Exploring the natural beauty of Halong Bay from the air offers a truly unique perspective. With a sightseeing flight over Halong Bay, you can enjoy stunning aerial views of the towering limestone karsts, emerald waters, and picturesque islands that make this UNESCO World Heritage site so famous. Taking a Halong Bay seaplane flight adds a memorable experience to your journey, whether you are just visiting for the day or planning a cruise. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of Halong Bay flights, what to expect, and how you can combine it with other experiences in the bay.
- Type of Flights
- What to Expect
- Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
- About the Seaplane
- Prices & Flight Schedule
- Combine with a Halong Bay Cruise
- Scheduled Flights
- Booking a Halong Bay Scenic Flight
Type of Flights at Halong Bay
1. Sightseeing flight
The scenic flight offers breathtaking aerial views of Halong Bay’s stunning landscapes. This short, yet memorable experience allows you to fly over the bay and capture a panoramic perspective of the famous limestone karsts and islands. You’ll get a low-altitude view, perfect for taking in the natural beauty up close. Learn more about what to expect during the flight in the What to Expect section.
2. Scheduled flights
There are also scheduled seaplane flights between Halong Bay and other destinations, such as Hanoi and Co To Island. These flights are ideal for those wanting to save time and enjoy a beautiful aerial view en route. For more details, read Scheduled Flights in Halong Bay.
What to Expect from a Flight by Seaplane in Halong Bay
1. The take-off
Before the flight, passengers receive a safety briefing and instructions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. One of the most thrilling moments of the sightseeing flight over Halong Bay is the take-off. The seaplane quickly gains speed and lifts off from the water at Tuan Chau Marina in less than 60 seconds. The landings are equally exhilarating, as the seaplane touches down smoothly on the shimmering waters of Halong Bay.
2. Low-altitude flight
Once in the air, the seaplane flies at a relatively low altitude, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the stunning landscapes below. You’ll have panoramic views of Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and the surrounding islands.
The limestone karsts, hidden fishing villages, and floating communities create a picture-perfect scene from above. The plane cruises at an altitude of 150 to 300 meters, providing excellent visibility. The pilots often give live commentary, highlighting the most beautiful areas of the bay during the flight.
3. Flight time
The typical Halong Bay flight lasts around 25 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views and capture the beauty of the bay.
4. Taking photos & videos
With such breathtaking scenery, you’re encouraged to take photos and videos throughout the flight. Passengers are allowed to bring cameras, tablets, and mobile phones on board. Since devices don’t need to be switched off during the flight, you can even share your experience instantly via social media or live stream the view to family and friends using mobile 4G.
Tips & Frequently Asked Questions About Halong Bay Scenic Flights
Is it safe to fly on a seaplane in Halong Bay?
Yes, flying on a seaplane in Halong Bay is very safe. The flights are operated by experienced pilots and adhere to strict safety protocols. Before every flight, passengers receive a detailed safety briefing.
Can I bring luggage on the seaplane flight?
Seaplanes used for scenic flights over Halong Bay have limited space for luggage. Generally, each passenger is allowed to bring a small carry-on bag with a maximum weight of 7 kg (15 lbs). If you have larger luggage, you may need to arrange for it to be stored at your hotel or another location on land. It’s best to check with the seaplane operator for their specific luggage policies and restrictions.
Is there a weight limit for passengers on the seaplane flight?
Yes, there is a weight limit for passengers on the seaplane flight in Halong Bay. The weight limit varies depending on the number of passengers and luggage on the flight. Typically, the weight limit per passenger is around 110 kg (242 lbs) including luggage. It is important to provide accurate weight information when booking the flight to ensure the safety of all passengers and the aircraft.
What is the best time of day to take a seaplane flight in Halong Bay?
The best time of day to take a seaplane flight in Halong Bay would depend on the type of experience you are looking for. The morning flights offer a fresh start to the day, and the sun illuminating the bay can make for some stunning views. However, the afternoon flights can offer the possibility of more dramatic lighting, as the sun sets over the horizon. Ultimately, the choice will depend on your personal preference and the availability of flights.
Are there any age restrictions for passengers on the seaplane flight?
There are no specific age restrictions for passengers on the seaplane flight in Halong Bay. However, for safety reasons, young children must be accompanied by an adult and infants under 2 years old are not allowed on board. It’s always best to check with the seaplane operator for their specific guidelines and requirements.
Can I take pictures during the seaplane flight?
Yes, passengers are allowed to take pictures during the seaplane flight. In fact, many people take advantage of the incredible views to capture stunning photos and videos of Halong Bay from above.
How many people can the seaplane accommodate per flight?
The seaplanes used for scenic flights in Halong Bay can accommodate up to 12 passengers per flight, depending on the specific aircraft and seating configuration.
What happens in case of bad weather?
In case of bad weather, seaplane flights in Halong Bay may be canceled or delayed for safety reasons. Passengers will be informed by the airline if there are any changes to the flight schedule. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before booking a seaplane flight and to have a backup plan in case of cancellations or delays. Most airlines have policies in place for rescheduling or refunding flights in case of cancellations due to bad weather.
