Does Halong Bay get rough?

Thanks to its sheltered position, Halong Bay's water surface is generally calm and clean, except for a two-month stormy summer season. While soaking in the green waters, you can take in splendid panoramic views of green limestone islands and white cruise ships, which contribute to the tranquil ambiance of the bay.

Is the sea rough in Halong Bay?

The calm waters of Halong Bay

One key factor differentiating Halong Bay from other destinations is its calm waters. Unlike open seas or rough coastal areas, Halong Bay is a coastal area covered by thousands of small islands. So, Halong Bay's tranquil waters offer a smooth sailing experience.

Will I get seasick on Halong Bay?

With its calm water, Halong Bay really acts as a shield that stops all the violent wave, so it”s hard to get sea sick in Halong Bay.

Why can't you swim in Halong Bay?

The water in Halong Bay is very clean. Since Halong Bay became the World Heritage site, the residents here take extra care and be more responsible in maintaining the beauty of the bay. Remember to follow the lifeguard's instructions, it's best to check with them first if it's ok to swim.

When to avoid Halong Bay?

Stormy season (June – August) – Reasons to avoid

Ha Long Bay always holds an enchanting beauty, but it doesn't always offer visitors the most perfect experiences. The worst time to visit Ha Long Bay is when the sky is overcast, persistent rain blankets the area, and rough waves blur the magnificence of nature.

Halong Bay: Must-See or Overrated? Pros and Cons for Travelers

Is Halong Bay safe at night?

Consider safety standards carefully before taking an overnight boat trip on Halong Bay. Overcrowding and poor safety standards have led to accidents in past years. Some boats have sunk quickly and without warning. Piracy in coastal areas of Vietnam is very rare.

Which month is best for Halong Bay?

The peak season falls on December and January - the months that coincide with Christmas and New Year break. Other months that also see busy lines of travellers include October, November, February, March and April. During these months, the weather is also most suitable to visit Halong Bay.

Are there sea snakes in Halong Bay?

According to a French newspaper article, they reported sighting giant sea snakes in the bay. The appearance of these creatures, resembling dragons in Asian mythology, inspired the naming of the area as Halong Bay. The etymology of Ha Long also sheds light on the linguistic diversity present in Vietnam.

Is there jellyfish in Halong Bay?

At beaches passengers must stay within the netted area designated for swimming. Passengers must be aware of the occasional presence of jellyfish in Halong Bay.

What creatures live in Halong Bay?

Halong Bay also has ecosystem of tropical rain forests with various rare and precious creatures: deer, weasels, squirrels and in particular, white-tabby and red-haired monkeys.

Is there malaria in Halong Bay?

There is a low/no risk of malaria in Hanoi and Halong Bay, so no malaria tablets are required for these areas as opposed to other part of Vietnam where malaria is present.

Is it cold on a Halong Bay cruise?

Cold and dry Winter (November to February)

It is possible to take a boat cruise in Ha Long Bay in winter, but it may be considerably colder compared to spring and autumn months. The highest temperature reaches to only 20^oC, while the temperature can drop to about 8^oC.

Where to sit on a ferry to avoid sea sickness?

Avoid sitting towards the bow (the pointy bit of the ship)

The ship goes up and down the most towards the bow. Find a seat towards the stern (the back of the ship) and the movement will be less. This may help avoid or reduce sea sickness.

Where is the roughest sea?

The Drake Passage is so infamously rough from the fact that currents at this latitude meet no resistance from any landmass, anywhere on the planet. Coupled with the area's propensity for high wind, a crossing of the Drake Passage can be quite the adventurous exploit.

Is there squid in Halong Bay?

You can try squid fishing in Halong Bay during any season, but your chances of catching more squid increase during their breeding season. According to local fishermen who know these waters best, the prime squid season in Halong Bay runs from late autumn to early spring (September to February).

What to wear in Halong Bay?

Clothes: You will need at least 3 set of clothes: for casual day wear, for evening wear and for swimming if you plan to do so. If you travel between May and October, it is fine to bring shorts and skirts and short sleeve shirts. For the rest of the year, bring extra sweaters since Halong Bay can get quite cold.

Are there crocodiles in Halong Bay?

Crocodiles are not native to Halong Bay or the surrounding region. The wildlife in Halong Bay mainly consists of marine creatures such as fish, squid, and various species of birds.

Is swimming in Halong Bay safe?

Swimming in Halong Bay can be perfectly safe and incredibly rewarding when done properly. The emerald waters nestled among ancient limestone karsts create an unforgettable experience, but safety should remain your top priority.

Does Vietnam have box jellyfish?

Chironex fleckeri, commonly known as the Australian box jelly, and nicknamed the sea wasp, is a species of extremely venomous box jellyfish found in coastal waters from northern Australia and New Guinea to Indonesia, East Timor, Cambodia, Malaysia and Singapore, the Philippines and Vietnam.

Are there dolphins in Halong Bay?

In addition to the colourful rainbows of fish, the bays are also home to larger animals such as seals and dolphins.

What sea has the most snakes?

Sea snakes are mostly confined to the warm tropical waters of the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean, with a few species found well out into Oceania.

Are there turtles in Halong Bay?

Take a dive trip to the coral reefs and watch marine creatures like starfish, sea horses, and sea turtles through the clear water. You can also explore the underwater grottos and intricate cave systems that shelter entire ecosystems.

Is it better to stay in Halong Bay or Cat Ba Island?

If you're choosing between Cat Ba Island or Halong Bay, Cat Ba Island offers a wider range of activities and easy access to the Halong Bay area via Lan Ha Bay. While it's easy to get to Halong Bay with a cruise package from Hanoi, Cat Ba Island has more to offer.

What is the coldest month in Halong Bay?

January is one of the driest and coldest months in Halong Bay, with an average temperature of 17°C. Early mornings often feature light fog, creating a mystical atmosphere. Rain is rare, making it a great time for sightseeing, seaplane tours, and hiking.