Halong Bay help
 

Hi
The only place we havent booked yet is 2 nights in Halong Bay.Daryl wants to kayak but I'm happy to sit and watch the world go by while he sweats in the heat. Can anyone recommend a good tour company to book these tours? My sister went to HB last year and they boat they stayed on was filthy and crawling with cockroaches.Another person I know booked from Hanoi but go to Halong Bay to find that there was no room left on the tour.So...any tips would be most appreciated

I used Handspan. They are in the upper price range @ about $100 per person, but I couldn't fault the junk I had, nor the food (some of the best I had in 3 weeks in Indo China, and more than we could eat).

The cabin was spotless, and the pvt shower and toilet was fully tiled and also spotless.

They had a special 2-night kyaking trip, plus the normal one night cruise.

I'd use them again. They delivered more than they promised, including an excellent guide. And...no sign of any cockroaches!

I also used Handspan for my trip upon the Dragon Pearl. It was fabulous!
Accomodations and food were excellent, there were less than 20 people on the boat, it was a wonderful experience, and worth the extra money. some of the other junk boats look barely seaworthy, so choose carefully.

Yes, I would also have to agree that Handspan is the best company. They are a little more than some of the others, but very reliable.

Also, second the Dragon Pearl for an overnight. Waking up amongst the limestone karsts, listening to the birds from the shore, and watchng the eagles fish. Breakfast out on the deck was magical - highly recommended!

We were in Halong Bay 2 weeks ago. We booked with Huong Hai Junk whose website is www.halongdiscovery.com

We paid $229 per person for a 2 night, 3 day trip on a deluxe junk with kayaking. All meals were included. They charge you Western prices for drinks.

It was a great experience and seemed like a good company. Rooms were quite small so be prepared.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Kevin

PS: I wanted Dragon Pearl, but it was fully booked. Handspan offered me a smaller vessel, and I was dubious, but agreed. It was in fact better than Dragon Pearl, and the cabins were a good size. So was the ensuite bathroom....as big as the one I have at home.