RV Angkor Pandaw
Halong Bay, Vietnam
Duration
11 days
Departure
Guaranteed
Star Rating
WHAT TO EXPECT
PANDAW Cruises offers luxury river cruises in Southeast Asia, including the Mekong and Irrawaddy rivers. Known for its intimate, boutique ships (30–60 cabins), the line emphasizes cultural immersion with guided excursions to remote destinations, including villages, markets, and temples. The ships feature colonial-style decor, spacious cabins, and all-inclusive services, such as meals, excursions, and drinks. PANDAW’s focus is on sustainability and providing personalized, high-quality service. Onboard, expect fresh local cuisine, educational programs, and a relaxed, peaceful atmosphere. Ideal for travelers seeking an enriching, off-the-beaten-path experience in a luxurious, small-ship setting. Best cruise seasons are from November to March, avoiding the rainy season.
RV Angkor Pandaw
11 Days / 10 Night - Halong Bay River Cruise
Day 1: Hanoi - Halong Bay
Transfer from Hanoi to Tuan Chau, Halong Bay (approximately 130km and 2.5-hour journey) by bus with a guide. Upon arrival, embark your Pandaw ship and enjoy lunch on board. Cast off in the afternoon with a welcome cocktail for an evening sail, dropping anchor in Coconut Beach a sheltered bay amidst the beautiful island scenery.
Day 2: Halong Bay
Morning sail around Halong Bay and beyond with its 1,500 dramatic limestone islands and extraordinary rock formations, dating back 1 approximately 20 million years. We make a stop at Viet Hai Village and continue our journey by mountain bike or electric buggy to visit the village's vegetable farm and typical village houses. 2 Enjoy a breathtaking ride along a small road winding its way through the limestone rocks. In the afternoon, we will continue cruising towards Lan Ha Bay for a visit to a floating fishing house. Weather 3 permitting, we will end the day with cocktails at 3-Peach Island's beautiful beach in Halong Bay.
Day 3: Halong Bay - Hai Phong
Our exploration of Halong Bay continues, and we stop at the so-called "Dark and Bright Cave." Take a kayak or a local basket boat rowed by fishermen and enter this 1 remarkable cave into an enclosed area similar to a crater. Bats can be heard in the cave, and massive stalagmites hang from the ceiling. In the afternoon, we leave Halong Bay and enter the river, where we drop anchor near Hai Phong.
Day 4: The King Thay River
Observe the lively and interesting life of the Kinh Thay river, a key commercial waterway. In the afternoon we visit Thanh Ha Commune, considered the origin of water puppetry in Vietnam. After a stroll or bicycle through the quaint village, we enjoy a private water puppet show set under shade by a beautiful pond of lotus and lilies, as it has been enjoyed for centuries. We continue cruising until late evening and drop anchor midstream.
Day 5: Day River
This morning, we sail along the Lower Red River and Day River while getting more acquainted with your expedition vessel during a ship tour. After lunch onboard, we head ashore to Co Chat village in Nam Dinh. Here, we visit local craftspeople who are making silk by hand and explore the local markets filled with exotic produce.
Day 6: Khanh Thien Village
We continue our exploration of the Red River Delta, cruising towards Ninh Binh before mooring at Khanh Thien Village. In the morning, we disembark and embark on a journey to Phat Diem, home to the magnificent Phat Diem Cathedral, a 19th-century Roman Catholic church showcasing a unique blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles. After lunch, explore Khanh Thien Village by local transportation or bicycle, discovering a host of local handicrafts including water hyacinth weaving and a variety of rice paper and cakes. Conclude the day with an enchanting performance by local artists showcasing ‘Chau Van’ singing, an ancient art form unique to this region.
Day 7: Ninh Binh
Discover ‘Halong on Land’ today as we visit Ninh Binh, and take small bamboo rowing boats through the magnificent limestone caves. Visitors traveling in September and October, or April and May will witness the valleys shine golden as the rice fields prepare for harvest. We then return to our ship and sail upstream on the Red River towards Hanoi.
Day 8: Hanoi
Dropping anchor in the bustling city of Hanoi, passengers will embark on a captivating journey through Hanoi, venturing beyond the typical tourist trail. Explore the historic Temple of Literature, a testament to Vietnam's Confucian roots, and gain a poignant understanding of the city's past at the Hoa Lo Prison. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Old Quarter, a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and aromas. Witness the unique spectacle of Train Street, sipping Vietnamese coffee as a train passes just inches away. Explore the local markets of Hang Da and Hang Gai Street and meet for transfer back to the RV Angkor at Thang Long Theatre.
