Halong Bay Safety Tips

When visiting Halong Bay, make sure your operator follows safety regulations (including life jackets) and provides experienced guides and admission to designated sites. It wasn't until 2013 that safety regulations were somewhat enforced on Halong Bay. You get what you pay for, so choose your cruise operator wisely, including opting for higher-end operators that have stringent safety standards and that insist passengers wear life jackets during bay activities. Incidentally, the increased number of boats on the water led to a rise in boat collisions and in late 2012, the government issued a ruling that all Halong boats were to be painted white in an effort to decrease the number of accidents. Another thing to keep in mind is that most land-based activities require some level of fitness. Access to caves and coves have slippery stone steps devoid of guardrails. Wear suitable footwear when exploring the area, especially on island trails that are narrow and somewhat arduous. And remember, the government is doing its best to clean up the water in the bay, so keep your trash on you or dispose of it suitably on board.