Vung Vieng fishing village is a newly emerging tourist destination that has made a lasting impression on travelers. It showcases the gorgeous natural scenery and romantic homeland of Halong Bay cruises and preserves many unique cultural values. The village’s isolation and traditional way of life offer visitors a glimpse into the centuries-old culture and customs of coastal Vietnam. Let’s take a look at all the information you need to know before visiting this charming fishing village with Halong Junk Cruise!
Location & History of Vung Vieng fishing village
Vung Vieng fishing village, about 24 km from the mainland, in the center of Bai Tu Long Bay, possesses a pleasant, peaceful location with breathtaking scenery.
In the 19th century, Vung Vieng fishing village started to gain attention when old fishermen began docking their ships here to trade food. This trade involved not only residents but also foreign merchants, particularly those from China, who lived about 100 km away from the village. Today, the village is home to around 50 multigenerational families and approximately 300 inhabitants, who rely on aquaculture and natural resources for their livelihoods.
As Vung Vieng fishing village became a tourist attraction in Halong Bay, the local community has actively embraced tourism, with many becoming tour guides to showcase the village to visitors. Thanks to tourism activities, the living standards of the locals have significantly improved in recent years.
When is the best time to visit?
The most ideal time to visit Vung Vieng Fishing Village is likely during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) seasons. These months offer mild temperatures, lower humidity, and less rainfall compared to the hotter, wetter summer months.
Moreover, the peak tourist season in Halong Bay is during the summer months of June to August, when schools are out and many travelers visit. If you prefer to avoid the largest crowds, it’s best to visit in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. The winter months can also be a good time to visit, as there are fewer tourists, but the weather may be cooler and less ideal for boat tours.
The beauty of Vung Vieng
The beauty of Vung Vieng stems from the harmonious coexistence of rafts and floating houses. Travelers to the area are sure to be overwhelmed by the bamboo nets adorning the doorsteps, the small boats, and the happy, dark-skinned children.
If you’re lucky, you may have the chance to listen to the melodic voices of boys and girls as they work at sea. Their sweet, tender voices reverberate across the water. The daily lives of the locals in Vung Vieng fishing village and the activities on the water are unique cultural highlights found only in Halong Bay.
What you can do in Vung Vieng?
See and experience the local lives in the fishing village
Vung Vieng is a fishing village with unique architecture. All houses in Vung Vieng are floating on the water, surrounded by rafts and boats of different shapes.
The locals’ daily activities are closely linked to the water and the stunning limestone islands. Most of their daily tasks revolve around fishing – men go out in the morning for fishing, while women and children help mend nets, sort catches, and sell products. Visiting this village, you’ll see busy yet hospitable fishermen who always wear a smile.
You’ll be amazed by the beauty of the colorful boats, the unique fishing nets in front of the houses, and the smiling fishermen and children. Additionally, you can experience the daily lives of the fishermen, including kayaking, traveling, and enjoying the scenic village. Local fishermen will even teach you how to cast nets, trawl, and handle the catch.
Night tour in Vung Vieng
If you have more spare time, we advise you to participate in the tour of Vung Vieng Night. It is your great opportunity to admire and enjoy the indigenous cultural values and, especially, experience the morning in Vung Vieng fishing village—definitely amazing during your stay in Halong Bay.
The picture of small boats, gently in the early morning mist, waving out to sea along with these boats up and down, will cast glamour over travelers. As the night falls, under the light of moonlight and oil lamps, you will take a seat on the small boats to listen to love singing vocals, go fishing with fishermen, experience night squid fishing, or drop lanterns.
Admire Cao Cave – the entrance of the village
Cao Cave is found at the entrance to the inlet where the floating village of Vung Vieng is nestled. The cave boasts a massive, cathedral-like entrance that rises dramatically from the water, flanked by towering limestone walls. Standing over 50 meters tall, it creates a breathtaking first impression as you approach the fishing village by boat.
For the fishing families of Vung Vieng, Cao Cave is an important “gateway” to their floating community. Passing through the grand cave entrance by boat symbolizes a transition into the unique world of the fishing village. The cave has also become an iconic part of the Vung Vieng experience.
Join beach cleanups with fishermen in Vung Vieng
When you visit the Vung Vieng Fishing Village in Halong Bay, Vietnam, you can help protect the environment alongside local fishermen. The villagers regularly arrange beach cleanup events and invite visitors to join in. They work together to collect and properly dispose of trash along the shorelines, both in the fishing village itself and on the nearby islands and beaches of Halong Bay.
These events also aim to raise awareness about environmental issues. Fishermen share their experiences dealing with pollution and stress the importance of preserving the bay’s natural resources. This helps visitors and the local community understand the environmental challenges and the community’s dedication to sustainability.
How to get to Vung Vieng fishing village?
The best way to travel here is by taking a Halong overnight cruise. Then, you go by a small boat to reach the village. Many tour operators and cruise companies offer day trips or multi-day itineraries that include a visit to Vung Vieng as part of a broader Halong Bay experience.
Suggested Halong Bay cruises that offer a visit to Vung Vieng fishing village:
- Dragon Legend Cruise: Traditional decoration, suitable for those who love exploring Vietnamese cultures, price from $179 per person
- Signature Royal Cruise: modern style, very suitable for families with triple or connecting rooms, price from $135 per person
- La Regina Royal Cruise: a combination of traditional oriental value & various styles of luxury, private Jacuzzi guarantee in each cabin, price from $134 per person
Above is all you need to know for a perfect trip to Vung Vieng fishing village. Depending on your interests, you can alter it to find the best cruise to visit this charming village by contacting us. Our team of travel experts will always welcome you warmly to make your best experiences!
From Halong Junk Cruise Team, a brand of Indochina Voyages!
