of the trip (see next post for more on caves!) and some beautiful views of the bay from the top.
 |
| Stunning "Surprising Cave" |
 |
| Moley Matt emerging from his hole |
 |
| The view from the cave entrance |
 |
| Happy chappies |
 |
| Spot the hat |
What a few days - absolutely loved having a little bit of luxury in such an awesome setting!
 |
| Stunning Halong Bay |
No comments:
Post a Comment