From the magical view of the mist dissipating over the limestone peaks, to the gentle paddling of the turquoise waters, to the hearty laughs of wrapping your own spring rolls – a voyage on Viet Sails will be remembered for the moments that change something inside you.
Here are five signature experiences that will transform your cruise from enjoyable to unforgettable, with activities designed not to fill time, but to create a genuine connection with Vietnamese culture, nature, and the simple joys of slowing down.
When: Daily around 6:00 PM
Duration: 60 minutes
As the bay turns golden in the afternoon heat, guests can move up to the sun deck to enjoy special Vietnamese snacks and specially prepared drinks made by the crew. This is simply the time to witness one of nature’s masterpieces – the sun melting behind Bai Tu Long’s iconic limestone mountains, painting the sky in shades of amber, pink and purple.
Some guests chat quietly, share travel stories and form unexpected friendships. Others sit in comfortable silence, simply observing. In addition to enjoying the natural scenery, the crew will guide you through making a typical Vietnamese dish – spring rolls, or challenge you with the art of fruit carving, such as turning watermelons into delicate flowers.
Photography Tip: 30 minutes before sunset (golden hour time) offers the best light for both landscapes and portraits. The limestone mountains create dramatic silhouettes as the sun sets behind them.
When: Typically Day 1 afternoon (3:30-5:00 PM)
Duration: 60-90 minutes
Difficulty: Easy to moderate and suitable for beginners
Included: Two-person kayaks, life jackets, waterproof bags, basic instruction
Kayaking is a way to slowly reveal the secrets of Bai Tu Long Bay. Because kayaks can enter spaces that larger ships cannot, we can go deeper and explore narrow passages between limestone mountains, less accessible beaches, or caves with sunlight filtering through the gaps above.
Bai Tu Long Bay reveals its secrets slowly, and kayaking is the way to discover them. While the main journey moves on the open sea, kayaks sneak into spaces that larger ships cannot: narrow passages between towering limestone mountains, hidden beaches that can only be accessed by paddle, sea caves where sunlight filters through the gaps above, creating a magical blue light.
You will explore Cap La Island, where limestone cliffs plunge straight into the crystal clear water. Explore small caves and observe marine life in the shallow waters, with colorful fish, the occasional sea turtle, and delicate coral reefs. Unlike rushed group tours where everyone has to paddle together, Viet Sails’ small group size allows you to explore at your own pace.
Safety & support:
– Professional crew provides basic paddling instructions and safety briefings to guests before kayaking
– Life jackets are mandatory and properly fitted
– Support boat follows from a distance
– Waterproof bags are provided for phones/cameras
– All equipment is regularly checked and maintained
When: During sunset party (6:00-7:00 PM) on Day 1 and Day 2 (for 3D2N trip)
Duration: 30-45 minutes demonstration
What you will make: Fresh spring rolls (nem cuốn)/fruit carving
As guests gather on the sun deck to enjoy the sunset, a Vietnamese cooking class takes place. Not in a formal classroom, but just a small table with colorful ingredients, which naturally attracts curious guests. Guests will be guided and made Nem Cuon – a dish that seems simple but requires sophistication. You will be guided step by step, from softening the rice paper to making it moist enough to mixing the dipping sauce to blend and combine the flavors. In addition to the cooking class, you can also admire the traditional Vietnamese fruit carving performance – transforming simple watermelons, papayas and carrots into flowers, birds and elaborate decorations. This activity requires more demonstration than participation (the knives are very sharp and the skill takes years), but watching the chefs at work is really interesting.
Practice Notes:
– All ingredients provided
– Recipe shared verbally (if you want to take notes, bring a notebook)
– Participation in the practice is completely optional; viewing is also welcome
When: After dinner (9:00-10:30 PM)
Duration: As long as you’re enjoying it
Difficulty: Easy (no experience needed)
After a cozy dinner, as the night falls over the bay, some guests return to their cabins while others gather on deck to experience squid fishing – a traditional pastime of Vietnamese fishermen, looking to connect with local life. The crew will guide you how to catch squid, with a very simple technique, suitable even for beginners. The crew can share stories of their childhood fishing in these waters. Someone will surely scream in amazement when they catch their first squid. Laughter echoes across the quiet bay. You may catch five squids or none, but either way, you will remember the night forever.
When: Day 2 afternoon (only for 3D2N option)
Duration: 45-60 minutes
What’s included: Pearl farm visit, cultural insights, community support
Among all Viet Sails activities, the Vung Vieng Floating Village tour is not about adventure or relaxation, but about discovering a new perspective. Here, you will experience a completely different way of life compared to life on land, but still keeping the familiar rhythm of family, work and community.
Gliding between floating houses anchored on limestone outcrops, each house is a complete family located on the clear blue water. Observe the daily life of the people here, with children swimming between the stilts, women preparing meals in floating kitchens, men repairing fishing nets, or the elderly in the family watching the bay.
Your tour guide will share stories such as how the houses were built and maintained, how families weathered storms, and what has remained unchanged (fishing techniques, pearl farming, deep connection with the sea).
Stop at a pearl farm where oysters are grown in underground cages. Learn about the pearl farming process — how oysters are farmed, why Bai Tu Long’s waters create ideal conditions, and how pearls are harvested.
Every experience on board Viet Sails connects you to something authentic: Vietnamese culture, the natural beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay, the local community, or simply the ability to find peace within yourself. You’re not just exploring the sights; you’re immersing yourself in the moments. We believe these activities represent the very best of what Bai Tu Long Bay has to offer.
Ready to create your own unforgettable moments? Book directly through our website right here or contact us with the information below.
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