Ha Long Bay: 5 Costly Mistakes Tourists Make (and How to Avoid Them!) 🚢⚠️

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Ha Long Bay (and How to Do It Right!)

So, you’ve decided to visit Ha Long Bay – great choice! With its majestic limestone karsts, emerald waters, and hidden caves, it’s easily one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking destinations. But before you pack your bags and set off, let’s talk about the common tourist mistakes that could turn your dream trip into a logistical nightmare.

Here’s how to do Ha Long Bay right and avoid the pitfalls along the way.

1. Booking the Cheapest Cruise and Regretting It Later

💸 The Mistake:You find an ultra-cheap Ha Long Bay cruise, thinking you’ve scored a bargain. Then you arrive, and the boat looks like it’s seen better days (probably the 90s). The food? Questionable. The itinerary? Rushed. The “sea view cabin”? More like a porthole with a rusted frame.

✅ The Fix:Do your research. A mid-range or premium cruise doesn’t have to break the bank, but it does guarantee better service, cleaner rooms, and an itinerary worth your time. Want recommendations? Few Days Halong has got you covered!

2. Visiting in Peak Season Without a Plan

📅 The Mistake:You rock up in December or July, peak tourist seasons, without booking anything in advance. Next thing you know, you’re either paying double for last-minute availability or stuck on a boat with 100 other tourists elbowing you for a sunset photo.

✅ The Fix:If you’re coming in peak season, book your cruise, hotels, and transfers in advance. If you prefer a quieter experience, visit in September, October, or May – fewer crowds, perfect weather, and better deals.

3. Skipping the Caves & Kayaking

🚣 The Mistake:Some people think Ha Long Bay is just about floating around on a boat, but they miss out on the real magic – exploring the caves, kayaking through hidden lagoons, and discovering secret beaches.

✅ The Fix:Choose a cruise or day tour that includes Surprise Cave, Luon Cave, or Dark & Bright Cave. If you’re feeling adventurous, hop in a kayak and paddle through the stunning limestone formations (just don’t drop your phone – it’s a long way down).

4. Thinking One Night Is Enough

⏳ The Mistake:Many travellers only book a day trip or a one-night cruise, thinking that’s enough time to see Ha Long Bay. Spoiler alert: it’s not. You’ll spend half the time in transit, and before you know it, you’re back on the bus wondering what just happened.

✅ The Fix:If you have time, do a 2-night cruise. You’ll get to visit more remote spots, enjoy quieter sunsets, and truly relax instead of feeling like you’re on a school field trip with a tight schedule.

5. Not Packing Smart (Or At All)

🎒 The Mistake:Packing for Ha Long Bay like you’re heading to a city break (jeans, trainers, and a fancy dinner outfit) is a rookie move. On the flip side, some people forget to pack anything at all, assuming the boat has everything (spoiler: they don’t always).

✅ The Fix:Bring light clothes, a swimsuit, sandals, sunscreen, a waterproof phone case, and motion sickness tablets (just in case). Also, don’t forget cash – some boats charge extra for drinks, and WiFi isn’t always reliable for digital payments.

Ready to Do Ha Long Bay Right?

Avoid these mistakes, and you’re in for an epic, stress-free trip filled with stunning landscapes, hidden caves, and unforgettable sunsets.

At Few Days Halong, we help visitors choose the best cruises, organise private tours, and plan seamless itineraries. Need help finding the perfect trip? DM us today! 😊