Vietnam Backpackers’ Halong Bay Cruise (Formerly Castaways) | 2 or 3 Days | from HANOI, VIETNAM

Practical info

What days does the trip depart?

The Castaways trip departs every single day of the week!

Where do I meet the group?

The trip departs from either of the Vietnam Backpackers Hostels in the Old Quarter of Hanoi. If you are staying at either of these hostels, please be downstairs in the reception at the times below. If you are staying at a different accommodation, make your way to your nearest hostel at the time stated.

• Vietnam Backpackers Original Hostel (48 Ngo Huyen Street, Hoan Kiem District) – 6.15 am – Google map here.
• Vietnam Backpackers Downtown Hostel – (9 Pho Ma May Street, Hoan Kiem District) – 6.30 am – Google map here.

If you are already in Halong Bay, you can meet the rest of the group at Ben Boa Port Cat Ba at 11.30 am to board the boat to the island. You would first need to purchase the trip on this website and then add a note to your booking to advise the team to wait for you at the port.

Can I stay in Halong Bay after the tour has finished?

If you would like to remain in Halong Bay after the tour has finished rather than returning to Hanoi, please state at the time of booking.

Do I have to reconfirm my place on the tour?

Yes, you must reconfirm your place on the tour 24 hours before the tour departs either at the Travel Desk in the foyer of the hostel. Here, you will need to ‘check-in’ for the tour, sign the terms and conditions and purchase your cashless wrist band.

As you will pay only a deposit on this website, you will need to pay the remaining balance of the trip at the hostel before departing for your adventure 24 hours before.

If you are arriving to the hostel less than 24 hours before the departure time of the tour full payment must be made to confirm your booking directly to Vietnam Backpackers Hostels. If this is the case, please state at the time of booking and a member of the team will contact you to advise you how to pay the remaining balance.

What is the food like during the tour?

You will be eating a Vietnamese buffet prepared on the island by local cooks. The emphasis is on fresh food wherever possible and meals are nutritious and varied. If you are vegetarian, have food allergies or do not eat seafood, please add a note at the time of booking. If you have very specific dietary needs, please also specify. All meals are included in the price.

How fit do I have to be?

The activities on the island are optional, though a reasonable level of fitness and swimming ability is preferable to fully enjoy the experience. If you enjoy kayaking through caves, swimming in sheltered bays, rock climbing in national parks and directly experiencing the environment then this tour is perfect for you! If you have any doubts about your suitability for the trip, please contact us.

Do I have to participate in all activities?

In order to fully enjoy the trip, full involvement is encouraged, but all the activities are optional and no one is going to force you to do something you don’t want to do.

How much luggage can I take?

Due to limited vehicle space and the nature of island accommodation, you should try to limit yourself to a maximum of 15 kg in a backpack or overnight bag.

Can I store luggage at the hostel

You can leave a larger backpack and any valuables in a safe storage locker at the hostel back in Hanoi if you like.

What should I bring with me?

Recommended packing list – Passport. swim-suit, towel, light clothes, flip flops, sturdy trainers or hiking shoes, sunscreen, toiletries, raincoat for rainy season, warm sweater for the cooler months, mosquito repellent, camera, torch, a healthy appetite and a good attitude!

Can I bring my own drinks?

No. There is a fully licensed and stocked bar on the island and for safety reasons, you are not permitted to take your own alcohol. This ensures responsible drinking practices with measured amounts of real, quality alcohol. The hostel staff reserve the right to confiscate any contraband found and remove any individual from the island without refund if they are putting themselves or others at risk.

Conditions of Travel and Liability

In circumstances beyond the control of Vietnam Backpacker Hostels and the associated tour operators, such as weather conditions, mechanical failure, and/or restrictions placed by the National Park Authorities, we reserve the right to alter the route or itinerary of any of the tours. No refunds will be given in these circumstances, or in the event of any delay, curtailment or alteration of the trip.

Whilst Vietnam Backpackers Hostels make every effort to safeguard their clients and their belongings, they cannot be held responsible for personal injury or loss due to events beyond our control. They also cannot be held liable for operations conducted by local contracted service providers. Due to circumstances beyond their control, they cannot guarantee pick-up and drop-off times and are not liable for passenger failure to connect with other transport, such as flights, or any associated costs incurred.