Hidden Islands of Bai Tu Long Bay: Viet Sails Exclusive Boutique Cruise

While Ha Long Bay attracts millions of visitors, nearby Bai Tu Long Bay remains Vietnam’s best-kept secret. Just 30km to the northeast, this UNESCO-protected limestone landscape offers a more peaceful and less crowded experience.

Even within Bai Tu Long Bay, many operators still follow predictable routes. However, Viet Sails Boutique Cruises explore hidden corners of the bay that larger vessels cannot reach, thanks to their small size (maximum 28 passengers on 2 boats) and partnerships with local communities.

Here are three hidden gems that make our Bai Tu Long Bay cruises truly unique.

1. Cap La Island 

Viet Sails Itinerary: Day 1, afternoon kayaking (15:30–17:00PM)

Why Cap La is special:
Cap La is a cluster of limestone blocks that form a maze of canals, hidden lagoons, and caves that can only be accessed by kayak. Restricted since 2018, visitors are only allowed in at around 100 per day, keeping the experience pristine. Narrow limestone passageways suddenly open up to tranquil lagoons surrounded by towering cliffs. The sound of oars and wildlife creates a magical, immersive atmosphere.

What you will do on a Bai Tu Long Bay cruise:

• Kayaking (60–90 mins): Paddle through the canals at your own pace, assisted by the crew.
• Hidden lagoons: Crystal clear water (8–10 m visibility) with schools of fish and vibrant rock formations.
• Cave exploration: Small limestone caves with stalactites; safe routes recommended by the crew.

Why it’s better than Ha Long: Unlike Cong Do Island, Cap La remains untouched: no trails, no signs, very few visitors (1–2 groups max). This is a rare experience on a Bai Tu Long Bay cruise.

2. Vung Vieng Floating Village

Viet Sails Itinerary: Day 2 (3D2N only) 

Vung Vieng is part of many Bai Tu Long itineraries, but Viet Sails focuses on authenticity over speed. Mass tours often attract tourists; we spent 60-90 minutes here, making real connections with local families.

What makes it unique:

• Pearl farming: Observe authentic oyster farming, learn about the water conditions that produce high-quality pearls, and have the option to buy directly from the families (100% of the proceeds go to them).
• Real life: Witness children swimming, women cooking, and men mending nets – not a performance, but daily life.

3. Thien Canh Son Cave 

Viet Sails Itinerary: Morning Day 2 (2D1N) or Day 3 (3D2N), 8:00–9:30 AM

What’s special:

• Climb: 100-step stone staircase with panoramic views of Bai Tu Long Bay.
• Inside the cave: Stalactites, stalagmites, and cathedral-like caves enhanced by magical lighting.
• Top cabin: 360° views of the bay, with Viet Sails appearing as small dots below, surrounded by limestone peaks and sparkling water.

4. Tips for your Bai Tu Long Bay cruise

Cap La Island:

• Wear water shoes; row slowly.
• Bring a waterproof bag for photos.
• Follow the staff’s instructions to enter the cave safely.

Vung Vieng Village:

• Bring some VND to buy pearls.
• Ask for permission before taking photos.

Thien Canh Son Cave:

• Arrive early; climb at a comfortable pace.
• Take your time at the summit for the best views.
• Wear a light jacket when entering the cave.

Experience Cap La Island, Vung Vieng Village, and Thien Canh Son Cave the way nature intended—small groups, open exploration, and authentic experiences on Viet Sails’ Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise.

Contact us:

• Address: 33C Pham Ngu Lao, Cua Nam Ward, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Email: info@vietsails.com
• Hotline/WhatsApp: +84 906 272 467 (Ms. Anna Nguyen)