Kayaking is the use of a kayak for moving across water. Kayaking and canoeing are also known as paddling. Kayaking is distinguished from canoeing by the sitting position of the paddler and the number of blades on the paddle. A kayak is defined by the International Canoe Federation (the world sanctioning body) as a boat where the paddler faces forward, legs in front, using a double-bladed paddle. Most kayaks have closed decks, although "sit-on-top" kayaks are growing in popularity, as are inflatable kayaks which come without decks but which have air chambers surrounding the boat.

Day 1 : Hanoi - Cat Ba Island

Our adventure begins today with a 0630 start! We depart Hanoi bound for Hai Phong, about two hours drive from Hanoi. From here we board a ferry for the ride to Cat Ba Island situated in the World Heritage listed Halong Bay. Once on Cat Ba island we will check into our guesthouse followed with the chance to visit the Cat Ba National Park, the old military hospital cave and the local markets. This afternoon we will spend some time getting aquatinted with our guides and instructors as well as becoming accustomed to our Kayaking equipment in preparation for the days ahead. In the evening our guides will show you the best place for fresh local seafood and the chance for some fun in one of the many local Karaoke bars.

Day 2 : Ba Cat Beach

Today sees us setting off for about two to three hours paddling amongst some of the most stunning scenery Vietnam has to offer. Our destination is the deserted beach of Ba Cat, and it is here that we will be spending our second night. Once there, we will set up our camp and then have time to go exploring the surrounding area in our kayaks and swimming in some of the lagoons. This evening, after our local cooks have prepared the evening meal we will be able to share some cultural exchanges with our local guides and support staff.

Day 3 : Titop Island

After a hearty breakfast we break camp, load all the camping equipment onto the support vessel and then have approximately 3 hours of paddling to reach today's destination of Titop island. After arriving at Titop island we will board our support vessel for lunch, and then, for those who wish, we can do some more exploration of the area around the island. Tonight our cooks will prepare the evening meal on board where we will also spend the night.

Day 4 : Quan Lan Island

Today is a day for R&R! Following breakfast we weigh anchor and cruise the emerald waters of Halong Bay aboard the support vessel. Around lunchtime we arrive at one of the most beautiful, untouched islands in Halong Bay. Quan Lan island. A scrumptious, fresh, local seafood lunch will be served on board before going ashore and setting up camp for the night. For those who still yearn activity and exercise there is the chance to once again, explore the surrounding area with the Kayaks. If lazing around on an isolated beach, with a good book, and working on your tan is more your scene, then this is the place for you.

Day 5 : Quan Lan

Without the hustle and bustle of urban life and the absence of telephones, relaxation is the order of the day! After a sleep in or an early morning stroll along the beach there will be free time for swimming or kayaking. This afternoon we will visit a fishing village and meet the people who live here for an insight into local customs and cultures. This will be a cultural experience for both parties as these people have rare contact with foreigners. Tonight we spend a second night at our beach camp.

Day 6 : Ha Long City

After breakfast we break camp, load all the equipment onto the support vessel and bid our isolated island paradise farewell. Today we have a seven-hour cruise on the support vessel back to Halong City and civilization where we will be met by our vehicle to transfer us to our hotel. This evening we will dine at a local restaurant.

Day 7 : Ha Long - Hanoi

This morning we have a five-hour drive back to the nations capital, Hanoi. On the way we will stop for morning tea and light refreshments. Arriving in Hanoi around lunchtime we bid farewell to our guides.