Vietnam

Yacht Charter Vietnam

Vietnam's charter scene is concentrated almost entirely around Halong Bay, one of the world's most recognisable seascapes. KaterBlue lists 6 active yachts in Vietnam, a small but focused fleet built around this single, UNESCO-listed cruising ground.

Sailing Regions

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994, features over 1,600 limestone karsts and islets rising from emerald water, and is Vietnam's leading hub for private yacht charter, based from Tuan Chau Marina on the western side of the bay. Quieter alternatives nearby include Bai Tu Long Bay, a less-visited extension of the same karst formations with far fewer tour boats, and Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island, known for beaches, kayaking coves and a national park covering much of the island's interior.

Best Time to Sail & Wind

November to April is the dry season and the recommended charter window, when tradewinds are favourable for cruising among the karsts and rainfall is at its lowest.

Licence Requirements

Hiring a skipper or booking a fully crewed charter is the standard and recommended approach, given local navigation conditions and regulations. Private charter vessels are not permitted to anchor within Halong Bay's UNESCO core zone itself; charters typically berth at nearby anchorages such as Quang Ninh or Hon Gai, with guests transferring by local boat where needed.

Sample Itinerary (2-3 days)

Depart Tuan Chau Marina and cruise into Bai Tu Long Bay for a quieter first day among its limestone islets. Continue to Cat Ba Island to explore Cat Ba National Park, then into Lan Ha Bay for beach stops and kayaking among the karsts. Return to Tuan Chau Marina via the main Halong Bay channel.