The experience of viewing Ha Long Bay by seaplane has been available since 2014. Currently, there are 8 flight times throughout the day, from 9:00 AM to 4:10 PM.
The seaplane used for these tours is the Cessna Grand Caravan 208B-EX - one of the safest aircraft capable of water landings, according to AOPA, a community of pilots in 75 countries. When first introduced, the tour was priced between 2.4 to 2.9 million VND. The current price is 2 million VND for each 25-minute tour.
Boarding the Cessna of Halong Bay
Before the flight, passengers are briefed on safety regulations and undergo a weight check to ensure the maximum allowed load of 800 kg for passengers. Each journey can carry a maximum of 12 passengers along with two pilots.
From its parking spot at Tuan Chau harbor, the seaplane taxis down to the water surface of the bay, selects a suitable and safe imaginary runway before accelerating and taking off. The moment of takeoff may startle some passengers due to its suddenness.
Admire the pristine Halong Bay
During this journey, passengers have the opportunity to admire many highlights of Ha Long Bay, including Dau Be Island, Cong Do Island, and Bo Hon Island - a large archipelago that is home to many famous caves such as Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, Dong Tien Lake, and Trinh Nu Cave from an altitude of about 300 meters.
