Kayaking is a type of small, narrow boat propelled by human power using paddles. With a history spanning over 4,000 years, kayaks were originally developed by the Inuit, Yup’ik, and Aleut people as hunting vessels in cold waters. However, the unique appeal of kayaking quickly transformed it into a beloved sport enjoyed in many countries.
According to the Ha Long Bay Management Board, kayaking first appeared in the bay in the 1990s. At that time, this activity was limited and catered mainly to adventurous foreign tourists. It wasn’t until the mid-2010s that kayaking gained widespread popularity among Vietnamese tourists, becoming an essential experience when visiting Ha Long Bay.
Kayaking in Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its majestic limestone mountains and a network of mysterious caves. It is often likened to a giant ink wash painting, captivating visitors with its pristine and magnificent beauty.
The allure of Ha Long Bay lies not only in its natural landscapes but also in its rich cultural heritage. Tourists can explore the unique culture of Ha Long Bay’s inhabitants in the ancient fishing villages, experience the simple life of the locals, and savor delicious specialties.
To enhance the visitor experience, the Ha Long Bay Management Board and the Quang Ninh Tourism Association have actively promoted kayaking activities in various locations throughout the bay. This unique experience allows visitors to discover the hidden beauty of the bay, immerse themselves in nature, and find peace and tranquility.
Currently, there are over 1,400 kayaks in Ha Long Bay, with 300 operating in designated areas and 1,100 carried by 163 overnight cruise ships to serve tourists. Kayaking in Ha Long Bay is similar to kayaking elsewhere in the world. Kayaks are made of composite plastic, molded rubber, or inflatable boats with paddles. One or two people can sit in a kayak (a long, narrow boat) and paddle themselves to explore the bay. The calm waters make it safe to kayak around, through caves to admire the limestone islands, drift away for photos, or even swim.
Moreover, if tourists are interested in the local communities living in the bay, they can observe their activities by visiting the villages along the way. What could be more enjoyable than paddling your own boat to slowly admire the breathtaking scenery in the bay? Therefore, kayaking in Ha Long Bay is the best way to experience the full majesty of its natural wonders.
Due to the climate in northern Vietnam, there are two ideal periods for kayaking in Ha Long Bay. The first is from March to June, and the second is from October to December. Tourists are generally advised not to visit Ha Long Bay during the months of July, August, and September due to frequent storms and rough seas.
The first period coincides with summer in Vietnam and is usually crowded with both domestic and international tourists. There is no heavy rain during this time, making it perfect for outdoor activities like kayaking. Furthermore, the weather in Ha Long Bay during summer is not too hot for extended periods outdoors.
The second period, from October to December, is also a good option, especially if you cannot plan a trip during the summer. The weather is cooler than in summer, averaging around 10-15 degrees Celsius. However, this is not a major concern as kayaking requires a lot of effort, and your body will surely warm up after a few minutes.
Kayaking Prices in Ha Long Bay
According to Decision No. 6195/QD-UBND on regulating areas and routes for kayaking and rowing services in Ha Long Bay, there are currently 8 main points belonging to 5 sightseeing routes in Ha Long Bay where kayaking and rowing services are allowed, including: Ba Hang, Luon Cave, Ho Dong Tien and Trinh Nu Cave, Tung Sau inlet, Cua Van, Vung Vieng, Hang Co, Cong Do, specifically as follows:
| Location | Price | Service Provider | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luon Cave | 50,000 VND/trip/person | Nam Tung Co., Ltd. | 0935.226.888 |
| Ba Hang | 40,000 VND/person | Van Chai Cooperative – Fairytale Sampan | 0989.883.110 |
| Lom Bo Island | Included in the overnight cruise tour cost | – | – |
| Cua Van | 100,000 VND/kayak/hour | Hai Phong Ha Long JSC | 0978.781.423 |
| Hang Co (Grass Cave) | Included in the tour cost | Indochina Junk JSC | – |
| Cong Dam | Included in the tour cost | Indochina Junk JSC | – |
| Vung Vieng | 50,000 VND/person/hour | Van Chai Ha Long Tourism Service Cooperative | 0936.451.823 |
| Overnight at Cong Do | Included in the overnight cruise tour cost | – | – |
| Hon Ban Chan Sandbank | 50,000 VND/person/hour | Van Chai Ha Long Tourism Service Cooperative | 0936.451.823 |
Notes:
- Prices are subject to change depending on the time and market demand.
- It is recommended to contact the service provider directly to check prices and make reservations before your trip.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water when participating in kayaking activities.
- Typically, the opening hours for kayaking spots are: 07:30 AM – 05:30 PM (daily)
- This is an experiential sports activity, therefore suitable for adults
Reviews of kayaking spots:
- Currently, the Luon Cave and Ba Hang areas are on routes 1 and 2 of the Ha Long Bay day tour. Visitors can easily find boats for these routes at Ha Long International Passenger Port and Tuan Chau Port. Some popular boats visiting these spots include Ambassador II, Sea Octopus… These are high-end day cruises, so the price per person is about 1.3 million VND. Alternatively, visitors can choose traditional group tours for 440,000 VND (route 1) and 490,000 VND (route 2) (kayaking not included).
- The remaining spots are not part of the Ha Long Bay day tour, so visitors need to choose an overnight cruise if they want to experience kayaking at those locations. However, please note that each cruise has a different itinerary, so you need to carefully check the itinerary to see if it includes the spots you want to visit. Some popular cruises include Ambassador I, Sea Star Cruise…
Procedure for Welcoming Guests On and Off Kayaks in Ha Long Bay
- Before guests board the kayaks, two staff members will be present to welcome and assist them. They will inform guests about the scope, duration, location, route, weather conditions, etc. They will also explain safety regulations, environmental hygiene, and landscape protection rules, such as not climbing or damaging trees and rocks. Guests will be advised not to board the kayak if they are feeling weak, tired, intoxicated, or have disabilities.
- The staff members will provide detailed and attentive instructions to guests on how to use and paddle the kayak, as well as how to signal for help in case of an emergency.
- The staff will guide and require guests to wear life jackets properly before boarding, and will assist guests in safely getting onto the floating platform after the trip (helping them off the kayak and removing their life jackets).