Explore Vietnam’s most breathtaking wonder with Aime’e Cruises.
Few places in the world capture both the grandeur of nature and the poetry of legend the way Halong Bay does.
Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, northeast Vietnam, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to thousands of limestone karsts, emerald waters, and timeless stories passed down through generations.
For travelers seeking a refined way to discover its beauty, Aime’e Cruises offers an elegant journey — combining comfort, culture, and connection across the bay’s most iconic landscapes.
About Halong Bay – A World of Water and Stone
Location & Geography
Halong Bay (Vịnh Hạ Long) lies about 165 km east of Hanoi, covering over 1,500 square kilometers with nearly 2,000 limestone islands and islets rising from tranquil emerald waters.
Most of these islands are uninhabited, covered by lush greenery and shaped by millions of years of wind and water erosion.
The bay’s landscape is a karst masterpiece, formed over 20 million years — a unique combination of caves, lagoons, and towering cliffs found nowhere else in the world.
History, Culture & the Legend of the Descending Dragon
The name “Hạ Long” means “Descending Dragon.”
According to Vietnamese legend, dragons descended from the heavens to protect the land from invaders. The jewels they spat out turned into islands and cliffs, forming the natural fortress we see today.
Over centuries, Halong has been not only a natural wonder but also a place of cultural depth — home to ancient fishing villages, early archaeological sites, and stories interwoven with Vietnam’s spirit of harmony and resilience.
UNESCO recognized Halong Bay as a World Heritage Site in 1994 (for scenic beauty) and again in 2000 (for geological value) — a rare double distinction.
What to See in Halong Bay – Nature’s Masterpieces
Halong Bay is vast, but several highlights stand out as must-visits — all included in Aime’e Cruises’ carefully curated itinerary.
Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)
The largest and most magnificent cave in Halong Bay, located on Bo Hon Island.
Covering nearly 10,000 m², it features two vast chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites shaped like dragons, lotuses, and waterfalls.
Aime’e guests often describe this as a “cathedral of nature” — illuminated with soft light that enhances the cave’s surreal atmosphere.
Luon Cave
A natural sea tunnel about 60 meters long, opening into a hidden lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs.
Accessible only by kayak or bamboo boat (đò nan), it offers a tranquil, immersive experience.
Here, Aime’e guests glide under the archway into still waters — where time slows, and echoes of nature fill the air.
Ti Top Island
Famous for its panoramic viewpoint — a short climb leads to breathtaking 360° views of Halong Bay.
Below lies a crescent-shaped beach ideal for swimming or relaxing after the ascent.
Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace)
Known for its colorful stalactites and legend of the Dragon King’s wedding, this cave showcases Halong’s mythical beauty and vibrant formations.
Floating Villages & Local Life
Villages like Cua Van and Vung Vieng reveal the bay’s human side — generations of fishermen living harmoniously with the sea.
Things to Do in Halong Bay
Whether you’re an explorer, photographer, or dreamer, Halong Bay offers endless possibilities.
On Aime’e Cruises, guests can enjoy a perfectly balanced itinerary that blends exploration, relaxation, and culture:
- Morning Tai Chi on the sundeck as the first light touches the waves.
- Excursions to Sung Sot and Luon Caves with professional guides.
- Kayaking or bamboo boat rides through calm lagoons.
- Sunset cocktails at Amber Sky Bar — the bay glowing gold beneath your feet.
- Fine dining at Elysian Restaurant, where Vietnamese and Western flavors meet Indochine elegance.
- Spa treatments at Serene Spa, or an evening soak in the Sundara Jacuzzi Pool.
Each activity is designed to help guests not just see Halong Bay — but feel it, in comfort and peace.
When to Visit Halong Bay
Halong Bay can be visited year-round, but each season offers a different mood:
- Spring (March–May): Clear skies, calm waters — ideal for cruising and photography.
- Summer (June–August): Warm and lively, perfect for swimming and kayaking.
- Autumn (September–November): Cool, golden light — the best season for luxury sailing.
- Winter (December–February): Misty mornings and peaceful atmosphere, loved by photographers.
Aime’e Cruises operates throughout the year, offering unique seasonal menus, onboard décor, and curated experiences to match each mood of the bay.
Why Travel with Aime’e Cruises
In an era where large cruise ships dominate the bay, Aime’e stands apart with just 29 cabins — striking the perfect balance between privacy and spaciousness.
Owned and operated by Aime’e Yacht Company, and created by the legacy of Bai Tho Junks (a pioneer with over 30 years of experience in Halong Bay cruising), Aime’e was designed for travelers who value authenticity over scale.
Halong Bay is more than just Vietnam’s most famous seascape — it is a reflection of balance, beauty, and belonging.
And there is no better way to experience it than aboard Aime’e Cruises, where elegance meets authenticity.