How far in advance should I book my seaplane flight in Halong Bay?
It is recommended to book your seaplane flight in Halong Bay in advance, especially during the high season (from October to April), as availability may be limited. It is advised to book at least several days to a week in advance to ensure availability and secure your preferred date and time of flight. However, you may be able to book on shorter notice during the low season (from May to September) when demand is lower.
About the Seaplane
The seaplane used for Halong Bay scenic flights is the Cessna Grand Caravan EX, a modern turboprop aircraft with a capacity of 12 passengers. This aircraft is designed for regional flights and is equipped with both water and land takeoff capabilities. Its short takeoff and landing abilities make it ideal for operations in Halong Bay, where it seamlessly transitions between sea and air.
Passengers can enjoy large windows for unobstructed views of the stunning landscapes below, making the plane ideal for sightseeing flights over Halong Bay. The cabin is air-conditioned, and the comfortable seating ensures a smooth, enjoyable flight experience.
Prices & Flight Schedule
Below is the price and flight schedule for a sightseeing flight over Halong Bay. The flight departs from Tuan Chau Marina and lasts approximately 25 minutes.
| Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|
| 09:00 | 09:25 |
| 09:55 | 10:20 |
| 10:50 | 11:15 |
| 11:45 | 12:10 |
| 13:25 | 13:50 |
| 14:20 | 14:45 |
| 15:15 | 15:40 |
| 16:10 | 16:35 |
Price
- VND 2,000,000 per person (approximately $85 USD)
- Child fare: Children under 2 years old: VND 200,000/child; over 2 years old: 100% adult fare.
Additional details
- The price includes the Tuan Chau Port service fee (subject to change), insurance, and VAT.
- If you pay by credit card, a 2% transaction fee applies (no extra fee for direct or bank transfer payments).
- A minimum of 4 passengers is required for a flight to take place.
Combine a sightseeing flight with a Halong Bay Cruise
Combining a Halong Bay seaplane flight with a cruise is an excellent way to maximize your experience in Halong Bay. Most cruises in Halong Bay depart in the afternoon, typically around 1 PM, allowing you time to schedule your scenic flight either before or after the cruise.
Option 1: Morning scenic flight before the cruise
To take advantage of this, you can book a morning sightseeing flight over Halong Bay and then board your cruise in the early afternoon. Keep in mind that this may require you to depart Hanoi very early or stay overnight in Halong City or a nearby area to be ready for the morning flight.
Option 2: Scenic flight after your cruise
If you’re finishing your cruise in the morning, you can schedule your flight after returning to Tuan Chau Marina. Cruises typically return around 12 PM, so you’ll have enough time to enjoy a scenic flight in the afternoon before heading back to Hanoi or continuing your journey.
Important note!
Not all cruises depart from the same port. For example, cruises to Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay may depart from a different port than Tuan Chau Marina, where the seaplane takes off. Therefore, if you plan to combine a flight and a cruise, make sure your cruise departs from or returns to Tuan Chau Marina for a seamless experience.
Scheduled Flights
In addition to scenic flights, there are also scheduled seaplane flights that connect Halong Bay with other destinations. These flights not only provide a quick and comfortable way to travel but also offer spectacular views of Halong Bay and the surrounding areas from above.
Halong Bay to Co To Island
A scheduled flight from Halong Bay to Co To Island takes approximately 30 minutes, compared to the usual 2-hour journey by boat. During this flight, you’ll be treated to stunning aerial views of Ban Sen, Ngoc Vung, Quan Lan, Minh Chau, and the pristine waters of Bai Tu Long Bay. This quick flight saves time and gives you more opportunities to enjoy Co To Island’s natural beauty.
Hanoi to Halong Bay
Fly between Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport and Tuan Chau Island Marina, the main gateway for Halong Bay cruises. This seaplane flight takes about 45 minutes, significantly faster than the 4-hour journey by road. Along the way, you’ll experience breathtaking views of the Red River Delta and Halong Bay’s limestone formations before landing directly at the marina. This option is perfect for those looking to save time and add a luxurious touch to their trip.
Booking a Halong Bay Scenic Flight
Booking a sightseeing flight over Halong Bay is simple and can be easily arranged through Local Vietnam. We offer full-service packages that include transportation from Hanoi to Halong Bay, accommodation options, and the seaplane flight itself. Whether you’re planning a scenic flight only or want to combine it with a cruise, we can customize the itinerary to suit your preferences.
Local Vietnam can assist with:
- Arranging your Halong Bay seaplane flight, tailored to your schedule.
- Organizing transportation from and to Hanoi, either by private car or shuttle.
- Booking a cruise to combine with your flight for a seamless Halong Bay experience.
- Providing recommendations based on your budget and group size (family, couple, or solo traveler).
To book your Halong Bay flight or plan a complete trip, you can visit our website, check our Cruises & Tours in Halong Bay, or contact us directly for personalized assistance. We’ll help ensure you get the best experience, whether you’re just flying or embarking on a full Halong Bay adventure.
