Adventurous Halong Bay cruise for young adults

My boyfriend and I will be in Vietnam in July 2018. We are looking to do a 3d/2n cruise in halong bay (from Hanoi). 1) We are in our mid 20s and very active. We would like to do a cruise that includes some activities like kayaking, hiking, biking, swimming, snorkeling, etc. 2) Something with a fun atmosphere would be preferred (maybe stay away from cruises with young children or older adults) 3) Good local food and plenty of drinks would be a great. Any recommendations? Also, should we book a couple weeks in advance, or wait until a couple days before so that we know what the weather will be like?

See this thread...

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/thorntree/forums/asia-south-east-asia-mainland/vietnam/vietnam-ha-long-bay-and-border-crossing-into-cambodia

One night on junk and one night on Cat Ba island for a 3D2N tour.

1 night is enough on a Junk.

Be careful Kayaking, you don't read about the tourist that die or are caught in tide surges in caves etc...

1 night is enough on a Junk.

Be careful Kayaking, you don't read about the tourist that die or are caught in tide surges in caves etc...

That would be the OP's choice, once did Cat Ba and twice I've opted to stay on the boat, once time we just anchored for the day, next trip we went back to original port and picked up others...enjoyed all 3 options.
I would have to say the chance of being hit with a tidal surge is very, very small if its ever even happened. There is no mention of any happenings in a google search. Link please. The caves that I passed thru by kayak are no more than 100 metres long.

High Tide, is a tidal surge, when you are in a cave and the water rises dramatically, due to the channel funneling water ingot the cave area. Kayaking on a water surface that is changing hourly due to a tide, requires more risk taking when you are in a cave or enclosed area with limited height.

Wait until you are there to book. No need to book early.

You should travel to Halong - and should experience Halong Bay Overnight Cruise tour. My suggestion is Paloma Cruise, however, there are also many other options for you.
https://vietnamdestinations.xyz/halong-bay-overnight-cruise-exciting-experiences-of-a-wanderlust-guy/

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