Day 9: Bat Trang Ceramic Village
This morning, we visit Bat Trang ceramic village, a hub of ceramic production for generations. The ceramics made here are famous throughout Vietnam and adorn many homes both north and south. Before returning to the ship, a local dance troupe will treat us to a lion dance on the pier. This colourful and energetic dance is customary during festivals throughout Vietnam, most notably during Tet. We then set sail into the lesser visited upper Red River beyond Hanoi. We make a stop at a small village dedicated to the handmade production of Vietnam’s most famous headwear, the Non La conical hat before continuing to Thay Pagoda. Hardly known, yet with exquisite temples dating from the 11th century, we visit this beautiful temple beside a lake and explore the village that surrounds the pagoda.
Day 10: The Upper Red River
In the morning we go ashore to visit the UNESCO praised village of Duang Lam. This ancient village is a well preserved example of a traditional Vietnamese village from centuries ago with intricate architecture and fascinating culture. In the afternoon we visit the smith village of Ly Nhan to witness first-hand the traditional production methods still being used to this day. We then sail upstream for your farewell dinner onboard.
Day 11: Viet Tri
Disembark after breakfast and enjoy a morning excursion en route to Hanoi. We start with a visit to Hung Lo Temple, where we will be serenaded with traditional folk music and enjoy an exploration of this quaint traditional town. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant followed by a transfer to Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport or Hanoi City.
Additional Sailing Options
Seasonal Variations and Flexible Itineraries
This cruise offers diverse alternatives tailored to the season, with distinct upstream and downstream options. The itinerary described above serves as a sample of the standard journey, highlighting the experiences the cruise has to offer. Seasonal conditions and local events may influence the exact route and activities, ensuring each voyage is unique and adapted to provide the best possible adventure.
Enhance Your Journey with Optional Experiences
While the standard excursions are included, the cruise also offers a wide array of optional tours. From immersive local experiences and culinary adventures to engaging meet-the-local activities and scenic biking tours, these add-ons allow you to customize your itinerary. Tailor your journey to match your interests and create unforgettable moments along the Halong Bay.
Cruise Images
Cabins
Restaurant and Facilities
Cruise Activities
Maps and other infos
Inclusions
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Insider Experiences
Cycle or ride an electric buggy through Viet Hai Village in Halong Bay, visiting its vegetable farms and traditional homes while surrounded by stunning limestone landscapes.
In Thanh Ha, enjoy a private water puppet show performed in a tranquil lotus pond, offering a unique insight into this ancient Vietnamese art form.
Experience the Chau Van singing tradition in Khanh Thien Village, a mesmerizing local performance steeped in history and culture.
Visit the Bat Trang Ceramic Village, renowned for its pottery, and watch skilled artisans craft ceramics. End the visit with a lively lion dance celebration on the pier
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Accommodation
Enjoy a ten-night stay on board the cruise, with a range of cabin categories to suit different preferences.
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Meals
Daily breakfast
10 local lunches
10 local dinners
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Transport
Transfers between ports of embarkation and Hanoi International Airport at the start and end of the voyage.
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Touring
English speaking tour guide
All entrance fees
Gratuities to crew
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Pre-and Post Tours
Enhance your cruise experience with a wide range of pre- and post-tour options designed to make your vacation even more unforgettable. Whether you're looking for additional tours, hotel accommodations for extra nights, or extended explorations, there are plenty of flexible combinations available.
From guided sightseeing in nearby cities to immersive cultural experiences, these options allow you to tailor your journey to your interests. You can opt for leisurely stays or in-depth tours, ensuring that your trip is as relaxed or adventurous as you wish. Let us help you create the perfect itinerary with these exciting add-ons. Please contact us for more details and to customize your dream cruise experience.
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Disclaimer
Many cruise companies might operate various types of vessels. The itinerary and images provided represent the general category and classification of the cruise but do not guarantee a specific vessel. Variations may occur, and the exact vessel name will be confirmed upon booking for your final approval.
Each vessel typically offers a range of cabin categories. The images shown are general representations of the available cabins and do not guarantee the specific cabin you will receive. Options usually range from standard to suite cabins. Please consult with your advisor to discuss available options and associated costs.
All cruise itineraries are designed around a standard route. However, depending on the season, itineraries may be adjusted or, in some cases, may not operate. For the most up-to-date information and personalized assistance, please consult with our expert travel advisors.
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