Vietnam Day 6: Ha Long Bay (Part 3)

Still at the canoeing site,

Not too sure what species of seafood this is

After about an hour or so, the canoeing people returned to our junk boat and we proceeded on our journey.

Landforms and the sea

Lonesome boat

People canoeing

Our boat stopped at a patch of the sea where it is calm with the surrounding karsts blocking the waves from South China Sea. We were allowed to take a dip in the water after they tied the boat to a fixed buoy. Edwin decided not to swim in the open water and helped the rest of us take photos.

Trying to stay afloat

It was tiring as we have to keep paddling to keep afloat and we all did not stay too far away from the boat in case of any muscle cramps. We swam for a short while, climbed back up and decided to jump in from the 2nd storey. I plunged deep into the water and luckily no water went into my windpipe. It was a little scary but fun of course.

A Vietnam flag that is erected on every boat

We were at the top deck of the boat enjoying the sea breeze and the scenery as the weather is cooling and sunset is nearing.

We were watching the people from the other boat dive into the sea and it was hilarious. One guy was too afraid of diving in from the top deck and backed out many times. After numerous demonstrations and persuasions from his other boat people, he finally dived in.

You can see how each person jumped into the water

Wings or hands

He made a big splash i think, ha...

This guy finally jumped after numerous persuasions

Unfortunately, while we were having a great time watching them, Terence received the news of his grandfather's untimely demise. We assisted him by helping him check the earliest flight back to Singapore.

The night at Ha Long Bay was the most serene and reflective night I had. Passing by the uninhabited limestone karsts, cruising slowly in the bay, and the lack of noises from vehicles, bustling streets, etc, was immensely peaceful and the passing of Terence's grandfather made it poignant.

Sunset behind the karsts

Purple sunset

Small room

60 seconds exposure didn't manage to capture a clear image as the ship is moving gently

We had an early rest as we had to wake up quite early the next day.

End of Part 3 (4.30 pm to 10 pm)