Why Cong Do Island Deserves a Spot on Bai Tu Long Itinerary

Unlike the bustling and crowded Ha Long Bay, its sibling — Bai Tu Long Bay — offers a pristine and tranquil beauty. During your journey through this peaceful region, you’ll also have the chance to explore an island with a rather unique name: Cong Do Island. Let’s discover this beautiful island together with Viet Sail Cruise in the guide below.

Cong Do Island
Cong Do Island 

Overview of Cong Do Island

Located in the Bai Tu Long Bay area — southeast of Ha Long Bay — Cong Do Island is about 25 km from Bai Chay port, an island that still retains its wildness and relatively intact nature.

With an area of ​​approximately 23.36 km² and its highest mountain reaching 172 meters, this destination boasts a typical limestone landscape — including high cliffs, winding streams, sheltered bays, and natural lakes and swamps that hold many surprises.

The island is also notable for its natural cave – bay – lagoon structures, which give the island calm, sheltered waters, suitable for activities such as kayaking, scuba diving, or simply relaxing amidst the tranquil natural scenery.

Cong Do Island
Cong Do Island

How to get to Cong Do?

Visiting Cong Do area offers many possible routes for travelers. However, because the island is within a strictly protected core zone, only licensed cruise ships are allowed to enter this region.

So, visitors usually choose to join an overnight cruise with an itinerary through Bai Tu Long. From the departure point, the cruise takes around 1.5 – 2 hours to sail into the calm waters and limestone scenery before arriving at the peaceful Cong Do area.

Cong Do Island
Cong Do Island

Activities at Cong Do Island

Once your cruise arrives in the Cong Do area, you’ll have time to explore this peaceful destination at your own pace. The surroundings are quiet, the water is clear, and the landscape is ideal for outdoor experiences.

Kayaking

Kayaking is the most popular activity here. The calm, shallow waters allow you to paddle through hidden corners, small lagoons, and limestone formations. It’s a refreshing way to enjoy the fresh air and admire the untouched beauty around you.

Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP)

The smooth, gentle sea surface makes SUP another great choice. Many cruises provide paddleboards so visitors can glide slowly over the water and take in the relaxing scenery.

Photography

Cong Do is incredibly photogenic. From winding sea channels and colorful coral patches to the quiet mangrove areas, every angle offers a beautiful shot. Just lift your camera — nature does the rest.

Relaxing on the Sundeck

Because this area is far from the busy Ha Long routes, the atmosphere is exceptionally peaceful. It’s the perfect spot to feel the sea breeze, enjoy a drink, and unwind while the cruise anchors nearby.

Cong Do Island
Cong Do Island

Cong Do Island is one of the few places in Bai Tu Long Bay that still retains its serene and unspoiled beauty. Whether you’re kayaking on the calm waters, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on the deck, every moment here offers a sense of peace and refreshment. For travelers seeking a quieter alternative to the bustling Ha Long Bay, this area is truly a perfect choice.

Ready to explore the peaceful side of Bai Tu Long Bay?

Let Viet Sail accompany you to explore Cong Do Island together, and enjoy a relaxing journey surrounded by the calm, untouched beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay.