Masterpiece of ship building becomes regal palace afloat. Santa Maria Cruiser is the archetype of those traditional Vietnamese sailing vessels originally manufactured for the kingdom on the mystical bay of the descending dragon. Every detail is reminiscent of the era when craftsmenship existed for the sake of excellence and honor.
Lavishly designed and decorated to symbolize nobility, together with the most up-to-date technology, Santa Maria blends gracefully a timeless tradition with a rich array of leisure amenities and contemporary luxury indulgence.
Embark on your own memorable adventure in this relaxing royal extravagance! A complete cruising experience on one of the most beautiful palaces afloat in the mystical bay:Santa Maria Cruiser.
Day 1: Hanoi to Bai Tu Long Bay. (lunch & dinner)
Explore Cong Do Archipelagoes, and an archaeological cave
7.45: You will be picked up by Go Asia Travel’s guides at your hotel in Hanoi for a coach driving 175 km to Hon Gai Harbor, Halong City (3,5hr). Short break on the way. Welcome aboard. Set sail to cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay wends among otherworldly karst formations and opens up views of one stupendous seascape after another whist an exquisite lunch is served in the single-seating restaurant or outdoor lounge in a relaxing ambiance.
The only way to describe Bai Tu Long is as relentlessly spectacular. Incredible rock formations rise out of jade green water, every turn brings another surprise and secret passages lead to hidden lagoons and magical sea caves which providing chances to admire a collection of sculpted islets with incredible shapes resembling: Lion, Tea Pots, Toads, Swans, and Elephants.
Drops anchor at an exotic cove amid dramatic natural sceneries of Cong Do Archipelagoes. These are pristine places with unique ecosystems; they are rarely visited. Set off on a kayak, after a lesson from our expert on how to paddle safely, you will kayak amidst a maze of incredible rock formations rising majestically from jade-green water, every turn brings new surprise. Secret passages leading to hidden lagoons and magical sea caves with a unique ecosystem which providing changes to get close to sea creatures and coral reefs.
Explore Hang Thay (Thay Cave) and enjoy interesting stories about traces of ancient people who lived here thousand years ago. More paddling to visit a exotic sandy dune for a leisure swim. There will be time to savor a famous cocktail aboard before the first of several beautiful bay sunsets. Dressing up for a fabulous dinner then sinking into one of our lounge sofas; a perfect moment for discussions on the next day’s exploration. Alternatively, trying squid fishing with our Santa Maria crew.
Day 2: Bai Tu Long Bay To Hanoi. (Breakfast, lunch)
Explore a well-hidden cave and interact with fisher folk's unique culture
At the break of dawn, explore an remote cave on Thien Canh Son moutain. Walk up the summit for breath-taking views dotted with Santa Maria's brown sails before setting sail for the seldom-visited southern area of Bai Tu Long Bay, Vung Vieng archipelagoes.
Enjoying a delightful moment savoring a sunrise breakfast served by our white-glove waiters. By that time our concierge manager would be ready to arrange excursions for guests. Set off on sampan-boats rowed by local girls. We visit Vung Vieng floating village of fishing folk who live their whole lives aboard tinny huts. Prepare present like: pens, notebooks and candies, we meet children in school class and talk with local people on their fishing farms and pearl farms.
Return on board. Check out. Enjoy Vietnamese cooking demonstration. A gourmet lunch will be served whilst the cruiser keeps on its route through the Bay back to Hon Gai Port. Disembark for 3,5 hour road trip back to Hanoi. 17.30: Drop at your hotel to end service.
Highlights:
* Authentic discoveries from a magnificent palace afloat
* Relaxing in total comfort
* Savoring our sublime culinary delights
* Do as little or as much as you wish
* Sleep aboard the most luxurious sailing vessel, away from tourist crowds
* Exploring a primitive floating village of fisher folk in Vung Vieng
* Kayak through water tunnels to discover hidden lagoons
* Climbing up summit mountain for breath-taking views dotted with Santa Maria's brown sails.
Rate: From 158 USD/person (email: info@goasiatravel.com for the best price and all details)
Tour includes
* Experienced English speaking guide escorted from Hanoi
* Talented chef
* Entrance fees, and sightseeing tickets
* Three lavish meals and one breakfast
* Two free bottles of mineral water (in your room), tea, coffee and seasonal fruits
* Excursion to floating village on a rowing-sampan boat
* 2-seater sea kayak, life jackets for children are available
* Modern coach from and back Hanoi, pick up and drop at your hotel
Note:
* Price is based on 2 person sharing a state room
* Single occupancy surcharge 70% of the original fares
* Passengers over 9 years old charge 100% of original rate
* Child Passenger from 4 - 8 years old charge 70% of original rate (sharing cabins with parents)
* Child Passenger under 4 years old free of charge (sharing cabin with parents)
* Life jackets for children are available
* Itineraries depend on weather conditions and could be changed accordingly.
Things to bring: Original passport, Sun block, sun glasses, camera & film, insect repellent, wide brim hat, swimming costumes, and extra money for drinks.
