Halong Bay is not a strange name to any travel lovers. With a system of beautiful islands, scattering islets, and amazing caves, it is considered a paradise of sites and entertainment. Here, you can enjoy various kinds of fun activities including snorkeling, scuba diving, trekking, parasailing, etc. Above all, diving in Halong bay is definitely one of the most interesting experiences in this unspoiled bay. Check out our guide to Halong bay diving below for more details!
I. Overview of Halong Bay Diving
Halong Bay is one of the new 7 wonders of nature, which attracts a lot of visitors to choose it as a destination to explore and escape from the hot summers. Based in the Gulf of Tonkin, Halong Bay is known as the pearl of this S-shape country Vietnam. The bay is famous for breathtaking landscapes of pristine beaches, emerald waters and limestone mountains surrounded by more than 1600 islands and islets.
Coming here, visitors have a chance not only to admire the beauty of seascapes but also enjoy wonderful water activities. Besides kayaking and swimming the two most popular activities in the bay, you can try diving or scuba diving. They will surely be your unforgettable experience.
Among intriguing activities, diving and scuba diving in Halong bay is noted for can’t-miss experiences. Scuba diving is an ideal choice for those who have a strong passion for discovery. These activities show you a brand new world under the water. With the diversity of biology, Halong Bay diving gives visitors a chance to witness thousands of marine animals and splendid coral reefs. Swimming in the water, you can freely follow colorful schools of fishes and touch impressive coral reefs.
Besides, for those who are so tired of normal busy life, diving here helps you refresh yourself, recharge your energy. You can enjoy peaceful moments under the freshwater before coming back to your life. That’s why many people choose this bay as an escaping spot.
II. Best Time To Dive in Halong Bay
The most ideal time for diving in Halong Bay is from May to November (or from Summer to Fall). During this period, the weather is the most favorable for this activity. Water temperature ranges from 25 degree Celsius to 29 degree Celsius. It means it is really warm and comfortable for immersing yourself in the waters of the bay. Besides, the water during this time is clear and you can explore underwater life clearly. In the winter, the weather in the North is too cold and the water temperature remains low, making it hard to dive in.
III. Where to Dive in Halong Bay?
Halong bay offers some great diving sites that you can reach by boat. But for some foreigners, it would be hard to know the best places to dive in the bay. So, let’s take a look at the below list of top 3 places to dive in Halong Bay.
1. Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay, with 300 islets, gives you many options for swimming and diving places. Some of the most popular diving spots where you can take part in this activity include Turtle Island, Nam Cat Island, and Monkey Island. Among them, Nam Cat island is the most ideal spot for diving and scuba diving. On the island, you can find the store that offers diving gears to start your diving. White sand beaches, cool weather, serene water makes your diving experiences more beautiful.
2. Cong Do Island
Cong Do island (Đảo Cống Đỏ) is just 25 km from Bai Chay Wharf, belonging to Bai Tu Long Bay. Covering an area of more than 23 square kilometers, it is one of the most beautiful islands in Halong bay that offer diving services. Clean and fresh water here create a healthy habitat for beautiful coral reefs to live and grow. Diving in Cong Do island gives you a chance to observe a divergence of mollusks, fish species, crustaceans and many other sea animals.
3. Vung Ha Island
Vung Ha Island is a large island right in the center of Bai Tu Long Bay, between Vung Vieng fishing village and Crescent island. The island is an amazing spot to go as there are no advertising sign boards and contemporary vehicles or shopping facilities, just you and untouched beaches. Vung Ha island boasts not only its breathtaking landscapes but also one in the few diving sites in Halong bay. The calm and clear water helps you easily explore the underwater world. There are many types of fishes and other sea animals living in this area, so don’t miss your chance to dive in this place.
Apart from above diving sites, there are also diving sites in Long Chau and Van Don islands which are not less interesting. In the summer, these sites are ideal for swimming, diving, and scuba diving with clear water and abundant marine life.
IV. Diving Tips
For first time divers, it is necessary to know basic information about diving. Diving involves the diver’s physical condition, water visibility, temperature, and various types of equipment and diving skills. Here are some tips for diving.
- Plan your diving trip clearly, estimate your bottom time and maximum depth.
- Ask for some tips from professional diving instructors.
- Use a diving helmet with umbilical gas supply for safer breath.
- Check the weather before diving to prevent potential risks.
- Slowly dive to admire the alluring charm of the hidden marine world in Halong bay.
- It is better to buy a diving tour from agencies. It is hard to find diving spots on your own.
Halong bay is always one of the best places in Northern Vietnam to relax and experience something new. Halong bay diving is the activity to try for anyone who loves to discover the underwater world. If you don’t know where to start your diving trip, don’t hesitate to contact Vietnamdiscovery.com for more consultation.
