Cong Do is the name cruise operators use for the eastern area of Ha Long Bay where it merges into Bai Tu Long. It is a zone of dense karsts, enclosed lagoons and small sandy coves that has been kept free of the big day-trip routes.
Several quieter overnight cruises spend their afternoon here, anchoring for kayaking and swimming before continuing into Bai Tu Long. If you see “Cong Do” in an itinerary, it is a good sign that the boat avoids the crowded central loop.
Top things to do at Cong Do Area
Kayak between the islands
The sheltered water between the karsts is ideal for beginners. Paddle into the lagoons at high tide, when some arches and tunnels are passable.
Swim from the boat or a cove
In summer the water is warm and calm. Swimming is allowed only where your crew says so.
Watch sunset from deck
Anchored overnight in this area, the sun goes down behind the western karsts with few other boats in sight.
How to get to Cong Do Area
- By cruise: Cong Do is only reached by boat on cruise itineraries from Ha Long. Check the programme of your chosen cruise.
Insider tips
- Tides matter: kayaking routes change between morning and afternoon.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a dry bag for your phone.
Best tours & cruises for Cong Do Area
These top-rated experiences are the easiest way to see Cong Do Area and the bays around it:
Overnight cruise from €118 From Hanoi: 2-Day Ha Long Bay & Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise
The most-booked overnight cruise that actually leaves the crowded Ha Long loop. You board at the international cruise port in Ha Long, sail east into Bai Tu Long, kayak and swim in the afternoon, eat a set dinner on board and wake up to karsts with almost nobody else around.
- Quieter route into Bai Tu Long with fewer boats
- Kayaking, swimming and a hidden cave
- Round-trip transfer from Hanoi’s Old Quarter
Luxury overnight cruise from €110 Hanoi/Ninh Binh: 2-Day Ha Long & Bai Tu Long Bay 5-Star Cruise
A small, well-run five-star boat that spends its time in Bai Tu Long rather than queuing at Ha Long’s famous stops. Cabins are comfortable, the food is a clear step up from mid-range boats and the 4.9 rating over hundreds of reviews is remarkably consistent.
- Small five-star boat, well-reviewed cabins
- Caves, kayaking and a sunset on deck
- Pickup from Hanoi or Ninh Binh
Day trip or overnight cruise from €43 Hanoi: Ha Long & Bai Tu Long Bay 1 or 2-Day Cruise
A flexible option that runs the same quieter Bai Tu Long route as a long day trip from Hanoi or as an overnight. The day version is the cheapest way to see this side of the bay from the capital.
- Choose a day trip or an overnight
- Swimming, kayaking and caves
- Cooking class on board
