Ha Long Travel Forum

I looked on Handspan's website and it was about $188/person for a 3 day/2 night. Would it be cheaper to book when I'm in Hanoi rather than the internet? As well, does anyone know if either Handspan or another company would rent boats as both myself and my partner are experienced kayakers and outdoors people and have guided trips in the past.

Hi,
I answered a question like that yesterday. Last year I arranged in Hanoi a 3D2N tour to Ha Long, all inclusive, for USD 32/person. I had a great time, so I can't imagine where is the difference to pay that multiplied by 6. Sounds crazy.
I arranged a kayak tour once in Cat Ba, paid USD 7 and spend 4 hours rowing with a private guide. The island are very look alike and you can have a bad time finding your way back on your own. The kayak tours arranged from Hanoi where much poorer, just a couple of hours around an island and the boat.
Check my Ha Long page, there's some info about it there.
Enjoy,
Rafa

Hi,
Have you checked their program that camping one ninght on the boat and one night on the island?
It was great !
Hien

Thanks a lot. I guess what we should do is just book our transportation so we get down there, and then, book the kayaking portion separately. We really aren't too fussy on that part of the trip.

Do you remember the company that you booked the kayak in Cat Ba, or are there a number of different companies to choose from (can you also book kayaks in Halong Bay). Not even concerned about a guide. If they have proper maps, we'd be able to navigate the islands as we've got lots of experience. We definitely want to stay away from travelling with a group as they'd be so slow for us and usually designed for beginners.

Thanks.