Stay out on the bay after dark for a traditional squid-fishing session by lantern light, then greet dawn with a tai chi master on the sun deck as mist lifts off the limestone towers — a deeply local ritual few visitors ever experience.
What to expect
As night falls over the bay, your crew dims the lights and drops bamboo rods over the stern — the glow of the boat's lanterns draws squid to the surface in hypnotic silver flashes. It is meditative, social, and unexpectedly thrilling. The catch goes straight to the galley for a late-night snack. At dawn, a certified tai chi instructor leads a slow-motion session on the sun deck as golden light filters through the limestone towers and cormorants skim the surface. Breakfast follows: pho, fresh fruit, Vietnamese coffee.
Good to know
Exclusively available on overnight cruises — requires a ship with an overnight Ha Long Bay port stay. Squid fishing typically begins around 9:00 pm; tai chi at 6:00–6:30 am. Pack a light jacket for the evening on deck. Pre-book your overnight berth well in advance; boutique vessels of this calibre have very limited availability.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Ha Long Bay — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Ha Long Bay
- Private Seaplane Flight Over Ha Long Bay's Limestone Karsts
- Sung Sot & Luon Cave Private Junk Cruise with Kayaking
- Bai Tu Long Bay: Private Seaplane Transfer & Kayak Expedition
- Lan Ha Bay Boutique Overnight Cruise: Kayak, Bike & Private Balcony
- Yen Tu Sacred Mountain: Private Guided Pilgrimage & Cable Car
- Private Full-Day Hanoi City & Old Quarter Shore Excursion
- Quang Ninh Museum & Ancient Dong Trieu Citadel Private Tour
- Ti Top Island Beach Escape & Panoramic Summit Hike