I Booked a Luxury Cruise in Vietnam and Was Shocked by What I Found

Ha Long Bay Vietnam is one of the most famous destinations in the world, but is a Ha Long Bay cruise still worth it with all the crowds? We discovered Bai Tu Long Bay, a quieter alternative where we experienced a 5-star overnight cruise in Vietnam with almost no other boats in sight.

Instead of the crowded side of Ha Long Bay, we wanted to see if Bai Tu Long Bay might actually be the better way to experience this incredible part of northern Vietnam.

We boarded a 5-star luxury cruise and rated the entire experience on the boat, food, excursions, crowds, and value to answer one question: Is this really a 5-star experience—and is it worth the price?

Along the way, we explore Vung Vieng Floating Fishing Village, learn how pearls are cultivated at a pearl farm, cruise beneath towering limestone karsts, experience traditional Vietnamese music, practice Tai Chi in the rain, explore Thiên Cảnh Sơn Cave, visit a secluded beach, and eat our way through multiple Vietnamese meals.