Fighting Cock Islet cruises

What an amazing trip from beginning to end. The tour company called the day before to confirm all was set to go and they would pick you up at the meet up point.. Our tour guide Minh was fantastic. He updated us about the schedule. While enroute he gave us a History lesson about Vietnam. My favorite part about this trip was the paddle boat.

The tour guide didn’t send me any message the one day before, so I need to check to their office for pick up schedule. But the tour guide is very nice, too hard to mention his name is Doug or Duk, the drive also so kind. The direction is clear.

I used it on January 2nd. I was picked up in front of the Opera House at 7:50, took a 15-minute toilet break on the way, and a 30-minute stop at Mikimoto Pearls, before arriving at the port around noon. I ate the buffet and then took a cruise ship to the limestone cave. It was very crowded and I had to queue for more than 30 minutes to enter the limestone cave, but the inside was a huge space and very impressive. The view at the exit was also very nice. After that, I took another cruise ship, and then a small boat (rowed by the boatman) went through the tunnel of the limestone cave to the bay. The view was amazing. From there, I took another cruise ship and landed on a small island. This is a place to enjoy the view from the top of a mountain, but I was tired so I didn't climb it. The sunset over Halong Bay from the beach was also amazing. From there, the move to the port was like an evening party and it looked like it was very lively. I couldn't get a seat, so I enjoyed the spectacular view of Halong Bay at sunset on the second floor. Halong Bay is a must-see on any trip to Hanoi.

This was arranged by Victory Era travel. Samco Felix brown mini bus arrived on time and a pickup guide informed us on time to be ready. Water bottle was provided both to and from Ha Long. WiFi on bus, which worked well enough. There was no toilet break during the ride to Ha Long, as they only stopped at Viet Pearl shop. There was also no clarity on where the bus or driver will wait for us after the break, where we lost time looking for the bus. Better ask the driver where to wait. Andy was the cruise guide and he always kept us informed of all the waypoints, etc. Few veg options were present in buffet lunch - fried rice, pizza, mixed veg, sushi and maybe some spring rolls. Many items for non-veg. Sweet was good. Wifi worked most of the time. In the evening, black tea, milk coffee, cakes and fruits provided. Bamboo boat and kayak was included in price (speed boat was extra, if someone wants). Clean boat, helpful staff, seats were preassigned in the dining hall. 2nd and top level was good for taking pictures. Unfortunately due to clouds and drizzle, we did not see the bay in its full beauty. During boarding, we needed to walk a lot for the boat, would have been better if the mini bus could have taken us through the center road after showing our ticket to terminal staff. Saw another bus of tourists dropping off people. Mini bus was on the road for pickup when we returned, which was easier. They allowed us to take water bottles, though told us there is some restriction on taking water bottles. One could purchase drinks and water (alkaline? overpriced) on board. I think normal drinking water should be provided at reasonable cost.

The price was a little higher than other cruises but the quality was totally deserved. Their lunch buffet was excellent with a lot of choices. Their tourguides were very nice and humorous with good English. We also loved attractions. Choosing kayak was the best choice because it got more fun. It wasn't difficult to row even though we hadn't tried it before. The evening tea was great with live music and fruits. However, it was a little cold at that time so we chose to relax at the jacuzzi with warm water. Definitely recommend this tour for friends and will try a 2 day-tour next time.

What I like about this trip is that for a first timer in Hanoi, they will pick you up from your hotel to join the bigger group. The itinerary was good, they give you more time to relax and chill at their deck. Food was good and the sunset party is something to experience too! Thanks to the tour guide and crew!

2 days 1 night Halong Bay trip was pleasant with Starlight cruise and relaxing. Our tour guide Alex is very, he is friendly, caring, well organised and nice! We enjoyed the itenary and he will make sure we manage to find the driver and board the bus safely when return to Hanoi. Thanks to Ms Dolphin on the transfer arrangements return trips from Hanoi to Halong Bay.

it was a great experience from the start of the trip to the end. Halong bay tour not to be missed. winters you may wanna carry a jacket along with your swimsuit and if you want to hike up the mountain you may want to wear comfortable shoes