Ha Long Private Junk Cruise

Set sail on a private, 4-cabin junk boat cruise through the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking limestone karst scenery and hidden grottoes. This exclusive journey offers a peaceful escape from the more touristy parts of the Bay, allowing you to explore secluded lagoons, floating fishing villages and untouched beaches at your own pace.

Designed for those seeking a more intimate and personalised experience, this boutique wooden junk blends exquisite Vietnamese craftsmanship with modern comfort, ensuring an unforgettable voyage through one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes.

Day 1: Your adventure begins as you step aboard your private junk boat, where a dedicated crew welcomes you with refreshments before setting sail. Glide past towering the limestone islands, drifting through narrow channels that lead to secluded caves illuminated by sunlight streaming through rocky openings. Throughout the cruise, your guide will share fascinating insights into Ha Long Bay’s geological wonders, rich biodiversity, and the legends that have shaped its history.

As well as relaxing amidst the bay’s mesmerising scenery and swimming in crystal-clear waters, you will enjoy kayaking to hidden lagoons, an onboard cooking class and even night time squid fishing. Savour a gourmet dinner featuring fresh seafood and regional specialities, prepared by your private chef. As the sun sets over the bay, relax on the deck with a drink in hand, watching the sky turn shades of orange and pink before retiring to your elegantly designed cabin for the night.

Day 2: On the second day, stop at a floating fishing village to meet local families who have lived on the water for generations. Experience their way of life, learn about traditional fishing techniques, and gain a deeper appreciation for the bay’s unique culture. On the drive back to Hanoi you’ll also take a short break at Yen Duc Village – a typical Vietnamese agricultural village which is rich in culture and traditions - to enjoy a traditional water puppet performance.

This private cruise is an example of a more low-impact way to explore Ha Long Bay, supporting alternative models to the large mass tourism boats. By sailing on a smaller, eco-conscious junk boat, you help reduce overcrowding in the bay while still experiencing its beauty in an intimate and respectful way.

The cruise company has also based its sustainable business model on environmental protection and local community development. It is involved in numerous responsible projects, from developing community based tourism at Yen Duc village to converting to electric vehicles for its city tours and transfers, as well as supporting fish aquaculture, preserving traditional music and English and vocational training for local children.

On the environmental side, they have run beach and water clean ups, developed waste collection services for Vung Vieng floating village, replaced foam floats that are prone to disintegrate in the water and helped to plant 3 square hectares of mangrove forest.