Dolphin Halong Day Cruise: Surprise Cave, Luon Cave and Titop Island

Every part can be changed to suit your group.

1. 9:00 – 10:45 Check-In and Setting Sail

   Your day begins at Halong International Cruise Port, where you check in at the Legacy Voyages Vietnam Lounge between 9:00 and 10:00 am. From there, an electric cart takes you to the ship, and you embark at around 10:00 am. Once on board, you are welcomed with a drink and receive a short safety briefing and an overview of the day ahead. As the ship leaves the harbour, head up on deck to watch the skyline of Ha Long city give way to the first limestone islands rising from the water. Thousands of these islands fill the bay.

   
2. 10:45 – 12:00 Lunch on Board

   While the ship cruises deeper into the bay, it is time for lunch in one of the dining rooms. Buffet service is available for larger sailings, generally from 50 guests, while smaller groups are served a set menu instead. With large windows on both sides, the islands drift past as you eat, so you do not miss any of the scenery. After lunch, there is time to head back up to the open decks, find a seat in the shade and enjoy the views before we arrive at the first stop of the day.

   
3. 12:00 – 13:30 Surprise Cave

   Our first stop is Surprise Cave, one of the largest and best-known caves in Halong Bay. Covering around 10,000 square metres, it is filled with stalactites and stalagmites formed over a very long time, with huge chambers that open up one after another. Your guide walks with you along the path through the cave, pointing out some of its most striking rock formations and sharing the stories behind them. There are steps at the entrance and paths can be damp and slippery, so wear comfortable shoes with a good grip.

   
4. 13:30 – 14:45 Luon Cave Lagoon

   Back on board, we cruise to Luon Cave, where a low natural tunnel through the limestone leads to a calm enclosed lagoon, surrounded by steep green cliffs. Here you can choose how to spend your time. Paddle through the tunnel yourself by kayak, sit back on a traditional sampan rowed by a local boat operator, or simply stay on board and relax with the view. Both boat options carry an additional charge. Look and listen for wildlife along the cliffs while you are out on the water, and enjoy the peace of this sheltered part of the bay.

   
5. 14:45 – 16:00 Titop Island

   The final stop of the day is Titop Island, known for its crescent-shaped beach and its viewpoint. If you are feeling energetic, climb the 420 steps to the top for a panoramic view across the islands of the bay, one of the best-known views in Halong. Take your time, because the steps are steep in places and the middle of the day can be hot. Afterwards, come back down to the beach for a swim to cool off, when conditions allow, or simply find some shade and watch the boats come and go until it is time to return to the ship.

   
6. 16:00 – 17:15 Sunset Canapés and Return

   As the light turns golden, the ship heads back towards port. This is the most relaxing part of the day. Enjoy canapés and live music on deck, or take a dip in the four-season pool and jacuzzi while the islands slide by. Depending on the season, you may see the sun beginning to set behind the karsts as you sail. The ship arrives back at Halong International Cruise Port at around 5:00 pm, and you disembark by about 5:15 pm. Times can change depending on the weather and operating conditions on the day.